Craftsman 917377960 6.75 Horsepower 21" Multi-Cut Power Propelled Rotary Lawn Mower

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User Manual

This is the main product document for model 917377960.

The file format is pdf, 26 pages, you can download this manual here .

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Owner's Manual
CRAFTSMAN+
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377960
Safety
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
EspaSol
Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
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Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 34
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.
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 wom during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, pelts, 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence controls to minimize the dsk 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 thisoperator'smanualcarefuUy.
Become familiar with the ccntrols and know
how to operate your mpNer 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 tha area ct operstion clear ct all
persons, especially small clu'Idranand pets.
Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
Do not operate mower if it hes been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repairedbeforeusing
your mower.
Do not use accessoryattachmentsthatare
not recommendedbythe manufacturer.
Use ofsuch attachmentsmay be hazard-
OUS.
The b_de turnswhen the engineis running.
PREPARATION:
Alwaysthoroughlycheck the area to be
mowed and clear itof all stones,sticks,
wires, bones,andotherforeignobjects.
These objectswill be thrownby the blade
and can cause severe injury.
Always wear safety glasses oreye shields
when startingand while usingyourmower.
Dress properly. Do not operatemower
when barefootor wearing opensandals.
Wear onlysolidshoes withgood traction
when mowing.
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Checkfueltankbeforestadingengine.Do
notfillgastankindoors,whentheengineis
runningorwhentheengineis hoL Allowthe
engineto coolfor several minutesbefore
fillingthe gastank. Clean off any spilled
gasolinebeforestartingthe engine.
Alwaysmake wheel heightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower. Never attempt
to do thiswhilethe engineis running.
Mow only indaylightorgood artif'_allight.
OPERATION:
Keep your eyes and mind on yourmower
and the area beingcut. Do net let other
interestsdistractyou.
Do notmow wet orslipperygrass. Never
runwhile operatingyour mower. Alwaysbe
sure of yourfooting- keep a firmholdon the
handlesand walk.
DOnot put hands orfeet near orunder
rotatingparts. Keep clearof the discharge
openingatall times.
Akvaysstopthe enginewheneveryou leave
or are net using yourmower,or before
crossingdriveways,walks,roads,and any
gravel-coveredareas.
Never directdischargeof materialtoward
bystandersnorallow anyone near the
mowerwhile you are operatingit.
Beforecleaning,inspecting,or repairing
your mower, stop theengine and make
absolutelysurethe bladeand all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnectthe
spark plugwireand keep it away from the
spark plugto preventaccidentalstarling.
DOnot continueto runyour mowerif you hit
a foreign objecL Followthe procedure
outlinedabove, then repairany damage
before restartingand operatingyour mower.
DOnet changethe governorsettingsor
overspeedthe engine. Enginedamage or
personalinjurymay result.
Do net operateyourmower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessivevibration is an
indicationof damage; stop the engine,
safelycheckforthe cause of vibration and
repairas required. '
Do net runthe engineindoors. Exhaust
fumesaredangerous.
Never cutgrass by pullingthe mower
towardsyou. Mow acrossthe tace of
slopes, never up and down oryou might
loseyourfooting. Do not mowexcesaively
steep slopes. Use cautionwhen operating
the moweron uneventerrainorwhen
changing directions- maintaingoodfooting.
Never operateyour mowerwithoutproper
guards,plates, grasscatcheror othersafety
devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
Check the blade and the enginemounting
boltsoftento be surethey are tightened
properly.
Check all bolts,nutsand screwsatfrequent
intervalsfor propertightness to besure
mower is insafe workingcondition.
Keep allsafetydevices inplace and
worldng.
To reducetirehazard, keepthe enginefree
of grass,leaves or excessivegreaseandoil.
Check grasscatcheroftenfor deterioration
" and wear and replaceworn bags. Use only
replacemeptbags thatare recommended
byandcomply spedr t s ofthe
manufacturerof your mower.
Always keep a sharp bladeon yourmower.
Allow engineto cool beforestoring inany
enclosure.
Never store mower withfuel in _e tank
insidea buildingwherefumes may reachan
openflame or an ignition sourcesuchas a
hotwater 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.
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These accessorieswere availablewhen this lawnmowerwas They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also availableat most Sears retailoutletsand service
centers. Most Sears storescan alsoorder repairpartsfor you, when you providethe model
number of yourlawn mower. Soma ofthese accessoriesmay notapplyto your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
i_ "GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS ,
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR FILTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS
SPARK PLUGS
WHEELS ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the
engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassemblsd 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.
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 padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
Remove any packing matedal from
around control bar.
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Your handles may be adjusted'ior your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Uft up
TO INSTALL ATFACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging; See OPERATION section
of this manual.
Lower
Mowing
position
3-posiUon
Handle
adjustment
bracket
Handle
pin
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KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWI_
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswithyourlawn mowerto familiarizeyourselfwiththe
locationofvariouscontrolsand adjustments. Save this manualfor futurereference.
_lese symbols may appearon your lawn mower orin literaturesuppliedwiththe product.
Learn and understandtheir meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FIEE'_r AWAY
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Operator presence control
Speed control lever
Cable clip
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Engine oil cap w/dipstick
Mulcher
plug
Gasoline cap
Mulcher door
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or _lasoline 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 tums 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.
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Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin
foreignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcan
resultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswear
safetyglassesoreyeshieldswhileopereltng
yourlawn mower orperformingany adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommenda wide
visionsafety mask over the spectaclesor
standardsafetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factoryfor
optimumperformance. Speed is notadjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require an
engine control to be installed on this lawn
mower in order to minimize the riskof blade
contact injury.Do not under any circumstances
attempt to defeat the function of the operator
controt. The blede tuma when the engine is
running,
Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be pce_
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CU'I-nNG HEIGHT
All four wheels are adjusted by a single
lever.
Pull adjuster laver toward wheel. To raise
mower, move lever forward to desired
position. To lower mower, move the lever
toward the rear.
Lower Wheels for high cot
Acr/jj_ /"
Lever
Raise Wheels for low cut
GROUND DRIVE SPEEDS
Your lawn mower provides multiple speeds
to let you select the spe#d that suits you
best.
Lower speeds are for slow, heavy/thick
grass cutting or tdmming.
Medium speeds are for normal grass
cutting or trimming.
High is for light cutting and forground
transport.
NOTE: Do not 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
Ddve control
disengaged
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mowerwas shippedreadyto be
used as a mulcher. Toconvertto baggingor
d'mcharging:
REAR BAGGING-
Open rear doorand remove muicherplug.
Store muicherplugin a safeplace.
You can nowinstallgrass catcber.
To convertto mulchingordischarging
operation,installmulcherplugintorear
dkschargeopeningof mower.
SIDE DISCHARGING-
Mulcherplugmust be installedintorear
(_mchargeopening of mower(see above
instructions).
Open mulcherdoorand installdischarge
deflector underguardas shown.
Mower is now readyfor discharging
operation.
To convertto mulchingorbaggingopera-
tion,dischargedeflectormustbe removed
and muicherdoor must be closed.
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SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEI_BER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
Rear mulcherplug installed.
Mulcherdoorclosed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
* Rear mulcher plug removed.
. Grass catcher instailed.
Mt.4cher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
Rear mulcherplug installed.
Side dischargedeflectorinstalled.
CAUTION: Do not runyour lawn mower
withoutrearmulcherpluginplace or'approved
grasscatcherin place.
Never attemptto operate the lawn mowerwith
the rear doorremovedor proppedopen.
Mulcher plug ""
CAUTION: Do not runyour lawn mower
without rear mulcherplugor approvedgrass
catcher inplace. Never attemptto operatethe
lawnmower withthe rear doorremovedor
propped open.
Rear door
Grass
handle
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;
it will cause unnecessary wear.
/
Mulcher door
Open
mu_hardoor
Discharge deflector
TO ATrACH GRASS CATCHER
Uft the rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcbar frame hooks into the
slots of the rear door.
The grass cetcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is sh'_:_d without oil in the
engine.
Be sure mower is level and area around oil
flUis clean.
Remove engine oil cap and fillto the fult line
onthe_-_ck.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
Engine holds 27ozs. of _. Fortypeand
grade of oil to use, see =ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
Pour oil slowly. Do not over fiU.
Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time.
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 mere often under dusty,
dirty conditions.
GAS
RII fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
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octane. (L of loaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to as.sum fuel
freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisture which leads
to separation and formation o,fadds during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To avoid
engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it
run until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additional information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
Gasoline
filler cap
TO START ENGINE
To start a cold engine, push primer three
(3) times before trying to start. Use a
firm push. This step is not usually
necessary when starting an engine
which has already run for a few minutes.
Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull 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 priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine _'ill not start. If you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
For most cutting conditions and better
bag ngperformance,theenojnospeed
should be set in the fast pos_an.
Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the first cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine, and
to avoid leaving clumps of grass clippings.
Make the second cut to the desired height.
For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.
Pores in cloth grass catchers can become
tilled with dirt and dust with use and the
catcher will collect loss grass. To prevent
this, regularly hose catcher off with water
and lot dry before use.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
section of this manual.
The special mulching blade will 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 wil
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
Avoid c,,uttingyour lawn when it is wet. Wet
grass tends to form dumps 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, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass blade
If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessanj
to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving dumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut by overlapping
previouslycutpathandmowslowiy.
Certain types of grass and grass conditio_
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 pattem from weekto
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week. Th_
will help prevent matting and graining of th
lawn.
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MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..,,____O_/_._ "
AS YOU COMPLETE /_'___.qr:l::lVlP.l:: n
REGULARSERVICE f_,_O_,_;/'_._7 SERVICE DATES
CheckforLooseFasteners I/
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher ,
(If Equipped) i
(M Clean Lawn Mower _i _'
Clean Under Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers) " _'
_Ch_ drive I_l_uHeys
(Power-PropelledMowers) 1/
R CheddSharpan/Replace Blade I/3
LubricationChart 1/ ii/
Clean Battery/Recharge
IB_ s_rtMower_I 1/ 1/_
E Check En_lineOilLeVelchangeEngine Oil _1_1.=
? Clean AirFilterh,_pectMuffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 11/2
1. Changemore oltenwhenoperdng undera heavyloador kt highambienttemperatures.
2 - SeMce moreonenv,41enopemUngIndidyor dustycom_lons.
3 - Re_ bladesmornoltenwhenmo_ng Insandysol.
4 - C_uge 48 houmat e_:l ofseason.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warrantyonthis lawn mowerdoes not
cover itemsthat have been subjectedto
operatorabuseor negligence.To receive full
value fromthe warranty,operatormust
maintainmower as instructedin_is manual.
Some a_ustments willneed to be made
pedoQrzcallyto properlymaintainyourunit.
Allacr_ inthe Serviceand Adjust-
mentssectionofthismanualshouldbe
checkedat least once each season.
Or eayear,rep cethesparkr ug,
repleceairfilterelement and check bladefor
wear. A new sparkplugand dean/new air
filterelement assuresproperair-fuelmixture
and helpsyourenginerun betterand last
longer, i
Followthe maintenancescheduleinthis
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
Checkengineoillevel.
Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel
i I°°'us'°r
\
(_) Drive pins
\ _) Engine oil
(_ Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to MAINTENANCE
"ENGINE' section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oilor greaseplastic
wheel bearings.VL_ous lubricantswill
attractdustand dirtthatwigshodenthe
lifeof the selflubricatingbearings,ffyou
feel they mustbe lubricated,use onlya
dry,powderedgraphitetype lubricant
spadngh/.
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; ;,1ODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
917.377960
6.75
1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°1=)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
27 OZS.
CHAMPION RJ19LM or J19LM
INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008
.01251N.
35-40FT. LBS.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decaf 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 roles when performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire w0hereit cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
•Tum 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.
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8
HEAT TREATED.
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TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Blade Crank-
adaptor shaft
Key keyway
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, tum the pinion
around and assemble to mower.
Place wheels back on adjuster axles.
Replace Iocknuts and hubcaps.
Blade
Blade
bolt
Lock
washer Crank-
Hardened Trailing Blade shaft
washer edge adaptor
GRASS CATCHER
The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
Check your grass catcher often for
damage or detedoration. 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.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check rear drive wheels each time you
mow to be sure they move freely. The
wheels not turning fretdy 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.
Remove wheels from wheel adjuster
axles.
Remove any trash or grass cuttings from
inside the dust cover, pinion and/or drive
Pinion
E-ring
Locknut
Washer
Hubcap
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use onlyhighqualitydetergentoilratedwith
API service c__ssificationSF, SG orSH.
Select the oil's SAE viscositygradeaccording
to your expectedopera'dngtemperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
0"
.30" .ZO" *lO, r 10" 20- 30"
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OI4- 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°1.
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.
12
background
Checkthe_-ankcsseoillevel before stadk_
the engine end after each five (5) hours of
continuoususe.T.jhtenoilplugsecurelyeach
time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before t_ng lawn mower to drain oil,
drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank
isempty.
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 end forth to remove any oil
trappedinsideof 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
Replaceengineoilcap.
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).
/,_ Air filter cover
Cover knob
Hinge
Paper filter
MUFFLER
Inspectand replacecorroded muffleras it
could create afirehazardend/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year tomake
your enginestart easier end run better. Set
sparkplug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTAN'E For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass end trast
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 mowel
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.
13
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CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
Release controlbar.
Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
Disconnect spark plug wire from
sparkplugandplacewheeitcannot
come in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "1"O ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will be
81rown out the rear of the lawn mower into the
operator's mowing position. If the rear
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your !a_ mower has three (3)
he_htpesR_ns- adjusttohe_htthatsu_s
you.
Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
towards each other until the pin in handle
can be inserted into one of the three height
adjustmentho_s.
Med.
Low
Handle pin
j 3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
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 ortoo slow,
take your lawn mower to an authorized
service center/department for repair and
adju_nent
CARBURETOR
Your carburptor 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 encjine above the
factoryhighspeedsettingcanbedangerous.
it you _hink the engine-governed high speed
needs adjusting, contact your nearest
AUTHORIZED service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to make
anynecessarya_.
14
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Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storage at the end of the season or if the unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn moweristo be storedfor a period
oftime, clean itthoroughly,removeall dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, d_ area.
Clean entirelawn mower(See "CLEANING"
inthe Maintenancesectionofthismanual).
Lubricateas shown inthe Maintenance
sectionof this manual
Be sure thatall nuts,belts, screws, and pins
are securelyfastened. Inspect moving
partsfor damage, breakage and wear.
Replace ifnecessary.
Touch up all rustedorchippedpaint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can foldyourlawn mowerhandlefor
storage.
Loosenthe two (2) handle knobson sides of
the upper handleand allow handleto fold
downto the rear.
Squeeze the bottomends of lowerhandle
towardeach otheruntilpinsin handleclear
the bracketsand pivot entire handle
assemblyforwardand allowitto reston
mower.
When setting up your handlefrom the
storagepealllon, the lowerhandlewill
requiremanuallyIocldngintothe mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor
storageor transportationbe sureto fold the
handle as shown or you may damage the
controlcables.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle
Lower position
handle
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis importantto preventgum
depositsfromformingin essentialfuel system
partssuchas carburetor,fuel filter,fuel hose,
ortank duringstorage.Also,experience
indicatesthat alcoholblended fuels (called
gasoholorusingethanolor methanol)can
attract moisturewhich leadsto separationand
formation of acids duringstorage.Ack_ gas
can damage the fuel systemof an engine
while in storage.
Drain the fueltank.
Startthe engineand 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
alternative ih minimizing the formation of fuel
gumdepositsduringstorage. Add stabilizerto
gasolineinfuel tank or storagecontainer.
Alwaysfollowthe mix ratiofound on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after addingstabilizerto allow the stabilizerto
reachthe carburetor. Do notdrainthe gas
tank end carburetorif usingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil(withenginewarm) end replacewith
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance sectionof thismanual).
CYUNDER
Remove spark plug.
Pour one ounca (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plughole intocylinder.
Pull starterhandleslowlya few times to
distributeoil.
Replace withnew spark plug.
OTHER
Do notstore gasolinefromone seasonto
another.
Replace your gasolinecan if yourcan starts
to rusL Rustand/or dirt in yourgasolinewill
cause problems.
If possible,storeyour unitindoorsand cover
if to give protectionfromdustend dirt.
Cover your unitwith a suitableprotective
cover that does not retainmoisture. Do not
use plastic. Plasticcannotbreathewhich
allowscondensationto form end willcause
your unit to rust.
15
background
IMPORTANT:Nevercovermower 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
Dirty air filter.
Out of fuel.
Stale fuel.
Waterin fuel.
Spark plugwire is disconnected.
Bad spark plug.
Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
Control bar in released position
Control bar defective
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cuffing too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Low engine speed.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
1;
Clean/replace 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.
Replace spark plug.
Tighten blade bolt or replace blade
adapter.
Depress control bar to handle.
Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft
Replace control bar.
Set in "Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in =Higher Cut" position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower housin
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
1.
2.
3. Buildup of 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
centerldepartment.
Starter rope
hard to pull
Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
Set engine speed control in fast
position.
Clean underside of mower housin!_
1. Depress control bar to upper
handle before pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized service
centerldepartment.
13. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or
to hard surface to start engine.
16
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TROUBLESH( OTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher
not filling
(If so equipped)
Hard to push
Loss of drive
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
4. Low engine speed.
1. Grass is too high or
wheel height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position
not right for you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken.
4. Dirt in drive pinions.
t. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
4. Set engine speed control in
fast position.
t. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (t)setting higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
.1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.
3. Replace drive cable.
4. Clean drive pinions.
17
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(_RrAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996710
301
!
2D2
3OO
12
45
187A
45
4O
251
75
4O
background
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 36177
2 27652
6 36059 "
9 59O568
10 36O02
11 36003A
12 32447
12C 36005A
14 28277
15 36OO6
16 36OO8
17 31335
18 651018
19 36103
20 36010
25 37149
26 6508_
30 36178
4O 400O4
4O 4OOO6
41 36070
41 36071
42 40006
42 40007
43 2O381
45 36023A
46 32610A
48 3603O
50 36031A
52 29914
69 36032A
70 37271
75 36010
80 30574A
81 30590A
6_ 30591
83 36O57
85 36O34
86 650924
89 611154
90 611155
91 611156
92 650815
93 650816
100 34443B
101 610115
103 651007
110 36054
119 36061
120 36187
125 36471
125 36472
126 29314(3
130 6021A
135 35395
150 31672
KEY
NO.
MODEL NUMBER 143.996710
PART
NO. DESCRIPllON
Cylinder(Incl.2,10,12,20 & 151 31673
125) 151A 40016A
DowelPin 169 27234A
BreatherElemont 172 32755
Screw, 10-24 x 3/4" 174 30200
BreatherValve Body 177 650g_5A
Check Valve 184 36183
BreatherTube 186 36009
* BreatherCover & Gasket 187A 37148
Rat Washer 190 36013
GovernorRod (Machined) 191A 36012
GovernorLever 192 36016
GovernorLeverClamp 193 36015
Screw, TorxT-15, 8-32 x 194 36014
19/64" 195 610973
GovernorSpring 198 36017
Oil Seal 199 36018
BowerHous_j Baff_ 239 36048
,_s'y.(!_.p_5)
So'ew, 1/4-20 x 5/6= 240 36190
Crankshaft
Piston,Pin,RingSet (Std.) 243B 651041
Piston,Pin,RingSet (.010 245 36046
OS) 250 36191
Piston& PinAss'y.(Std.) 251
(Incl.43) 251A 650933
Piston& PinAss'y.(.010 255 361_
OS)(indA3) 256 650ee3
P_j set (Std.) 26O 361=
R_ Set (.010OS) 262 65O737
PistonPin RetainingRing 263A 3619_
Comec_g RodAss_/. 275 36107A
(Incl.46) 276 36O43
Cofmect_g Rod Bolt 277 650927
Valve Lifter 285 34449A
Camshaft(MCR) 287 650_6
Oil Pump Ass'y. 290 29774
Moun_ngFlangeGasket 292 26460
Moun_ngFlange(Incl.72 300 36189
thru85) 301 36246
Oil Seal 305 36063
GovernorShaft 307 35499
Washer 308 36040
GovernorGear Ass'y. 310 36064
(Ind.81) 346A 28763
GovernorSpool 347 650898A
IdlerGear 350 36045
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-9/16" 370A 36261
FlywheelKey 370C 37318
Flywheel 370R 37317
FlywheetFan 380
Bellev111eWasher
FlywheelNut 390 590739
SolidState _ 400 36062D
SparkPingCover
p_3rew,TorxT-15, 10-24 x 416 36085
15/16=
GroundWire 417 _1
Cy_der Head Gasket
Cyr_derHead 900
Exhau,_Vak,e (Std.)(ind.
151) 900
E_d_uetVa_e (1/32" OS)
IntakeValve (Std.)(Ind.
151)
Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"
ResistorSpark Plug
(RJlSt.M)
Vak'eSp_g
LowerValve SpringCap
IntakeVelve Seal
Valve SpdngBox Gasket
ValveSlxlngBoxCover
Screw, 10-24 x 9/16=
CarburetorMour_ng Stud
Cad0uretorGasket
GovernorLink
Air Baffle
BrakeLeverAss'y.
BrakeControlLever
BrakeControlLeverUnk
BrakeSpdng
RetainingRing
Ter_ Ass_/.
Brake_ Lever Sprig
BrakeLeverBush_
"Cad_ur_or To Air Cleaner
Gasket
AirCleanerBody(Ind. 239
&350)
AirCleaner Stad
Air CleanerF11tar
AirCleanerCover
LockNut, 114-20
Wing Nut,1/4-20
ControlRata
Screw,8-32 x 21/64"
aowerHous_
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"
StarterGrill
Mufller
LoddngPlate
Screw,5/16-18 x2-11/32"
StarterCup
Screw,8-32 x 21/64"
FuelLine
FuelLine Clamp
FuelTank (Ind. 301)
FuelCap
Oil RII Tube
"_R_g
RHTube Cr_
D_ck
Screw, 10-82 x 35/64"
Screw, 10-,3_x27/32"
Primer
LubricationDecal
Pdmer Decal
WarringDecal
CaCouretor(Ind. 184,187A
&23S)
RewindStalter
Gasket Set (Ind. Items
Marked*)
SparkArrestorK;t(ind.
417){OpSonal)
Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"
ReplacementF_.ng_
NONE
Replaceme_ ShortBlock
750791C,
orderfrom71-999
RPMI-r_igh2900to3_00
NOTE: Thisenginecouidhavebeenbuiltwith5907(_
starter.
NOllE: Ail componentdlmensJomgivoninU.S.inches
I Inch=25A mm
41
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CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996710
14A 147
I
I
KEY
NO.
1
5
6
7
14A
25
27
28
29
030
32
33
36
37
37A
38
38A
39
40
47
PART
NO.
_2_9
632593
_2_1
650506
_2773
_75A
_2544
632543
632548
_2_9
_72
_2_3
_2_7
_2_7
632545
_2_5
_2_9
640021
632554
DESCRIPTION
Carburetor
(Incl. 187B & 239 of Engine Parts List)
Throttle Shaft & Lever Asssmbly
Duet Seal
Throttle Shutter
Throttle Shutter Screw
Venturi
Float Bowl
Float Shaft
Float
Float Bowl to Body Gasket
Inlet Needle & Seat
Bowl Drain Screw
Bowl Drain Washer
Main Nozzle Tube
"O" Ring
"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube
Spring, Main Nozzle Tube
Spring
Float Bowl Retainer
Main Fuel Jet
Welch Plug, Idle Mixing Well
42
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CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996710
-- 11
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
11
12
13
PART
NO.
590702
590599A
59O600
590696
590601
590697
590698
590699
590700
590703
590535
590701
DESCRIPTION
Recoil Starter
Spdng Pin (Incl. 4)
Washer
Retainer
Washer
Brake Spdng
Starter Dog
Dog Spdng
Pulley & Rewind Spring
Ass'y.
Starter Housing Ass'y.
(40 degree grommet)
Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/
64' dia.)
Starter Handle
V--14
0
!11 I! -7
KEY
NO.
3
6
7
8
11
12
13
14
PART
NO.
---- 590739
590740
590616
590617
590618A
590638
590535
590701
590760
DESCRIPTION
Rewind Starter
Retainer
Starter DOg
Dog Spdog
Pulley & Rewind Spdng
Ass'y
Starter Housing Ass'y
(40 degree grommet)
Starter Rope (Length 98"
x 9/64" dia.)
Starter Handle
Spring Clip
43
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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 dornicilio
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-11 pm 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 pro, Monday - Saturday
1-800-827-6655
69206 REV.2 05.03.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.

Specifications

Craftsman 917377960 Questions and Answers