Craftsman 917.387257 rotary lawnmower Owner's Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRRFTSMRN°J

4.0 HORSEPOWER

20" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.387257

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

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

Warranty ...............................................

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

Assembly ..............................................

2

2

4

Operation ..............................................

6

Maintenance Schedule ........................

10

Maintenance .........................................

10

Product Specifications ..........................

11

Service and Adjustments ......................

14

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

16

Troubleshooting ...................................

17

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

37

Parts Ordering ......................

Back Cover

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

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

This Warranty does not cover:

• 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 Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States.

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

SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator presence controts to minimize the risk of injury. Your unit is equipped with such controls.

Do not attempt to defeat the function of the operator presence controls under any circumstances.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully.

Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.

Learn how to quickly stop mower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower.

Never allow adults to use mower without proper instructions.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially small children and pets.

• Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as described in this manual.

• Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in any manner.

Always have damage repaired before using your mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments that are not recommended by the manufacturer. Use of such attachments may be hazardous.

• The blade turns when the engine is running.

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughly check the area to be mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects.

These objects will be thrown by the blade and can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and while using

2 your mower.

• Dress properly.

Do not operate mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.

• Check fuel tank before starting engine.

Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the engine is running or when the engine is hot. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine.

• Always make wheel height adjustments before starting your mower. Never attempt to do this while the engine is running.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being cut. Do not let other interests distract you.

• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never run while operating your mower. Always be sure of your footing -- keep a firm hold on the handles and walk.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever you leave or are not using your mower, or before crossing driveways, walks, roads, and any gravel---covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the mower while you are operating it.

, Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

, Do not continue to run your mower if you hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure outlined above, then repair any damage before restarting and operating you mower.

Do not change the governor settings or overspeed the engine. Engine damage or personal injury may result.

Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally.

Excessive vibration is an indication of damage; stop the engine, safely check for the cause of vibration and repair as required.

Do not run the engine indoors.

Exhaust fumes are dangerous.

• Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down or you might lose your footing. Do not mow excessively steep slopes.

Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain or when changing directions -maintain good footing.

• Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine

mounting bolts often to be sure they are tightened properly.

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at

frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condition.

• Keep al! safety devices in place and working.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves or excessive grease and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-

tion and wear and replace worn bags.

Use only replacement bags that are

recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your mower.

• Always keep a sharp blade on your mower.

• Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel in the tank

inside a building where fumes may

reach an open flame or an ignition source such as a hot water heater, space heater, clothes dryer, etc.

_,Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions.

It means

CAUTION!!!

BECOMEALERTffT YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_,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.

_,WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

3

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers.

Most Sears stores can also 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.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DfSCRARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

__

MULCHER KITS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS 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.

A_I 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

• Remove loose parts included with mowel

• Cut down two end comers of carton and lay end panel down flat.

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

• RoLLlawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables.

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

• Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs

• 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 Service and Adjustment section of this manual

Operator presence control bar

Upper handle

Lift up

Lower handle

Mowing position

5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN

MOWER.

Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adiustments.

Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literaturesupplied with the product. Leam and understand there meaning.

CAUTION

OR WARNING

ENGINE

ON

ENGINE

OFF

FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

Engine zone control cable

Starter handle --_

Handle

Grass catche

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

/

Primer

J

Lawn mower housing

Engine oil plug

Wheel ajduster

(on each wheel)

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 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.

6

The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign

objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye 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.

HOWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance.

Speed is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_CAUTION: 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 A'I-I'ACH GRASS CATCHER

• Close the lift top lid. Lift top lid must be closed while operating lawn mower.

• Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the grass catcher frame onto the ton'ned tabs on the rear door hinge bracket.

• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame.

_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.

Hinge

Rear door

_ /

Grass catcher frame

TO ADJUST CU'FrlNG 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 requirements.

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.

Plate Tab

Formed tabs

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

• To remove grass catcher, release operator presence control bar to stop engine.

• Lift up rear door and remove the grass catcher by the handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Lower Wheels for High C_

_

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

Lever

7

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil fill is clean.

• Remove engine oil plug and fill to the top of slot in fil}er hole.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine for accurate reading.

• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in

Maintenance section of this manual.

• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed.

• 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

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane.

Do not mix oil with gasoline.

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

AWARNING: 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 tank or permanent damage may occur.

ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck.

Do not overfill.

Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel.

Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline filler cap

Engine oil plug

TO START ENGINE

• 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.

• 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, release operator presence control 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.

o

MOWING TIPS

• 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 cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast position.

• When using a rear discharge _awn mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the grass catcher.

Reduceground speed

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

• If a trail of clippings is left on the right side of a rear discharge mower, mow a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

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

To prevent this, regularly hose catche off with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter cle_ and clean of grass clippings and chaff

This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.

9

MAINTENANCE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

SCHEDULE

M

Check for Loose Fasteners

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped)

Clean Lawn Mower

.__

_,_

_

O Clean Under Drive Cover

Check drive belt/pulleys

_ (Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

Lubrication Chart

Clean Battery/Recharge

/Electric Start Mowers /

E Check Engine Oil Level

N Change Engine Oil if

If v' if

,/

,/3

,/

v'

,/4

qM#'l,2

G Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

I1_ 2

_'

I/2

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions

3 _ Reptace btades more otten when mowing in sandy soil.

4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

LUBRICATION CHART

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.

All 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 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 "LUBRICA-

TION CHART").

(_)\ Wheel adjuster spring

\ bracket

"_) Rear door hinge

/

(_) Handle bracket mounting pin

(_) Spray lubricant

_) Engine oil

(_) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section,

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants wiUattract 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.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER

SERIALNUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLI NE CAPACITY/TYPE:

917.387257

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

1.25 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

20 OZ_.

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .004.008

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP:

BLADE BOLT TORQUE:

.0125 IN.

35-40 FT. LBS.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the lawn mower housing.Record

both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.

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

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp.

Replace bent or damaged blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

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

• Turn lawn mower on its side.

Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.

• Use a wood block between blade and mower housing to prevent blade from turning when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counterclockwise.

• Remove blade and attaching hardware

(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 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 crankshaft keyway are aligned.

• Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter.

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

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

• 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.

11

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening 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 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.

Crank

Blade shaft

Blade

Ke

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 yeaE

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

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

• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

• Remove bottom oil drain plug.

• After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug and tighten securely.

• Refill engine with oil.

Pour slowly.

Do not over fill.

• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

Blade bolt Crank shaft

Lock washer Hardened edge washer

GRASS CATCHER

Blade adapter

• 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, SG or

SH.

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

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

Drain plug

._°

.20_

TEMPERATURE

0 o

.2o.,o-

30 ° o"

RANGE ANTICIPATED

,o"

60*

BEFORE

_.

80 o

_.

NEXT OIL CHANGE

12

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 conditions.

Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by turning counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

• Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

• Insert new filter into cover.

• Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab with the slot.

• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to tighten.

Collar

Clip

Trun counter clockwise to tighten

slo/t

Air filter

Air filter cover

Turn clockwise to remove

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to make your engine start easier and run better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up 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 the spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure a filter and carburetor are up. Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scrapin_ to remove build-up of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from aocumulating.

A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all 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.

13

_,CAUTION: Before performing any service and adjustments:

• Release control bar and stop engine.

• Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

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

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST Cu'VrlNG 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.

• Remove upper handle and all parts attached to lower handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin.

• Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins.

• Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle.

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

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

Mowing position

,.,

,'--,'

Mowing o, position ,(-?'

Rotate

\

Lowerhandle

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• 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.

• 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.

_,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.

Catcher frame

\

Rigid Bottom t i /

Low position

High position

14

ENGINESPEED

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 an authorized 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 an authorized service center for repair and/or adjustment.

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 your nearest authorzed service center, which has proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments.

15

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.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-

ING" in the Maintenance section of this manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are securely fastened.

Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

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

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage.

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

• 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 any damage the control cables.

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

Squeeze to fold

Lower handle

Handle bracket

Operator presence control bar

\

Fold foward

Upper

..- handle

Lower handle

_"_

ENGINE

_

FUELSYSTEM

_--J

• z¢".•• //z/

_;/_!;_ ,/// ! '_ Fold "

_{!!!;y;2"

"-i

Mowing position backward

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.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• 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.

Hairpin cotter

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the

Maintenance section of this manual).

CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into cylinder.

• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distribute oil.

• 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.

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

• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that does not retain moisture.

Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

ACAUTION: Never store the lawn mower with gasoline in the tank inside building where fumes may reach an op flame or spark.

Allow the engine to coo before storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start

CORRECTION

1. Dirty air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3, Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

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.

5. Spark plug wire is disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken blade adapter.

8. Control bar in released

9_ position.

Control bar defective.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. Tighten blade bolt or replace blade adapter.

3. Depress control bar to handle.

19. Replace control bar.

Loss of power 1.

2.

Rear of lawn mower housing or cutting blade dragging in heavy grass.

Cutting too much grass.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Dirty air filter.

Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower.

Too much oil in engine.

Walking speed too fast.

• Set to "Higher Cut" position.

2. Set to "Higher Cut" position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking speed.

Poor cutuneven 1.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

2.

3.

Wheel heights uneven.

Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower.

1. Replace blade• Tighten blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same height

3. Clean underside of mower housing.

17

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM

Excessive vibration

CHART

CAUSE CORRECTION

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized service center.

Starter rope hard topull

Grass catcher notfilling(ifso equipped)

2.

3.

4.

.

Engine flywheel brake is on 1.

when control bar is released,

Bent engine crankshaft.

,

Depress control bar to upper handle before pulling starter rope.

Contact an authorized service center.

Blade adapter

Blade dragging broken.

in grass.

3.

4.

Replace blade adapter.

Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

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

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to suit.

18

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NU MBER 917.387257

11

57

7

8

43

4O

39

43

24

25

\

34

18 23

I

-21

37

39

28 32 33

35

44

32

37

37

36 38

39

43

42

4O

43

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NU MBER 917.387257

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

DESCRIPTION

19

21

22

23

24

25

26

28

36

37

38

39

29

31

32

33

34

35

40

42

4

5

1 86902

2 165452X479

132001

157081X479

7 131959

8 66426

9 51793

10 136376

11 156577

13 750097

14 850733X004

15 63601

17

18

147613

700357X479

150050

54583

700063X479

88652

700363X479

144875X479

140657

151512X479

151511 X479

150078

700325X007

146630

128415

87877

700331X004

145935X004

62335

142748

146248

83923

Control Bar

Upper Handle

Rope Guide

Lower Handle

Handle Bolt

WireTie

Hairpin Cotter

Handle Knob

Engine Zone Control Cable

Hex Washer Head Screw 10-24 x 1/2

Up-Stop Bracket

Locknut 1/4-20

Rear Door Assembly Kit

Back Plate

Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x 5/8

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

Rear Baffle

Hinge Screw 1/4-20 x 1-1/4

Side Baffle

Discharge Baffle

Rear Deflector

Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)

Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)

Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4

Wheel Adjusting Bracket

Spacer

Pop Rivet

Selector Knob

Selector Spring

Axle Arm Assembly

Belleville Washer

Shoulder Bolt

Wheel and Tire Assembly

Hex Flange Locknut

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

DESCRIPTION

51

52

53

54

55

57

58

43

44

45

46

47

50

59

60

--

--

77400

85463

150406

170496

751592

170489

851084

850263

851074

850972

850977

166072

88614

17600406

161058

171099

Hubcap

Danger Decal

Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1

Lawn Mower Housing (incl. Key #18, 22, 24, 44, 50)

Locknut 3/8-16

Front Baffle

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

Helical Lockwasher 3/8

Washer

Blade 20"

Blade Adapter

Grass Bag

Engine (See Breakdown)

Craftsman Model No.143.004002

Throat Frame

Serrated Hex Screw 1/4 x 20 TT

Warning Decal (Not Shown)

Owner's Manuat

Available accessories not included with lawn mower:

7133303

71 33623

71 33500

71 33000

7133417

73.33316

Clipping Deflector

Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

Fuel Stabilizer

SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)

Dust Shield

MowerCover

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004002

900

370R

370C

40O

135

120

119

110_

126

101

103"_T

I

125

/

_-370K

• 355

./287

©

301

_\ 292

46

185

C

178

38

CRAFTSMAN

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

1

2

6

7

37280

26727

33734

36557

12 36775

12A 36558

12B 36694

14 28277

15 30589

16 34839A

17 31335

18 651018

19 36281

20 32600

30 36793

40 35544A

35545A

35546

41 35541

35542

35543

42 35547A

35548A

35549

43 20381

45 36777

46 32610A

48 27241

50 37032

52 29914

69 35261

70 32612C

72 36083

75 27897

80 30574A

81 30590A

82 30591

83 30588A

86

89

90

92

650488

611004

611112

650815

93 650816

100 34443B

101 610118

103 651007

110 37047

119 37028

120 368"25

125 37288

126 37289

130 6021A

135 35395

150 31672

151 31673

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004002

DESCRIPTION

Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 150)

Dowel Pin

Breather Element

Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 & 12A)

Breather Tube

Breather Cover & Tube

(Incl. 12B)

Breather Tube Elbow

Washer

Governor Rod (Incl. 14)

Governor Lever

Governor Lever Clamp

Screw, Torx T-15,

8-32 x 19/64"

Extension Spring

Oil Seal

Crankshaft

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.)

Piston, Pin & Ring Set

(.010" OS)

Piston, Pin & Ring Set

(.020" OS)

Piston & Pin Ass'y.

(Std.) (Incl. 43)

Piston & Pin

Ass'y.(.010"OS)(Incl.

43)

Piston & Pin Ass'y.(.020"

OS)(Incl. 43)

Ring Set (Std.)

Ring Set (.010" OS)

Ring Set (.020 OS)

Piston Pin Retaining Ring

Connecting Rod Ass'y.

(Incl. 46)

Connecting Rod Bolt

Valve Lifter

Camshaft (NCR)

Oil Pump Ass'y.

Mounting Flange Gasket

Mounting Flange

(Incl. 72 thru 83)

Oil Drain Plug

Oil Seal

Governor Shaft

Washer

Governor GearAss'y.

(Incl. 81)

Governor Spool

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"

Flywheel Key

Flywheel

Belleville Washer

Flywheel Nut

Solid State Ignition

Spark Plug Cover

Screw, Torx T-15,

10-24 x 15/16"

Ground Wire

Cylinder Head Gasket

Cylinder Head

Exhaust Valve (Std.)

(Incl. 151)

Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)

Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)

Valve Spring

Valve Spring Cap

KEY PART

NO.

NO, DESCRIPTION

151A 40017

169 36783

172 36784

174 30200

178 29752

182 6201

184 26756

185 36785

186 32653

189 650839

191 36559A

195 610973

207 34336

216 33086

223 650451

224 36786

238 650932

239 34338

241 35797

245 35066

250 35065

260 36834

261 30200

262 650831

275 36790A

277 650988

285 35000A

287 650926

290 34357

292 26460

300 35586

301 36246

311 27625

313 34080

355 590701

370A 36261

370C37318

370K 36695

370R 37317

380 640262

390 590737

400 37029A

416

417

900

900

36085

650821

Intake Valve Seal

Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28

Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"

Carburetor To Intake Pipe

Gasket

Intake Pipe

Governor Link

Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"

S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)

Terminal

Throttle Link

R.P.M. Adjusting Lever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

Air Cleaner Gasket

Air Cleaner Collar

Air Cleaner Filter

Air Cleaner Cover

Blower Housing

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"

Muffler

Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"

Starter Cup

Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

Fuel Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap

Oil Fill Plug

Spacer

Starter Handle

Lubrication Decal

(Replaces 64-831)

Primer Decal (3 X)

Starter Decal

Hot Surface Decal

Carburetor (Incl. 184)

Rewind Starter

Gasket Set

(Incl. Items Marked *)

Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.

417)(Optional)

Screw, 10-32 x 1/2" (Optional)

Replacement Engine 750830,

(Not Availabe in California), order from71-999

Replacement Short Block

750829A, order from 71-999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This engine could have been built with

590694 starter).

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.

inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm

39

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004002

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

640262

631615

631767

631184 *

631183 *

640070

650506 *

631807

651025

630766

640018

640200

631867

631024 *

632019

631028 *

631021 *

631022

640259

640080

632766

632547 *

640175

27110A *

630748 *

631027 *

632760B

7

16

17

18

20

20A

25

27

28

29

30

31

5

6

1

2

4

35

36

36A

37

40

44

47

48

6O

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly

Throttle Return Spring

Dust Seal Washer

Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttle Shutter

Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting

Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

Tension Spring

Idle Restrictor Screw

Idle Restrictor Scrwe Cap (Black)

Float Bowl

Float Shaft

Float

Float Bowl "O" Ring

Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

Spring Clip

Primer Bulb/Retainer Ring

Main Nozzle Tube

Carburetor Tube

"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

High Speed Bowl Nut

Bowl Nut Washer

Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well

Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked *)

4O

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004002

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

----590a694

1 590599A

2

3

4

5

590600

590696

590601

590697

6

7

590698

590699

8 590700

11 590695

12 590535

13 590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter

Spring Pin (Incl. 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

Brake Spring

Starter Dog

Dog Spring

Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y.

Starter Housing Ass'y. (40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/64" dia.)

Starter Handle

O_4 g_ D 5

Ore2

41

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

----590737

3 590740

6

7

8

590616

590617

590618A

11 590687A

12 590535

13 590701

14 590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Retainer

Starter Dog

Dog Spring

Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y

Starter Housing Ass'y (40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope (Length 98" X 9/

64" dia.)

Starter Handle

Spring Clip

SERVICE NOTES

42

SERVICE NOTES

43

Get it fixed, at your home or ours!

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home...

no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

1-800-4-MY-HOME

sM Anytime, day or night

(1-800-469-4663) www.sears.com

To bring in products such as vacuums, lawn equipment and electronics for repair, call for the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222

Anytime, day or night www.sears.com

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PartsDirectSM!

1-800-366-PART 8e.m.-11p.m.

(1-800-366-7278) 7 days a week www.sears.com/partsdirect

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement:

1-800-827-6655

7 a.m.5 p.m. CST, Mon.Sat.

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio, y para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio:

1-888'SU-HOGAR

(1-888-784-6427) s_

Au Canada pour service en fran£ais:

1-877-LE-FOYER

(1-877-533-6937) s_

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® Marsa Registrada / TM Marca de Fdbdca de Sears, Roebuck and Co.

© Sears, Roebuck and Co.

171099 Rev.1

05.02.00

VB Printed in U.S.A.