Owner's Manual

[RRFTSMRN

6.25 HORSEPOWER

21" MULTI-CUT

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.388360

• Safety

•

-Assembly

• Operation

•

Maintenance

•

Eepafiol

•

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

2

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

2

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

4

Operation .............................. ;............... 6

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

10

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

10

Product Specifications .......................... 11

Service and Adjustments ...................... 13

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

15

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

16

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

34

Parts Ordering ...................... 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 workman-

ship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commereial 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/Depadment 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 control to minimize the risk of injury. Your unit is equipped with cuch

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. 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.

2

• 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 manufac-

turer. 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

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 starling 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,

reads, 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 repair-

ing your mower, stop the engine and

make absolutely sure the blade end 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 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 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 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.

ALook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions.

It means

CAUTIONII!

BECOMEALERTf!!

YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

ACAUTION:

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.

_I, 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 accessorieswere availablewhen this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also availableat most Sears retailoutletsand service

centers. Most Sears storescan also order repair partsfor you, when you providethe model

numberof your lawnmower. Some of these accessoriesmay not applyto your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GAS CANS

MUFFLERS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES

BLADE ADAPTERS

WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instructionsand this manual in

its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the

engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exception of

those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. 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., neces-

sary to complete the assembly have been

placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower.

• Cut downtwo end comers of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

• 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.

4

HOWTO 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 throe height adjustment holes.

•

Remove protective padding, 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 handle

Liftup

Lower handle

Handle pin

Mowing posi_on

adjustment

/bracket

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to

bagging or discharging, see =To convert

moweP in the OPERATION section of thi,, manual.

5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

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

iocation of variousconb'oleand adiustmants. Save this manual forfuture 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 presence control bar control cable

Handle

Primer with dipstick

Mulcher door Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the Wheel adjuster en_line.

(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the

National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade

turns when _

engine is running.

Operator Presence Control Bar- must be

held down to the handleto startthe engine.

Release to stop the engine.

Pflmer - pumps additional fuel from the

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

Starter Handle - used for starting the engine,

6

REAR BAGGING

can resulttnforeign objectsthrown

intothe eyes, whichcan resultin

asvere eye damage. Always wear safety

glasses or eye shieldswhile operatingyour

lawn mower or performingany

adjustments

or repairs. We recommenda wide vision s_ety mask over spectaclesor standmd safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factoryfor

optimumperformance. Speed is not adjust-

able.

the grass catcher frame hooks onto the

• To convert to mushing or discharging

' operation, remove grass catcher and

rear door.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

•,CAUTION:

Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the dsk

of blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control, The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST cu'rlrlNG HEIGHT

•

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut

•

Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

mentso 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

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Pivot pins

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

• Open mulcher door and installdischarge

deflectorunder guard as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging

operation.

• To convert to mulchingor bagging

operation,dischargedeflectormust be

removed and mulcher doormust be closed,

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING

-

•

Rear door cloesd.

•

Mulcher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING-

• Grass catcher installed.

• Muicher door dosed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING

-

•

Rear door closed.

• Side discharge deflector

installed.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mow(

without rear door closed or approved grass catcher in place.

Never attempt to operate

the lawn mower with the rear

door removed or propped open.

Lever

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shippedready to be

used as a mulcher. To convertto baggingor

discharging:

7 door

Open

Mulcher Door

Discharge deflector

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL

Your lawn mower is shippedwithoutoil in the engine.

• Be sure mower is leveland area around oil

fillis clean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full

lineon the dipstick.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into

engine for accurate dipstick reading.

• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype and

grade of oilto use, see =ENGINE" in

Maintenance sectionof this manual.

• Pour oilslowly. Do not over fill

• Check oil level before each use. Addoilif

needed. Fillto full lineon dipstick,

• To read properlevel, tighteneng'vneoil cap

each time.

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operationor each season. You may need

to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirtyconcrdions.

ADD GASOMNE

• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasolinewith a minimumof 87

octane. Do not mix oil with gesoi'me.

Purchase fuel in quantitiesthatcan be used within30 days to assurefuel freshness.

_WARNING: Expedence

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.

_I_CAUTION: 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.

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 stader handle

quictdy. Do not allow starter rope to snap beck.

• To stop engine, release operator presence

control bar.

NOTE:

In cooler weather it may be

necessary to repeat pdming 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 aiid do not repeat

priming

steps,

Gasoline filler

cap

Engine oil cap

8

MOWINGTIPS

• Under certain conditions,such as very taU

grass,it may be necessaryto raisethe

heightof cut to reduce pushingeffortand to

keep from overloadingthe engine end

leavingdumps of grass dippings. It may also be necessaryto reduce groundspeed and/or runthe lawn mower overthe area a second time.

• For extremelyheavy cutting,reducethe

widthof cut by overlappingpreviouslycut

pethandmowstowly.

• Forbetter grass baggingand mostcutting

conditions,the engine speed shouldbe set

in the fast position.

• Pores in doth grass catcherscan become

filladwith dirtand dustwith use and

catchers will collectless grass. To prevent

this,regularlyhose catcher off withwater

and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starterclear

and claan of grass clippingsand chaff.

This willhelp engine air flow and extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, ke_ mower housing free of built-up grass ant trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. See "Cleanin.€ in MAINTENANCE section of this manu_

• The special mulching blade will recutthe

grass clippingsmany times and reduce lawn they will d_sperseintothe grassand

not be noticed.Also, the mulchedgrassw biodegrade quicklyto providenutrientsto1 the lawn. Always mulchwith your highest

engine (blade) speed as this will provide

the best recuttingac'donofthe blades.

• Avoidcuttingyour lawn when it iswet. We

grass tendsto form dumps and interferes

with the mulching action.The besttime to

mow your lawn is the early afternoon.At this time the grass has driedand the newl

cut area will not be exposedto the direct

SUn.

• For best results,adjust the lawn mower

cuttingheightso that the lawn mowercuts

off onlythe top one-thirdof the grass

blades. If the lawn is overgrownitwillbe

necessaryto raisethe heightof cut to

reduce pushingeffortand to keep from

overloadingthe engine and leaving

dumps of mulchedgrass. Forextremely

heavy mulching,reduceyour width of cut,

mow slowlyand raise the rear of the lawn

mower c_e wheel adjustersettinghigher tban the front.

• Certaintypes of grass and grass corditior_

may requirethat an area be mulcheda

s :ond

to

_.

Whendeinga _xmd out,mow

• Change your cutSngpattem from week to

+week. MOw northto southene week than

change to east to weet the next week. This

willhelp preventmaffingand grainingof the lawn.

1/3

9

AS YOU COMPLETE

/__-_'_.

O___

.....

Check for Loose Fastenem

Clean/inspect Grass Catcher

(ffEquipped) a Clean UnderDrive Cover

_ IPower-Propened Mowem)

(Power.Propelled Mowers)

R

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

Lubrication Chart

C;ean Battery/RecharQe

IElectdc Start Mowers_

E Check

EnQine Oil Level

_

_

I_'

_

V'

I_s

I_

I/

I/1.2

1_4

Inspect Muffler

Clean Air Filter

_ =

IS'=

1 ÷Change mornoftml when operasng under a heavy load or in high artY_enttemperatdres,

2 - Service more oftenwhen opemffng In dkty or _

conditions.

3 ° Replace bladu rnore often when mowing In samly =ol

4. Charge 48 hoursal end of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not

cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the w_, operator must

maintain mower as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit.

AU intheSew e and

LUBRICATION

Wheel adjusters

checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check blade

for wea'. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assures proper air-fuel mixture and helps your engine run better

aed

nger.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level

• Check for loose faateners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See 'LUBRICATION

CHART").

CHART

3rake spdng

bracket

(_ Rear door hinge

Handle bracket mounting pin

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT

(_) SAE 30 MOTOR OIL REFER TO

ENGINE - MAINTENANCE SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings.

Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self lubricating bearings. If you

feel they must be lubricated,

use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE

CAPACITY/TYPE:

917.388360

I ,

OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

1_5 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

20 OZS.

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP:

VALVE CLEARANCE:

.030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR Jt 9LM

INTAKE:

EXHAUST:

.004 - .008

.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 rear of the lawn mower housing.Record

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

LAWNMOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline,oil,or insect

controlchemicalswhk_hcan harm rubber.

• Avoidstumps,stones,deep ruts,sharp

objectsand 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 tuming counter-

clockwise.

•

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.

11

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

o

lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.

The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

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 shaft

Blade

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

keyway

Bolt

Lockwashar Hardened

washer Trailing adapter crank

Blade shaft edge

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass _ may be heaed with

water, but mustbe 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 manufacturerapproved

replacementcatcher.Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SF, SH or

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

"30'

-2O" -10"

O'

10" 20" 30"

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE:

Although multi--viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in

cold weather, these multi--viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your

engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running

low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least once a year if the

lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil revel

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 spark plug.

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

• Tip lawn mower on its side 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 willnot 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 cover by tuming counterclockwise to the stop and pull

away from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

12

• 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

Tum counter-to remove

clockwise

Air filter cover

to tighten

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

IMPORTANT: For best performance, ke_ mower housing free of built--up grass and trash. Clean underside of mower housing after each use.

_CAUTION:

Disconnect spark plug wit

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sL

air filter and carburetor are up. 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 fr_

of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We DO NOT recommend using a

garden hose to clean lawn mower

unless the electrical system, muffler, 8

filter and carburetor are

covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.

ACAUTION:

Before performing any service or adjustmentsL

• 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'rrlNG HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear

defi_or,

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 on your lawn mower has three (3) height positions - adjust to heig that suits you,

•

Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pir in handle can be inserted into one of the three height adjustment holes.

Low

Handle pin

3-posttiol adjustrnel bracket

13

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

with dgid 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.

ACAUTION:

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

handle _

.--_

_/'_

\

_

./k\\

ENGINE

CARBURETOR

Your carburetorhas a non-adjustsblefixed main jet for mixturecontrol. Ifyour engine does not operate properlydue to suspected carburetorproblems,take your lawn mowerto an authorizedservicecenter for repairor 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 authorized service center, which has proper

equipment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

ENGINE SPEED

Your enginespeed has been factoryset Do

not attemptto increaseenginespeed or it

may resultin personal injury. If you believe that the engineis running too fast or too slow,

take your lawn mowerto an authonzed service center for repairand adjustment.

opening

14

Immediately prepare your lawn mower(or

storageat the end of the season or ifthe unit

willnot be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower isto be storedfora period

of time, clean it thoroughly,removeall dirt,

grease, leaves,etc. Store in a clean, dryarea.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-

ING" in the Maintenancesectionof this manual).

• Lubricateas shown in the Maintenance

sectionof this manual.

• Be surethat all nuts,belts, screws, and pins

are securelyfastened. Inspect moving

partsfor damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rustedor chippedpaint

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.

/

pin

3-position

Handle adjustment

bracket

Operator Presence

Upper

• Handle

Fold Forward'-'_

Control Bar

Lower

Handle

Mowing

Position

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: tt is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming

in essential fuel system parts such as carburetor, fue!

filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.

Also, experience indicates that alcohol blended

fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moistur_ 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 cleane

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.

15

ENGINEOIL

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 dirt.

•

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 will cause your unit to rust.

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

_I_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

PROBLEM

Does not start

CHART

CAUSE

CORRECTION

1.

Dirtyair filter.

2.

Out offuel.

3, Stale fuel.

1.

Clean/replace air filter.

2.

Fill fuel tank.

4.

Water in fuel.

3.

Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel.

4.

Drain fuel tank and carburetor and refill tank

with esh gas .

5.

Connect wire to plug.

5.

Spark plugwire is disconnected.

6.

Bad spark plug.

7.

Loose blade or brokenblade

6.

Replace spark plug.

7.

Tightenblade boitor adapter.

8.

Controlbar in released pceltJm.

9.

Controlbar defective.

8.

Depresscontrolbar to handle.

9.

replace blade adapter.

Replace controlbar.

Loss of power 1.

Rear of lawn mower housing

1.

Set to =Higher Cut"

or cuttingblade dragging in heavy grass.

position.

2.

Cuttingtoo much grass.

3.

4.

5.

Dirtyair filter.

Buildupof grass, leaves, and trash under mower.

Too much oil in engine.

6.

Walking speed too fast.

2.

Setto =Higher Cut"

position.

3.

Clean/replace air filter.

4.

Clean undersideof mower

5.

Check oil level.

8.

housing.

Cut at slower walking speed.

16

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM

CHART

CAUSE CORRECTION

Poor cut- uneven 1.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

2.

3.

Wheel heights uneven.

Buildupof grass, leaves and trash under mower.

1.

Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2.

Set all wheeis at same

height

3.

Clean underside of mower hou_ng.

Excessive vibration

1.

2.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

Bent engine crankshaft.

1.

Replace blade. TKjhten

blade bolt.

2.

Contact an authorized service center.

Starter rope hard to pull

1.

Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released

2.

3.

4.

Bent engine cranksh_t.

Blade adapter broken.

Blade dragging in grass.

1.

Depress contro! bar to

upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2.

Contact an authorized service center.

3, Replace blade adapter.

4.

Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface to start engine

Grass catcher not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

1.

Cutting height too low.

2.

Lift on blade wom off.

3.

Catcher not venting

_r.

1.

Raise cutting height.

2.

Replace blade.

3.

Clean grass catcher.

1. " Grass is too high or wheel

h_ight is too low.

• I 2.

Rear of lawn mower housing or blade dragging in grass.

3.

Grass _r too full.

4.

Handlet_ght pes_onnot rightforyou.

I.

Raise cutting height.

.

Raise rear of lawn mower housingone (1) setting higher.

3.

Emptygrass catcher.

4.

Adjusthendle height to

suit.

17

87

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-MODEL NO. 917.388360

49

34

4O

4_

\

3O

I

I

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-MODEL NO. 917.388360

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

DESCRIPTION

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

2O

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

33

9

10

11

7

8

5

6

1

2

3

4

131696

166860X479

161105X479

132001

636O1

131959

66426

74780512

154132

165754

156577

750097

850733X004

136376

51793

147286

165946X479

17600406

167132X004

167133X004

165858

168360X004

166875

751153

166236X479

166243x479

851856

152124

160835X007

19112222

165760

87877

ControlBar

Upper Handla

LowerHandle

RopaGuido

Locknut 1/4-20

Handle Bolt

WlreTie

Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4

Hinge Bracket

MulcherDoor

Engine Zone ControlCable

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2

Up-Stop Bracket

HandleKnob

HairpinCotter

Hinge Rod

Support Bracket

Screw

Axle Arm Assembly. LF

Axle Arm Assembly - RF

Roar Skirl

Selsctor Spring

Rear Door AssemblyKit (Incl. Spdngs)

Locknut 5/16-18

Handle Brecket Assembly (Left)

Handle BracketAssembly (Right)

Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8

Hinge Spdng

Wheel AdjustingBracket - Front

Spacer

Clip on Discharge Guard

Selector Kncb

KEY PART

NO.

NO.

DESCRIPTION

34 167130X004

35 166785

36 160828

37 151162

38

164362

39 83923

40 77400

41 88652

42 165766

43 165767

44

45

165912

150406

46 85463

47 63124

48 167131X004

49 151161

50

57143

51 73990500

52 166878

53 851064

54 850263

56 851074

56 165833

57 851514

58 161551

67 166113

68 165755

70

......

- -

- -

161058

171200

Axle Arm Assembly - LR

Locknut 5/16-18

ShoulderBolt 5/16-18

Wheel Assembly

Shoulder Boit

Flanged Locknut

Hubcap

Hinge Screw

Spdng (LH)

Spring(RH)

Door Bolt

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

DangerDecal

Nut

Axle Ann Assembly - RR

Whee_

WaveWasher

Nut

Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)

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

Helical Lockwasher

HardenedWasher

21" Blade

Blade Adapter

Adjustment Bolt

Grass Bag

Catcher Frame

Engine - (See Breakdown)

Craftsman 143.006200

Waming Decal (Not Shown)

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

_--370K

4OO

130

416

120

119

125

126

1(

313

' 7

1897

46

185

178

238 25O

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

DESCRIPTION

1

2

6

7 36557

12 36775

12A 36558

12B 36694

14

15

16 34839A

17 31335

18

19

20

30

40

41

42

36070

36071

40006

40007

43 20381

45 36777

46

36281

32600

36776

40004

40005

48 27241

50 37460

52 29914

69 35261

70

72 30572

73 28833

75 27897

80 30574A

81 305g0A

82 30591

83 30568A

86 650488

89 611004

90 611112

92 650815

93 650816

100 34443B

101 610118

103 651007

110

119 36787

120 36825

125 37288

126

37266

26727

33734

28277

30589

651018

32610A

34311E

37047

37289

130 6021A

135 35395

150 31672

151 31673

151A 40017

Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 150)

Dowel Pin

Breather Element

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

Breather Tube

Breather Cover & Tube 0nd.

12B)

Breather Tube Elbow

Washer

Governor Rod (Incl. 14)

Governor Lever

Governor Lever Clamp

Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32x 19/

64"

Extension Spring

Oil Seal

Crankshaft

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.)

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.010'

OS)

Piston & Pin Ass'y. (Std.) (Incl.

43)

Piston & Pin Ass'y.(.0t0"

OS)(Incl. 43)

Ring Set (Std.)

Ring Set (.010" OS)

Piston Pin Retaining Ring

Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl.

46)

Connecting Rod Bolt

Valve Lifter

Camshaft (MCR)

Oil Pump Ass'y.

* Mounting Flange Gasket

Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru

83,306).

Oil Drain Plug (Incl. 73)

Drain Plug Gasket

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

SparkPlug Cover

Screw, TorxT-15, 10o24X15/

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 Spdng

Valve Spring

Cap

Intake Valve Seal

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

DESCRIPTION

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

280 36980

282 650831

277 650988

285 35000A

287 650926

290 29774

292 26460

298 28763

300 36916

301 36246

305 35647

306 36996

307 35499

309 650562

310 35648

313 34080

325 37152

355 590701

370A 36261

370C 37318

370K 36695

370R 37317

371 37269

380 640262

390 590737

400 36792B

416 36085

417 650821

900

900

* 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)

Termthal

Throttle Link

R.P.M. AdjustingLever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49164"

Air Cleaner Gasket

Air C_eanerCollar

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"

Fual

Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"

Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap

Oil FillTube

uO'-Ring

=O"-Ring

Screw, 10-32 x 1/2'

Dipstick

Spacer

Spdng Clip

Starter Handle (Black)

Identification Decal

Primer Decal (3 X)

Starter Decal

Warning Decal

6.5 H.P. Craftsman Decal

Carburetor (Incl. 184)

Rewind Starter

Gasket Set (Incl. Items

Marked *)

Spark ArrestorKit (Incl.

417)(Optional)

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

Replacement Engine NONE

Replacement S/B 750860,

order tram 71-999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This engine could have been built with

590694 starter).

NOTE: All componentdimensionsgiven in U.S.

inches

1 inch = 25.4 mm

37

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.0062_

III

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

6327608

35

36

36A

37

28

29

3O

31

4O

44

47

48

6O

18

2O

2OA

25

27

6

7

16

17

1

2

4

5

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor

(Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly

Throttle Return Spdng

* Dust Seal Washer

* Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttle Shutter

* Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting

Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

Tension Spring

Idle Restrictor Screw

Idte Restrictor Scrwe Cap (Bracts)

FloatBow1

* Float Shaft

Roat

* Float Bowl "O"Ring

* tn_etNeedle, Seat, & C_p (Incl. 31)

SpringCllp

PdmerBulb/Retainer Ring

Main Nozzle Tube

CarburetorTube

* =(3"Ring, Maln Nozzle Tube

High Speed Bowl Nut

• Bowl NutWasher

* Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well

* Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

Repak kit

(tnc_.

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

8

11

5

6

7

1

2

3

4

12

13

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

590694

590599A

59O6OO

59O696

59(To01

59O697

590698

59O699

590700

590695

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter

Spdng Pin (Incl. 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

Brake Spdng

Starter Dog

DogSpdng

Pulley & Rewind Spnng Ass'y.

Starter Housing Ass'y.

(40 degree grommet)

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

StaRer Handle

_-5

O_2

_--lJl

12

mm

8

11

3

6

7

12

13

14

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

59O737

590740

590616

590617

590618A

590687A

59O535

590701

59O760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Retainer

Starter Dog

DogSpdng

Pulley & Rewind Spdng Ass'y

Starter Housing Ass'y

(40degree grommet)

StarterRope

(Length 98" x 9/64' dia.)

Starter Handte

SpringClip

II

tl1-7

39

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 Repair Center 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

SEAR8

171200 Rev.1

11.18.99

VB Printedin

U.S.A,