Husqvarna 917374140 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

usqvarna

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

173cc Kohler Engine

Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.374140 Product No.

7021RD

• Espa_ol, p. 20

CAUTION'.

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

U.S.A.

Safety Rules .......................................... 2-3

Warranty ................................................... 4

Product Specifications .............................. 5

Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 6

Operation ............................................. 7-11

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 12

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing ob- jects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

_,Look for this symbol to point out im-

portant safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. &WARNING: Inorderto prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, ad-

justing or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where itcannot

come in contact with plug. &WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm. &WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash

hands after handling. & CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely _fTF,,-,

hot during operation and

remain hot after engine

has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact,

stay away from these areas.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper

use of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis- charge opening at al! 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 blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop the machine if

anyone enters the area.

Maintenance ...................................... 12-15

Service and Adjustments ................... 15-16

Storage .............................................. 17-18

Troubleshooting ................................. 18-19

Repair Parts ....................................... 38-47

• Do not operate the mower when bare- foot or wearing open sandals. Always

wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and be- hind before and while moving backwards.

• Never direct discharged material toward

anyone. Avoid discharging material against awall or obstruction. Material may

richochet back toward the operator. Stop

the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without prop-

er 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 ap-

proved 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.

• Mowonlyin 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; walk, never run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mech-

anism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine.

• If the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra-

tion is generally a warning of trouble.

• AIwayswearsafety goggles or safety glass-

eswith side shieldswhen operating mower.

Ii. SLOPE OPERATION

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

injury. All slopes require extra caution. If

2 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. Neverassume 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 machine.

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

IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

• Use only an approved container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never refuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fue! contain- er where there is an open flame, spark

or pilot light such as a water heater or on other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.

Always place containers on the ground

away from your vehicle before filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipmentfromthe truckortrailer and refuel iton the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equip-

mentwith a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do

not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

Never run 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 equip- ment 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 orfuel spill-

age. Allow machine to coo! 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 is running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to

wear, damage, and deterioration, which

could expose moving parts or allowobjects to be thrown. Frequently check compo- nents 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 set- ting or overspeed the engine.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.

AWARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

Inthe state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 ofthe California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Husqvarna or other authorized service center (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

SECTION 1: LIMITED WARRANTY

Husqvama Forest & Garden Company ("Husqvama') warrants Husqvama product to the original purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship

from the date of purchase for the "Warranty Period" of the product as set forth below:

2 YEAR NON-COMMERCIAL WARRANTY: Auto-

matic Mower, Riding lawn mowers, yard and garden tractors, walk behind mowers, tillers, chain saws,

trimmers, brushcutters, clearing saws, snow blowers, handhetd blowers, backpack blowers, hedge trimmers,

electrical products and power-assist collection systems for noncommercial nonl3rofessional, noninstitutional or

nonincome !0roducinq use, exce!0t as herein stated.

Emission control system components necessary to comply with CARB-TIER-II and EPA regulations.

Husqvarna Safety Apparel carries a 90-day warranty from the date of the customer's original purchase for defects in material and workmanship. Normal wear,

tear or abuse is not covered under warranty. Product

must be returned to Charlotte with a warranty claim form. All care and maintenance instructions must be

followed as stated by the manufacturer on the care label. The fit of the protective apparel/boot is not

covered under warranty. SECTION 2: HUSQVARNA'S OBLIGATIONS UNDER

THE WARRANTY

Husqvama will repair or replace defective components without charge for parts or labor if a component fails because of a defect in material or workmanship during

the warranty period. SECTION 3: ITEMS NOT COVERED BY THIS WAR-

RANTY The following items are not covered by this warranty: (1)Normal customer maintenance items which become

worn through normal regular use, including, but not limited to, belts, blades, blade adapters, bulbs,

filters, guide bars, lubricants, rewind springs, saw chain, spark plugs, starter ropes and tines;

(2) Natural discoloration of material due to ultraviolet

light;

(3) Lawn and garden attachments are covered by a

third party which gives a warranty, all claims for warranty should be sent to the manufacturer; and

(4)Emission Control System components necessary

to which are manufactured by third party engine

manufacturer.

SECTION 4: EXCEPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS This warranty shall be inapplicable to defects resulting

from the following: (1)Accident, abuse, misuse, negligence and neglect,

including stale fuel, dirt, abrasives, moisture, rust, corrosion, or any adverse reaction due to incorrect storage or use habits;

(2) Failure to operate or maintain the unit in accor-

dance with the Owner's/Operator's manual or instruction sheet furnished by Husqvarna;

(3)Alterations or modifications that change the

intended use of the product or affects the product's performance, operation, safety, or durability, or

causes the product to fail to comply with any ap- plicable laws; or:

(4)Additional damage to parts or components due to

continued use occurring after any of the above.

REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. HUSQVARNA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUEN-

TIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THESE PRODUCTS EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY AP-

PLICABLE LAW. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICU- LAR PURPOSE ON THESE PRODUCTS IS LIMITED

IN DURATION TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD AS DEFINED IN THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATE- MENT. HUSQVARNA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO

CHANGE OR IMPROVE THE DESIGN OF THE PRODUCT WITHOUT NOTICE, AND DOES NOT

ASSUME OBLIGATION TO UPDATE PREVIOUSLY MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS.

Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how tong an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or

exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other

rights which vary from state to state. SECTION 5: CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

The product must exhibit reasonable care, mainte- nance, operation, storage and general upkeep as

written in the maintenance section of the Owner's/ Operator's manual. Should an operational problem

or failure occur, the product should not be used, but delivered as is to an authorized Husqvarna dealer for

evaluation. Proof of purchase, as explained in section 6, rests solely with the customer.

SECTION 6: PROCEDURE TO OBTAIN WARRANTY CONSIDERATION

It is the Owner's and Dealer's responsibility to make certain that the Warranty Registration Card is properly filled out and mailed to Husqvama Forest & Garden

Company. This card should be mailed within ten (10) days from the date of purchase in order to confirm the warranty and to facilitate post-sale service.

Proof of purchase must be presented to the authorized Husqvarna dealer in order to obtain warranty service.

This proof must include date purchased, model num- ber, serial number, and complete name and address of

the selling dealer. To obtain the benefit of this warranty, the product

believed to be defective must be delivered to an authorized Husqvarna dealer in a timely manner, no

later than thirty (30) days from date of the operational problem or failure. The product must be delivered at

the owner's expense. Pick-up and delivery charges are not covered by this warranty. An authorized Husqvama

dealer can be normally located through the "Yellow Pages" of the local telephone directory or by calling

1-800-HUSKY62 for a dealer in your area.

HUSQVARNA

7349 Statesvitte Road

Charlotte, NC 28269

531 83 81-23 2002

Serial Number: Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.5 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces

Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 10W-30 (below 32°F) Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC (Gap: .030")

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

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

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Husqvarna retailers and service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

CANS

GAS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

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 assembled 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 MOWER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton

Handle pin

and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower

Handle bracket

handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

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

loose parts.

NOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise lower handle section to operat- ing position and squeeze the bottom

ends of lower handle towards each other until the pin in handle can be

inserted into one of the three height adjustment holes.

2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3. Remove any packing material from around control bar.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-

JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manual.

Operator MOWING

I: POSITION

control bar _ .

//// \,\\

/ //

///

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.

UP handle

Upper

Handle

knob

Lower handle

Vinyl Frame

bindings opening

TO iNSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-

VERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL 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 understand their meaning.

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

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Drive control Operator presence control bar

Handle knob

Drive cover

Starter

handle

Gasoline filler cap

Grass catcher

Single point height adjuster "-..'--.. handle

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Mulcher door Spark plug

Air filter

Housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running. Operator presence control bar - must Mulcher door - allows conversion to

be held down to the handle to start the discharging or bagging operation. engine. Release to stop the engine. Drive control lever- used to engage Starter handle - used for starting engine, power-propelled forward motion of mower.

The operation of any

SAFETYGLASSESlawn mower can result

in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye dam-

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

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

spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

Engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. It is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL ACAUTION: 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.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold- ing the operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pulling the drive control lever rearward to the handle.

The farther toward the handle the lever is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the operator presence control bar or drive control lever are released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine,

release the drive control lever only. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing

without self-propelling.

NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage

drive wheels.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

Over time, the drive control system may

become "loose", resulting in decreased speed. There is a turnbuckle on the drive control housing to increase tension on the

drive cable. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

2. Rotate turnbuckle on drive control to increase drive speed.

3. Operate mower to test drive speed. Readjust as required.

4. If condition fails to improve after the above steps (forward speed remains

the same), your drive belt is worn and

should be replaced.

Adjustment turnbuckle

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT Al! four wheels are adjusted by a single

lever.

Pul! adjuster lever toward wheel. To raise mower, move lever forward to desired position. To lower mower, move

the lever toward the rear.

LEVER BACKWARD

TO LOWER

MOWER

Height

adjuster level

Operator presence control bar Drive control

ENGAGE DRIVE

DRIVE CONTROL

CONTROL DISENGAGED

lever

LEVER FORWARD

TO RAISE

MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging

or discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Open rear door and remove mulcher plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.

• You can now install the grass catcher or optional clipping deflector.

• To convert to mulching or discharging operation, install mulcher plug into rear

discharge opening of mower.

I \

Open mulcher door

Discharge deflector

Mulcher plug /

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Mulcher plug must be installed into rear discharge opening of mower.

• Open mulcher door and install dis- charge deflector under door as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, discharge deflector must be

removed and mulcher door closed.

\ \ \" /

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

2. Mulcher door closed. FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug removed.

2. Grass catcher installed.

3. Mulcher door closed. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

,_i Discharge deflector installed.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plug or approved

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door

removed or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle.

3. Empty clippings from bag.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty- ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass

catcher

frame

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in

the engine. For type and grade of oil to

use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance

section of this manual. A CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler

on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour the entire container

down the oil fill spout into the engine.

NOTE: Initial oi! fil! requires only 18 oz.

due to residual oil in engine from the

manufacturers 100% quality testing. When

changing oil you may need 20 oz.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT: . 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. See "TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Pur-

chase fuel in quantities that can be used

within 30 days to assure fuel freshness. A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha- nol) 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. Empty 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

tank or permanent damage may occur.

Gasoline

filler cap

Engine oil cap

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

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.

NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system. No priming or choking is required before starting.

• To start engine, hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull

starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher

blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage your mower and could void your warranty.

• Under certain conditions, such as very tall 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 cut- ting 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 wil! 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 MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

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 recut-

ting 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, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

. 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 grass, 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 sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) 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.

MAINTENANCE BEFORE AFTER EVERY

EAC H EAC H 10

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS

Check for Loose Fasteners _#,

,_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher * V'

Check Tires _V'

_ Check Drive Wheels ***

Clean Lawn Mower****

M Clean under Drive Cover ***

O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***

W Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade

_ ubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery ** Check Engine Oil level

E Change Engine Oil N Clean Air Filter

_ Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug I_' Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

* (if so equipped)

** Electric-Start mowers

*** Power-Propelled mowers

**** Use a scraper

to clean under deck

1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season. 5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

EVERY EVERY

25 HOURS 100 BEFORE

OR SEASON HOURS

STO RAG E

v' v'

v' v'3

v' v'

V_,2

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive ful! value from the warranty, operator must

maintain unit as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments wil! need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments

described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element

and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help

your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

(_ Engine oil

Mulcher

door hinge

(_ Rear door

(_ Handle bracket mounting pins

_ Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt thatwill shorten the life of

the self-lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming 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.

DRIVE WHEELS Check rear drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely.

The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel area

and must be cleaned to free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean both rear wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, blade must be kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade. ,i:i, CAUTION: Use only a replacement

blade approved by the manufacturer of your mower. Using a blade not approved

by the manufacturer of your mower is haz- ardous, could damage your mower and

void your warranty. TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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 & attaching hardware (bolt, lock washer & hardened washer).

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

2. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo- site sharp edge) is up toward engine.

3. Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

4. 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. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with

approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

Blade adapter Key Crankshaft

Lockwasher

Blade

Blade bolt

Hardened / \

washer Trailing edge Crankshaft

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

ening the blade - but if you do, be sure the

blade is balanced. An unbalanced blade

will cause eventual damage to mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt

to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail 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 remain in

a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the

heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

. The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replac- ing, replace only with approved replace-

ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual. Give the lawn

mower model number when ordering.

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear case and area around

the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive

cover twice a season.

• The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory. The only

time the lubricant needs attention is if service has been performed on the gear

case.

If lubricant is required, use only Texaco

Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.

750369. Do not substitute.

ENGINE

LUBRiCATiON

Use only high quality detergent oi! rated

with API service classification SJ-SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

OF -20 0 20 32 40 60 80 1()0 °C-30 -40 -1:0 0 I:0 2:0 3:0 4,0

TEMPERATURE RANGE EXPECTED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

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, empty fuel tank by running en- gine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with 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 re- move any oil trapped inside of engine.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke heavily from the

muffler on startup.

8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

AIR FILTER Your engine will 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 oc- curs first. Service air cleaner more often

under dusty conditions. TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Remove cover.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur- face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

_kCAUTION: 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.

Cartridge Slot

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.

5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check the

oi! level with the dipstick. 3.

6. Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a 4.

minute to allow oil to settle.

Back plate

IN-LINE FUEL FILTER The fuel filter should be replaced once

each season. If fuel filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carbu-

retor, replacement is required.

1. With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sections.

2. Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with arrow pointing towards carbu-

retor.

Be sure there are no fuel line leaks

and clamps are properly positioned.

Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso-

line.

Clamp, Clamp

Fuel Filter

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plug at the beginning of

each mowing season or after every 100

hours of operation, whichever occurs

first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFIC-

ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-grass

and trash. Clean the underside of your

mower after each use.

,ACAUTION" Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

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

and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of al! 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 short-

ened engine life.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape underside of cover with

putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of

drive cover.

_i, WARNING: To avoid serious injury, 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 wire 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 mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will

be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator mowing position. If the

Gearcase

pulley

Drive

cover

deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Remove drive cover.

2. Remove spring and belt keeper.

3. Remove belt from gearcase pulley.

4. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor down.

5. Remove blade, engine pulley and debris shield.

6. Remove engine pulley and belt from debris shield.

Belt

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