Owner's
Manual
®
HORSEPOWER
EZ MULCH
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Vlodel No.
)17.377420
Safety
o Assembly
o Operation
• Maintenance
o Espa_ol
o Repair Parts
.AUTnON.
_ead and follow all
;afety Rules and instructions
)efore operating this equipment
,ears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 15
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 33
Maintenance 10 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 workmanship.
tf 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:
o 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 rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
TRAiNiNG:
,, Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower prop-
edy. Learn how to quickly stop mower.
,, Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
° Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manu-
al.
o 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 recornrnended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
o The blade turns when the engine is run-
ning.
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.
o 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
Checkfueltankbeforestartingengine.
Donotfill gastankindoors,whenthe
engineisrunningorwhentheengineis
hot.Allowtheenginetocoolforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthegastank.Clean
offanyspilledgasolinebeforestarting
theengine.
Alwaysmakewheelheightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower°Never
attempttodothiswhiletheengineis
running_
Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Keepyoureyesandmindonyour
mowerandthearea being cut. Do not let
other interests distract you.
o 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 walko
o Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
charge 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.
o Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating ito
o 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°
o 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°
o Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an in-
dication 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,
o 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 ex-
cessively steep slopes. Use caution
when operating the mower on uneven
terrain or when changing directions
maintain good footing.
o Never operate your mower without prop-
er guards, plates, grass catcher or other
safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
= Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts often to be sure they are tight-
ened properly.
o Check all bolts, nuts and screws at fre-
quent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure mower is in safe working condition.
o Keep all safety devices in place and
working°
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive
grease and oil,,
o Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are rec-
ommended by and comply with specifi-
cations of the manufacturer of your
mower.
o Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
o 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
plug wire and place wire where it can-
not contact spark plug in order to pre-
vent 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.Theyarealso
availableatmostSearsretailoutletsandsewicecenters.MostSearsstorescanalsoorder
repairpartsforyou,whenyouprovidethemodelnumberofyourlawnmower:Someof
theseaccessoriesmaynotapply to your lawn mower:
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
,,, ,,,,,,, ,,,
MUFFr.ERS
BELTS BLADES
MULCHER KITS STABILIZER
.................. GAS CANS .......
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
AIR FILTERS
,i i,ii,,i
BLADE ADAPTERS
SPARK PLUGS
WHEELS ENGINE OIL
IMPORTANT; This cutting machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence controls to minimize the risk of injury'.
"four unit is equipped with such controls.
Do not attempt to defeat the function of
the operator presence controls under any
circumstances.
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower. Your
new lawn mower has been assembled at
the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purpos-
es. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts,
etc., necessary to complete the assembly
have been placed in the parts bag. To
ensure safe and proper operation of your
lawn mower, all parts and hardware you
assemble must be tightened securely. Use
the correct tools as necessary to ensure
proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
, Remove loose parts included with
mower,
o Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
o Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower han-
dle and padding holding operator pres-
ence control bar to upper handle,
o Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
_qOWER
FO UNFOLD HANDLE
MPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so
_s not to pinch or damage control cables,,
Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.
Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handles and tighten both handle
knobs..
Remove handle padding holding opera-
tor presence control bar to upper han-
dle,
, Your lawn mower handle can be adjust*
ed for your mowing comfort,, Refer to
"Adjust Handle" in the Service and Ad-
justment section of this manual°
Operator presenc_.___.._._, ._...
control bar-"'--- _ / ",z_,,_
Upper han- ----,-_/Liftup// //_,
die __,_./_/// I_,,_..///_"
2£/"Mo ' ng
Lower __,_ position
handle ___
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RUIFS BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the _lustralJons 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 prod-
uct. Learn and understand their meaning°
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE
OR WARNING ON OFF
FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone controlcable Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever'
Starter handle
knob
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Gasoline filler cap
Primer
Drive cover
Deflector
Mulcher door
Lawn mower' housing
Wheel adjuster'
(on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U,S, Consumer' Product Safety
Commission, The blade turns when the engine is running.
OPerator Presence Control Bar,-must ' be starter Handle- used for starting the
held down to the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the car-
buretor to the cylinder for use when starting
a cold engine.
engine.
Drive Control Lever-- used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of lawn
mower.
Mulcher Door - allows conversion to dis-
charge or bagging operation.
[heoperationofanylawnmowercan
esultin foreignobjectsthrownintothe
_yes,whichcanresultinsevereeyedam-
_ge.Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreye
_hieldswhileoperatingyourlawnmoweror
)efforminganyadjustmentsorrepairs..We
ecommea,d awidevisionsafetymaskover
:hespectaclesorstandardsafetyglasses.
:4OW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
the engine speed was set at the factor,]
:or optimum performance° Speed is not
_djustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
C,AUTiON: Federal regulations require
_n engine control to be installed on this
awn mower in order to minimize the
isk of blade contact injury. Do not un-
:ler any circumstances attempt to de-
:eat the function of the operator control.
1-he blade turns when the engine is
"unning.
, 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,.
ro ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
, Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut,.
, Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments., 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
_vhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
_,lso, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
3late tab&
Lower Wheels for High Cut Plate
Raise _,_
Wheels for ver
Low Cut
DRIVE CONTROL
o Self-propelling is controlled by holding
the operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pushing the drive con-
trol lever forward until it clicks; then
release the lever,
o Forward motion will stop when the opera-
tor presence control bar is released° To
stop forward motion without stopping
engine, release the operator presence
control bar slightly until the drive control
disengages. Hold operator presence
control bar down to handle to continue
mowing without self-propelling,
o To keep drive control engaged when
turning comers, push down on handle
and lift front wheels off ground while turn-
ing lawn mower,
Operator presence control bar Drive con-
To engage ('_k_% _ _rive control
drive control disengaged
TO INSTALL DISCHARGING
DEFLECTOR
o Lift door upward on it's hinge until the
deflector frame can be hooked over the
door mounting bracket as shown°
o Release the door to rest against deflec-
tor frame,.
o To return to mulching operation, reverse
the above steps and be sure door is in
closed position°
Mulcher Door
Deflector
7
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
o Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
o Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill
to the full line on the dipstick.
o Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Customer Re-
sponsibilities section of this manual.
o Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
o Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
o To read proper level, tighten engine oil
cap each time.
o Reinstall engine oil cap 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
o Fill fuel tank.. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Pur_,
chase fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that at..
cobol 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 en-
gine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emp-
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and
let it run until fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additional informa-
tion. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
o To start a cold engine, push primer five
(5) times before trying to start. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few minutes.
o Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle
quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap
back.
To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
, o
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces-
san! to repeat priming steps. In warmer
weather over priming may cause flooding
and engine will not start, if you do flood
engine, wait a few minutes before attempt-
ing to startand do not repeat priming steps.
Gasoline
filler cap
Engine oil cap
w/dipstick
MOWING TIPS
o 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.
o For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut and raise the rear of the lawn
mower housing one (1) wheel adjuster
setting higher than the front for better dis-
charge of grass.
° When using a rear discharge lawn mower
in moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut
grass may not enter the grass catcher.
Reduce ground speed (pushing speed)
and/or run the lawn mower over the area
a second time.
o If a trail of grass clippings is left on the
fight side of a rear discharge !awn mower,
mow in a clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect the clippings on the next
pass.
o Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
, 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 catchers off
with water and let dry before using.
8
_ULCHING MOWING TIPS
MPORTANT: For best performance, keep
nower housing free of built-up grass and
rash° Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER
-lOUSING after each use, See "Cleaning"
n CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES sec-
ion of this manual,
The special mulching blade wilt recut the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed° Also, the mulched grass
will biodegrade quickly to provide nutri-
ents for the lawn. Always mulch with your
highest engine (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
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has dried
and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun..
o 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 will be
necessary 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,
mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn
mower one wheel adjuster setting higher
than the front.
° Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions 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°
o Change your cutting pattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week_
This wilt help prevent matting and grain-
ing of the lawn,,
MAX 1/3
9
Check for Loose Fasteners _ I ........ _,f .........................
Clean/InSpect Grass Catcher
(if Equipped} ................. t_ V* _. . , _ ....................
l_ Clean Lawn Mower _vI V" , ..............
O clean Under Drive Cover
W (Power-Propelled MOWers)........... _"
Check drive be|t/pulleys ...................... : ................
(power-Propelled Mowers)
R .Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade .. ........ _/3 ..........
: Lubricati°n chart ......................... $/ : 1_'
Clean Battery/Recharge ....
...........(me_,+.cS!a,tMew.ers)...... ...
E CheckEngineoi|Level .... i_ i::+
N Change Engine Oil ...._/'t,_ ""
G ..CreanAir Fi!ter ........................ _ , ,,.... ,
I inspect Muffler .......... _ .............
N cleap,orR_p!aCesparkPJ,g " ..... _ .....
E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge t_2
I + Change morn often when epemting under a heavy load or in high ambl0n! temperatures
2 + Service mere often when opemftng in ditty or dusty conditions,.
3 * Repla_:e b|ades more aften when mowing in sancb/soil
4 + Charge 48 hours at end o! sea._on
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 warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this manu=
al.
Some adjustments wilt need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
Atl adjustments 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 airffuel
mixture and helps your engine run better'
and last longer. (_
o Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual (_)
BEFORE EACH USE
o Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners°
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART")+
LUBRICATION CHART
(_ Wheel
adjusters
(_) Brake spring
bracket
®
Engine oil
(_ Handle bracket
mounting pin
SPRAY LUBRICANT
SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO
ENGINE- CUSTOMER
RESPONSIBILITIES SECTION
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will at-
tract dust and dirt that will shorten the life (
the self lubricating bearings. If you feel the
must be lubricated, use only a dry, pow-
dered graphite type lubricant sparingly°
i 0
RODUOT SPE¢ F CATUONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377420
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.5
DISPLACEMENT: 1256 CUo IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: Io25 QtJARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SFiSG/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
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBSo
• 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 pro-
vided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing 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
o Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened wash-
er),_
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
cause tire damage.,
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp_ Replace bent or damaged blades°
TO REMOVE BLADE
o Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot come
in contact with spark plug.
o Turn lawn mower on its side, Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
o Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
o Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heaw cloth.
o Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise. Use a 9/16" box or open-end
wrench.
11
o Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft° Be sure key in
adapter and keyway in crankshaft are
aligned.
o Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
o Be sure the trailing edge is up toward
the engine_
o install the blade bolt with the lock wash-
er and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft,
o Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwiseo
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 fto Ibs.
NOTE:Wedonotrecommendsharpening
blade- butifyoudo,besurethebladeis
balanced.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
Care should be taken to keep the blade bal-
anced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.
o The blade can be sharpened with a file or
on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to
sharpen while on the mower:
o 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 Crank
adaptor ... _ha_ key-
Blade. Key_ _ "_7"
Blade
O;o"o,wos',or. ,0enod\.\-S aJ
washer Trailing adaptor
edge
GRASS CATCHER
(if purchased as an accessory)
o The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
. Check your grass catcher often for darn-
age or deterioration. Through normal
use it will wear: if catcher needs replac-
ing, replace only with a manufacturer
approved replacement catcher. Give the
lawn mower model number when order-
in.
DRI_fE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time before
you mow to be sure they move freely.
The wheels not turning freely means
trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive
wheel area and must be cleaned to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
o Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers
o Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
° Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/or
drive wheel gear teeth.
- Put wheels back in place,
- If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not
turn freely, contact your nearest autho-
rized service center:
GEAR CASE
° To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area around
the drive should be kept clean and free
of trash build--up. Clean under the
drive cover twice a season.
° The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the gear
case.
* If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.
750355. Do not substitute.
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 tem-
)erature_
........, SAE V!SCOSITY GRADES
1, l r ]
F -2_r O* 30* 32" alO* 6G _ BO* 10_ I
TEMP_ERATUR_ RANGE ANTtCIPAfEID 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 op-
eration 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 start-
ing the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
12
.'£OCHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE" Before tipping lawn mower to
:lrain 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 as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of engine.
o Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
• Fitl engine with oil. Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
OVER FILLo
o Replace engine oil cap.
, Reconnect spark plug wire to Spark
plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine wilt 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.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
o Remove the air filter by turning clockwise
to the stop and pull away from collar°
,, Remove filter from inside of cover..
o Clean the inside of the cover and the col-
lar to remove any dirt accumulation.
o 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 counter clock-
wise to tighten.
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-
tddge. They may cause deterioration of the
cartridge° Do not oil cartridge. Do not use
pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge°
o Install cartridge, then replace cover mak-
ing sure the tabs are aligned with the
slots in the back plate. Fasten screw
securely.
Collar
Slo_ Cfip
Air filter
Turn clockwise
to remove
Tab
Air filter cover Turn counter--
clockwise to
MUFFLER tighten
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a
fire hazard and!or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and run better Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of builtmup 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
o Turn lawn mower on its side_ Make sure
air filter and carburetor are upo Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by scrap-
ing to remove build--up of grass and
trash.
o Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating_ A clogged engine runs hot-
ter and shortens engine life.
o Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
o 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.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover with
putty knife or similar tool to remove any
build--up of trash or grass on underside of
drive cover.
13
CAUTION: Before performing any ser-
vice or adjustments:
o Release control bar.
o Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
o Disconnect spark plug wire from
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
mar wheels of your lawn mower, is provid-
ed to minimize the possibility that objects
will be thrown out the rear of the lawn
mower into the operator's mowing posi-
tion.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it
should be replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE
BELT
= Remove drive cover. Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and
rolling belt off it.
o Turn lawn mower on its side with carbu-
retor and fuel cap up.
° Remove blade°
• Remove debris shield.
° Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.
o Install new belt by reversing above
steps.
o Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life.
°.v°_m_
cover
Belt Push
down
TO ADJUST HANDLE
'(our lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered for your mowing comfort, Four
(4) positions are available: high, medium
high, medium low and low. Handles are
shipped mounted in the medium low posi-
tion.
o To change from medium low to medium
high position, the upper and lower handle
sections will have to be turned over.
o Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator pres-
ence control bar from the upper handle.
o Remove the starter' rope guide from the
lower handle_
° Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
o Turn the handle over and reassemble the
hairpin cotters that have been removed.
o Reassemble the starter rope guide.
= Reassemble the controls and the opera-
tot presence control bar to the upper han-
dleo
CAUTION: The operator presence control
bar must pivot freely to permit blade brake
engagement when control bar is released,,
Do not over tighten the fasteners holding
the controls to the upper handle,,
° To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
wiJ! have to be turned over_
= To change from medium low to low posi-
tion, onty the lower handle section will
have to be turned over:
Medium Low
Medium High
Shipping Position
Lower Handle
14
_'NGINE
_,ARBURETOR
Y'ourcarburetorhasa non-adjustablefixed
-nainjet for mixturecontrol, tf yourengine
:loesnotoperateproperlydueto suspect-
_dcarburetorproblems,takeyourlawn
-nowertoan authorizedservicecenterfor
epairor adjustment°
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory seL
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.
immediately prepare your lawn mower for
_torage 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 peri-
od of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all
dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean,
dry are&
, Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Customer Responsibilities
section of this manual).
= Lubricate as shown in the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manua!.,
Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened,. Inspect mov-
ing parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary_.
o Touch up all rusted or chipped paint sur-
faces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
o Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the lower
handle clears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward,
o Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be fold-
ed 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 posi-
tion.
Lower Handle
Bracket
Squeeze to fold
/-
Hairpin Cotter
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Upper Handle
Fold Backward
Mowing Position
Fold Forward
For Storage
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
Lower Handle
UMPORTANT: 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 indbates
that aicolol 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.
o Drain the fuel tank.
o Start the engine and let it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty,
o Never use engine or carburetor cleaner prod-
ucts in the fuel tank or pen*nanent damage
may occur.
o Use fresh fuel next season,
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alterna-
tive in minimizing the formation of fue! gum
deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gaso_
line in fuel tank or storage container. Always fol-
low the mix ratio found on stabilizer container,
Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding sta-
bilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carbu-
retor. Do not drain the gas tank and carburetor
if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
dean engine oil, (See "ENGINE" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this man-
ual),
15
CYUNDER
° Remove spark plugo
o Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole into cylinder.
° Puttstarter handle slowly a few times toc[_
tn'buteoil.
o Replace with new spark plug_
OTHER
° Do not store gasoline from one season to
another,
o Replace your gasoline can ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and!or dirt in your gasoline will
cause problems,
o If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it
to give protection from dust and dirt,
o 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.
CAbTION: 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
Does not start
Loss of power
CAUSE
o Dirty air filter,,
= Out of fuel.
o Stale fuel.
o Water in fuel.
= Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
CORRECTION
o CleanJreplace air filter:
° Fill fuel tank.
= Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
° Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline,,
• Connect wire to plug.
o
adapter.
o Control bar in released
position.
° Control bar defective.
Bad spark plug. °
Loose blade or broken blade o
o Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
o Cutting too much grass.
o Dirty air filter.
° Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower_
oToo much oilin engine.
oWalking speed too fast.
Replace spark plug_
"l]ghten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
Depress control bar to
handle.
Replace control bar.
Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
o Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
o Clean/replace air filter.
o Clean underside of mower
housing.
= Check oil level.
= Cut at slower walking
speed.
' : .,, : 16 ',.'
"ROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Poor cut - uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
o Worn, bent or loose blade_
o Wheel heights uneven.
o Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
o Worn, bent or loose blade.
o Bent engine crankshaft..
• Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
o Bent engine crankshaft..
o Blade adapter broken..
o Blade dragging in grass..
CORRECTION
,,,,, ,,,,,,,,
o Replace blade° Tighten
blade bolt,.
o Set all wheels at same
height
o Clean underside of
mower housing.
• Replace blade_ Tighten
blade boll
o Contact an authorized
service center..
o Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
o Contact an authorized
service center.
o Replace blade adapter..
o Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
to start engine..
° Cutting height too low. o Raise cutting heighL
o Lift on blade worn off. o Replace bfade.
o Catcher not venting air.
=
o Grass is too high or wheel
o
o
Hard to push
Clean grass catcher..
Raise cutting height..
height is too low..
Rear of lawn mower o
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
Grass catcher too full.
Handle height position not
right for you°
Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher..
Empty grass catcher.
Adjust handle height to
suiL
17
Forthe repairor replacementpartsyouneed
delivereddirectlyto yourhome
Call7 am- 7prn,7 daysa week
1=800-,366=PART
(1-800-366-7278)
Para ordenar piezas con entrega a
domicilio - 1-800-659-7084
For in-house major brand repair service
Catt 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
I=800o4=REPAnR
(1-800-473-7274)
Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a
domicilio - 1-800-676-581"1
For the location of a Sears Parts and
Repair' Center in your area
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
! =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
When requesting service or ordering
parts, always prov!de the following
information:
• Product Type = Part Number
= Model Number o Part Description
SEARS
America s Repair Specia{tsts
161746 04.21.98 REV.5 VB/RDNB Printed in U.S.A.
