Craftsman 917372470 User Manual 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides L0805483

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0805483 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917372470 917372470 CRAFTSMAN 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER #917372470. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manual

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MODEL NUMBER917.3724.70

OWNER'SMANUAL

Assembly

oOperation

oMaintenance

oService

oAdjustments

RepairParts

(action:

Read and Fallow

all Safety Rules

and instructions

BeforeOperating

This Equipment

IIIIII IIIIIIIIIIIIIII IIIHIIIIIII

SAFETYRULES

CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE AND PLACE WIRE

A_. WHERE IT CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STAR- _k

TING WHEN SETTING-UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING OR MAKING

REPAIRSTOYOURLAWNMOWER

IMPOBTANT

FEDERAL REGULATIONS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE BLADE STOP CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE

RISK OF BLADE CONTACT INJURY. YOUR LAWN MOWER IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS_ DO

NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL UNDER ANY

CIRCUMSTANCES°

• BE CAREFUL-WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUN-

NING THE BLADE IS TURNING.

o Please read your owner's manual Only allow

raerSonswho know the safety rules to use your

wn mower_

• DO NOT tie the operator presence control bar

to the handle. Control must be free to permit

brake engagement when handles and control

are released.

o DO NOT allow children to use your lawn

mower'.

°Check your lawn mower over before each use

Tighten any loose bolts, nuts, etc.

o Remove all sticks, stones, wires, cans, boards,

etc. from area to be mowed These objects can

be thrown by the blade.

o DO NOT allow children, bystanders or pets in

the area while mowing

• Always wear shoes when mowing. DO NOT

operate lawn mower when barefoot or wear'-

ing open sandals.

o Always wear safety glasses or eye shields

before starting your lawn mower' and while

mowing°

• Always shut off engine before trying to adjust

whee/heights.

• When engine is running, DO NOT put hands

or feet under lawn mower or in the discharge

chute, nor make any adjustments.

• Stay clear of discharge opening at all times_

a Do not fill gas tank when engine is running,

when indoors or when engine is hot. Allow

engine to cool for several minutes before fill-

ing gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline

before starting engine°

" Mow only in good light_

o Always stop blade when not cutting grass or

when crossing gravel drive, sidewalk, or'

roadway_

• DO NOT continue to run your lawn mower if

you hit a foreign object° Stop the engine,

disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark

plug, inspect the lawn mower for damage and

make repairs as required.

• DO NOT use a damaged lawn mower_ Always

have damage repaired before mowing

o DO NOT run your lawn mower if it vibrates

too much. Stop engine and make repairs.

Vibration is an indication of damage_

• Never use your lawn mower without proper

guards or deflectors in place,

• Always mow across a slope or inclined area.

DO NOT mow up or down a slope or inclined

area,

• DO NOT mow in wet grass. Be careful of

footing when mowing in wet grass, use shoes

with good traction_

o DO NOT run with the lawn mower,

o DO NOT run your lawn mower indoors° Ex-

haust gases are deadly poison.

o Always disconnect the spark plug wire from

spark plug to prevent accidental starting when

transporting or storing your' lawn mower after

the mowing season.

• DO NOT attempt to raise engine speed above

factory settings° Engine damage or personal

injury may result.

• If a grass catcher is used on your lawn mower',

check the catcher often for damage or

deterioration° It will wear through normal use°

Use only a recommended replacement catcher.

• Always stop blade to remove or' install catcher.

,, DO NOT store your lawn mower or gasoline

where fumes may reach an open flame and

cause a fire.

o DRAIN THE GASOLINE from your lawn

mower before transporting your lawn mower'

inside your car or other' vehicle.

..................... ,iqlnllllll i iii i , iiiiiiiiii i,i i,i1,111 i

LOOKFORTHISSYMBOLTOPOINTOUTIMPOR- I

TANTSAFETYPRECAUTIONS.ITMEANS-.-ATTEN-I

TION!!! BECOMEALERT!!!YOUR SAFETYIS I

INVOLVED. J

CONGRATULATIONSonyourpurchaseof a SearsCraft-

sman Lawn Mower. It has been designed,

engineeredand manufacturedto give you the best

possibledependability and performance.

Shouidyou experienceanyproblemyoucannoteasi-

ly remedy, pleasecontactyour nearest Sears Ser_

vice Center/Departmento We have competent, well-

trained technicians and the proper tools to service

or repair this unit,

Please read and retain this manual_ The instructions

wil! enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn

mower properly_ Always observe the "SAFETY

RULES"_

,,11111.1 ill,nil ,i; i,,

MODEL

NUMBER 917.372470

SERIAL

NUMBER

DATE OF

PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBFRS WILL BE

FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR

OF THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER

AND DATE OF PURCHASEAND KEEPtN A SAFE

PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

i ii1,, ,i,i ....

PRODUCTSPECH:RCATRONS

HORSE POWER:

DISPLACEMENT:

GASOLINE CAPACITY:

OIL (21 oz. Capacity):

, ,, ,, ,,, ,,,

5.0

11.57 cu. in.r

....... ,,,, ,,

1.5 ,quart.,

(bmeaaea,_

SAE 30 or

(SAE IOW30)

SPARK PLUG (GAP _030 ira):

iiiiii ,i,n,, ,111 ,

Champion

RJ19-LM or

Sears 7j 33312

or STD 361458

i, ,,,i........................

VALVE CLEARANCE: Intake: .006 ino

Exhaust: _008 in.

,i i ,1111,

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: _010 inn

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 fl._lbs.

MAONTENANCEAGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product° Contact your nearest Sears store for details._

CUSTOMERRESPONSDBRLITIES

o Read and observe the safety rules_

oFollow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower..

Follow the.!nstructions under "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this Owner's Manual.

ITWOYEARLIMBTEDWARRANTYON CRAg:TSMANPOWERMOWER

For two years from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated and tuned-

up accordinq to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of char cle, any defect in material

and workmc]nshlp

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 CENTERIDEPARTMENT 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 may vary from state

to state

Sears, Roebuck and Company, D/731CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60684

TABLEOF CONTENTS

SAFETYRULES................................................ 2

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS............................. 3

CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES......................... 3

WARRANTY .................................................... 3

LAWN MOWER ACCESSORIES........................ 5

ASSEMBLY...................................................... 6

OPERATION ................................................... 7

MAINTENANCE ............................................ 12

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................ 15

STORAGE ..................................................... 18

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS ...................... 19

TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................... 31

REPAIR PARTS -LAWN MOWER ............... 20-24

REPAIR PARTS -ENGINE .......................... 25-29

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .......... BACK COVER

nNDEX

Accessories............................................ 5

Adjustments:

Carburetor.................................. t6

EngineSpeed.............................. 16

Handle Height.............................. 17

Heightof Cut................................. 9

Air Filter:

Service........................................ t4

Assembly:

GrassCatcher............................... 6

Handle......................................... 6

Blade:

Sharpening................................. 12

Replacement............................... 12

Controls:

Operator PresenceControlBar ......8

DriveControl................................. 8

CustomerResponsibilities ..................... 3

Engine:

Oil Change................................. 13

Oil Level..................................... 10

OilType......................................I0

Starting....................................... I 1

Storage....................................... 18

Fuel:

Type........................................... t0

Storage....................................... 18

Handle:

Adjustment .................................17

Assembly...................................... 6

Lubrication:

Engine........................................19

RearDoor Hinge......................... 19

Handle BracketMountingPin....... 19

Wheel Adjuster ........................... 19

Maintenance:

Agreement....................................3

Air Filter.....................................14

BladeCare/Replacement............. 12

Engine........................................13

GrossCatcher............................. 13

Lubrication ........................................ l g

Spark Plug.................................. 14

Mowing Tips......................................11

Mowing/MulchingTips....................... II

Oil:

Engine........................................10

Storage.......................................18

Operation:

OperatingLawnMower ..........7-11

ControlBar................................... 8

EngineControl.............................. 8

OperatorPresenceControlBar ............. 8

Options:

Attachments.................................. 5

Repair Parts

LawnMower..........................20-24

Engine................................... 25-29

Responsibilities,Customer.................... 3

Safely Rules.........................................2

ServiceandAdjustments:

Carburetor.................................. 16

EngineSpeed.............................. 16

Handle ....................................... 17

ServiceRecommendations.................. 19

SparkPlug......................................... 14

Specifications.......................................3

Startingthe Engine:

DriveControl................................. 8

Stoppingthe Engine........................... 11

Storage.............................................. 18

TroubleShootingChart....................... 31

Warranty.............................................3

Wheels:

Wheel Adjusters............................ 8

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are also available at most Sears

retail outlets, catalog and service centers. Most Sears stores can 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,,

ENGINE

....+ .

SPARKPI.UG MUFFLER

©AIR FILTER

........ i,,_u_ +_,1 +¸.¸¸¸++2

GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER

tf lawn mower is an etectric start

LAWNMOWERPERFORMANCE

DUSTSHIELD

REARBAG

OPTIONAL

REPLACEMENT

BAG FORREAR

DISCHARGE

LAWNMOWERS

OPTIONAL

CATCHERFOR

SiDEDISCHARGE

LAWNMOWER

LAWNMOWERMABNTENANCE

BELT

FABRICBAG

SIDEDISCHARGECATCHER

BLADE BLADEADAPTER

....... ::7++++ :................................... + ,,,

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

PERMANEXCATCHER

,,u m,,, nu,_

WHEELS LAWN P_OWERCOVER

Your' lawn mower has been assembled at the fac-

tory except for the Grass Catcher Bag and the Grass

Catcher Frame.

TOR MgVE MOWERFROMCARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower.

•Cut down two end corner's of carton and lay end

panel down flat.

oRemoveall packing materials except upper handle

padding.

•Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton

thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HgW TOSET=UPYOURLAWNMOWER

TO UNFOLDHANDLE

• Raise handles until lower handle section locksinto

place in mowing position (See Fig. 1).

• Raise upper handle section into place on lower

handle, remove protective podding and tighten

both handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holding operator pres-

ence control bar to upper handle.

• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your

mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the

Service and Adjustment section of this manual.

TO ASS[MBLEGRASSCATCHER

OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROL BAR

UPPER HANDL

LIFT UP

tJ MOW,NG POSITION

oPut Grass Catcher Frame into Grass Bag with stiff

part of Bag on the bottom.

o Slip vinyl bindings over Frame (See Fig. 2).

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°

FIG. 2

O?I!IAT

I_.-Ll .............................. I.t_,l ............................. i= i iii J............................. ..-LI!I,.,,, 1...i ............................. ............. 11 =1 if;c, ............................ _i _.;i ii;i;i: ,, .............................................. J,!.,+=J _t_,,.................................

RHOW1t'1:)11LAWNIOWlll

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER., Com-

pare the illustrations with your Lawn Mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls

and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROL BAR

ENGINE ZONE

CONTROL CABLE

CABLE CLIP_

_- --DRIVE CONTROL LEVER

STARTER HANDLE

LE KNOB

GRASS CATCHER

E CLIP

E CAP

ENGINE OIL CAP

IPSTICK

!, DRIVE COVER

PRIMER

AIR FILTE

WHEEL ADJUSTER

(ON EACH WHEEL)

Sears Rotary Walk-Behind Power Lawn Mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National

Standards institute and the U S Consumer Product Safety Commission The blade turns when the engine

is running

held down to the handle to start the engine. Release

to stop the engine,

PRIMER - pumps additional fue! from the carburetor

to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.

propelled forward motion of lawn mower°

STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine°

........................................................................................................... r............................................................... _ .................. ,JiU 11 _,l _t.......................................................................................................................... $_i U ......................

flOW TOUSEYOURLAWNMOWER

DO NOT RUN YOUR LAWN MOWER WI'i'HOUT

MULCHERPLATEIN PLACEAND DOOR LATCH

IN LOCKED POSITION OR APPROVED

PING DEFIFCTOR OR GRASSCATCHER IN

PLACE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO OPERATE "filE

LAWN MOWER WITH THE REAR DOOR P.E-

MOVED OR PROPPEDOPEN.

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by a lever (red knob)

locatedon the right side of the engine. "HIGH" posi-

tion isfor starting engine, normal cutting and better

grass bagging. "LOW" position is for light cutting,

trimming and fuel economy (See Fig° 4).

TO INSTALLA'I-rACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped readv to be used as a

mulcher. To install attacfiments for'bagging or dis-

charging:

o Rotate rear door latchclockwise to allow rear door

to be opened (See Fig. 5A).

• Open rear door, remove mukher plate and rotate

latch counterclockwise to its original poslhon (See

Fig, 5B).

<_ You can now install catcher or optional clipping

deflector.

•Toreturn to mulching operation reverse the above

steps. BE SURE MULCHER PLATE IS INSTALLED

AND LATCH IS IN LOCKED POSITION BEFORE

USING FOR MULCHING OPERATION.

TO INSTALL GRASSCATCHER

o Lift the Rear Door on the Lawn Mower Housing

and place the Grass Catcher Frame onto the form-

ed up Tabs on the Rear Door Hinge Bracket (See

Fig. 6A)_

The Grass Catcher is secured to the Lawn Mower

Housing when the Rear Door is lowered onto the

Grass Catcher Frame.

FIG. 4

REAR DOOR

FIG. 5A

FORMED UP TABS

MULCHER

FIG. 5B

HINGE BRACKET/_/ /_REAR DOOR

FORMED UP TABS

V -

GRASS CATCHER FRAME

FIG. 6A

TO IMPTY GRASSCATCHER

oTo remove Grass Catcher, release Operator

Presence Control Bar to stop engine.

_, Lift up Rear Door and remove the Grass Catcher

by the Handle (See Fig. 613).

o Do not drag the Bag when emptying; it win cause

unnecessary wear_

DRIVECONTROL

o Self-propelling is controlled by holding the

operator presence control bar down to the han-

dle and pushing the drive control lever forward

until it dicks; then release the lever (See Fig. 7)°

o Forward motion will stop when the operator

presence control bar is release& To stop forward

motion without stopping the engine, release the

operator, presence control bar slightly until the

drive control disengages° Hold operator presence

control bar down tohandle to continue mowing

without self-propelling

o To keep drive control engaged when turning cor-

ners, push down on handle and lift front wheels

off ground while turning lawn mower.

TO ADJUSTCUTTINGHEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for

high cut.

i> Wheels are set in low cut for shipping_ Adjust cut-

ring height to suit your requirements_ Medium

position is best for most lawns_

o To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever

toward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit

your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the

same setting (See Fig° 8)°

FIG. 6B

_'_\ TO ENGAGE _\: DRtVF CONTROL

DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED

FIG. 7

LOWER WHEELS __, RAISE WHEELS

FOR HIGH CUT FOR LOW CUT

FIG. 8

IIiFOIE STAITIIGIINGINI!

OIL:

A 20 oz. bottle of Pennzoil SAE 30 Oil is included

with your new lawn mower.

o Remove engine oil cap with dipstick (See Fig, g).

and fill to the FULL line on the dipstick.

Use 20 ozso of SAE 30 oil SAE 10W 30 oil can

also be used. DO NOT use SAE 10W 40 oil,

o POUR OIL SLOWLY. DO NOT OVER FILL,

o Check oil level before each use. Add oil if need-

ed. Fill to FULL line on dipstick.

o To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each

time.

o Replace engine oil cap with dipstick and tighten.

o After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change

the oil, and every 25 hours thereafter. You may

need to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirty conditions.

GAS:

o Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded

gasoline. DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE.

BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERFILL TANK (SEE

FIG. g).

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blend-

ed 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 wMe in storage.

To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage for 30 days or longer'. Drain

the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the

fue! 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..

OIL FILL CAP

W1DIPSTICK

FUEL

TANK

GASOLINE

FILL CAP

AIR CLEANER

FIG. 9

TOSTAITllIll E

oTo start a cold engine,push primer three (3) times

before trying to start. Osea firm push. Thisstepis

not usually necessary when starting an engine

which has already run for a few minutes.

oPushengine speed control lever to HIGH position.

o Hold operator presence control bar down to the

handle and pull starter' handle quickly. Do not

allow starter rope to snap back.

o To STOP engine, release operator presence con-

trol bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to

repeat priming steps, tnwarmer weather over' prim-

ing may cause flooding and engine will not start. If

you do flood engine wait a few minutes before at-

tempting to start and DO NOT repeat priming steps.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

.................................................. ,,, ,,,,,

CAUTION:FEDEI_LREGULATIONSIEQUiREAN

ENGINECONTROLTO BEINSTALLEDON THIS

LAWNt_OWERIN ORDERTO MINII_iZE THE

RISKOF BLADECONTACTINJURY. DO NOT

UNDERANYCIRCU_ASTANCESAITE_AP?TO DE-

FEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR

CONTROL.THEBLADETURNSWHENTHEENGINE

ISRUNNING.

Your' lawn mower is equipped with an Operator

Ingine Control Bar which requires the operator

to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle

to start and operate the lawn mower° 10

o Under certain conditions, such as very tait grass,

it may be necessary to raise the height of cut to

reduce pushing effort and to keep from

overloading the engine and leaving dumps of

grass clippings°

o For extreme{y heavy cutting, reduce the width of

cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower hous-

ing one (1) wheel adjuster setting higher than the

front for better discharge of grass.

o When using a rear discharge lawn mower in

moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not

enter the grass catcher_ Reduce ground speed

(pushing speed) and/or run the lawn mower over

the area a second time_

•if a trail of grass clippings is left on the right side

of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a

clockwise direction with a small overlap to col-

lect the clippings on the next pass.

_. Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with

dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less

grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catchers off

with water and let dry before using.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

The special mulching Blade will recut the grass

clippings many times and reduce them in size so

that ast-heyfal(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

recurring action of the blades.

Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet, Wet grass

tends to form clumpsand mterteres w|th the mulch-

ing action. Thebest time to mow your lawn is the

early afternoon. At this t!me the grass has dried

and the newly cut area w_ll not be exposed to the

direct sun.

MAX1/3

FIG. 10

oFor best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting

height so that the lawn mover cuts off only the top

one-third of the grass blades (See Fig. 10). If the

!awn is overgrown it will be necessaryto raise the

height ot 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 thanthe front.

oCertain types of grass and qrass 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 thefirst

cut path.

oChange your cutting pattern from week to week.

Mow northto south one week then change to east

to west the next week. This will help prevent

matting and graining of the lawn.

a Once a year you should replace the spark plug,

a'r f'lter ana check blade for' wear° A new spark

plug and air filter assures proper air-fuel mixture

andhelps your engine run better and last iong,er

o You should check aft fasteners and be sure they

are tighL

o Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on

page lg.

LAWNMOWER

BLADE/BLADEADAPTERCARE

Your lawn mower will work better with a sharp

blade.

CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIRE!

FROMSPARKPLUGANDPLACEWIREWHERE

tTCANNOTCO/VIEI_ CONTACTWITHTHESPARE

PLUG.

TO REMOVE BLA_E:

Turn lawn mower' on its side_ Make sure air filter

and carburetor are up_

Use block of wood between blade and lawn

mower housing to prevent blade from turning

when removing the blade boll

Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap

blade with heavy cloth.

Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise,

Use a 9/16" box or opemend wrench;

• Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt,

tockwasher and hardened washer) (See Fig° ! 1)o

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 key way

in crankshaft are aligned.

o Position blade on to the blade adapter' aligning

the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs

on the adapter.

NOTE:Be sure the word TOP (stamped on the blade)

is toward the engine (See Fig. 11)o

o Install the blade bolt with the Iockwasher and

hardened washer into blade adapter and

crankshaft (See Fig. 11)o

o Use block of wood between blade and lawn

mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turin

ing clockwi_e_

CRANKSHAFT & _ED_ w

BLADE ADAPTER

DETAIL

ASHEF{

K£Y

BLADE BOLT- _!

CRANKSHAFT

FIG. I]

The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft.

ibs_

o Torque wrenches are available at most Sears

stores and through the catalog

iiiiii ,, ,i,,i i,i, i g

CAUTION:ALOOSEBLADECAN BEDANGEROUS

ANDMAY MAKETHEENGINEHARDTOSTART.

I:lHi HI ,,

Use only a Sears authorized replacement blade to

get the best cutting resuhs.,

NOTE:We do not recommend sharpening blade - but

if you do, be sure the blade is balanced°

TO SHARPEN BLADE:

o The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a

grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while

on the lawn mower_

• Care should be taken to keep the blade balanc-

ed_ An unbalanced blade will cause excessive

vibration when running and eventual damage to

lawn mower or engine_

• 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 nailo If blade is balanced, it should remain

in a horizontal position° If either end of the blade

moves downward, blade is not balanced,

Sharpen the heavy end until the blade is

balanced_

o To keepyour drive systemworkingproperly, the

gear caseand area around thedrive shouldbe

keptcleanandfreeof trashbuild-up.Cleanunder

the drive cover twice a season.

• Thegear caseis filled with lubricant to the pro_

per level at the factory. Theonly time the _ubri-

cantneedsattentionisif servicehasbeenperform-

ed on the gear case.

If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex

Premium 1 Grease, Part No. 750355. Do Not

substitute.

DRIVE WHE_:LS

Check front drive wheels each time before you mow

to be sure they move freely, The wheels not turning

freely means trash, brass, cuttings, etco are in the

drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive

wheels°

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, check both

front wheels.

Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers_

Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside

the dust cover, pinion andtor drive wheel gear

teeth°

o Put wheels back in place°

• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn free-

ly, contact your nearest Sears Service Center.

GRASSCATCHER

The 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

manufacturer approved replacement catcher from

Sears. Give the lawn mower model number when

ordering.

FIG. 12

ENGINE

TO CHAHG_:OIL (WAR_ OIL I)R/_.INSBEliER)

CAUTIOH:DI5COHHECTSPAREPLUGWIREFRO_

SPAREPLUGAHDPLACEWIREWHEREITCAHNOT

COMEIN CONTACTWITHSPAREPLUG.

Remove engine oil cap with dipstick; lay aside on

a clean surface,

o Tip lawn mower on its side as shown in Fig° 12

and drain oi_ into suitable container. Rock lawn

mower back and forth to remove any oi_trapped

inside of engine.

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and on

side of engine.

o Fill engine with SAE 30 or 10W 30 oilo Fill only

to the "FULL" tine on the dipstick° DO NOT

overfill.

o Replace engine oil cap°

o Reconnect spark ptug wire to spark ptug.

'13

AiR FILTER ............... .............................................................................................................

Ctean or replace Air Filter every 25 hours or every

season, whichever occurs first,

NOTE: Service Air Filter more often under dusty

conditions°

TO SERVICE AIR FILTER

Loosen Screw and tilt Cover as shown in fig. 13.

Carefully remove Cartridge,

Clean by tapping gently on a flat surface. If very

dirty, replace Cartridge or clean as follows:

Wash in a low or non-sudsing detergent and

warm water solution. Rinse thoroughly with flow-

ing water' from mesh side until water runs clear,

Let Cartridge air' dry thoroughly before using.

CAUTION:PETROLEUM_LVENTS, SUCHAS

KEROSENE,ARENOTTOBEUSEDTO CLEAN

CARTRIDGE.THEYMAYCAUSEDETERIORA-

TIONOFTHECARTRIDGE.DOHOTOILCAR-

TRIDGE.DO HOTUSEPRESSURIZEDAIR TO

CLEANOR DRYCARTRIDGE.

o install Cartridge, then replace Cover making sure

the tabs are aligned with the slots in Back Plate.

Fasten Screw securely (See Fig. 13).

SPARKPLUG

Change your spark plug each year" to make your

engine start easier and run better° Set spark p{ut"

gap at D30 inch.

CARTRIDGE

LIP

BACK

COVER

TABS

t// CO_ER

_REW

FIG. 13

°Turn lawn mower on itsside with carburetor up

°Clean the underside of your' lawn mower by

scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash.

Clean your lawn mower and engine often to keep

trash from accumulating around engine. A clogg-

ed engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

*We DO NOT recommend using a garden hose

to clean lawn mower unless the electrical system,

muffbr, air filter, and carburetor are covered to

keep water out. Water in engine can result in

shortening engine life,

CLEANONG

We recommend that you clean the underside of your

lawn mower after each use_

i, ii lUl,

m i,

,11111julu i' i,

CAUTION:DISCONNECTSPARK PLUG WIRE

FROMSPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHERE

IT CANNOTCOMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARK

PLUG.

i ....i,,,H................... i

TORmOV_REP_CEDRIVe:._fLT

......,_ r ,,,,I ,u I' _................' .................................

r ^ r..tlillilil: II_!II,_IIEL"i'f,PAR[PI.UGWIREI:ROili

_ $PitRI(PLUG.PLIICEWIREWHEREIT CAltIIOT

!_ COllIEIN COIITACI"WiTH SPARKPLUG.

Remove drive cover_ Remove belt by pushing

down on gear case putle_/(See Fig_ 14).

Turn lawn mower on its side with carburetor and

fuel cap up.

• Loosen hex head screw and move belt snubber

away from pulley (See Fig_ 14).

Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft and

carefully slip belt off over blade.

o CAUTION: Sharp edges of blade can cut belt.

o Install new belt reversing above steps°

o Move belt snubber back in place and tighten hex

head screw.

NOTE: Belt snubber clears belt by approx.]/32 inch

when installed°

o Always use factory approved belt to assure fit

and long life_

TO ADJUSTDRIVE CONTROLCABLE

A drive control cable that needs adjustment will keep

your lawn mower from self-propelling properly and

can also cause gear case components to wear out

sooner,

• Remove drive cover_

• Loosen cable clamp screw "A" and nuts "B" and

IlCl# "

o Hold down operator presence control bar to han-

dle and engage drive control.

°Move shifter arm to drive position while rotating

front wheels to be sure jaw clutch is engaged_ Pull

threaded sleeve with pliers (See Fig !5). Do Not

pull on control cable.

o Tighten nut "C" until sleeve is snug_

Tighten screw "A" and nut "B".

Push lawn mower back and forth to be sure gear

case is engaged

_, Replace drive cover_

Release operator presence control bar_

ROTATE

fiG. 14

,,JAM NUT 8 ,JAM NUT C_"

DRIVE

POSITION ERS

ARM f

ROTATE

FiG, 15

llfllltt lifll f_OII

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

positiom

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

CAABUEETOR ADJUSTMENTS

Minor Carburetor adjustment may be required to

compensate for differences in Fuel, temperature,

affitude or load. The Air Cleaner and Air Cleaner

Cover must be assembled to Carburetor when

running.

INTIAL ADJUSTMENT:

With the engine not running, gently turn idle Mix-

ture Screw clockwise until it just closes. Screw may

be damaged by turning it in too far (See Fig. 16).

Next open the Screw one turn counter.clockwise. This

initial adjustment will permit the engine to be started

and warmed up (approximately 5minutes) prior to

final adjustment (See Fig. 16).

NOTE: DO NOT adjust top no load adjusting Screw.

(Pre-set at Factory).

FINAL ADJUSTMENT

Place Equipment Control Lever in "iDLE" or

"SLOW" position. Adjust idle RPM, by turning Idle

Speed Adjusting Screw to obtain 1400 RPM. Next,

turn Idle Mixture Screw in (clockwise - lean mixture)

until engine just starts to slow. Then turn Idle Mix-

ture Screw out (counter-clockwise - rich mixture) un-

til engine runs unevenly. Now turn Idle Mixture

Screw midway between Hch and lean. Engine should

accelerate smoothly, if engine does not accelerate

properly, the Carburetor should be readjusted,

TOP NO LOAD SCREW

IDLE SPEED

ADJUSTING

SCREW

IDLE

MIXTURE'

SCREW

FIG. 16

usually to a slightly richer mixture, by turning the idle

mixture screw counter-clockwise 1/8 turn more (See

Fig. 16).

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory seL Do not at-

tempt to increase engine speed or it may result in per-

sonal injury. If you believe that the engine is runn-

ing too tast or too slow, take your lawn mower to

an authorized Sears Service Center For repair and

adjustment.

TO ADJUSTHANDLE

Your Lawn Mower Handle can be raised or lowered for

your mowing comfort. Figs. 17A, 17B, t7C and 17D

show the four (4) positions that are available: High,

Medium High, Medium Low and Low. Handles are

shtpped mounted in the Medium Low position (See Fig.

17A).

oTo change from medium low to medium high posi-

tion, the upper and lower handle sections will

have to be turned over (See Fig. 17B).

o Remove the controts and operator presence con-

trol bar from the upper handle,

o Remove the starter rope guide from the lower

handle

o Remove hairpin cotters

o Disconnect the lower handle from the handle

brackets (See Fig 18).

o Turn the handle over and reassemble the hairpin

cotters that have been removed (See Fig 18)_

• Reassemble the starter rope guide

° Reassemble the controls and the operator

presence control bar to the upper handle_

............................CAUTION: THEOPERATORPRI_SENCECON!"RO'L......

BAR MUST PIVOT FREELYTO PERMIT BLADE

BRAKEENGAGEMENTWHEN CONTROLBAR IS

RELEASED. DO NOT OVERTIGNTEN THE

FASTENERSHOLDING THE CONTffOLSTO THE

UPPERHANDLE.

o To change from medium low to high position on-

ly the upper handle section will have to be turn-

ed over (See Fig. 17C)

o To change from medium low to low position, on-

ly the lower handle section will have to be turn-

ed over (See Fig. 17D).

SHIPPING POSITION

MEDIUM

NIGH

FIG. 17A FIG. 17B

FIG. 17C FIG. !7D

LOWER HANDLE

HAIRPIN COTTER

HANDLE BRACKET

FIG. 18

Your lawn mower and engineshouldbe prepared

for' off-seasonstorage as follows:

LAWN MOWER

o Clean underside of lawn mower housing_ (See

"Cleaning" in maintenance section of manual.)

o Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required

(See "BtadelBlade Adapter Care" in

maintenance section of manual).

° Hose grass catcher off with water and let dry

before storing.

o Lubricate as shown in Service Recommendation

chart on page lg of manual,

HANDLE

o You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage

as shown in Fig_ 19.

oTo fold, squeeze the bottom ends of the lower'

handle toward each other until the lower handle

clears the handle bracket, then move handle for-

ward (See Fig. 20).

IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE FOR

STORAGE OR TRANSPORTATION,

BE SURE TO FOLD THE HANDLE AS

SHOWN IN FIG, 19. IF YOU FOLD

THE UPPER HANDLE SECTION THE

WRONG WAY, YOU MAY DAMAGE

THE CONTROL CABLES.

ENGINE

LOWER k NDLE

FIG. 19

LOWER HANDLE

HANDLE BRACKET

HAIRPIN COTTER

empty.

IMPORTANT:

Change oil (See "To Change Oil" in maintenance

section of manual)_

Drain Fuel and Run Engine until fuel system is

IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT

GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING

IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS

SUCH AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL

FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DUR-

ING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPER-

IENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL

BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASO-

HOL OR USING ETHANOL OR

METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOIS-

TURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARA-

TION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS

DURING STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS

CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM

OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN

STORAGE.

FIG. 20

OTHER

o Do not store gasoline from one season to another.

o Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to

rust. Rust and/or dirt in your' gasoline can cause

problems°

o Do not store your lawn mower under any plastic

cover'. Plastic cannot breathe which allows con-

densation to form and can cause your' lawn

mower to rust.

o When setting up your handle from the storage

position, the lower handle will automatically lock

into the mowing position.

SERVICERgCORD SCIIEDUtE SERVICEDAT_

Fi)l in dates as you complete regular

service First

Hours

Every

Hours

BJade Checked

Every

Use

Blade Replaced (Sharpened)

Engine Oil Change

EngineOil Check //

Air Cleaner

Spark Plug Replaced

Lubricate Lawn Mower

Cleaning P'_

Grass Catcher (if applicable)

Muffler

-CHECK

LUBRKATiON

Every

Hours

Q SAE 30 MOTOR OIL (10W 30)

Q SPRAY LUBRICANT

,,,i ,,u,i

WHEEL ADJUSTER

1c_

Craftsman 917372470 User Manual 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides L0805483

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0805483 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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