Owner's Manual
CRAFTSMAN
6.5 HORSEPOWER
22" EZ MULCH
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377422
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Espa_ol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Warranty 2 Product Specifications 10
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 5 Troubleshooting 15
Maintenance Schedule 9 Repair Parts 33
Maintenance 9 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAF_ 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 returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service CentedDepartment 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, 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
properly. 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 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 manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
• The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
2
• Dross properly. Do not operate mower
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--coverod areas.
• Never direct discharge of matedal toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating 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 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 pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your tooting. 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 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 sate working
condition.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive grease
and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower,
• Allow engine to cool before stodng in any
enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may roach
an open flame or an ignition source such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.
ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transportir_g, 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
Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthis lawn mower was produced. They are also
available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can also
order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower.
Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
' '
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
MULCHERKITS
GRASSGATCHERS
FOR
I SIDEDISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
AIR RLTERS
BELTS BLADES
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
STABlUZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
i
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in • Remove all packing matedals except
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
purposes. 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 MOWER
of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware TO UNFOLD HANDLE
you assemble must be tightened securely. IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
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 of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
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
as 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
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
4
• Yourlawnmowerhandlecan be
adjusted for your mowing comfort.
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustment section of this manual.
Operatorpresence controlbar
Upper handle __Liftu_;
u.up n'n
°,nW;ir
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
locationofvariouscontrolsand 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 Ct'K_KE FUEL C_L DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presencecontrol
,controllever
Enginezone control cable
Starter handle econtrol
Handle knob
Engineoilcap withdipstick
Mulcherdoor
Gasoline fillercap
Primer
Drive cover
Wheel adjuster
(on eachwheel)
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 tums when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar- must be
helddown tothe handle to startthe engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Primer- pumps additionalfuel from the
carburetor tothe cylinderfor use when sta_r_g
a coldengine.
Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.
Drive control lever - used to engage power-
propelledforward motionof lawn mower.
Mulcher - allows conversion to discharge or
bagging operation.
5
Theoperationofanylawnmowercanresultin
foreign objectsthrown intothe eyes, which can
resultin severe eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while operating
your lawn mower or performingany adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
visionsafety mask over spectacles orstandard
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
ACALmON: Federal regulationsrequirean
engine controlto be installedon this lawn
mower in order to minimize the riskof blade
contact injury.Do notunder any circumstances
attempt to defeat the functionofthe operator
control. The blade turnswhen the engine is
running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped withan
operator presence controlbar which
requiresthe operator tobe pos'fdoned
behind the lawn mower handle to startand
operate the lawn mower.
DRIVE CONTROL
• Serf-propellingiscontrolledby holdingthe
operator presence controlbar downto the
handle and pushing the drive control lever
forward untilitdicks; then release the lever.
• Forward motion willstop when the operator
presence controlbar is released. To stop
forward motionwithout stoppingengine,
release the operator presence controlbar
slightlyuntilthe drivecontroldisengages.
Hold operator presence controlbar down to
handle to continue mowing withoutself-
propelling.
• To keep drivecontrolengaged when fuming
comers, push down on handle and liftfront
wheals offground while turning lawn
mower.
Operator presence control Drive
bar -,. _ \ . _ control
To engage ddve control disengaged
TO ADJUST cuTriNG HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for highcut,
• Adjustcuttingheight to suityour require-
ments. Medium positionis bestfor most
lawns.
• To change cuttingheight,squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
downto suityour requirements. Be sure all
wheels am in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjusteris properly positionedwhen
platetab insertsintohole in lever. Also, 9-
positionadjusters (ifso equipped) allow lever
to be positionedbetween the plate tabs.
Lowerwheels for
highcut
Platetab
Raise wheelsfor low
NOTE: Your lawn mower has been
shipped ready for mulching operation. To
convert to discharging operation, you must
install the discharge deflector attachment
included with your mower.
TO INSTALL DISCHARGING
DEFLECTOR
• Lift door upward on it's hinge until the
deflector frame can be hooked over the
door mounting bracket as shown.
• Release the door to rest against
deflector frame.
• To retum to mulching operation, reverse
the above steps and be sure door is in
closed position.
Deflector _.__,_'-" MulcherDoor
Mounting
Bracket
ACAUTION: Do not operate your lawn
mower without mulcher door in closed
position, discharge deflector in place, or
approved grass catcher in place.
6
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL
Yourlawn mower isshipped wi_out oilin the
engine.
• Be sure mower islevel and area around oil
fill isdean.
• Remove engine cq]cap and fill to the fullline
on the dipstick.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype and grade ofoil
to use, see _NGINE" in Maintenance
sectionofthis manual.
• Pour o,1slowly. Do notover fill.
• Check oillevel before each use. Add oilif
needed. Fillto full line on d_
• To read properlevel,lighten engine oilcap
each time.
• Reinstallengine oilcap and tighten.
• Change the oilafter every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may need
to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirtyconditions.
GAS
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (calledgasohol or using ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisturewhich loads
to separation and formationof acids during
storage. Acicr_cgas can damage the fue!
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 fuel tank, startthe engine and letit
run untilfuel linesand carburetor are empty.
Use flesh fuel next season. See Storage
Instructionsfor additionalinformation. Never
use engine or carburetor cleaner productsin
fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
• 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.
• 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
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat pdming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. I! you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps.
Engine oilcap -------- Gasoline filler
cap
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.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting
in a counter-clockwise direction, starting
at the outside of the area to be cut,
spreads grass clippings more evenly
and puts less load on the engine. To
keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a
clockwise direction.
• 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.
7
MULCHINGMOWINGTIPS
IMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrassand
trash.See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
section of this manual
• The special mulching blade will reout the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fallontothe
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recuttingaction ofthe blades.
• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when itiswet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
• For best results,adjustthe lawn mower
cuffingheight so that the lawn mower cuts
offonlythe top one-third of the grass blades.
Ifthe lawn isovergrown itwillbe necessary
to raise the height of cutto reduce pushing
effortand to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps ofmulched
grass. For extremely heaW mulching,
reduce your width ofcut byoverlapping
previously cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass conditions
may require that an area be mulched a
second time to completely hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from weekto
week. Mow north to south one weak then
change to east to west the nextweek. This
will helpprevent matting and graining ofthe
lawn.
8
Check for Loose Fasteners _ I I/
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
M Clean Lawn Mower
_V Clean Under DriveCoverIPower-Propened Mowers) _/
RE Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-Propellad Mowers) b/
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade it/3
LubricationChart _ f_
. Clean Battery/RecharQe
IElectdc Start MowersI I_ I//4
E Check Engine Oil Level q/_
N Change Engine Oil Iv/t.2
G Clean Air Filter I/=
I InspectMuffler
v'
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug i)/
E Replace AirFilterPaper Cartridge id/s
I - Changomornoee_ wheno1_ undera h4mwI_KI orinhi_ Imblerd temperatm_,
2 - Sen4cemonl onen_.zen operatingIndbtyorduslycondit_ns.
3 - Replacebladesrno_ onenwh_mmowing Inr,andysol,
4 - Charge48 holm It end of uason.
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 instructedin thismanual.
Some adjustmentswiUneed tobe mede
periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.
Alladjustments in the Service and Adjust-
merits sectionof this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replacethe spark plug, dean
or replace air filterelement and check blade
for wear. A new spark plug and dearVnew
airfilterelement assures proper air-fuel
mixtureend helps your engine runbetter
and last longer.
• Followthe maintenance .schedulein this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oillevel.
• Check for loosefasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel (_ Mulcher door
adjuster
oil
(_) Brake spring
(_) bracket
Handle bracket
mountingpin
(_) Spray lubricante
(_) Referto MAINTINANCE "ENGINE"
SECTION.
IMPORTANT: Do notoilor grease plastic
wheel bearings.Viscous lubricantswillattract
dust and dirtthat willshortenthe life ofthe serf
lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dn/, powdered graphite
typelubrk ntspar g .
9
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377422
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.5
DISPLACEMENT:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/"I'YPE:
11.5 CU. IN,
1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°1=)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32"F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVECLEARANCE: 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 rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety ruleswhen performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free ofgasoiine, oil,or insect
controlchemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep nJtS,sharp
objectsand other hazards that may cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by 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.
10
IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8heat
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, tf either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Blade
Key adapter Crankshaft
keyway
Blade
Lockwasher
\
Blade shaft
bolt
Hardened Trailing
washer edge Bladeadapter
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
• 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.
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 Grease, part no.
750369. Do not substitute.
DRIVE 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 ddve
wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
• Remove wheels from wheel adjuster_.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from
inside the dust cover, pinion and/or ddve
wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.
• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not
turn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use onlyhigh quality detergent oilrated with
API service classificationSF, SG or SH.
Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade according
to yourexpected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
NOTE: Althoughmulti-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve startingin coldweather,
these multi-viscosityoilswillresultin increased
oilconsumption when used above 32°F.
Check yourengine oillevel more frequently to
avoidpossibleengine damage from running
low on oil.
Change the oilafterevery 25 hours of
operation orat least once a year ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oillevel before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hoursof
continuous use. "lightenoilplugsecurely each
time you checkthe oil level.
11
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until
fuel tank is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
• Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
OVER FILL.
• Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often ifyou mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter by tuming clock-
wise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
• 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 counterclock-
wise to tighten.
Tum
clockwise
Clip to remove
MUFFLER
Inspectand 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 starteasier and run better Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, kiip
mower housingfree of built-grassand trash.
Clean the undersideof yourmower after each
USe.
,&CAUTION: Disconnectspark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
: come in contact withthe sparkplug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side.Make sure air
filter and carburetorare up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower byscraping
to remove'build-up ofgrass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A dogged engine runshotter
and shortensengine life.
• Keep finishedsurfaces 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 end
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 withputty
I_ife or similartoolto remove any build-upof
trash or grass on underside ofdrivecover.
Slot
Air filter
Tum
Tab clockwise
Airfiltercover to tighten
12
ACAUTION: Before performing any
service and 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 Cut-rING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of injury
resulting from objects being thrown out of
the discharge opening into the operator
mowing position. If the discharge guard
becomes damaged, it should be replaced.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will be
thrown out of the rear of the mower into
the operator mowing position. If the
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.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with
carburetor and fuel cap up.
• Remove blade.
• Remove debris shield.
• Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.
• Install new belt by reversing above
steps.
• Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life.
Drive
cover
Push
down
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your 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
position.
• To change from medium low to medium
high position, the upper and lower
handle sections will have to be turned
over.
• Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator
presence control bar from the upper
handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the
upper handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
• Turn the handle over and reassemble
the hairpin cotters that have been
removed.
• Reassemble the starter rope guide.
• Reassemble the controls and the
operator presence control bar to the
upper handle.
_,CAUTION: The operator presence
control bar must pivot freely to permit
blade/brake engagement when control bar
is released. Do not overtighten the
fasteners holding the controls to the upper
handle.
ShippingPosition
Medium low Medium high
13
• To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be tumed over.
• To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section
will have to be turned over.
\ Lowerhandle
Squeeze to Handle bracket
remove
Hairpincotter
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that engine is running too fast or
too slow, take your mower to an authorized
service center for repair and adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
the proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
scan be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorized
service center, which has proper equip-
ment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to sus-
pected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and/or adjustment.
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end ofthe season or ifthe unit
willnot be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower istobe stored for a period
of time, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
inthe Maintenance sectionofthis manual).
• Lubricateas shown inthe Maintenance
sectionof this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts,bolts, screws, and pins
are securelyfastened. Inspect moving
partsfor damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rustedor chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
You can fold yourlawn mower handle for
storage.
• Squeeze the bottom ends ofthe lower
handle toward each other untilthe 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
storageortransportation,be sure tofold the
handle as shown oryou may damage the
controlcables.
• When scttingup your handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will
automatically lockintothe mowing position.
Lowerhandle
Squeeze to
remove
7"
Hairpin
cotter
Operatorpresence control
bar
Upper handle
Fold toP,Nardfor
storage
Lowerhandle
14
pin
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis important to prevent gum
depositsfrom forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor,fuel filter, fuel hose,
or tank duringstorage. Also, experience
indicates that alcoholblended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisturewhich leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
while instorage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Startthe engine and letit run untilthe fuel
linesand carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
productsin the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel nextseason.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizerisan acceptable
alternativein minimizingthe formation of fuel
gum depositsduring storage. Add stabilizerto
gasoline infuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratiofound on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
afteradding stabilizertoallow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor it usingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil(with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance sectionofthis manual).
CYUNDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole intocylinder.
• Pullstarter handle slowlya few times to
distribute oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
• Replace yourgasoline can ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and/ordirtin your gasoline will
cause problems.
• Ifpossible, store your unitindoors and cover
it togive protectionfrom dust and dirt.
• Cover yourunitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do not
use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allowscondensation toform and will cause
your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
A, 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
Does not start
CAUSE
• Dirtyair filter.
• Out of fuel.
• Stale fuel.
• Water infuel.
• Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug.
• Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
• Control bar in released
position.
• Control par defective.
CORRECTION
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Fillfuel tank.
• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
• Drain fuel tank and
carburetorand refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.
• Replace spark plug.
• "rKjhtenblade boltor
replace blade adapter.
• Depress control barto
handle.
• Replace control bar.
15
PROBLEM
Lossofpower
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
CAUSE
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cuttingblade dragging
in heavy grass.
• Cuttingtoo much grass,
Poor cut - uneven
Excessive
vibrat'mn
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling ('dso
equipped)
Hard to push
• Dirtyair filter.
• Buildupofgrass, loaves,
and trash under mower.
• Too much oilin engine.
• Walking speed too fast.
• Worn, bent or looseblade.
• Wheel heights uneven.
• Buildupofgrass, loaves
and trash under mower.
• Worn, bent or looseblade.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Engine flywheelbrake ison
when controlbar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
• Blade dragging ingrass.
• Cuttingheight too low.
• Lifton blade worn off.
• Catcher not venting air.
• Grass istoo highor wheel
height istoo low.
• Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
• Grass catcher too full.
• Handle height positionnot
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
• Set to=Higher Cut"
position.
• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Clean underside of mower
housing.
• Check oillevel.
• Cut at slowerwalldng
speed.
• Replace blade. TK:jhten
blade belt.
• Set all wheels at same
]height
• Clean underside of
mower housing.
• Replace blade. T_jhten
blade bolt.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
• Depress controlbarto
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
• Replace blade adapter.
• Move lawn mower to cut
grass otto hard surface
• Raise cuttingheight.
• Replace blade.
• Clean grass catcher.
• Raise cutting height.
• Raise rear oflawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
• Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit,
16
For the repair or replacement parts you need
delivered directly to your home
Call 7 am - 7 pro, 7 days a 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
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-4-REPAIR
(1-800-47_3-7274)
Para pedlr servicio de reparaci6n a
domicilio - 1-800-676-5811
For the location of a Sears Parts and
Repair Center in your area
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-488-1222
For information on purchasing a Sears
Maintenance Agreement or to inquire
about an existing Agreement
Call 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday
1-800-827-6655
When requesting service or ordering
parts, always provide the following
information:
• Product Type • Part Number
• Model Number • Part Description
SEARS
America's Repair Specialists
166055 REV.1 02.12.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.
