SEARS

MODELNUMBER917.383223

®

OWNER'SMANUAL

.AssemWy

*Operation

-Maintenance

-Service

*Adjustments

.Repair Parts

Caution:

Readand Follow all SafetyRules and Instructions

BeforeOperating

ThisEquipment

_ "

'"""'"

'"'"" 'lll"l'

A

CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE AND PLACE WIRE

WHERE IT CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL

WHEN

_,

IMPORTANT

FEDERAL REGULATIONS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE BLADE STOP CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE

RISK OF BLADE CONTACT INJURY. "(OUR LAWN MOWER IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS° DO

NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL UNDER ANY

CIRCUMSTANCES.

o BE CAREFUL-WHEN THE ENGINE tS RUN-

NING THE BLADE IS TURNING.

+ Please read your owner's manual. Only allow persons who know the safety rules to use your lawn mower.

o DO NOT tie the operator presence control bar to the handle. Control must be free to permit brake engagement when handles and control are released.

o DO NOT allow children to use your lawn mower.

o Check your lawn mower over before each use.

Tighten any loose bolts, nuts, etc+ o Remove all sticks, stones, wires, cans, boards, etc_ from area to be mowed. These objects can be thrown by the blade.

o DO NOT allow children, bystanders or pets in the area while mowing.

Always wear shoes when mowing.

DO NOT operate lawn mower when barefoot or wear-

ing open sandals. o Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your lawn mower and while mowing.

o Always shut off engine before trying to adjust whee/heights.

o When engine is running, DO NOT put hands or feet under lawn mower or in the discharge chute, nor make any adjustments.

o Stay clear of discharge opening at all times_ o Do no! fill gas tank when engine is running, when indoors or when engine is hot. Allow engine to cool for several minutes before fill-

ing gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting engine.

• Mow only in goodlight.

o Always stop blade when not cutting grass or when crossing gravel drive, sidewalk, or roadway.

• DO NOT continue to run your lawn mower if you hit a foreign object.

Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug, inspect the lawn mower for damage and

make repmrs as required+

+ DO NOT usea damaged lawn mower_Always

have damage repaired before mowing+

• DO NOT run your lawn mower if it vibrates

too much. Stop engine and make repairs°

Vibration is an indication of damage.

e Never use your lawn mower without proper

guards or deflectors in place.

o Always mow across a slope or inclined area.

DO NOT mow up or down a slope or inclined area, o DO NOT mow in wet grass. Be careful of

footing when mowing in wet grass, use shoes with good traction.

e DO NOT run with the lawn mower.

= DO NOT run your lawn mower indoors. Ex...

haust gases are deadly poison.

• Always disconnect the spark plug wire from spark plug to prevent acadental starting when transporting or storing your lawn mower after the mowing season.

• DO NOT attempt to raise engine speed, above

!actory settings_Engine damage or personal mtury may result.

• If a grass catcher is used on your lawn mower, check the catcher often for damage or deterioration. It wdl wear through normal use°

Use only a recommended replacement catcher.

• Always stop blade to remove or install catcher.

• DO NOT store your lawn mower or gasoline

where fumes may reach an open flame and cause a fire. + e DRAIN THE GASOLINE from your lawn

mower before transporting your lawn mower

inside your car or other vehicle+ ii ...............

i

TION!I_ BECOMEALERT!!!YOUR SAFETYIS

INVOLVED.

t i1,11 i,,,

2

383222

sman Lawn Mower.

It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Center/Department.

We have competent, welltrained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions

will enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower properly.

Always observe the "SAFETY

RULES"° iii

MODEL

NUMBER 9t7.383223

SERIAL

NUMBER

DATE OF

PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE

FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR

OF THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER

AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEPIN A SAFE

PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

i_l ,111

HORSE POWER: iii ...................................

DISPLACEMENT:

3.5

9.06 cu° im

GASOLINE CAPACITY:

OIL (21 oz. Capacity):

I IIIIIII II

1_5 quarts lumeaaea_ iii I,MI I I IIIil11 II

SAE 30 or

(SAE10W30)

ii.

i iii1,,11 ii1,1 ii IL

SPARK PLUG (GAP .030 in.): Champion

RJ19-LM or

Sears z_ 33312 or STD 361458 iii i ii ,111 i ii ii ,11

VALVE CLEARANCE: Intake: .008 in.

Exhaust: .008 im i

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125

in.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35_40 ft.-Ibs,

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product° Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

• Read and observe the safety rules°

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower.

• Follow the instructionsunder "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this Owner's Manual.

For one year from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated and tuned-up.

according to the instructions i'n the owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defect in material and workmanship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the dote of purchase.

This warranty does not cover:

Expendable items which became 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 equlpment 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 CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES_ THIS WARRANTY APPLIES

ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT tS IN USE IN THE UNITED STATES°

This warranty gives you specific bgal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Company, D/73 I CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60684

383222 3

SAFETY RULES .....................

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ......

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..........

WARRANTY .........................

MOWER ACCESSORIES .................

ASSEMBLY .....................

OPERATION .......................

MAINTENANCE ................

INDEX

Adjustments:

Carburetor .

Handle Height

Height of Cut

Air Filter:

Replacement

Assembly:

Grass Catcher

Handle

Accessories

13

13

8

12

6

6

5

5,6

7-10

11,12

3

3

2

3

5

Handle:

Adjustment ......

Assembly ........

Height, Cutting

Blade:

Replacement

Sharpening

11

11

Controls:

Engine Speed Control

Engine Zone Control . .

Operator PresenceControl Bar 7

8

9

CustomerResponsibilities

Cutting Levels

3

8

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ...........

STORAGE .......................

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS ..........

REPAIR PARTS-MOWER ...............

REPAIR PARTS-ENGINE .............

TROUBLE SHOOTING ...............

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE

16,17 t8-20

23

Back Cover

13

14

15

13

6

8

Lubrication:

Brake Spring Bracket

Engine .....

t5

15

Handle BracketMounting Pin 15

Wheel Adjuster 15

M

Maintenance:

Agreement

Air Filter .

.

Blade CarelReplacement

Engine

Grass Catcher

....

Lubrication

Spark Plugs

Mowing Tips

.3

12

11

12

11

15

12

10

Safety Rules

Service and Adjustments:

Carburetor

Engine Speed

Handle •

Rear Deflector

Service Recommendation

Spark Plug

Specifications

Speed Control:

Engine .

Starting the Engine:

Starter Handle

Storage

T

Trouble Shooting Chart

W

Warranty

Wheels:

Wheel Adjusters

8

.9

14

2 t3 t3 t3

13

15

12

3

23

3

8

Engine:

Oil Change

Oil Level

Oil Type

Starting

Storage

Fuel_

Type

Storage

F

12

8

8

_9

14

.9

14

Oil:

Engine

Storage

Operation:

Operating Mower .

Operator PresenceControl Bar

Options:

Attachments

J 2 t 4

7-10

7

5

R

Repair/Replacement Parts

Responsibilities, Customer

16,17

3

383222

LAWNMOWERACCESSORIES

ii iiiii J_

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced, They are also available at most Sears retail outlets, cata!og

and service centers, Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower_ Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

ENGINE

SPARK PLUG ii

MUFFLER AIR FILTER GASCAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER

©

If lawn mower is an electric start

LAWN MOWERPERFORMANCE

..... _m.__.Ju.

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

DUSTSHIELD

REARBAG

OPTIONAL

LEAFCATCHER CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

REPLACEMENT

BAGFORREAR

DISCHARGE

LAWNMOWERS

FABRICBAG

OPTIONAL

LAWNMOWER

SIDE DISCHARGECATCHER ii iUllULgL

PERMANEXCATCHER

LAWN MOWERMAINTENANCE

BELT BLADE BLADEADAPTER WHEELS LAWN MOWERCOVER

ASSEMBLY

Your lawn mower has been assembled at the fac-

tory except for the Grass Catcher Bag and the Grass

Catcher Frame°

• Cut down the corners of the carton and lay ends and sides down flat.

• Cut the plastic wrapping and remove from over

Handles and lawn mower_ e Remove Catcher Frame, Fabric Bag and Oil Bot-

tle from top of lawn mower_ o Lift lawn mower off of shipping base and check carton for loose parts.

HOWTO SET-UPYOURLAWNMOWER

TO UNFOLDHANDLE

Remove Handle Padding holding Operator

Presence Control Bar to Upper Handle.

• Raise Handles until Lower Handle section locks into place in mowing position (See Fig. 1).

° Raise Upper Handle section into place on Lower

Handle and tighten one (t) Handle Knob.

° Your lawn mower has been shipped with Protec- tive Handle Pads placed between the upper and lower sections otthe Handle.

For best lawn mower performance these Pads need to be discarded after the Handle is placed in the mowing position° o Once the Handle is in the mowing position, remove the Handle Knob, Handle Bo|t and Pro-

tective Pad from the side with the loose Handle

Knob.

(Make sure the other side is tight to sup- port the Upper Handle).

Q Discard the Pad and reinstall the Handle Bolt and

Knob-Tighten securely_

° Loosen and remove the Handle Knob, Handle

Bolt and Protective Pad from the other side and discard the Pad.

° Reinstall the Handle Bolt and Knob-Tighten

securely_ Now your Handles should be clamped together without the Protective Pads.

• Your Lawn Mower Handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort.

Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service and Adjustment Section of this manuak o Put Grass Catcher Frame into Grass Bag with stiff part of Bag on the bottom

° Slip vinyl bindings over Frame (See Fig_ 2).

NOTE: ff vinyl bindings are too stiff, hotd them in warm water for a few minutes. If Bag gets wet, let it dry before using_

383222

\

\

CATCHER FRAME

HINGE BRACKET

FIG. 2

/

FRAME OPENING

DOOR

FORMED UP TABS _"_',_'_..

"\%.

GRASS

It

FIG.

• Lift the Rear Door on the Lawn Mower Housing and place the Grass Catcher Frame onto the forme d up Tabs on the Rear Door Hinge Bracket (See

F,g. 3).

• The Grass Catcher is secured to the Lawn Mower

Housing when the Rear Door is lowered onto the

Grass Catcher Frame.

i1,1111,11 i i,i,, i1,11,1,1

CAUTION: DO NOT RUN YOUR LAWN _OWER

WITHOUT CLIPPINGDEFLECTOR APPROVE_ i

GRASSCATCHERIN PLACE. NEVER ATTEmPt

TO OPERATETHE LAWN MOWER WITH THE

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

REAR

DOOR ORPROPPED

OPERATION

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER

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.

-_----OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR

ENGINE ZONE

CONTROL CABLE

HANDLE

HANDLE KNOB

GRASS CATCHER

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL LEVER

PRIMER

AIR FILl

WHEEL

(ON EACH WHEEL)

ENGINE OIL CAP WITH

IASOLfNE

DIPSTICK

FILLER CAP

MOWER HOUSING

FIG. 4

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 Commission_ The blade turns when the engine is running,

PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine,

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR - must be held down to the handle to start the engine, Release to stop the engine°

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL - located on the right side of the engine which allows you to select either

"HIGH" or "LOW" engine speed.

STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine.

383222 7

hOWTOUSEYOURLAWNMOWER

ENGINESPI_EDCONTROL

The engine speed is controlled by a lever (red knob)

located on the right side of the engine. "HIGH" posi-

tion is for starting engine, normal cutting and better

grass bagging. "LOW" poslhon isfor light cuffing, trimming and fuel economy (See F_g. 5)°

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

ENGINE SPEED CONTR o To remove Grass Catcher, release Operator

Presence Control Bar to stop engine.

a Lift up Rear Door and remove the Grass Catcher by the Handle (See Fig. 6).

e Lift up Rear Door and remove the Grass Catcher

by the Handle (See Fig. 6)° e Do not drag the Bag when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear° o Raise Wheels for low cut and lower Wheels for

high cut.

o Wheels are set in low cut for shipping. Adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium position is best for most lawns° o To change cuffing height, squeeze Adjuster Lever toward Wheel. Move Wheel up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all Wheels are in the same setting (See Fig. 7).

OIL:

A 20 oz. bottle of Pennzoil SAE 30 Oil is included with your new lawn mower. o Remove Engine Oil Cap (See Fig. 8) and fill to the FULL line on the dipstick.

o Use 20 ozs. of SAE 30 oil. SAE 10W 30 oil can also be used_

DO NOT use SAE 10W 40 oil.

. . POUR OIL SLOWLY.

DO NOT OVERFILL

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill to FULL line on dipstick.

To read proper level, tighten Engine Oil Cap each time.

o Reinstall Engine Oil Cap and tighten.

o After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change the oil, and every 25 hours thereafter° You may need to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirty conditions.

383222 8

FIG. 5

!

t_, _

* I *

FiG. 6

/ t

FIG. 7

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

' I .

i ii,!l,I....

OPERAION

STARTING

(CONT'D)

GAS:

• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded

gasoline. DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE.

BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERFILL TANK (SEE

FIG.

8).

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 shouldbe emptied before storage for 30 days or longer° Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fueliines 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°

ENGINEZONECONTROL

....

,,, ...................

,,..

H, .......

, .

ENGINE CONTROLTO BE INSTALLEDON THIS

LAWN MOWER IN ORDER TO MINIMIZE THE

....

FEAT TIlE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR

CONTROL.THEBLADETURNSWHENTHEENGINE

IS RUNNING.

.......

* Your lawn mower is equipped with an Operator

Engine Control Bar which requires the operator to be positioned behind the Lawn Mower Handie to start and operate the lawn mower.

ENGINE OIL CAP W/DIPSTICK

FIG. 8

TG STARTEHGUHE

• To start a cold engine, push Primer five (5) 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.

• Push Engine Speed Control Lever forward to

HIGH position_ o Hold Operator Presence Control Bar down to the

Handle and pull Starter Handle quickly.

Do not allow Starter Rope to snap back.

a To STOP engine, release Operator Presence Contro! Bar°

NOTE: 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.

383222 9

_

OPERAr!ON

' ' ' I'"" _'---" ------'----J ----' " "-r.,--_-..........

MOWINGTIPS

• Under certain conditions, suchas 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.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the wtdth of cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower hous- ing one (1) wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better discharge ofgrass.

.

o For better grass bagging andmost cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the

"HIGH" (FAST) position.

• When using a rear discharge lawn mower in

moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not

enter the grass catcher_ Reduce ground speed

(pushingspeed) and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

....

: -r_nlll L

• If a trail of grass clippings is left on the right side

of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

o Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled

with dirt and dust with use and catchers will col-

lect lessgrass. To prevent this, regularly hosecatcher off with water and let dry before using.

.

Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean

of grass clippings and chaff. This wdi help engine air flow and extend engine life_

_1

383222 10

MAINTENANCE

' ..........................

I I I"l'l I I"ll'lmllll ........................

* Once a year you should replace the Spark Plug,

Air Filter and check Blade for wear. A new Spark

Plug and Air Filter assures proper air-fuel mix-

ture and helps your engine run better and last longer°

, You should check al! fasteners and be sure they are tighL o Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on page 15.

LAWNMOWER

FIG. 9

Your lawn

Blade.

mower will work better with a sharp

,_

_ PLUG.

TO REMOVE BLADE: o Turn lawn mower on its side° Make sure Air Filter and Carburetor are up.

o Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn

Mower Housing to prevent Blade from turning when removing the Blade Baird o Protect your hands with gloves andlor wrap

Blade with heavy cloth, o Remove Blade Bolt by turning counter-clockwise.

Use a 9/t6" box or open-end wrench°

* Remove Btade and attaching hardware (Bolt,

Lockwasher and Hardened Washer) (See Fig. 9).

NOTE:Remove the Blade Adapter and check the Key

inside Hub of Blade Adapter.

The Key must be in good condition to work properly.

Replace Adapter if damaged.

!

TO REPLACE BLADE:

, Position the Blade Adapter on the Engine

Crankshaft. Be sure Key in Adapter and Keyway

in Crankshaft are aligned.

• Position Blade on to the Blade Adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the Blade with the raised Lugs on the Adapter°

NOTE. Be sure the word TOP (stamped on the Blade) is toward the engine (See Fig. 9),

• Install the Blade Bah with the Lockwasher and

Hardened Washer into Blade Adapter and

Crankshaft (See Fig. 9).

° Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn

Mower Housing and tighten the Blade Bolt, turning dockwise_

11

• The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft.

Ibso

° Torque wrenches are available at most Sears stores and through the catalog.

I _

ANDMAY MAKETHEENGINEHARDTOSTART.

Use only a Sears authorized replacement Blade to get the best cutting results.

NOTE:We do not recommend sharpening Blade - but

if you do, be sure the Blade is balanced.

TO SHARPEN BLADE: o The Blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the lawn mower.

• Care should be taken to keep the Blade balanced. An unbalanced Blade wilt cause excessive vibration when running and eventual damage to lawn mower or engine, o To check Blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wallo 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, ff either end of the Blade moves downward, Blade is not balanced.

Sharpen the heavy end until the Blade is balanced,

GRASSCATCHER

° 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, tf Catcher needs replacing, replace only with a manufacturer approved replacement Catcher from Sears. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

TO CHANGEOIL (WARMOIL DRAINSBETTER)

_uTIoN: DISCONNECT

SPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIRE WHEREIT CANNOT I

COME IN CONTACTWITH SPARKPLUG.

' ,i,, ,.....

-

I o Remove Engine Oil Cap with dipstick; lay aside on a clean surface_

e Tip lawn mower on its side as shown in Fig, 10 and drain oil into suitable container, Rock|awn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped

inside of engine+

o Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and on side of engine° o Fill engine with SAE 30 or 10W 30 Oil. Fill only

to the "FULL" line on the dipstick_ DO NOT overfill.

o Reptace Engine Oil Cap.

o 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 year, more often if you

mow in very dusty, dirty conditians_ Do not wash Air

Filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER o Remove the Air Filter cover by turning counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from Collar

(See Fig.

11).

o Remove Filter from inside of Cover (See Fig. 11).

o Clean the inside of the Cover and the Collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

o Insert new Filter into Cover+

• Put Air Filter Cover and Filter into Collar align-

ing the Tab with the Slot.

o Push in on Cover and turn clockwise to tighten

(See Fig. 11).

SPARKPLUG

Change .your Spark Plug each year to make your engine start easier and run better.

Set Spark Plug gap at °030 inch.

COLLAR

FIG. 10

CONTAINER

COUNTER

CLOCKWISE

TO REMOVE

SLOT

AIR FILTER

CLEANING

TAB

_ L.,_ To-TURNT{GHTENCLOCKWISE

AIR FILTEJR COVER

FIG. I 1

We recommend that you clean the underside of your

lawn mower after each use_

.

,i,, i,,, ii , ,,111,,,_ ............................

,.....

CAUTION: DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE !

FROM SPARKPLUG AND PLACEWIRE WHERE I

IT CANNOT COME IN CONTACT WITH SPARK I

PLUG.

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

!

* Turn fawn mower on its side with Carburetor up.

Clean the underside of your lawn mower scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash.

+ Clean your lawn mower and engine often to keep

trash from accumulating around engine.

A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

NOTE: 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 shorten-

ing engine life_

'_°'_999 12

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 an authorized Sears Service

Center for repair and adjustment.

ENGIHESPEED

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 engine is running too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower to an authorized Sears Service Center for repair and adjustmenL

REARDEFLECTOR

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 ADJUSTNAHDLE

Your Lawn Mower Handle can be raised or lowered for your mowing comfort. Figs. 12A, 12B, 13A and t3B show the four (4) positions that are available:

High, Medium High, Medium Low and Low. Handles are shipped mounted in the Medium Low position

(See Fig. 12A)

• To change from Medium Low to Medium High position, the Upper and Lower Handle sections will have to be turned over (See Fig. 12B).

Remove the Controls and Operator Presence Control Bar from the Upper Handle.

o Remove the Starter Rope Guide from the Lower

Handle_

• Remove Hairpin Cotters,

• Disconnect the Lower Handle from the Handle

Brackets (See Fig. 14)_

• Turn the Handle Over and reassemble the Hairpin Cotters that have been removed (See Fig 14)_

• Reassemble the Starter Rope Guide.

.

Reassemble the Controls and the Operator

Presence Control Bar to the Upper Handle,

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

iiii

UPPERHANDLE.

FIG. 14

13

• To change from Medium Low to High position, only the Upper Handle section will have to be

turned over (See Fig° 13A).

o To change from Medium Low to Low position, only the Lower Handle section will have to be turned over (See Fig_ 13B).

383222

STORAGE

Your lawn mower and engine should be prepared for off-season storage as follows:

LAWNMOWER

" Clean underside of Lawn Mower Housing. (See

"Cleaning" in maintenance section of manual.)

• Inspect and replace/sharpen Blade, if required

(See "Blade/Blade Adapter Care" in maintenance section of manual)_ o Hose Grass Catcher off with water and let dry before storing.

• Lubricate as shown in Service Recommendation chart on page 15 of manual.

HANDLE o You can fold your Lawn Mower Handle for storage as shown in Fig_ 15.

o To fold, squeeze the bottom ends of the Lower

Handle toward each other until the Lower Handle clears the Handle Bracket, then move Handle forward (See Fig. 16).

IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDINGTHE HANDLE FOR

STORAGE OR TRANSPORTATION,

BE SURE TO FOLD THE HANDLE AS

SHOWN IN FIG. 15o IF YOU FOLD

THE UPPER HANDLE SECTION THE

WRONG WAY, YOU MAY DAMAGE

THE CONTROL CABLES°

ENGINE

o e

Change oil (See "To Change Oil" in maintenance section of manual)°

Drain fuel and run engine until fuel system is empty_

I_PORTAHT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT

GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING

IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS

SUCH AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL

FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK

DURING STORAGE.

ALSO, EX-

PERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCO-

HOL 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_

FOLD FORWARD

FOR STORAGE

HANDLE

FIG. 1S

FIG. 16

FOLD BACKWARD

POSIT_ON

LOWER HANDLE

HANDLE BRACKET

HAIRPIN COTTER

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 can cause problems.

° Do not store your lawn mower under any plastic cover. Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and car_ cause your lawn mower to rust.

o When setting up your Handle from the storage

position, the Lower Handle will automatically lock into the mowing position.

383222 14

Fill in dates as you complete regular service

Blade Checked

Blade Replaced (Sharpened)

EngineOi!

Change

Engine Off Check

Air Cleaner

Spark Plug Replaced

Lubricate Lawn Mower

Cleaning

Grass Catcher (i,! applicable)

Muffler

CHECK

First

2

Hours

Every

10

Hours

SCHEDULE

Every

25

Hours

ii'

II'

II

Every

Use

ii

O SAE 30 MOTOR OIL (lOW 30)

Q SPRAY LUBRICANT

,,,,,,,

,, ,,,

J

BRAKE SPRING BRACKET

HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTING PIN

ENGINE OIL

WHEEL ADJUSTER

._R_999

15

O_

CP_FTSMAN 20" ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO. 917.383223

REPAIR PARTS

37

42

43

_z \

Ref.

No,

Part

No,

,.,,j

28

29

30

31

32

23

24

25

26

27

19

2O

21

22

15

16

17

18

11 t2

13

14

5

6

7

8

3

4

1

2

9

10

86902

850991X479

750627

103672X

84676X479

STD541425

58714

85827

51793

63688

851664

STD522515

750097

86899X004

STD541425

750655

48138

88551

36953

STD522506

54583

700063X479

700279

750482X479

88550X479

700062

88664

86912X4t7

86913X417

STD 541431

55187

850904

CRAFTSMAN20" ROTARYLAWN MOWER MODEL NO. 917.383223

Part Name iii iiiii .

Control Bar

Upper Handle instruction Decal

Rape Guide

Lower Handle

Locknut 1/4-20

Handle Bolt

Cable Clip

Hairpin Cotter

Handle Knob

Engine Zone Control Cable

Hex Head Bolt 1/4-20-1 1/2

Hex Washer Head Screw t0-24 x 1/2

Up-Stop Bracket

Locknut t/4-20

Hinge Rod

Rear Door Assembly Kit (lnd. ReL #16)

Back Plate

Self Tapping Screw ] 0-24 x 5/8

Machine Screw 1/4-20 x 5/8

Hex Head Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 1/2

Rear Baffle

Retainer Cllp

Side BaffIe

Discharge Baffle

Rear Deflector

De_ector Rod

Handle Bracket Assemb{y (Left)

Handb Bracket Assembly (Right)

Lacknut 5/16.18

Screw 5/t6-18 x 3/4

Wheel Adiusting Bracket

REPAIR PARTS

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

47

48

49

5O

51

59

33

38

39

4O

41

34

35

36

37

42

43

44

45

46

Ref,

No.

Part

No.

i I IIHIII

84920

88348

87877

850855X004

85021X004

62335

84921

750500

52160

85179

800090

85463

850998

48181

•

STD541437

61537

STD533t07

88373X479

851084

850263

851074

850972

850977

88614

751663

752059

752074

Part Name

Spacer

Washer

Selector Knob

Selector Spring

Axle Arm Assembly

Belleville Washer

Shoulder Bolt

Wheel and Tire Assembly 7 1/2 x 1 1/2

Washer

Retainer Clip

Hubcap

Danger Decal

Hex Head Thread Roiling Screw 3/8-16 x t

Lawn Mower Housing (Incl. Ref,#!

8.22;24,44,50)

Locknut 3/8-16

Washer

Carriage Boff5/I6.18

Front BaBe x 5/8

Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1 3/8 (Grd.

8)

Helical Lockwasher 3/8

Washer

Blade 20"

Blade Adapter

Catcher Frame

Grass Bag

Eng{ne- Craftsman (Source 143) Model No.

143.4t4332

(See Pages 18-20)

Clipping Deflector Accessory (Not Included with

Lawn Mower) 7133303

Owners Manuat

4OO

135

120

119

126

!8

46

Ref_

No.

I

2

6

7

41

46

48

5O

52

69

70

42

42

42

43

45

72

73

75

80

81

93

100

101

103

82

83

84

86

89

9O

92

110

119

!20

125

125

126

126

130

135

18

19

26

30

40

12A

12B

14

15

16 t7

40

40

41

41

Part

No.

Part Name

26208

30574

30590A

3O591

3O588A

29193

65O488

611004

611t12

65O815

650816

3,H_A

610118

650814

34975

26727

337,34

34214A

"33735

30200

34695

33886

28277

3O589

31383A

31335

650,548

31361

326OO

34460A

34514

34515

3_316

32538B

32548B

32549B

28986

28987

28988

2O381

3O953B

32610A

27241

33148A

29914

*35261

35868

30572

'28833

34961

"29953C

34.335

29313C

29315C

29314B

29315C

5O21A

35395

Cylinder Assy, (thole Nos. 2, 8, 9 B 20)

Pin, Dowel

FJement, Breather

Breather Assy. (Incl. Nos° 6, 8, 9, IZA

B 12B)

Gasket, Breather

Screw, Hex washer hd. self-tap Sems, t0-24 x 9/16

Elbow, Breather tube

Tube, Breather

Washer, Flat

Rod, Governor flncl° No. 14)

Lever, Governor

Clamp, Governor lever

Screw, Hex washer hd, 8-32 x 5/16

Spring, Extension

Seal, Oil

Crankshaft Assy.

Piston, Pin B Ring Assy.

(Std.)

(IncL Nos° 41, 42 B- 43)

Piston, Pin B Ring Assy. {.010 over-

size) (lncL Nos. 41, 42 B 43)

Piston, Pin B Ring Ass,/. (.020 over- size) (Incl. Nos. 4t, 42 _ 43)

Piston B Pin Assyo (Std°) (Incl, No, 43}

Piston B Pin Assy.

(.010 oversize)

(Inclo No. 43}

Piston B Pin Assyo (°0LEI oversize)

(lncL No. 43)

Ring Set, Piston {StdJ

Ring Set, Piston {o010oversize)

Ring Set, Piston 1.020 oversize)

Ring, Piston pin retaining

Rod Assyo, Connecting {IncL No_ 45)

Bolt, Connecting rod

Valve, Lifter

Camshaft (Compression Release)

Pump Assy, Oil

Gasket, Mounting flange

Flange, Mounting (InoL Nos, 72, 73, 75

80)

Plug, Oil drain (Incl. No. 73)

Gasket, Oil plug tNot required with plastic oil plug)

Seal, Oil

Shaft, Governor

Washer, Rat

Gear Ass,/, Governor (Incl. No_ 81)

Spool, Governor

Ring, Retaining

Screw, Hex hd. Seres, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4

Key, Rywheel

Flywheel

Washer, Belleville

Nut, Flywhee!

Solid State Assy.

-

Cover, Spark plug

Screw, T-15 Torx hex washer hd.

Sems, 10-24 x 1

Wire, Ground

Gasket, Cylinder head

Head, Cylinder

Valve, Exhaust (Std,) {Incl, No. 151)

Valve, 'Exhaust (I/32" oversize} (Incl.

No° 151)

Valve, Intake (StdJ (Inc!. No. 151)

Valve, Intake (t/32"

{lncl, No. 151) oversize}

Screw, He× flange hd., 5/16-18 x %1/2

Spark Plug, Resistor (Champion RJ-

19LM or equivalent}

19

239

241

245

250

260

261

262

275B

277

285

287

29O

292

298

3O0

301

305

306

3O7

309

310

313

327

357

370

38O

39O

400

202

203

204

205

207

209

215

223

224

238

190

191 t92

193

194

195

200

Ref.

,, ,,,,

No.

150

161

169

172

174

178

182

184

185

186

189

MODEL NUMBER: 143.414332

Part

No.

Part Name

31672

31673

"27234A

32755

650128

29752

6201

*26756

31384A

34337

65O839

35831

3504O

34966

34965

32309

610973

35727

338O2

31342

550549

650777

34336

3O200

32410

650451

"3A690A

650932

*34338

35797

35O66

35065

35393

30200

65O831

27181B

650795

35000

650884

30705

2646O

28763

34369A

35355

35577

34265

35499

65O562

3_578

34O8O

35392

34985

35167

632046A

59O621

33238D

Spring, Valve

Cap, Lower valve spring

Gasket, VaJve spring box

Cover, Va!ve spring box

Screw, Hex hd. Seres, 10-24 x 1/2

Nut B Lockwasher, 1/4-28

Screw, Hex hdo, 1/4-28 x 7/8

Gasket, Carburetor

Pipe, Intake (IncL No. 224)

Link, Governor spring

Screw, Hex washer hd.

Powerlok,

I/4-20 x 3/8

Lever, Brake

Bracket, S.E. Brake line!. No. 195)

Link, Control

Spr_ng, Extension

Ring, Retaining

Term{hal Assy,

Control Assy, Speed (IncL Nos. 202 thru 205)

Spring, Compression

Spring, Compression

Screw, Fil.

Screw, Fil. hd., 6-32 x 21/32

Link, Throttle

Screw, Hex washer hd. s_lf-tap Seres,

10-24 x 9/16

Knob, Control

Screw, Hex hdo Seres, 1/4_20 x t

Gasket, Intake pipe

Screw, Hex washer hdo shoulder,

!0-32 x 49/64

Gasket, Air cleaner

Collar, Air cleaner

Filter, Air cleaner (Paper)

Cover, Air cleaner

Housing, Blower

Screw, Hex washer hd. self-tap Seres,

10-24 x 9/16

Screw, Hex washer hd_ Powerlok

thread, I/4-20 x 1/2

Muffler (Incl. No. 277)

Screw, Hex hd., 1/4-20 x 2-1/4

Hub, Starter

Screw, Hex washer hd., 8-32 x 1/2

Line, Fuel

Clamp, Fuel line

Screw, Hex washer hd, shvkeproof,

10-32 x 19/32

Tank Assy° (Incl. Nose 292 B 301)

Cap, Fuel

Tube, Oil fill

Gasket, Fill tube

"0" Ring

Screw, Hex washer hd. shakeproof,

10-32 x 1/2

Dipstick, Oil fill

Spacer, Rywheel key

Plug, Starter

Retainer, Starter rope

Decal, Instruction

Carburetor (lncL No. t84)

Starter, Rewind

Gasket Set {IncL items marked *)

RPM Settings:

High Speed: 2900 - 3200

Low Speed: 2000 - 2300

*Indicates Parts lnctuded in

Gasket Set, Ref. No. 400.

CARBURETOR NO. 632046A

44 j(

REWIND STARTER NOo 590621

,,

No_

25

27

28

29

30

31

35

40

44

48

6

7

_6

4

5

1

2

,,

PL-t

No,

631615

631767

631184

631971

631616

650506

632527

631700

631O24

632019

631O28

631021

631022

632047

631937A

631334

631027

_

P_ Neme

Thmtt|e Shaft 1_ Lever Assy,,

Throttle Return Spring

Dust Seat Washer

Dust Se_l

Throttle Shutter

Throttle Shutter Screw

Fuel Rtting

Float Bowt

Shaft, FIo_t

Roat

"O" Ring, Floaf Bow] to Body

Inlet Needle, Seat El-Clip (Ind, No, 31)

Spring Ciip

Primer Butb/Retainar Ring

High Speed Bow] Nut

Bow] Nut Washer

Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

2O

Ref.

Part

No, No.

Part Name

10

11

12

8

9

6

7 i_

2

3

5,90,_A

590615

4 590601

5 590598

590616

5,90617

590618

590619

590620

59O622

590535

113 590452

Starter, Rewind

Pin, Spring (Inc}, No, 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

Spring, Brake

Dog, Starter

Spring, Dog

Puiley

Spring, Rewind

Cover, Spring

Housing Assy., Starter

Rope, Starter (Length 98" _ 9/64" die,)

Handle, Starter

NOTES

21

NOTES

22

I I'1 I .......................................

,r ......

,u iil,l,lli, I

PROBLEM

STA'RT

POWER

POORCUT-

UNEVEN

TOOMUCH

VIBRATION

HARDTO PULL

FILLCOMPLETELY

(IF APPLICABLE)

HARDTOPUSH

383222 i

CAUSE w,i I'11'1'

1. Dirty air filter,

2, Out of gasoline,

3, Stale gasoline.

4, Spark plug wire is disconnected from the spark plug.

5.

Bad spark plug.

6. Water in gasoline,

7 Loose blade or broken blade adapter,

8. Operator presence control bar in released position.

9. Operator presence control bar defec- tive,.

CORRECTION

mu

"YI!"I'111 i,_ I

I_ Replace air filter

2 Fill gasoline tank°

3 Drain gas tank and refill with fresh gasoline

4o Connect wire ta spark plug,

5.

Replace spark plug.

6.

Drain tank and refill with fresh, clean gasoline,

7_ Tighten blade bolt and/or replace

blade adapter.

8_ Depress operator presence control bar

9 Replace operator presence control bar

1 Rear of lawn mower housing/blade

dragging in heavy grass,,

2 Cutting too much grass.

3, Dirty air filter,

4 Build-up of grass, leaves, and trash under lawn mower housing.

5 Walking speed too fast.

6r TOO much oil in engine.

1_ Worn. bent ar loose blade.

2o Wheel heights uneven,

3 Low engine speed°

4, Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under lawn mower housing.

I, Worn or bent blade°

2.

Loose blade.

3,r Bent engine crankshaft°

IIIIIII I II

1, Flywheel brake is on when operator

presence control bar is released.

2_ Bent engine crankshaft.

3.

Blade adapter sheared.

4, Blade dragging in grass.

1. Cutting height too law,

2. Lift on blade warn off

3, Catcher bag dirty, poor air ventlng_

4, Low engine speed. u lul u ii i dragging in heavy grass

3. Grass catcher too full,

4. Handle height position not right for you.

23

,

1_ Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1) setting higher than front,

2,, Set in HIGHER CUT position

3, Clean ar replace air filter,,

4.

Disconnect spark plug wire and clean underside of lawn mower housing

5, Cut at slower walking speed.

6, Check engine all level, i1,11,

1 Replace blade.

Tighten blade bolt,

2,, Set all wheels at same heighL

3_ Set engine speed control in

HIGH position,

4, Disconnect spark plug wire & clean

underside of lawn mower housing.

II1'11 I

III II

1.

2o

3.

Replace blade.

Tighten blade bolt.

Contact Sears Service Department.

t_ Depress operatorpresence control

bar to upper handle before pulling on starter rope.

2, Contact Sears Service Department,

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Get over law grass andlor hard surface to start engine.

1o Raise cutting height

2, Replace blade,

3. Clean/replace catcher bag,,

(If optional grass catcher is being used).

4o Set engine speed control in

HIGH position.

iiiHnn I innlnnll,uu nl I

1. Raise cutting height°

2. Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (!) setting higher than front,

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to suit.

w

®

OWNER'S

3.5 HORSEPOWER

20"" REARBAGGER

ROTARYLAWNMOWER

MODELNO.

917.383223

HOW TO ORDER

REPAIRPARTS

Each Lawn Mower has its own model number_ Each

engine has its own model number_

The model number for your lawn mower will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the lawn mower housing_

The model number for the engine will be found on the

Blower Housing of the engine adjacent to the spark plug_

All parts listed herein may be ordered through Sears,

Roebuck and Coo Service denters and most Retail Stores_

WHENORDERINGREPAIRPARTS,ALWAYSGIVETHEFOLLOWING

INFORMATION:

* MODELNUMBER- 917.383223

* ENGINE- CRAftSMAN

MODELNO. 143.414332

* PARTNUMBER

* PARTDESCRIPTION

Your Sears merchandise has added value whenyou consider that Sears has service unitsnationwide staffed with

Sears trained technicians...professional

technicians specifically trained on Sears products, having the parts, tools and t11eequipment to insure that we meet our pledge

to you, we service what we sell,,

752074 10/05/90 Printedin U.S.A.