Owner's Manual
rRAFTXMI:IN°
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377970
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• EspaSol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before opera_ting this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman Website: www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty 2 Product Specifications 12
Safety Rules _. 2 Service and Adjustments 15
Assembly 4 Storage ; 16
Operation X 6 Troubleshooting 17
Maintenance Schedule 11 Repair Parts 37
Maintenance 11 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.
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 retuming the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while
this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence controls to minimize the risk of injury.
Your unit is equipped with such controls.
Do not attempt to defeat the function of the
operator presence controls under any
cimumstances.
TRAINING:
• Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and know
how to operate your mower properly. Leam
how to quickly stop mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before using
your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that are
not recommended by the manufacturer.
Use ofsuch attachments may be hazard-
ous.
• The blade tuma when the engine is running.
PREPARATION:
• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear itof all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
when starting and while using your mower.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
2
• Checkfuel tank before starting engine. Do
notflU ges tank indoors, when the engine is
running or when the engine is hot. Allow the
engine to cool for several minutes before
fillingthe gas tank. Clean offany spilled
gasoline before starting the engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never attempt
to do this while the engine is running.
• Mow only in daylight or good ar_cial light.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always be
sure of your footing - keep a firm hold on the
handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you leave
or are not using your mower, or before
crossing driveways, walks, roods, and any
gravel-covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower ifyou hit
a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating your mower.
• Do not change the govemor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if itvibrates
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 pullingthe mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow excessively
steep slopes. Use caution when operating
the mower on uneven terrain or when
changing directions - maintain good footing.
• Never operate your mower without proper
guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety
devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
• Check the blade and the engine mounting
belts often to be sure they are tightened
properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at frequent
intervals for proper tightness to be sure
mower is in safe worldng condition.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free
of grass, leaves or excessive grease and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deterioration
and wear and replace wom bags. Use only
replacement bags that are recommended
by and comply with specifications of the
manufacturer of your mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your mower.
• Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an
open flame or an ignition source such as a
hot water heater, space heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!!
BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING: The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
3
Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarenot
shippedwithyourmower.TheyarealsoavailableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservice
centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair pads for you, when you provide the model
number ofyour lawn mower. Some of these acsessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHERKITS
_'_ GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR RLTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
STABIUZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
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. To ensure safe and
proper operation of your lawn mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end corners of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
• 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
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and squeeze the bottom ends of
lower handle towards each other until
the pin in handle can be inserted into
one of the three height adjustment
holes.
• Remove protective paddihg, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove any packing material from
around control bar.
• Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator presence
controlbar
Upper handle
Lift up
Lift up
Lower
handle
Mowing
position
3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
/
Handle
pin
TO INSTALL ATrACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging; See OPERATION section
of this manual.
TO PREPARE BATrERY
NOTE: Your battery must be charged
before you can start your lawn mower.
• Disconnect engine battery connector
(male) from battery connector (female)
• Connect battery charger connector
(male) to battery connector (female).
• Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet.
• Leave battery charger connected for 24
hours before starting your engine for the
first time.
• After charging, connect engine connec-
tor (male) to battery connector (female).
Your engine has an integral alternator for
partial charging. Connect your battery
charger to charge battery as required.
IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will
not charge a discharged battery.
At the end of the mowing season the
battery should be charged for 48 hours to
protect the battery during winter storage.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the engine
connector (male) from the battery
connector (female) to prevent accidental
starting when transporting or storing your
lawn mower after the season.
Engine
connector
(Male)
Battery-
connector
(Female)
charger
connector
(Male)
5
KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself withthe
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST : SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control
Key startswitch
Cable clip
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Engine oilcap w/dipstick
Mulcher
plug
• Gasoline cap
Mulcher door
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine, Housing
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 Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control - must be
held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine•
Starter handle - used for starting the
engine•
Drive control bar - used to engage
power-propelled foward motion of lawn
mower.
Mulcher plug - Located at the rear
discharge opening must be removed when
converting to bagging operation.
Key start switch- used to start engine
6
Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin
foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can
resultinsevere eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while operating
your lawn mower or performing any adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require an
engine control to be installed on this lawn
mower in order to minimize the risk of blade
contact injury.Do not under any circumstances
attempt to defeat the function of the operator
control. The blade turns when the engine is
P,3WI3ing.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST cUTrlNG HEIGHT
• All four wheels are adjusted by a single
lever.
• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To raise
mower, move lever forward to desired
position.To lower mower, move the lever
toward the rear.
LowerWheels for high cut
Raise Wheels for low cut
GROUND DRIVE SPEEDS
Your lawn mower provides multiple speeds
to let you select the speed that suits you
best.
• Lower speeds are for slow, heavy/thick
grass cutting or trimming.
• Medium speeds are for normal grass
cutting or trimming.
• High is for light cutting and for ground
transport.
NOTE: Donot move speed control lever
unless the .engine is running
TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM
• With engine running, select ground
speed by moving speed control lever to
desired position.
• To start forward motion, pull drive
control bar back against handle.
• To stop forward motion, release drive
control bar.
IMPORTANT: Always keep drive control
bar fully engaged against handle when in
use.
Speed control
lever
Drive control
engaged
Operator presence
control bar
Drive control
disengaged
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mower was shippedreadytobe
usedas a mulcher.To convert tobaggingor
discharging:
REAR BAGGING-
, Open reardoorand remove mulcherplug.
Storemulcher plugin a safeplace.
• To convertto mulchingordischarging
operation,installmulcherplugintorear
dischargeopeningof mower.
SIDE DISCHARGING-
, Rear door must be open.
• Open mulcher door and install discharge
deflector under guard as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging opera-
tion, discharge deflector must be removed
and mulcher door must be closed.
7
SIMPLESTEPSTOREMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
• Rear mulcher plug installed.
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
• Rear mulcher plug removed.
• Grass catcher installed.
• Mulcher dcer closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
• Rear mulcher plug installed.
• Side crtschargedeflector installed.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plug in place or approved
grass catcher in place.
Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
'_, ,
Mulcher plug _''_
Mulcher door
Open ____.
mulcher door
Discharge deflector
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Liftthe rear door of the lawn mower and
'- place the grass catcher frame hooks intothe
slots of the rear door.
• The grass catcher issecured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plug or approved grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
proppedopen.
slots Grass
handle
Catcher frame
hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• Lift up on grass catcher using the frame
handle.
• Remove grass catcher with clippings from
under lawn mower handle.
• Empty clippings from bag using both frame
handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying;
itwill cause unnecessary wear.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
en_ne.
• Be sure mower islevel and area around oil
fill is dean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full line
on thedipsiick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
• Fngine holds 27 ozs. of oil. For type and
grade of oilto use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill tofull line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time.
• Reinstall engine oilcap and tighten.
• Change the oilafter even] 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may need
to change the qilmore often under dusty,
dirtyconditions.
GAS
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
8
octane.(Useof leadedgasolinewill
increasecarbonandleadoxidedeposits
andreducevalvelife).Donotmixoilwifh
gasoline.Purchasefuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol
blendedfuels(calledgasoholor usingethanol
or methanol) can attract moL_turewhich leads
to separation and formation of acids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an angine while in storage. To avoid
engineproblems,thefuelsystemshouldbe
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it
run untilthe fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage instructions for additional information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
Gaso_ne
filler cap
oilcap
TO START ENGINE
• To starta coldengine,pushprimerthree (3)
timesbeforetryingtostart. Use a firmpush.
Thisstep isnotusuallynecessarywhen
startingan enginewhich has already runfor
a few minutes.
• Move enginespeed controllevertofast
position.
• Holdoperator presencecontrolbardownto
the handle.
•Tum electricstadkeyclockwiseto crank
engine.
IMPORTANT: Do notcrankenginemorethan
fiveco_nous secondsbetween each timeyou
trytostart.Wait5 to 10secondsbetween
each attempt.
• To startengineusingthe auxiliarystarter
handle,followthe steps above. Exchange
the use ofthe startkeyforstarterhandle.
Pullstarterhandlequickly.Do notallow
starterropeto snapback.
• To stop engine, releaseoperatorpresence
controlbar.
NOTE: In coolerweather itmaybe necessary
to repeatprimingsteps. Inwarmerweather
overprimingmay causeflood'mgand engine
will notsta_ ffyoude flood enginewaita few
minutesbefore attempSngtostartand de not
repeatprimingsteps.
9
MOWINGTIPS
• For most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the enginespeed
should be set in the fast position.
• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the firstcut to reduce pushing
effort,to avoid overheating the engine, and
to avoid leaving dumps of grass clippings.
Make the second cut to the desired height.
• For extremely heaW cutSng, reduce the
width ofcut.
• Pores incloth graas catchers can become
filled with dirtand dust with use and the
catcher willcollect less grass. To prevent
this, regularly hose catcher off with water
and let dry before use,
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbest performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
section ofthis manual
• The special mulching blade will recut the
grassclippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn ti'_eywill_sperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also_the mulched grass will
biedegmde quicldyto provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
e_line (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recuttingaction of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The hest time to
mow your lawn "._the early afternoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
offonly the top one-third of the grass blades.
If the lawn is overgrown itwillbe nscassa./
to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut by overlapping
previously cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass conditions
may require that an area be mulched a
second time to completely hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the firstcut path.
• Change your cutting pattern fromweek to
week. Mow north to ._outh one week then
change to east to wast the next week. This
willhelp prevent matting and graining of the
lawn.
10
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ._
FILL IN DATES _O_ _
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE _(,_
Check forLoose Fasteners II/ I_'
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) l,/
M Clean LawnMower _1
_ Clean Un_r Dr_'aCc_'er
(Power-Propelled Mowers) t/
RE Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-Propelled Mowers) I_'
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _3
LubricationChart I/'
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectdc Start MowersI I_ V_4
E Check Engine OilLevel If
N Change Engine Oil 1/1,2
G Clean Air Filter IV#
I InspectMuffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug I_
E Replace Air FilterPaper Cartridge _2
......
1 - Change more often when ogemting under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Sewice rnore olten when operating indirty or dust,/coaditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 oCharge 48 hcurs at 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 warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments willneed to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All a_ustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filterelement and check blade for
wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air
filter element assures proper air-fuel mixture
and helps your engine run better and last
longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule inthis
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
I_ Wheel
uster
" !1
I
(_) Drive pins
(_) Engine oil
(_ Spray lubricant
(_) Refel: to MAINTENANCE
"ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oilor grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirtthat will shorten the
life of the serflubricating bearings. If you
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry,powder._ graphite type lubricant
spa jly.
tt
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377970
;ERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
6.75
1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 27 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. LBS.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the roar of the
lawn mower housing.Record both sedal number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free ofgasoline, oil, or insect
controlchemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage.-
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning whe0 removing blade bolt.
• Protect your handswith glovesand/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blai:le bolt by turning 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.
TO REPLACE BLADE
• Position the blade adapter on the engine
crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and
crankshaft keyway are aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8
HEATTREATED.
12
TOSHARPENBLADE
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 Crank-
adapter shaft
keyway
Blade
Blade
bolt
Lock
washer Crank°
Hardened Trailing Blade shaft
washer edge adapter
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
rep]acing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check rear drive wheels each time you
mow to be sure they move freely. The
wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the
drive wheel and dust cover area and must
be cleaned out to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both rear wheels.
• Remove hubcaps and Iocknuts.
• Rennove wheels from wheel adjuster
axles.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from
insi.de the dust cover, pinion and/or drive
• If you remove the drive pinions, wipe
clean with dry cloth. Reassemble dry.
Do not lubricate. Do not use oil or
grease.
• The pinion gear, on both sides of the
mower, are the same, however, they
must be installed correctly. If installed
incorrectly, the drive system will not
work.
• There are arrows embossed on both
sides of the pinion gear. With the arrow
at the top of the pinion, the arrow must
point towards front of mower. If the
arrow points to the rear, turn the pinion
around and assemble to mower.
• Place wheels back on adjuster axles.
• Replace lecknuts and hubcaps.
Pinion
E-ring
Locknut
Washer
Hubcap
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
1correct
Dustcover
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH.
Select the oil'sSAE viscosity grade according
to your expected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
RANGE _IT_tPATED _EFORIE NEX_ O_. CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased
oilconsumption 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.
wheel gear teeth.
13
Checkthecrankcaseoillevelbeforestarting
theengineandaftereachlive(5)hoursof
continuoususe. T_hten oilpkig securely each
time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil,
drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank
is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
and place wire where itcannot come in
contact with sparkplug.
• Remove engine oilcap; lay aside on a clean
surface.
• T_ lawn mower on itsside as shown and
drain oil into a suitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil
trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oilon lawn mower and
on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fillonly to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.
• Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
/
"--- container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Loosen cover knob.
• Swing cover down and remove from
hinge.
• Pull paper filter out of air cleaner body.
• Clean air cleaner cover and body.
• Install a new paper filter.
• Reinstall cover to air cleaner body. Be
sure hinge is assembled properly.
• Swing cover up and tighten cover knob.
(Do not overtighten).
Airfilter cover
Coverknob
Hinge
Paperfilter
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create afire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and run better. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTAN'E: For best performance, keep
mower housing free ofbuilt-up grass and trash.
Clean underside of mower housing after each
use.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from
spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with the spark plug.
• Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove build-up of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil,etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
14
CAUTION:BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
• Release control bar and stop engine.
• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom
spark plug and place where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section ofthis manual
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to
minimize the possibilitythat objects will be
thrown out the rear of the lawn mower intothe
operator's mewing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mower has three (3)
height positions - adjust to height that suits
you.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
towards each other untilthe pin in handle
can be insertedintoone of the three height
adjustment holes.
Med..
Low
Handle pin
J 3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set. Do
not attempt to increase engine speed or it
may resultin personal injury. If you believe
that the engine is running too fast or too slow,
take your lawn mower to an authorized
service center/department for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center/department for
repair and adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine
governor, which is factory set for proper engine
speed. Ovempeeding the engine above the
factory high speed setting can be dangerous
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 adjustmen_
15
Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storageatthe end of the season or ifthe unit
willnot be used for30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
oftime, clean itthoroughly, remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
in the Maintenance section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace ifnecessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
• You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on sides of
the upper handle and allow handle to fold
down to the rear.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
toward each other until pins in handle clear
the brackets and pivot entire handle
assembly forward and allow itto rest on
mower.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
require manually locking intothe mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you may damage the
control cables.
Operator presence
control bar_"'"-_
• Upper handle --------_
Fold forward _ ___.._=
for storage _-_-__
Lower _
handle
Handle pin
High ------...._........._/-
ied;_. __/ 3-position
Low _ ._o._ _- Handle
_ adlustmdnt
bracket i
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis important to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let itrun untilthe fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
aitemative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposifs during storage. Add stabilizer to
gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section ofthis manual).
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole intocylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distnbute oil,
• Replace with new spark plug.
//,_._ BATTERY
_F Disconnect the battery from the engine
connector and charge battery 48 hours.
old OTHER
_° I backward • Do not store gasoline from one season to
Mowing another.
position • Replace your gasoline can if your can starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline wiU
cause problems.
• Ifpossible, store your unitindoors and cover
it togive protection from dust and dirt.
16
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not mta'_nmoisture. Do not
usa plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and willcause
your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower While
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CORRECTION
Will not start
Loss of power
Poor cut
- uneven
CAUSE
1. Dirtyair filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire isdisconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released position
9. Control bar defective
10. Weak battery.
11. Disconnected Battery connector
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirtyair tilter.
4. Buildup ofgrass, leaves
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oilin engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, Identor loose blade.
2. Low engine speed.
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refillwith fresh
clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade boltor replace blade
adapter.
8. Depress controlbar to handle.
9. Replace controlbar.
10. Charge battery
11. Connect battery to engine
Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft
1. Set in 'Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
3. Clean/replace air tilter.
4. Clean underside of mower housing
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
1,
2.
Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt,
Set engine speed control in fast
position.
Clean underside ofmower housin_3. Buildupof grass, leaves, and 3.
trash under mower.
Excessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
vibration 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact an authorized service
center/department.
Starter rope
hard to pull
Blade adapter broken.
Blade d_aggingin grass.
1.
2.
3.
4.
1. Depress control bar to upper
handle before pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized service
center/deparfment.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or
to hard surface to start engine.
17
TROUBLESHC OTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher 1. Cuffing heighttoo low. 1. Raise cuffing height.
not filling 2. Lift on blade wom off. 2. Replace blade.
(If so equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.
4. Low engine speed. 4. Set engine speed control in
fast position.
Hard to push
Loss of drive
1. Grass is toohigh or
wheel height istoo low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catchertoo full.
4. Handle height position
not rightfor you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt offof pulley.
3. Drive cableworn or broken.
4. Dirt in drive pinions.
1. Raise cuttingheight.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1)setting higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.
3. Replace ddve cable.
4. Clean ddve pinions.
18
For in-home major brand repair service:
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-4-MY-Home sM(1-800-469-4663)
Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio
1-800-676-5811
In Canada for all your service and parts needs call
Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pi_ces
1-800-665-4455
For the repair or replacement parts you need:
Call 6 am-11pm CST, 7 days a week
PartsDirect sM
1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)
Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio
1-800-659-7084
For the location of a Sears Parts and RepairCenter
in your area:
Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-488-1222
For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance
Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement:
Call 9 am-5 pm, Monday - Saturday
1-800-827-6655
169205 03.15.99 VB
Printed in U.S.A.
