CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0030043

User Manual: CRAFTSMAN CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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Owner's Manual

(RRFTSMRN°

5.5 HORSEPOWER

21" MULTI-CUT

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917,388330

• 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

Warranty ............................................... 2

Safety Rules ......................................... 2

Assembly .............................................. 4

Operation .............................................. 6

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10

Maintenance ......................................... 10

Product Specifications .......................... 11

Service and Adjustments ...................... 13

Storage ................................................. 14

Troubleshooting ................................... 15

Repair Parts .......................................... 34

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 workman-

ship.

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

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest

Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

while this product is in use in the United States.

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator

presence control to minimize the risk of

injury. Your unit is equipped with cuch

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.

• Dress 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-covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material

toward bystanders nor allow anyone

near the mower while you are operating

it.

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repair-

ing 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 your mower.

• Do not change the governor settings or

overspeed the engine. Engine damage

or personal injury may result.

• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates

abnormally. Excessive vibration is an

indication of damage; stop .the engine,

safely check for the cause of vibration

and repair as required.

• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust

fumes are dangerous.

• Never cut grass by pulling the mower

towards you. Mow across the face of

slopes, never up and down or you

might lose your footing. Do not mow

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 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 safe working

condition.

•Keep all safety devices in place and

working.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine

free of grass, leaves or excessive

grease and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-

tion and wear and replace worn bags.

Use only replacement bags that are

recommended by and comply with

specifications of the manufacturer 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!H BECOMEALERT!!! 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.

Theseaccessorieswere available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not

shipped with your mower. 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

a_l_ _v_d_lit_R MA N C E

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

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 comers 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 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.

• Your lawn mower handle can be

adjusted for your mowing comfort,

Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service

and Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator

presence

control bar

handle

Liftup

Lower

handle

Mowing

position

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a muicher. To convert to

bagging or discharging, see "To convert

mower" in the OPERATION section of thi

manual.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN

MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the

location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the

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

bar

zone control cable

Grass

filler cap

valve

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Mulcher door Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the Wheel adjuster

engine, (on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-

sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator Presence Control Bar- 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.

The operation of any lawn

mower can result in foreign

objects thrown into the eyes,

which can result in severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eye shields

while operating your lawn mower or

performing any adjustments or repairs.

We recommend a wide vision safety mask

over spectacles or standard safety

glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by a

throttle control located on the side of the

upper handle. Choke position is for

starting acold engine and fast position is

for normal cutting, trimming, and better

grass bagging. Slow position is for light

cutting, trimming and fuel economy.

Fast

,_ .==Slow

ChokeI\1

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_,CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk

of blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start

and operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CU'I-I'ING HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower

wheels for high cut.

• Adjust cutting height to suit your

requirements. Medium position is best

for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze

adjuster lever toward wheel. Move

wheel up or down to suit your require-

ments. Be sure all wheels are in the

same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.

Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the

plate tabs.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Plate Tab

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO CONVERT MOWER

Lever

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to

bagging or discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and

place the grass catcher frame hooks

onto the door pivot pins.

• To convert to mulching or discharging

operation, remove grass catcher and

close rear door.

Pivot pros

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

•Open mulcher door and install dis-

charge deflector under guard as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging

operation.

•To convert to mulching or bagging

operation, discharge deflector must be

removed and mulcher door must be

closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear door closed.

• Mulcher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

• Grass catcher installed.

• Mulcher door closed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

• Rear door closed.

• Side discharge deflector installed.

_I, CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without rear door closed or

approved grass catcher in place. Never

attempt to operate the lawn mower with

the rear door removed or propped open.

Mulcher

door

Open

Mulcher Door

Discharge

deflector

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in

the engine.

•Be sure mower is level and area

around oil fill is clean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the

upper limit mark on dipstick.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into

engine for accurate dipstick reading.

• Engine holds 18 1/2 ozs. of oil. For

type and grade of oil to 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 to the upper limit mark

on dipstick.

•To read proper level, insert the dipstick

into the tube and rest engine oil cap on

the tube. Do not thread the cap onto

the tube. Remove and read the oil

level.

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may

need to change the oil more often

under dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

• 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 (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the

engine and let it run until fuel lines and

carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next

season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine

or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank

or permanent damage may occur.

ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use

gasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline filler cap

Oil filler

cap

Oil filler cap/dipstick

TO START ENGINE

•Turn fuel valve to ON position.

•To start a cold engine, move handle

mounted throttle/choke control lever to

choke position.

•Hold operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pull starter •

handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

• Slowly move throttle control lever to

fast position after engine starts.

• To start a warm engine, move throttle

control lever to fast or slow position

then follow steps above.

•To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar. Wait until blade

and a!l moving parts have stopped and •

turn fuel valve to OFF position if you do

not intend to restart the engine soon.

Fuel Valve lever

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.

•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.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and

trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. 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 will 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 cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early

afternoon. At this time the grass has

dried and the newly cut area will not be

exposed to the direct sun.

For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower

cuts off only the top one-third of the

grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it

will be necessary to raise the height of

cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep

from overloading the engine and

leaving clumps of mulched grass. For

extremely heavy mulching, reduce your

width of cut, mow slowly and raise

the rear of the lawn mower one wheel

adjuster setting higher than the front.

Certain types of grass and grass

conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely

hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu-

lar to the first cut path.

Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting

and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3

.A,.TE.A.CESC.EOU'E

F,LLi.OATEB

AS YOU COMPLETE '_'_ _" >1 _ _"_"_/ ()_?_

Check for Loose Fasteners _Ii/

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

, (If Equipped) !/ I_

M! Clean Lawn Mower

O Clean Under Drive Cover

Power-Propelled Mowers) I/

Check drive beWpulleys

RE (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _g

Lubrication Chart I_

Clean Battery/Recharge

(Electric Start Mowers) I_ 11/4

ECheck Engine Oil Level t##

NChange Engine Oil 11_1,2

GClean Air Filter _ 2

IInspect Muffler

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2

+Change more often when operating under a heavy 1cad or in high ambient temperatures

2 - Se_ice more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

3Replace blades more often when mowing in _andy soil¸

4 - Charge 48 hours 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 will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check

blade for wear. A new spark plug and

clean/new air filter element assures

proper air-fuel mixture and helps your

engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in

this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-

TION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

Whee!

adjusters

igine oil

Rear

door Handle bracket

hinge mounting pin

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT

(_) SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO

ENGINE - MAINTENANCE SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will

attract dust and dirt that will shorten the

life of the self lubricating bearings. If you

feel they must be lubricated, use only a

dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.388330

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.0 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 18.50ZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") (NGK) BPR6ES

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .007

EXHAUST: .006 - .009

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 rules when

performing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm

rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may

cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make

sure air 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. Use a9/16" box or open-

end wrench.

•Remove blade and attaching hardware.

TO REPLACE BLADE

• Position the blade adapter on the

engine crankshaft. Be sure the spacer

is in the adaptor and key in shaft and

adaptor keyway are aligned.

• Position blade on the blade adapter.

Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

• Install the blade bolt with washers 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.

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. Crank

Spacer shaft

Spacer

washer

Blade

°°\i

Lockwasher Hardened Blade

washer Trailing adapter

edge

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher needs

replacing, replace only with a manufac-

turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number

when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF, SH or

SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating

temperature.

NOTE: Although multi--viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in

cold weather, these multi--viscosity oils

will result in increased oil consumption

when used above 32°F. Check your

engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running

low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or at least once a year if the

lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug

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 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 to the upper

limit mark on the dipstick. DO NOT

OVER FILL.

• To read proper level, insert the dipstick

into the tube and rest oil fill cap on the

tube. Do not thread the cap onto the

tube. Remove and read the oil level.

• Replace engine oil cap.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Oil filler cap/dipstick

--? Jpper limit

--Lower limit

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.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

• Remove cover.

• Carefully remove cartridge.

• Clean by gently tapping on a flat

surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

_I,CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean

cartridge. They may cause deterioration

of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do

not use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

• Install cartridge, then replace cover.

.... _] Filter

Tabs

Filter

Cover

Tabs

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as

could create afire hazard and/or damag_

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to

make your engine start easier and run

better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, ke_

mower housing free of built--up grass

and trash. Clean underside of mower

housing after each use.

_,CAUTION, Disconnect spark plug wir_

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark

plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make SUl

air filter and carburetor are up. Clean

the underside of your lawn mower by

scraping to remove build_up of grass

and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels fre

of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We DO NOT recommend using a

garden hose to clean lawn mower

unless the electrical system, muffler, a

filter and carburetor are covered to

keep water out. Water in engine can

result in shortened engine life.

_,CAUTION: Before performing any

service or adjustments:

•Release control bar and stop engine.

•Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.

•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

p_ug and place where it cannot come in

contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your lawn mower, is

provided to minimize the possibility that

objects will be thrown out the rear of the

lawn mower into the operator's mowing

position.

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle can be mounted in a high or

low position. The mounting holes in the

bottom of lower handle are off center for

raising or lowering the handle.

• Remove upper handle and all parts

attached to lower handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters from lower

handle bracket mounting pin.

• Squeeze lower handle in to remove it

from mounting pins.

• Turn lower handle over to raise or Iow_

handle.

• Squeeze lower handle in and position

holes onto mounting pins on handle

bracket.

•Reassemble upper handle and all pan

removed from lower handle.

¥Lower

"' _handle

Rotate F

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

•Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

with rigid part of bag on the bottom•

Make sure the frame handle is outside

of the bag top.

•Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using•

_,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without clipping deflector or approved

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear

door removed or propped open.

"' "_,- Vinyl b nd no,. "t

" "%'_,',_"1....

] •

ENGINE Frame

opening

CARBURETOR

If your engine does not operate properly due

to suspected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to an authorized service center

for repair or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine

govemor, which is factory set for proper

engine speed. Overspeeding the engine

above the factory high speed setting can be

dangerous• if you think the engine-govemed

high speed needs adjusting, contact your

nearest authorized service center, which has

proper equipment and experience to make

any necessary adjustments.

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set. Do

not attempt to increase engine speed or it

may result in personal injury. If you believe

that the engine is running too fast or too slow,

take your lawn mower to an authorized

service center for repair and adjustment.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for

storage at the end of the season or if the unit

will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a period

of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt,

grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

•Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-

ING" 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 if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower

handle toward each other until the lower

handle clears the handle bracket, then

move handle forward.

•Loosen upper handle mounting bolts

enough to allow upper handle to be folded

back.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for

storage or transportation, be sure to fold the

handle as shown or you may damage the

control cables.

•When setting up your handle from the

storage position, the lower handle will

automatically lock into the mowing position.

.,7 Lower handle

Squeeze _ Handle

to fold /bracket

_'-"_ Mounting Pin

J Hairpin cotter

Operator Presence

Control Bar

Upper

Handle

Fold Forward

For Storage

Lower

Handle

Fold

Backward

Mowing

Position

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential

fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel

filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.

Also, experience 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

dama_le the fuel system of an engine

while in storage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run until the

fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

•Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable

alternative in minimizing the formation of

fuel gum deposits during storage. Add

stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or

storage container. Always follow the mix

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start

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 tanl

and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer,

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replac_

with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in

the Maintenance section of this manual).

CYLINDER

Remove spark plug.

Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through

spark plug hole into cylinder.

• PuU starter handle slowly a few times 1

distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one seasol

to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can

starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your

gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and

cover it to give protection from dust an_

dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-

tive cover that does not retain moistur{

Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot

breathe which allows condensation to

form and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm

_,CAUTION: Never store the lawn mow_

with gasoline in the tank inside a buildin_

where fumes may reach an open flame (

spark. Allow the engine to cool before

storing in any enclosure.

1. Dirty air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire is

disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken blade _

adapter.

8. Control bar in released

position.

9. Control bar defective.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refill with

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 bolt or

reptace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to

handle.

9. Replace control bar.

PROBLEM

Loss of power

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

CAUSE

1. Rear of lawn mower housing

or cutting blade dragging

in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass,

Poor cut- uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

to pull

Grass catcher

not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

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. Wom, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Low engine speed

4. Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released.

Bent engine crankshaft.

Blade adapter broken.

Blade dragging in grass.

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 or blade dragging

in grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position net

right for you.

CORRECTION

1. Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

2. Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower

housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking

speed.

1. Replace blade. 13ghten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Contact an authorized center/

department

4. Clean underside of

mower housing.

Replace blade. 13ghten

blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized

service center.

1. Depress control bar to

upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact an authorized

service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

4. Contact an authorized center/

department

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to

suit.

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388330

39 40

3, _" ' ';F

3,'t.--- 28 _ _" 18

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388330

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

86902

169709X479

169708X479

132001

636O1

131959

66426

154132

165754

851671

750097

850733X004

136376

51793

147286

165946X479

17600406

167132)(004

167133X004

165858

168-360X004

166875

751153

166111 X479

166112X479

851856

152124

160835X007

19112222

165760

169421X004

87877

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Control Bar 34 165762X004

UpperHandle 36 160828

Lower Handle 37 151157

RopeGuide 39 83923

Locknut1/4-20 40 77400

Handle Bolt 41 88652

Wim33e 42 165766

Hinge Bracket 43 165767

Mulcher Door 44 165912

Engine Zone Control Cable 45 150406

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 46 85463

Up-Stop Bracket 48 165761X004

HandleKnob 52 166878

Hairpin Cotter 53 851084

HingeRod 54 850263

Support Bracket 55 851074

Screw 56 165833

Axle Arm Assembly - LF 57 851514

Axle Arm Assembly -RF 67 166113

Rear Skirt 68 165785

Selector Spring-Front 70

Rear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Spdngs)

Locknut5/16-18 71 147758

Handle BracketAssembly (Left) 72 144929

Handle BracketAssembly(Right) -- 161058

Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8 - -172490

HingeSpring

Wheel AdjustingBracket -Front

Spacer

Clip on Discharge Guard

Selector Sprfng-Rear

Selector Knob

Axle Arm Assembly - LR

Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

Wheel Assembly

Flanged Locknut

Hubcap

Hinge Screw

Spring (LH)

Spring (RH)

Door Bolt

Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1

Danger Decal

Axle Arm Assembly - RR

Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)

Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8

Helical Lookwasher

Hardened Washer

21" Blade

Blade Adapter

Grass Bag

Cat_cherFrame

Engine - (See Breakdown)

HondaGCV160

ThrottleControl

Screw

Warning Decal (NotShown)

Owner'sManual

Available accessories not included with lawn mower:

7.133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

7"133500 Fuel Stabilizer

7"133000 SAE 3OW Oil (20 oz.)

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER -GCV160A1A

CONTROL..._

CAMSHAFT J

CARSURETORJ

9 8

2--__ 1211 1_2_ Y

13--"

lO 1

_p--13

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER -GCV160AIA

CONTROL

KEY PART

NO. NO,

15580311

25580329

3 558O345

4 5580352

5 4439428

6 0800466

7 5580378

7 6094122

8 5580386

9 2418671

10 5580998

11 0145557

12 0471623

DESCRIPTION

Arm, Governor

Rod, Governor

Spring, Governor

Spring, Throttle Return

Spring, Lever

Holder, Cable

Base Comp., Control

Use up to SN 1177559.

Base Comp., Control Use

from SN 1177560.

Rod, Governor

Boll, Governor arm

Bolt, Flange (6X45) (CT200)

Screw Pan (5X16)

Nut Flange (GMM)

CAMSHAFT PULLEY

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 5580055

2 5580063

3 5580071

4 5580089

5 5580097

6 5580105

7 5580113

8 5580121

9 5580139

10 1426980

11 0294819

12 0004598

13 0018044

Pulley Comp., Camshaft

Shaft, Cam Pulley

Belt, Timing

Arm In. Valve Rocker

Arm Ex. Valve Rocker

Shaft Rocker Arm

Valve, In.

Valve, Ex.

Spring, Valve

Retainer, In. Valve Spring

Screw, Tappet Adj.

Nut, Tappet Adj.

O-ring

CARBURETOR

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 3088416

2 5580162

3 4930756

4 4481818

5 1441518

6 5580170

7 5664552

8 5580212

9 5580220

10 5580238

11 5580246

12 4581120

13 5580253

14 5580535

15 3344520

16 0635474

16 0635482

16 0636126

DESCRIPTION

Gasket Set

Float Set

Chamber Set Float

Screw Set

Carburetor Assy.

Valve, Float

Nozzle, Main

Insulator, Carburetor

Gasket, Carburetor

Guide Comp., Air

Screw Pan (5X6)

Jet, Main #60 (OPTIONAL)

Jet, Main #62 (OPTIONAL)

Jet, Main #65 (OPTIONAL)

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER -GCV160A1A

FAN COVERJ

FLYWHEELJ

12_

RECOIL STARTER J

L AIR CLEANER

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER -GCV160AIA

FAN COVER

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 3683646

2 5028923

3 5580394

45580451

5 5580469

6 5580519

7 5580527

8 2499440

9 5581004

10 0671636

11 2449593

12 0250647

13 0250985

14 0053447

DESCRIPTION

Rubber, Supporter 107 mm

Petcock Assy. Man

Bracket, Petcock

Cap Assy., Fuel Tank

Tube, Fuel

Cover Comp., Fan NH1

Black

Coller, Fan Cover

Collar, Fr. Turn Signal

Bolt, Stud

Screw-Washer 5X10

Bulk Hose, Fuel

Clip, Tube (B8)

Clip, Tube (B10)

Clip, Tube (C9)

FLYWHEEL

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 0348433

2 5580659

3 5723747

4 5580675

5 5580683

6 5580782

7 5580790

8 0803619

9 1725050

10 0671552

11 0442038

12 1824630

13 0485946

14 1510361

DESCRIPTION

Key, Special Woodruff

(25X18)

Coil Assy., Ignition

Flywheel Assy.

Wire, Stop Switch

Switch Assy., Engine Stop

Brake Assy.

Spring, Brake Lever

Bolt Flange (6X14)

Bolt, Flange (6X23)

Bolt, Flange (6X20)

Nut, Special 14mm

Clip Cable

Screw-Washer (4X12)

Washer, Plain

AIR CLEANER

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 5580154

2 5580402

3 5581410

5 5664560

6 5580444

7 5580964

8 2374742

DESCRIPTION

Tube, Breather

Element, Air Cleaner

Case Assy., Air Cleaner

Gasket, Air Cleaner

Cover, Air Cleaner

Bolt, Flange (6X86)

Bolt, Flange (6X14)

RECOIL STARTER

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

5597869

5580634

5580642

2866341

Starter Assy., Recoil NH1

Long Rope Black

Knob, Recoil Starter

Rope, Recoil Starter

Nut, Flange 6mm

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER -GCV160AIA

CYLINDER BARREL J

OIL PAN I

0-18

CRANKSHAFT I

PISTON CONNECTING ROD J

,-0

4MUFFLER

4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER - GCV160A1A

CYLINDER BARREL

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 5579982

2 2399780

3 5579990

4 558OOO6

5 0636845

6 0803619

7 5581O38

8 1441112

OIL PAN

Cylinder Assy.

Clip, Valve Guide

Cover, Head

Cover Comp. Breather

Bolt, Flange (6X12}

Bolt, Flange (6X14)

Oil Seal 25.4X62X6

Spark Plug (BPR6ES NGK)

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 5579974

2 4497947

45580261

5 5580279

8 5580287

7 5580295

8 1427244

9 1427251

10 5580303

11 0803619

12 0748111

13 2413862

14 2456697

15 5581046

16 0345900

17 0115527

18 1417369

19 5722996

CRANKSHAFT

Pan Assy,, Oil

Gasket, Oil Filler Cap

Shaft Comp., Governor

Holder

Governor Assy.

Weight, Governor

Holder, Governor Weight

Pin, Governor Weight

Slider, Governor

Shaft, Governor Arm

Bolt Flange (6X14)

Bolt, Flange (6X25)

Washer, Thrust 6mm

Clip, Governor Holder

Oil Seal (28X41.25X6)

Washer, Plain 6mm

Pin, Lock 8ram

Pin, Dowel (8X20)

Gauge Assy., Oil Level

KEY PART

NO. NO, DESCRIPTION

15580030

5 5581012 Crankshaft Comp. (N1-Type)

Washer Thrust

PISTON CONNECTING ROD

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

5580014

1426576

558OO22

1431055

2605517

5655949

5655956

Piston

Pin, Piston

Rod Assy., Connecting

Bolt, Connecting Rod

Clip, Piston Pin 13mm

Ring Set, Piston (Riken)

Ring Set, Piston (Teikoku)

MUFFLER

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 5580485

2 5580501

3 5580972

4 0636845

5 5737457

DESCRIPTION

Muffler Comp.

Protector, Muffler

Boil, Flange (6X79) CT200

Bolt, Flange (6X12)

Gasket, Muffler (Optional)

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-llpm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirect s.

1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio

1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center

in your area:

Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance

Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement:

Call 9am-5 pm, Monday -Saturday

1-800-827-6655

SEAR8

172490 Rev.1 12.21.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0030043

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