Craftsman 944.361530 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

6.0 HORSEPOWER
21" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

944.361530

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Paits

The D.O.M. decal includes engine life specifications for the emissions-related useful life period of
your engine. This period relates to the emission compliance life as certified by EPA/CARB. To
find the life period specification for your engine, please match one of the following letters with the

letter printed on your D.O.M. decal: (C) 125 hours, (B) 250 hours, (A) 500 hours.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment

Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario MSB 2B8

TABLE OF CONTENTS

...........

Warranty

Safety Rules.....................................

Assembly

Operation
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance

...........................................

.........................................

.........................................

...................

....................................

2

.......

2-4

.......

4-5

........6-8 Troubleshooting.....................

............9

.....

9-12

Product Specifications
Service and Adjustments...

Storage....................................

Repair Parts............................

Parts Ordering.......................... Back Cover

..........

..................

..................

............13-14

............14-15

............16-23

WARRANTY

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For Two years from date of purchase Sears Canada, Inc. wilt repair or replace at Sears
option free of charge parts which are defective as a result of material or workmanship.
COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL USE;
Warranty on Power Mower (Gas) will be ninety (90) days from date of purchase if used
for commercial or rental purposes.
This Warranty does NOT cover:

• Pre-delivery set-up.

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner’s manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman Power Mower to the nearest

Sears Service Centre/Department in Canada. This warranty applies only while this
product is in use in Canada.
This warranty is in addition to any statutory warranty and does not exclude or limit
legal rights you may have but shall run concurrently with applicable provincial
legislation. Furthermore, some provinces do NOT allow [imitation on how long an
implied warranty will last so the above limitations may not apply to you.

SEARS CANADA, INC., TORONTO, ONTARIO MSB 2B8

10
12

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing objects. Faiiure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.

LGENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor
oughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the machine before
starling.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals,

who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.

Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
See manufacturer’s instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
until the blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.

» l\?low only in daylight or good artificial

light. ■

• Do not operate the machine while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never

run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha

nism or drive clutch on mowers so

equipped before starting the engine

(motor).

• If the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor)

and check immediately for the cause.

Vibration is generally a warning of

trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety

glasses with side shields when
operating mower.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. All slopes require extra

caution, if you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing could cause slipping.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where

you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult. '

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small
children,

• Never allow children to operate the
machine,

• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICES

• Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container,

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow engine
to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs
with the engine (motor) running.

Disconnect the spark plug wire, and
keep the wire away from the plug to
prevent accidental starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. .

Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor

setting or overspeed the engine.

^Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely hot during

operation and remain hot after engine

has stopped. To avoid severe burns on

contact, stay away from these areas.

A CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

ASSEMBLY

Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is

shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in
the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as
nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to
complete the assembly have been placed

in the parts bag. To ensure safe and
proper operation of your lawn mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must
be tightened securely. Use the correct
tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

1. Remove loose parts Included with

mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton

and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional

loose parts.

HOWTO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle
section locks into place in mowing
position. '

2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on

lower handle and tighten both handle

knobs.

3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to
upper handle. .

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Sen/ice and Adjustments
section of this manual.

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1, Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

,with rigid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

i^CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with

the rear door removed or propped open.

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see "TO CON
VERT MOWER" in the OPERATION
section of this manual.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN

MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the

location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product Learn and

undersbnd their meaning.

_______

A (§) © *^*^ l\l (fl'Cr ^

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

on WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

BTOPI

Seats notary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade
turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar - must be

held down to the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.

Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the eyes,

damage. Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields while operating your lawn

mower or performing any adjustments or
repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.

which can result in severe eye

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTtON; Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

» Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut. Adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium

position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze

adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require

ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.

Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Raise Wheels ifor Low Cut

Plate Tab

Lever

TO CONVERT MOWER

Vbur lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging:

REAR BAGGING

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place
the grass catcher frame hooks onto the

door pivot pins.

To convert to mulching operation, remove
grass catcher and close rear door.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.

For type and grade of oil to use, see

“ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area

around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.
Do not over fill.

NOTE; Allow oil to settle down into engine

for accurate reading. To read proper level,
tighten engine oil cap, then remove it to

read the dipstick,

3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Check oil level before each use. Add

oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove

and discard the debris plug that is inside
the tank.

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso

line. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness.

^WARNING; Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

7 lank or permanent damage may occur.

A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilleci oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the
product and should be considered
normal.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an

engine which has already run for a
few minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar.

NÒTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as very
tats grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
lawn mower over the area a second
time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.

To prevent this, regularly hose catcher

off with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWINGT1PS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See “Cleaning” in
Maintenance section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the
early afternoon. At this time the grass

has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown
it will be necessary to raise the height
of cut to reduce pushing effort and to
keep from overloading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass

conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu
lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE

Check (or Loose Fasteners
Clean/lnspect (3rass Catcher

(If Equipped)
Clean Lawn (Slower

Clean Under Olive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

Lubrication Chart

Clean Batteiy/Becharge
(Electric Start Mowers)

ChecK Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil

Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

Clean or Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

1 - Change more often whei> operating under a heavy bad or b high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operatins in dirty or dusty conditions,
3 - Replace blades more often vrhen mowing in sandy soil.
4 * Charge 46 hours at er>d of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does

not cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain mower as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
unit.
Ail adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filter element and check
blade for wear. A new spark plug and

clean/new air filter element assures

proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and Iasi longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in

this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI

CATION CHART").

✓ ✓

✓ ✓

✓

✓

SERVICE DATES

✓

✓

✓

✓ j

✓

✓

✓ ✓4

✓ l,S

✓

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1/2

—

LUBRICATION CHART

(D Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the

life of the self lubricating bearings. If you
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SÉRIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS

OILTYPE(API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RJ19LM

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn
mower housing. Record serial number & date of purchase in space provided above.

UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 6W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when perform
ing any maintenance.
TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage.

BLADECARE

For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make

sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves

and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter

clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard

ware {bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key inside hub of blade

adapter. The key must be in good condi
tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.

2. Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two {2} holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward

the engine.

4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.

5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. lbs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt Is grade 8 heat

treated. Crank shaft

Blade adapter"^keyway

Crank

Lock

washer

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mqwer
or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file

> To check blade balance, drive a nail

10

Hardened
washer

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.

into a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nail exposed. Place
center hole of blade over the head of
the nail. If blade is balanced, it should

edge

shaft
Blade
adapter

remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the biade

1s balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher
needs replacing, replace only with a
manufacturer approved replacement
catcher. Give the lawn mower model

number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°F. Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running
low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil
level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to

drain oil, drain fuel tank by running
engine until fuel tank is empty.

1, Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

2, Remove engine oil cap: lay aside on a

clean surface.

3, Tip lawn mower on its side as shown

and drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn mower back and forth to

remove any oil trapped inside engine.

4.6,Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.

Fill engine with oil. (See “Add Oil” in
the Operación section of this manual.)
Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine wilt not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every 100 hours of

operation or every season, whichever

occurs first. Service air cleaner more
often under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat

surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

^CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration of
the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not

use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.

S, tabs

Cartridge Cover

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam
age.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, which ever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”
section of this manual.

Back plate

Cover

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
^CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up

of grass and trash.

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

^CAUTION: Before performing any

service and adjustments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.

3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come

in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See 'TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual,

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your lawn mower, is
provided to minimize the possibility that
objects will be thrown out the rear of the
lawn mower into the operator’s mowing
position. If the rear deflector becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high or

low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for

raising or lowering the handle.

1. Remove upper handle and all parts

attached to lower handle.

2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower

handle bracket mounting pin.

3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it

from mounting pins.

4. Turn lower handle over to raise or

lower handle.

5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.

Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of ail gasoline, oil,etc.
We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.

Lower

handle

ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.

Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to a

Sears or other qualified service center for

repair and adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable

fixed main jet for mixture control. If your

engine does not operate properly due to

suspected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified

service center for repair and/or adjust

ment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which is factory set for

proper engine speed. Overspeeding the

engine above the factory high speed

setting can be dangerous. If you think the

engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact a Sears or other

qualified service center, which has

proper equipment and experience to -

make any necessary adjustments.

12

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for

storage at the end of the season or if the

unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.

1. Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section of this manual).

2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte
nance section of this manual.

3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage
and wear. Replace if necessary.

4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the handle
bracket, then move handle forward.

2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.

IMPORTANT; When folding the handle
for storage or transportation, be sure to
fold the handle as shown or you may

damage the control cables.

• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.

Operator presence

ENGINE

FUELSYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, f fuel
filter, fuel hose or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels ( called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation

of acids during storage. Acidic gas can

damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.

1. Drain the fuel tank.

2. Start the engine and let it run until the

fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

* Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always follow the mix

ratio found on stabilizer container. Run

engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank

and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace

with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).

13

CYLINDER

1. Remove spark plug.

2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through

'spark plug hole into cylinder.

3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times

to distribute oil.

4. Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season

to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

1. Dirty air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire is

disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken

blade adapter.

8. Control bar in released

position.

9. Control bar defective.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and
dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec
tive cover that does not retain mois
ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

^CAUTION: Never store the lawn

mower with gasoline in the tank inside a
building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool
before storing in any enclosure.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refill with

fresh clean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to
handle.

9. Replace control bar.

Loss of power

Poorcut­uneven

Excessive

vibration

1. Rear of lawn mower

housingor cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter.

4. Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

5. Too much oil in engine.

6. Walking speed too fast.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

14

1. Set to “Higher Cut”

position.

2. Set to “Higher Cut” position.

3. Cleatyreplace air fitter.

4. Clean underside of mower

housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking

speed.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Clean underside of .

mower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Contact a Sears or other

qualified service center.

TROUBLESHOOl

PROBLEM

Starter rope hard
to pull

ING CHART

CAUSE

1. Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

CORRECTION

1. Depress control bar to

upper handle before
pulling starter rope.

2. Contact a Sears or other

qualified service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface.

Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)

Hard to push

1. Cutting height too low.

2. Lift on blade worn off.

3. Catcher not venting air.

1. Grass is too high or wheel

height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging
in grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position not

right for you.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade,

3. Clean grass catcher.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to
suit.

15

<35

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 944.361530

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 944.361530

PART

KEY

no:

NO.

1 36902
2 169709X479
3 169708X479
4 132001

63601

5

131959

6
7 66426
11 176556

750097

12

36899X004

13

14 136376 Handle Knob

51793 Hairpin Cotter

15

165946X479

17

18 17600406

167132X004 Axle Arm Assembly - LF

19
20 167133X004
21 165858

168360X004

22
23 166875
24

751153
166111X479 НапгЯе Bracket Assembly (Lett)

25
2627166112X479

®1856
160835X007

29

19112222

30

169421X004

32
33

87877

DESCRIPTION
Control Bar

UpperHandle
Lower Handle
Rope Guide
Locknut 1/4-20
Handle Bolt
Wire Tie
Engine Zone Control Cable
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2
Up-Stop Bracket

Support Bracket
Screw

Axle Arm /Assembly - BF
Rear Skirt
Selector Spring • Front
Bear Door Assembly Kit (Inci. Springs)
Locknut 5/16-18

Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 X 3/8
Wheel Adjusting Bracket - Front

Spacer

Selector Spring - Rear

Selector Knob

KEY

PART

NO.

NO.
165762X004 Axle Ami Assembly - LR

34

180328 Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

36
37 151157
39 83923
40 77400
41 88652
42 165766
43 165767
44 165912
45 150406
46 107339X Danger Decal
48 165761X004
52

173319
53 851084
54 850263
55 851074
56 165833
57

851514
67 167710
68 165755
70

_ *

162300

- -

177510

177511

- -

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches

1 inch = 25.4 mm

DESCRIPTION

Wheel Assembly
Flanged Locknut
Hubcap
Hinge Screw
Spring (LH)
Spring(RH)
Door Bolt
Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16x1

Axle Arm Assembly - RR
Housing Assembly (Incl. Bet. #17,18 & 46)
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1 -3/8 Grd. 8
Helical Lockwasher
Hardened Washer
21" Blade
Blade Adapter
Grass Bag
Catcher Frame

Engine - (See Breakdown)

Briggs & Stratton 12H802-2639-B1
Warning Decal (Not Shown)
Owner's Manual (English)
Owner's Manual (FrOTCh)

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1

18

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

425

968

443^

MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639^B1

966

I

159fäl

Jkikiic,,

li

976|^ f

^ r^Q

•>' 529

163

....

Xi'

97^

'

977 CARBURETOR

GASKET SET

163>

137^

'\\ 708 L® _

617"^Jj 276iK

365 «

1251

'«ö

1270) T 130 95

19

97

708 <

’"-f

617

134

133

(^^3) 104"

276 ¿3’

Uiir 276 Ci

©

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

969 f

321 f-,i /7

MODEL NUMBER 12M802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1

% f

20

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1

'll

4 V

48

''."V\»l

745 f

20^

.. y ^ ’

202

21

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 493260 Cylinder Assembly
2 399269 Kit-Busbing/Seat
3 299819 • Seal-Oil (Magneto Side)
4

493279 Sump-Etigine
5 691160 Head-Cylinder
7

692249 •+ Gasket-CytinderHead
8

695250 Breather Assembly
9 272481

10 691125 Screw (Breather Assembly)
11

691781 Tube-Breather

12 692232
13 690912
15 691680
16 691451 Crankshaft
20 399781 • Seal-Oil (PTO Side)
22 691092
23

692315 Flywheel

24

222698 Key-Flywheel

25

499429 Piston Assembly (Standard)

499430

499431

499432

26

499425 Ring Set-Piston (Standard)

499426

499427

499428

27

691866 Lock-Piston Pin

28

499423 Pin-Piston

29 499424
32 691664
32A 695759
33 262651
34 262652
35

691270

36 691270
40 692194
43 691997
45

690548

46

691449 Camshaft

*4- Gasket-Breather

• Gasket-Crankcase
Screw (CylinderHead)
Plug-Oil Drain

Screw (Engine Sump)

Piston Assembly (.010" O.S.)
Piston Assembly (.020" O.S.)
Piston Assembly (.030" O.S.)

Ring Set-Piston (.01 O'O.S.)
Ring Set-Piston (.020"O.S.)
Ring Set-Piston (.030’ O.S.)

Rod-Connecting
Screw (Connecting Rod)
Screw (Connecting Rod)
Valve-Exhaust
Valve-intake
Spring-Valve (Intake)
Spring-Valve (Exhaust)

Retainer-Valve

Slinger-Govemor/Oil
Tappet-Valve

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

48

498826

50 497465 Manllold-Intake
51 272199 • Gasket-Intake
54

691650 Screw (Intake Manifold)
55 691421 Housing-Rewind Starter
58 692259 Rope-Starter (Cut to Length)
60 281434 Grip-Starter Rope
65

690759
81 691740 Lock-Muffier Screw
95 691636
97

493267 Shaft-Throttle

104

691242 0 Pin-FloatHinge

117

494870 Jet-Main (Standard)

497315

121 498260
125 498170 Carburetor
127 694468 0 Piug-Welch
130

691203 Valve-Throttle

133 398187 Hoat-Carburetor
134

398188 0 Valve-Needle/Seat

137

693981 0iGasket-Float Bowl

146 690979 Key-Timing
159 691753 Bracket-AlrCleanerPrimer
163 272653 •0tGasket-AirCleaner
187 691050 Line-Fuel (Cut to Length)
188 690877
190 690940 Screw (Fuel Tank)
202

691829 Link-Mechanical Governor
209 690319 Spring-Governor
222 692467 Bracket-Control
227 690783 Control Lever-Governor
276 271716 0|Sealing Washer
287 690940 Screw (Dipstick Tube)
300 692038
304 695892 Housing-Blower
305

691108
306 690450 Shietd-Cytinder
307 690345 Screw (Cylinder Shield)

Short Block (Replacement
Engine 12J802-2915-B1)

Screw (Rewind Starter)
Screw (Throttle Valve)

Jet-Main (High Altitude)
Kit-Carburetor Overhaul

Screw (Control Bracket)

Muffler ■
Screw (Blower Housing)

22

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1

KEY

PART
NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO.

NO.

332

690662 NLit(Flywheel)
333 802574 Armature-Magneto 708 691321 0tSeal-Throttle Shaft
334 691061
337

802592
356 692390
358 497316 Engine Gasket Set 851 493880 Terminal-SparkpJug

363 19069 Flywheel Puller 869 691155 Seat-Valve (Intake)
365 692524
383 89838 Wrench-Spark Plug 871 262001 Bushing-Guide (Exhaust)
404 690272 Washer(Govemor Crank) 63709
425 690670 Screw (Air Cleaner Cover) 921 497233
443 692523
445 491588 Filter-AirCleanerCartridge 923 695891
455 691219
456 692299 Plate-Pawl Friction
459 281505
505 231082 Nut (Governor Control Lever)
523 495264 Dipstick
524 692296 • Seal-DipstickTube (Air Cleaner Primer Bracket)

525 495265 Tube-DIpstick 972 495224 Tank-Fuel

529

691923 Grommet 975 493640 Bowl-Ftoat
562 92613
584 692342 Cover-Breather Passage
585 691879 • Gasket-Breather Passage
592 690800
597 691696 Screw (Pawi Friction Rate)

95162

601
608 497680 Starter-Rewind
613 691340 Screw (Muffler)
615 690340 Retainer-Governor Shaft 1211 498144
616 691306
617 270344
621 692310
635 66538 Boot-Sparkplug
668

493823 • Spacer (Includes 2) +

670 692294

684 690345 Screw

Screw (Armature Magneto)
Sparkplug 842 691031
Wire-Stop 847 692017

Screw (Carburetor)

Screw(Alr Cleaner Primer Base)

Cup-Flywheel
Pawl-Ratehet

Bolt (Governor Control Lever) 976 496115 Primer-Carburetor

Nut (Rewind Starter)

Clamp-Hose 1059 692311

Crank-Governor

0^Seal-O Ring (intake Manifold)

Switch-Stop . 0

Spacer-FuelTank
(Breather Passage Cover)

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION

689 691855 Spring-Friction
741 691830 Gear-Timing

870 690380 Seat-Valve (Exhaust)

922 692135 Spring-Brake
957 397974 Cap-Fuel Tank

966 496116 Base-AirCleaner Primer
968 692298 Cover-Air Cleaner
969 690700 Screw (Blower Housing Cover)
970 691669 Screw

977 498261 Set-Carburetor Gasket

1019 494256 Kit-Label

695111

1036

274265 Owner's Manual

1058
1095 498528 Set-Valve Gasket

1210 498144

*

included in Engine Gasket Set, Key #353
Included In Carburetor Overhaul Kit, Key #121
Included in Carburetor Gasket Set, Key #977

t

Included In Valve Overhaul Kit, Key #1095

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. Inches

1 inch

• Seal-O Ring (Dipstick Tube)
Assembly-Dipslick/Tube

Bushing-Guide (Intake)
Cover-Blower Housing

Brake

Label-Emissions
Kit-Screw/Washer
Assy-Pulley/Spring (Pulley)

Assy-Pulley/Spring (Spring)

= 25,4 mm

23

HomeCentrar

Get it fixed, at your home, or ours!

1-800-4-MY-HOME®

(1-800-469-4663)

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

www.sears.ca

For Parts call

1-800-4-MY-HOME®

(1-800-469-4663)

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Maintenance Agreement:

1-800-361-6665

Mon. to Sat.

177510 01.17,01 BY

Pour service en français:

1-887-LE-FOYER®

(1-877-533-6937)

Cènifrdtrfever..

SEARS

Printed in U.S.A.