Owner's Manual

rRAFTXMI:IN°

6.75 HORSEPOWER

21" MULTI-CUT

POWER PROPELLED

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.377970

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• EspaSol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before opera_ting this equipment

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

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

Warranty

Safety Rules _.

Assembly

Operation X

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

2 Product Specifications

2 Service and Adjustments

4 Storage ;

6 Troubleshooting

11 Repair Parts

11 Parts Ordering

12

15

16

17

37

Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years 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 retuming 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 pres-

ence controls 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 cimumstances.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully.

Become familiar with the controls and know

how to operate your mower properly. Leam 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 tuma 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 your mower.

• Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.

2

• Check

fuel tank before starting engine. Do

notflU ges 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 ar_cial 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, roods, 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 your mower.

• Do not change the govemor 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 belts 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 worldng condition.

• Keep all 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 deterioration and wear and replace wom 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!!!

BECOME ALERT!!!

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

shippedwith your mower.TheyarealsoavailableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservice

centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair pads for you, when you provide the model

number of your lawn mower. Some of these acsessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

_'_

MULCHERKITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

LAWN MOWERS

SIDE DISCHARGE

STABIUZER

GAS CANS

MUFFLERS AIR RLTERS 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.

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.

All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower.

• Cut down two end corners of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

4

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

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

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

• Raise lower handle section to operating 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.

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

• Remove any packing material from around control bar.

• Your handles may be adjusted for your mowing comfort.

Refer to Service and

Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator presence

control bar

Upper handle

Lift up

Lower handle

3-position

Handle adjustment bracket

Lift up

/

Mowing position

Handle pin

TO INSTALL ATrACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging; See OPERATION section

of this manual.

TO PREPARE BATrERY

NOTE: Your battery must be charged before you can start your lawn mower.

• Disconnect engine battery connector

(male) from battery connector (female)

• Connect battery charger connector

(male) to battery connector (female).

• Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C. outlet.

• Leave battery charger connected for 24

hours before starting your engine for the first time.

• After charging, connect engine connector (male) to battery connector (female).

Your engine has an integral alternator for partial charging.

Connect your battery charger to charge battery as required.

IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will not charge a discharged battery.

At the end of the mowing season the

battery should be charged for 48 hours to protect the battery during winter storage.

CAUTION: Always disconnect the engine connector (male) from the battery connector (female) to prevent accidental starting when transporting or storing your lawn mower after the season.

Engine connector

(Male)

Batteryconnector

(Female) charger connector

(Male)

5

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER

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 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

OR WARNING

ENGINE

ON

ENGINE

OFF

FAST : SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control

Key start switch

Cable clip

Engine oil cap w/dipstick

Grass catcher

Wheel adjuster lever

Mulcher plug

• Gasoline cap

Mulcher door

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

without oil or gasoline in the engine,

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Housing

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 Commis-

sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator engine.

presence

Release control

held down to the handle

- must

to start the to stop the engine.

be

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

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

Starter handle - used for starting the engine•

Drive control bar - used to engage power-propelled mower.

foward motion of lawn

Mulcher plug - Located at the rear discharge opening must be removed when converting to bagging operation.

Key start switchused to start engine

6

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin

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.

HOW TO 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

P,3WI3ing.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST cUTrlNG HEIGHT

• All four wheels are adjusted by a single lever.

• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To raise

mower, move lever forward to desired

position. To lower mower, move the lever

toward the rear.

Lower Wheels for high cut

Raise Wheels for low cut

GROUND DRIVE SPEEDS

Your lawn mower provides multiple speeds

to let you select the speed that suits you best.

• Lower speeds are for slow, heavy/thick grass cutting or trimming.

• Medium speeds are for normal grass cutting or trimming.

• High is for light cutting and for ground transport.

NOTE: Donot move speed control lever

unless the .engine is running

TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM

• With engine running, select ground speed by moving speed control lever to desired position.

• To start forward motion, pull drive control bar back against handle.

• To stop forward motion, release drive

control bar.

IMPORTANT: Always keep drive control

bar fully engaged against handle when in use.

Speed control lever

Drive control engaged

Operator presence control bar

Drive control disengaged

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shippedready to be

usedas a mulcher. To convert to baggingor discharging:

REAR BAGGING-

, Open rear doorand remove mulcherplug.

Store mulcher plugin a safe place.

• To convertto mulchingor discharging operation,installmulcherplugintorear dischargeopeningof mower.

SIDE DISCHARGING-

, Rear door must be open.

• Open mulcher door and install discharge deflector under guard as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, discharge deflector must be removed and mulcher door must be closed.

7

SIMPLESTEPSTO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear mulcher plug installed.

• Mulcher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

• Rear mulcher plug removed.

• Grass catcher installed.

• Mulcher dcer closed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

• Rear mulcher plug installed.

• Side crtscharge deflector installed.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear mulcher plug in place or approved grass catcher in place.

Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear mulcher plug or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the

lawn mower with the rear door removed or

Catcher frame hook slots Grass handle

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

• Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.

• Remove grass catcher with clippings from

under lawn mower handle.

• Empty clippings from bag using both frame

handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying;

it will cause unnecessary wear.

Mulcher plug _''_

'_, ,

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL

Open ____.

mulcher door

Mulcher door

Discharge deflector

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the en_ne.

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

• Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full line on the dipsiick.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine

for accurate dipstick reading.

• Fngine holds 27 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.

Fill to full line on dipstick.

• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap

each time.

TO ATTACH

•

GRASS CATCHER

Lift the rear door of the lawn mower and

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Change the oil after even] 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need

to change the qil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.

GAS

'place the grass catcher frame hooks into the

slots of the rear door.

• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn

mower housing when the rear door is

lowered onto the grass catcher frame.

8

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

octane.(Useof leadedgasolinewill increasecarbonandleadoxidedeposits andreducevalvelife).Do notmixoilwifh

can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol

blendedfuels(calledgasoholor usingethanol

or methanol) can attract moL_turewhich leads

to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an angine while in storage.

To avoid

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.

Gaso_ne filler cap oil cap

TO START ENGINE

• To starta coldengine, push primerthree (3) times beforetryingto start. Use a firm push.

This step isnot usuallynecessarywhen

startingan engine which has already runfor

a few minutes.

• Move enginespeed controlleverto fast position.

• Hold operator presence controlbar down to the handle.

•Tum electricstad key clockwiseto crank engine.

IMPORTANT: Do notcrank enginemore than fiveco_nous secondsbetween each time you

try to start.Wait 5 to 10seconds between each attempt.

• To startengine usingthe auxiliarystarter

handle,followthe steps above. Exchange the use ofthe startkey for starterhandle.

Pullstarterhandlequickly. Do not allow

starterropeto snap back.

• To stop engine, releaseoperatorpresence controlbar.

NOTE: In coolerweather itmay be necessary

to repeat primingsteps. In warmer weather over primingmay cause flood'mgand engine will notsta_ ffyou de flood engine wait a few

minutesbefore attempSngto start and de not

repeat primingsteps.

9

MOWINGTIPS

• For most cutting conditions and better bagging performance, the

engine

speed

should be set in the fast position.

• Under certain conditions, such as when mowing very tall grass, raise the mower

height on the first cut to reduce pushing effort, to avoid overheating the engine, and to avoid leaving dumps of grass clippings.

Make the second cut to the desired height.

• For extremely hea W cutSng, reduce the width of cut.

• Pores in cloth graas catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with use and the catcher will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water

and let dry before use,

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: Forbest performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and

trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE section of this manual

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

them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn ti'_ey will _sperse into the grass and

not be noticed. Also_the mulched grass will biedegmde quicldy to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest e_line (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet

grass tends to form clumps and interferes

with the mulching action. The hest time to

mow your lawn "._the early afternoon. At

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

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts

off only the top one-third of the grass blades.

If the lawn is overgrown it to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing

effort and to keep from overloading the

engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut by overlapping

previously cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions

may require that an area be mulched a

second time to completely hide the

clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern fromweek to

week. Mow north to ._outh one week then

change to east to wast the next week. This

will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

10

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

._

REGULAR SERV ICE

Check for Loose Fasteners

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped)

M Clean Lawn Mower

_(,_

II/

_O_ _ l,/

_1

_ Clean Un_r Dr_'a Cc_'er t/

I_'

......

I_'

_3

I/'

Clean Battery/Recharge

IElectdc Start MowersI

E

Check Engine Oil Level

N

Change Engine Oil

G

Clean Air Filter

I Inspect Muffler

N

Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

If

I_

1/1,2

IV#

I_

_2

V_4

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

2 - Sewice rnore olten when operating in dirty or dust,/coaditions.

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

4 oCharge 48 hcurs at end of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

LUBRICATION CHART

I_ Wheel uster

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 a_ustments in the Service and Adjust-

ments 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

"

(_) Drive pins

I

!1

(_ Spray lubricant

(_) Refel: to MAINTENANCE

"ENGINE" section.

(_) Engine oil

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION

CHART").

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will

attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the serf lubricating bearings. If you

feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powder._

graphite type lubricant

spa jly.

tt

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER

;ERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER:

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:

917.377970

6.75

1.5 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

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

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

27 OZS.

CHAMPION RJ19LM or J19LM

INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004

- .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125

IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

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

both sedal 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, stones, 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 whe0 removing blade bolt.

• Protect your handswith glovesand/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blai:le bolt by turning counterclockwise.

12

• 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.

IMPORTANT:

HEATTREATED.

BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8

TO SHARPENBLADE

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.

Blade Crankadapter shaft keyway

Blade

Blade bolt

• If you remove the drive pinions, wipe clean with dry cloth.

Reassemble dry.

Do not lubricate. Do not use oil or grease.

• The pinion gear, on both sides of the mower, are the same, however, they must be installed correctly.

If installed incorrectly, the drive system will not work.

• There are arrows embossed on both sides of the pinion gear.

With the arrow at the top of the pinion, the arrow must

point towards front of mower. If the arrow points to the rear, turn the pinion

around and assemble to mower.

• Place wheels back on adjuster axles.

• Replace lecknuts and hubcaps.

1correct

Pinion

E-ring

Locknut

Lock washer

Hardened Trailing Blade washer edge adapter

GRASS CATCHER

Crank° shaft

• 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

rep]acing, replace only with a manufac- turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

DRIVE WHEELS

Washer

Dustcover

Hubcap

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

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

The

wheels not turning freely means trash,

RANGE _IT_tPATED _EFORIE NEX_ O_. CHANGE grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the drive wheel and dust cover area and must be cleaned out to free drive wheels.

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.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels,

check both rear wheels.

Check your engine oil level more frequently to

• Remove hubcaps and Iocknuts.

• Rennove wheels from wheel adjuster axles.

avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of

• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from insi.de the dust cover, pinion and/or drive wheel gear teeth.

13 operation or at least once a year if the lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Checkthecrankcaseoillevelbeforestarting theengineandaftereachlive(5)hoursof continuous

oil pkig securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil,

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

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug

and place wire where it cannot come in contact with

sparkplug.

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.

• T_ lawn mower on its side as shown and

drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn

mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

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

• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

/

"--container

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

• Loosen cover knob.

• Swing cover down and remove from hinge.

• Pull paper filter out of air cleaner body.

• Clean air cleaner cover and body.

• Install a new paper filter.

• Reinstall cover to air cleaner body.

Be sure hinge is assembled properly.

• Swing cover up and tighten cover knob.

(Do not overtighten).

Hinge

Paperfilter

Air filter cover

Coverknob

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create afire 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

IMPORTAN'E: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and trash.

Clean underside of mower housing after each use.

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from

spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with the spark plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn mower

by scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating.

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.

14

CAUTION:

BEFORE PERFORMING ANY

SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

•

•

•

Release control bar and stop engine.

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

Disconnectspark plug wirefrom

spark plug and place where it cannot come in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the

Operation section of this manual

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the rear

wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to minimize the possibilitythat objects will be

thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the

operator's mewing position. If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle on your lawn mower has three (3)

height positions - adjust to height that suits you.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle towards each other until the pin in handle

can be inserted adjustment holes.

Med..

Low

Handle pin

J 3-position

Handle adjustment bracket

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not attempt to increase engine speed or it

may result in personal injury. If you believe that the engine is running too fast or too slow,

take your lawn mower to an authorized

service center/department 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/department for

repair and adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine

governor, which is factory set for proper engine speed. Ovempeeding the engine above the

factory high speed setting can be dangerous

if you think the engine-governed high speed needs adjusting, contact your nearest

AUTHORIZED service center, which has proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustmen_

15

storageat

the end of the season or if the unit

will not be used for30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a period

of time, clean itthoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"

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 lightlybefore painting.

HANDLE

• You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage.

• Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on sides of

the upper handle and allow handle to fold down to the rear.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle toward each other until pins in handle clear

the brackets and pivot entire handle

assembly forward and allow it to rest on mower.

• When setting up your handle from the

storage position, the lower handle will

require manually locking into the mowing position.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for storage or transportation be sure to fold the

handle as shown or you may damage the control cables.

Operator presence control bar_"'"-_

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum

deposits from forming in essential fuel system

parts such as carburetor, 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 aitemative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposifs during storage. Add stabilizer to

gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.

Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to

reach the carburetor.

Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with

clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the

Maintenance section of this manual).

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 distnbute oil,

• Replace with new spark plug.

Fold forward for storage ied;_.

Low _

//,_._

BATTERY

• Upper handle --------_

Lower handle

_

_

_-_-__

___.._=

_F old connector and charge battery 48 hours.

Disconnect

OTHER

the battery from the engine

Handle pin

__/

._o._

_-

_° I backward • Do not store gasoline from one season to

Mowing another.

position

3-position

Handle

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

cause problems.

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

_

16

• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that does not mta'_nmoisture. Do not usa plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which

allows condensation to form and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower While engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.

CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower

with gasoline in the tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.

Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Will not start

CAUSE

CORRECTION

1.

2.

3.

4.

Dirty air filter.

Out of fuel.

Stale fuel.

Water in fuel.

5.

Spark plug wire is disconnected.

6.

Bad spark plug.

7.

Loose blade or broken blade adapter.

8.

Control bar in released position

1.

Clean/replace air filter.

2.

Fill fuel tank.

3.

Drain tank and refill with fresh

clean fuel.

4.

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

5.

Connect wire to plug.

6.

Replace spark plug.

7.

Tighten blade bolt or replace blade adapter.

8.

Depress control bar to handle.

Loss of power

Poor cut

- uneven

9.

Control bar defective

10.

Weak battery.

11.

Disconnected Battery connector

9.

Replace control bar.

10. Charge battery

11.

Connect battery to engine

1.

Rear of lawn mower housing/blade dragging in heavy grass.

2.

Cutting too much grass.

3.

Dirty air tilter.

4.

Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower.

5.

Too much oil in engine.

6.

Walking speed too fast.

1.

Worn, Ident or loose blade.

2.

Low engine speed.

3.

Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower.

1.

2.

6.

1,

2.

3.

Set in 'Higher Cut" position.

Set in "Higher Cut" position.

3.

Clean/replace air tilter.

4.

Clean underside of mower housing

5.

Check oil level.

Cut at slower walking speed.

Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt,

Set engine speed control in fast position.

Clean underside of mower housin_

Excessive vibration

Starter rope hard to pull

1.

2.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

Bent engine crankshaft.

1.

Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.

2.

Contact an authorized service center/department.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Engine flywheel brake is

on when control bar is released.

Bent engine crankshaft

Blade adapter broken.

Blade d_agging in grass.

1. Depress control bar to upper handle before pulling starter rope.

2.

Contact an authorized service center/deparfment.

3.

Replace blade adapter.

4.

Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface to start engine.

17

TROUBLESHC OTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Grass catcher not filling

(If so equipped)

1.

Cuffing height too low.

2.

Lift on blade wom off.

3.

Catcher not venting air.

4.

Low engine speed.

Hard to push

Loss of drive

1.

Grass is too high or wheel height is too low.

2.

Rear of lawn mower housing/blade dragging in grass.

3.

Grass catcher too full.

4.

Handle height position not right for you.

1.

Belt wear.

2.

Belt off of pulley.

3.

Drive cable worn or broken.

4.

Dirt in drive pinions.

CORRECTION

1.

Raise cuffing height.

2.

Replace blade.

3.

Clean grass catcher.

4.

Set engine speed control in fast position.

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.

1.

Check/replace drive belt.

2.

Check/reinstall drive belt.

3.

Replace ddve cable.

4.

Clean ddve pinions.

18

For in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-Home sM(1-800-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio

1-800-676-5811

In Canada for all your service and parts needs call

Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pi_ces

1-800-665-4455

For the repair or replacement parts you need:

Call 6 am-11pm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirect sM

1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio

1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and RepairCenter in your area:

Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance

Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement:

Call 9 am-5 pm, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-6655

169205 03.15.99

VB Printed in U.S.A.