Owner's Manual
rRAFTSMAN°
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No,
917.387256
• 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 2 Product Specifications 9
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 11
Assembly 4 Storage 13
Operation 5 Troubleshooting 14
Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30
Maintenance 8 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,
_ubricated, 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 crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained 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 dghts, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND 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
circumstances.
TRAINING: ......
• Read this operator's manual carefully_ _" '
Become familiar with the controls and ": "
know how to operate your mower .... :
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.
properly. Leam how to quickly stop '_ PREPARATION:
mower. ,_ • Always thoroughly check the area to be
• Do not allow children'to_use-your mOwe:=:.__ mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
Never allow adults to use mower wit_ut " wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
proper instructions ....... :. _i _:
• 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.
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
2
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 repaidng
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 exces-
sively 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 mount-
ing bolts olten 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 ofyour
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.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark p_ug
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
Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarenotshipped
withyourmower.TheyarealsoavailableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters.Most
Sears stores can also order repairpartsfor you, when you providethe model number ofyour
lawn mower. Some ofthese accessoriesmay notapply to yourlawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
;t
STABlUZER
GAS CANS
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS _ GRASS CATCHERS
FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
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 as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete 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
mower.
• Cut down two end corners ef 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.
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 h_ndle
section locks into place in mowincl
position.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper Operator presencecontrol bar
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs, u Liftup
• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper Lift up
handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort. Mowing
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service position
and Adjustment section of this manual.
Lower handle
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAl_AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarizeyourself with the
location ofvarious controlsand adjustments. Save this manual for future referance.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION EP_IINE ENGINE F,_ST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control....
cable
Operator presencecontrolbar
Starter handle
Handl_
Grass
,Gasolinefiller cap
Airfilter
Primer
Lawnmower housing
Engine oilplug
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE _jduster
in the engine. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk-behind power lawn mowers conformto the safety standards ofthe American
National Standards Instituteand the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade
tums when the engine is running.
uperator presence control par - must De Primer - pumps additionalfuel from the
held down to the handle to startthe engine, carburetor to thecylinderfor use when starting
Release to stopthe engine, a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.
5
Theoperationofanylawnmower 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.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
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 ADJUST CUTTING 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 require-
ments. 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.
Lower wheels for
Raise wheels for low Plate tab
cut
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
• Lift the rear door on the mower housing
and place the grass catcher frame onto
the formed 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.
bracket
Formed
tabs
Grass
frame
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.
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 full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
• Engine h01ds 20 ozs. of oil. For type
and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
6
• Pour oil slowly. Do not overfill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil
plug each time.
• Reinstall engine oil plug and tighten.
• 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.
GAS
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quanti-
ties that can be used within 30 days to
assure fuel freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system 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.
Gasoline filler
cap
(Discard debris
pluginside)
Engine oil
TO START ENGINE
• To starta coldengine, push primer five (5)
times beforetrying to start. Use a firm push.
This step isnot usually necessary when
startingan engine which has already run for
a few minutes.
• Holdoperator presence controlbar down to
the handle and pullstarter handle quickly.
Do notallow starter rope to snap back.
• To stopengine, release operator presence
controlbar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary
to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather
over priming may cause flooding and engine
will not start. Ifyou do flood engine, wait a few
minutes before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
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 lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (push-
ing speed) and/or run the lawn mower
o,_er the area a second time.
• If a trail of clippings is left on the right
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
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 grass. To
prevent this, regularly hose catcher off
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners "V t " ' '
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) _' i__
i i Clean t.awn Mower
O Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers) tf
Check drive belt/pulleys
E (Power-Propelled Mowers) t'/
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade b/' s
Lubrication Chart it/ If
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers 1 it/ $/4
E Check Engine Oil Level b/
N Change Engine Oil i/1,2
G Clean Air Filter Ii/ 2
I Inspect Muffler _/
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge t/2
I - Change m<_e oftenwhen opera,rig uncuta heaw loadorin high ambienttemperatures.
2 - Sewice more oftenwhen operating indirty or dusty condi_ns.
3 - Replace bladesmore c_en when motw_gin sar_y soil
4 - Charge 48 hours alend of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover itemsthat have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operatormust
maintain mower as instructedin this manual.
Some adjustments willneed tobe made
periodk:allyto properlymaintain yourunit.
Alladjustments inthe Service end Adjust-
ments sectionofthis manual should;be
checked at least once each season:
• Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace
air filter element and check bladefor wear.
A new spark plug and de_uVnewair filter
element assures proper air-fuel mixtureand
helps yourengine run better end lastlonger.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
adjuster
door
hinge
(_ Brake spdnge
bracket
(_) Engine oil
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oillevel.
• Check forloose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBFIICATION
CHART').
(_) Spray lubricant
(_ SAE 30 Motoroil. 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.
8
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.387256
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 4.0
DISPLACEMENT: 11.5 CU, IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
_,IR 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.
LAWN MOWER • Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bott, 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.
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 fi_ter 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=counter-
clockwise.
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.
9
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.
Blade Crankshaft
adapter keyway
Key
Blade
Blade
bolt
shaft
washer Hardened Blade
washer Trailing adapter
: edge
GRASS CATCHER
• 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 manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high qualitydetergent oil rated with
API service classifP..ationSF, SG or SH.
Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade according
to your expected operating temperature.
SAIEVISCOSITY GRADES
NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in coldweather,
these multi-viscosity oilswill resultin increased
oilconsumptionwhen used above 32°F.
Check your engine oillevel more fr_uently to
avoid possibleengine 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 oillevel before starting
the engine and aftereach five (5) hours of
continuoususe. 5ghten oil plug securelyeach
time you check the oillevel.
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.
Drain plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter by turning counter-
clockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
10
• 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.
Turn Counter-
Collar Clockwiseto
Remove
Air Filter
_rnClockwise
to"13ghten
AirFilter Cover
MUFFLER
Inspectand replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change yourspark plug each year to make
yourengine starteasier and runbetter. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: 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.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
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 free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We DO NOT recommend using a
garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electdeal system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to keep
water out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
CAUTION: Before performing any service
or 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 CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TOADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
Operation s_'_on of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels ot 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
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered for your mowing comfort. Four (4)
positionsare available: high,medium high,
medium 16wand low. Handles are shipped
mounted inthe medium low position.
• To change from medium low to medium
high position,the upper and lower handle
sectionswill have to be turned over.
• Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controlsand operator presence
control bar from the upper handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the
upper handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lowerhandle from the
handle brackets.
• Turn the handle over and reassemble the
hairpincotters that have been removed.
• Reassemble the starter rope guide.
• Reassemble the controls and the operator
presence control bar tothe upper handle.
CAUTION: The operatorpresence controlbar
must pivotfreely to permit blade brake
engagement when controlbar is released. Do
notover tighten thefasteners holdingthe
controlstothe upper handle.
• To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be turned over.
• To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section
will have to be turned over.
11
Shippingposition
Medium low
Lower handle
Squeeze to
remove
Hairpinclip
Medium high
bracket
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixturecontrol. Ifyour engine
does not operate propady due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service canter for repair 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, ifyou 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 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.
12
Immediatelyprepare 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 itthoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Maintenance 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 tower
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 may damage
the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Operator presencecontrolbar
Lowerhandle
_ Handle
bracket
Hairpin cotter
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itisimportant toprevent gum
deposits from forming inessential fuel system
parts such as carburetor,fue!filter, fuel hose,
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alc_nct b_ended 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 letit rununtil 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 isan acceptable
altemative 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.
Upper handle -_'-_ ;,7'2_P_,_
Foldforward _ _'_(,,, ] Fold
for storage _ y _" .,j_'__'/backward
j_,"_"_:'!.:: _"f_S? Mowing
g poeton
Lower handle
13
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (withengine warm) and replace with
dean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" inthe
Maintenance sect_n ofthis manual)
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) ofoilthrough spark
plug hole intocylinder.
• Pullstarter handle slowlya few timesto
distributeoil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another
• Replace your gasoline can ifyourcan starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirtinyour gasolinewill
cause problems.
• If possible, storeyour unitindoors and cover
itto give protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture Do not
use plastic Plasticcannot 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.
Allowthe engine to cool before storingin any
enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Does not start
CAUSE
• Dirtyair filter.
• Out offuel.
• Stale fuel
• Water infuel.
• Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug
• Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
• Control bar in released
position.
• Control bar defective
CORRECTION
• CleaWreplace air filter.
• Fillfuel tank.
• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
• Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank
withfresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.
• Replace spark plug.
• _ghten blade boltor
replace blade adapter.
• Depress controlbarto
handle.
• Replace control bar.
14
PROBLEM
Lossof power
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
CAUSE
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cuttingblade dragging
in heavy grass.
• Cuttingtoo much grass.
Poor cut- uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling ('rfso
equipped)
Hard to push
• Dirtyair filter.
• Buildupof grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
• Too much oil in engine.
• Walking speed too fast.
•Wom, bent or looseblade.
• Wheel heights uneven.
• Buildupof grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
•Wom, bent or looseblade.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Engine flywheel brake ison
when controlbar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
• Blade dragging in grass.
• Cutting height too low.
• Lifton blade worn off.
• Catcher not venting air.
• Grass istoo high orwheel
height istoo low.
• Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
• Grass catcher too full.
• Handle height position not
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
• Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Clean underside of mower
housing.
• Check oil level,
• Cut at slower walking
speed.
• Replace blade. Tighten"
blade bolt.
• Set all wheels at same
height
• Clean undersideof
mower housing.
• Replace blade. TEjhten
blade belt.
• Contact an authorized
serv_.e center.
• Depress centrol barto
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
• Replace blade adapter.
• Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard surface
• Raise cutting height.
• Replace blade.
• Clean grass catcher.
• Raise cutting height.
• Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
• Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit.
15
For in-home major brand repair service:
Call 24 hoursa day, 7 days a week
1-800-4-MY-HOME SM(1-800-469-4663)
Para pedir servicio de reparacibn 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 S"
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 pro, Monday - Saturday
1-800-827-6655
Home CentraF
168844 03.18.99 VB
Printed in U.S.Ao
