Craftsman 917376283 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides L0807203

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0807203 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917376283 917376283 CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER #917376283. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman ROTARY MOWER Manual

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SEARS

MODEL NUMBER 917.376283 OWNER'SMANUAL

oAssembly

oOperation

oCustomer

Responsibilities

oService

oAdjustments

oRepair Parts

Caution:

Read and Follow

all Safety Rules

and Instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

156082 6.26_96 VBL Printedin U.S,A.

SAFETY RULES

,_ Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers ,_

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.

FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

SAFETY STANDARDS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF INJURY. YOUR UNIT IS

EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROLS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES

TRAINING:

•Read this operator's manual carefully. Become familiar with

the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.

Learn how to quickly stop mower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower. Never atlow 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 de-

scribed in this manual.

° Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in

any manner_ Always have damage repaired before using

your mower.

= Do not use accessory attachments that are not recommended

by the manufacturer. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

The blade turns when the engine is running.

PREPARATION:

Always thoroughlycheck the area to be mowed and clear it of

all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objeets.

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 orwhen the engine ls 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 runnmg.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial lighL

OPERATION:

•Keepyoureyesand mindonyourmower andthearea being

cuL Donot let other'interestsdistractyou.

•Donotmowwet or slipperygrass. Never runwhileoperating

yourmower. Always besureofyourfooting- keepa firm hold

onthe handlesandwalk.

Do notputhands or feet nearor underrotatingparts. Keep

clearof the dischargeopeningat aUtimes.

Alwaysstopthe enginewheneveryouleave orare not using

yourmower,orbeforecrossingdriveways,walks,roads,and

any gravel-covered areas.

Never direct dischargeof matedal towardbystandersnor

allowanyone near the mower whileyouare operatingit

Beforecleaning,inspecting,orrepairingyourmower,stopthe

engineand make absolutelysurethe bladeand all moving

partshavestopped.Then disconnectthesparkplugwireand

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 dam-

age before restarting and operating you mower.

•Do not change the governor settings or overspeed the

engine. Engine damage or personal injury may result.

°Do not operate your mower ifit vibretes abnormally Exces-

sive 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 danger-

ous

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 condi-

tion

Keep all safety devices in place and working

To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves

or excessive grease and oil.

Check grass catcher often for deterioration and wear and

replace 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.

IALook for this symbol to point out im-

portant safety precautions. It means

CAUTIONll! BECOMEALERTI!I YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it can-

not contact spark plug in order to pre-

vent accidental starting when setting

up, transporting, adjusting or making

repairs.

WARNING A

The engine exhaust from this product con-

tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other

reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn

Mower, It has been designed, engineered and manufac-

tured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized

Service Center/Department We have competent, well-

trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair

this lawn mower_

Please read and retain this manual The instructions will

enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower

properly Always observe the "SAFETY RULES"

MODEL

NUMBER 917376283

SERIAL

NUMBER

DATEOFPURCHASE

THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERSWILLBE FOUND

ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE

LAWN MOWER HOUSING

YOUSHOULDRECORDBOTHSERIALNUMBERAND

DATE OFPURCHASEANDKEEPINASAFEPLACE

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 60

DISPLACEMENT: 1256 CU IN

GASOLINE CAPACITY 1 25 QUARTS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

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

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°P)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION J19LM, RJ19LM

3AP: 030") STD361458

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: 008"

EXHAUST: 008"

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP; 0125 iN

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT LBS

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product Contact your nearest Sears sto_ for details

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBH.ITIES

Read and observe the safety rules

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower

° Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

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

according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any

defect in material or workmanship

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from

the date of purchase,

This Warranty does not cover:

Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts,

air cleaners and spark plug,

Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent 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 STATE& 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, HQFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

"TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 12-14

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

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

OPERATION ...................................................................... 8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 12

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

STORAGE ................................................................... 17

TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................. 19

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

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 25-28

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ..................................... 30

INDEX

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

Adjustments:

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

Drive Belt .................................. 15

Engine Speed ........................... 16

Handle Height ........................... 16

Height of Cut ............................. 9

Air Filter:

Replacement ...................... 14

Service ............................. 14

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

Blade:

Sharpening ............................. 13

Replacement ....................... 13

Controls:

Drive Control .............................. 8

Engine Zone Control ............... 8

Engine Speed Control .......... 8

Operator Presence

Control Bar ............................. 8

Customer Responsibilities,. 3, 12-14

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

Blade Care/Replacement ....... 13

Drive Wheels ...........................13

Engine .........................................14

Lubrication .....................................14

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

Cutting Levels .................................. 9

Engine:

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

Oil Change ........................... !4

Oil Level ......................................14

Oil Type ................................ ! 4

Starting ....................................... 10

Stopping .................................. 10

Storage ...................................... 16

Fuel:

Capacity ................................. 3

Storage .................................... 16

Type ....................................... 10

Handle Adjustment:

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

Cutting Height .......................... 16

LLibdcation:

Engine ...................................... 14

Lawn Mower ............................ 12

Maintenance Agreement ................. 3

Maintenance Schedule ......................12

Mowing Tips .................................... 10

Oil:

Engine ..........................................12

Storage .......................................16

Operation:

Drive Control .................................9

Engine Control .......................... 9

Grass Catcher ............................ 9

Mower ....................................... 9

Operator Presence

Control Bar .....................................9

Options:

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

RepairPads:

Engine ...................................25-28

Lawn Mower ........................20-24

Responsibilities, Customer. 3,12-14

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

Service and Adjustments ............... 15

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

Drive Belt ................................... 15

Engine Speed ........................ 18

Handle ....................................... 16

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

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

Speed Control:

Engine ...........................................8

Starting the Engine ...........................10

Stopping the Engine ...........................10

Storage .................................................16

Trouble Shooting Chart .................19

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

LAWN ACCESSORIES

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

and service centers, Most Sears stores can also order repair pads for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn

mower, Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS

GRASSCATORERSFOR

_1 REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS ....... I BLADES

, ,,,, ,,,H ,, H

!"' J'i

!_ !!J

q!!!}l Jt_i_}*j_,

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

ASSEMBLY

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety

before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn

mower Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the

factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled

for shipping purposes, All parts such as nuts, washers,

bolts, etc, necessary to complete the assembly have been

placed in the parts bag To ensure safe and proper

operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you

assemble must be tightened securely Use the correct

tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

Remove loose parts included with mower

Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel

down flat

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 thor-

oughly for additional loose pads.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN /1OWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Fig, 1)

IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLES CAREFULLY SO AS

NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES

Raise handles until lower handle section locks into

place in mowing position

Raise upper handle section into place on lower handle,

remove protective padding 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" inthe

Service and Adjustment section of this manual

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

(See Fig. 2)

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a

mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

Open rear door and remove mulcher plug. Store

mulcher plug in a safe place

You can now install catcher or optional clipping deflec-

tor.

• To return to mulching operation, install mulcher plug

into discharge opening of mower

MULCHER PL

FIG. 2

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower'

without mulcher plug in place or ap-

proved clipping deflector or' grass

catcher in place. Never attempt to op-

erate the lawn mower with the rear door

removed or propped open.

OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROLBAR

UPPER

LIFT UP

MOWING POSITION

LOWER HANDLE

FIG. 1

TO ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH GRASS

CATCHER (See Figs. 3A thru 4)

Insert leg of tubu{ar frame through front opening of

grass catcher and thread frame into sewn hem of bag

NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered ORthe straight leg of the

tubular frame,

When frame comes out the other end of sewn hem,

immediately work the end of frame down inside the bag

as shown in inset

Slide sewn hem evenly around the tubular frame until

both ends of frame are exposed out of the front open-

ing

Assemble lower frame to tubular frame as shown Be

sure handle is outside of bag and frames are fully

seated as shown in inseL

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

Close the flip lid Flip lid must be closed while operating

lawn mower

Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the

grass catcher frame onto the formed tabs on the rear

door hinge bracket

The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower

housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass

catcher frame

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.

TUBULAR FRAME SEWN _== _

SEWN HEM FLIP LID

TUBULAR

FRAME //

(Frames must

be fully seated)

FIGr 3B

LOWER FRAME HANDLE

BRACKET

FIG, 3C

AR DOOR

GRASS

CATCHER

FRAME

FORMED

TABS

FIG. 4

FIG. 3A

OPERATION

KNOWYOLIR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER, Compare tile

illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this

manual fo[ 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

OR WARNING ON OFF

FAST SLOW FUELCHOKE OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL CABLE

START

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLBAR

DRIVE CONTROLLEVER

HANDLE KNOB

GRASSCATCHER

GASOLINE CAP

PRIMER

PEED CONTROL

DRIVE COVER

MULCHER PLUG

ENGINE OIL CAP W/DIPSTICK HOUSING

WHEEL ADJUSTER

(ON EACH WHEEL)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standa[ds Institute

and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission The blade turns when the engine is running,

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL - must be held

down to the handle to start the engine Release to stop the

engine

PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the

cylinder for use when starting a cold engine

STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine,

DRIVE CONTROL LEVER - used to engage power-pro-

pelled forward motion of lawn mower.

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL - located on the side of the

engine which allows you to select either fast (@) or slow

(,_) engine speed

MUL.CHER PLUG - must be removed to convert to bagging

or discharging operation.

OPERATION

Tile 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 the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without mulcher plate in place and door

closed or without an approved clipping

deflector or grasscatcher in place.

Never attempt to operate the lawn

mower with the rear door removed or

propped open.

ENGINE SPEED (See Fig. 5)

The engine speed is controlled by a lever located on the

side of the engine Fast (._) position is for starting the

engine, normal cutting, and better grass bagging Slow

('_) position is for light cutting, trimming and fuel economy

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 con-

trol. The blade turns when the engine is

running,

LOWER WHEELS PLATE TAB

FOR HIGH CUT

RAISE WHEELS

FOR LOW CUT

FIG. 6

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 7)

To remove grass catcher, release operator presence

control bar to stop engine

Lift up rear door and remove the grass catcher by the

handle

Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause

unnecessary wear,

Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator pres-

ence control bar which requires the operator to be

positioned behind the lawn mower handle to sta_t and

operate the lawn mower. FIG. 7

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL LEVER

PRIMER

FIG. 5

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)

" Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut

Adjust cutting height to suit your requirements Me-

dium position is best for most lawns

To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever to-

ward wheel Move wheel up or down to suit your

requirements Be sure a!l 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

DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)

,' Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator

presence control bar down to the handle and pushing

the drive control lever forward until it clicks; then

release the lever.

" Forward motion will stop when the operator presence

control bar is released. To stop forward motion without

stopping engine, release the operator presence control

bar slightly until the drive control disengages. Hold

operator presence control bar down to handle to con-

tinue mowing without self-propelling

To keep drive control engaged when turning corners,

push down on handle and lift front wheels off ground

while turning lawn mower,

OPERATOR PRESENCE DRWE

CONTROL

DRIVE

CONTROL DRIVE CONTROL

TO ENGAGE DISENGAGED

DRIVE CONTROL

9 FIG. 8

m,,

OPERATMON

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL (See Fig. 9)

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine_

Be sure mower is lever and area around oil fill is clean.

Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill to the full line

on the dipstick

Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see

"ENGINE" in Customer Responsibilities section of this

manual

Pour oil slowly Do not over fill

Check el! level before each use_ Add oil if needed Fill

to furl line or] dipstick

• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time

Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten

° 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 (See Fig. 9)

Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline.

DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL

NOT TO OVER FILL TANK.

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 stor-

age 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 Instruc-

tions for additional information Never use engine or

carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur_

ENGINE OIL CAP

W/DIPSTICK

GASOLINE FILLER CAP

TO START ENGINE

To start a cold engine, push primer five (5) times before

trying to start. Use a firm push. This step is not usually

necessary when starting an engine which has already

run for a few minutes.

oMove engine speed control lever to fast (,f_) position

° Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle

and pu! 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 will not start. If you do flood engine,

wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not

repeat priming steps

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_

o For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut

and raise the rear of the lawn mower housing one (1)

wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better

discharge of grass

For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions,

the engine speed should be set in the fast (,€,) positiorL

• 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 rightside of a rear

discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction

with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next

pass.

Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of

grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine airflow

and extend engine life.

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

arrd let dry before using.

FIG. 9

i i i ,,,,,, ,,,,i ,,,,,, ,,,

OPERATmON

MULCHUNG MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP

MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH SEE "CLEANING" IN CUSTOMER

RESPONSIBILITIES SECTION OF THIS MANUAL

The special mulching blade will recut the grass clip-

pings many times and reduce them in size so that as

they fal! 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 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 (See Fig. 10) 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 by

overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

Cedain types of grass and grass conditions may re-

quire that an area be mulched a second time to com-

pletely hide the clippings When doing a second cut,

mow across or perpendicular 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

FIG. 10

CUSTOMER RESPONGmBBLIT ES

1-Change more often when operaling under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures

2-Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty condltions

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soll

4 - Charge 48 hours al end of season

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The waoanty 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 "LUBRICATION CHART"),

LUBRiCATRON CHART

(_) WHEEL

ADJUSTER

])BRAKE SPRING

BRACKET

ENGINE OIL

REAR DOOR

HINGE

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT

(_) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES "ENGINE" SEC-

TION,

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 ONLYA DRY, POWDERED

GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY

,,,,,i,

CUSTOMER RESPONS E} LIT ES

m i ,,,, ,,, , i

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte-

nance

TIRES

Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-

cals 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 (See Fig. 11)

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-c!ockwise. Use

a 9/16" box or open-end wrench

• 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 damage&

TO REPLACE BLADE (See Fig 11)

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

oThe recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft Ibs

IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEATTREATED

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if

you do, be sure the blade is balanced

TO SHARPEN BLADE

Care should be taken to keep the blade balance& 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 orwalL

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

ADAPTER,_.

CRANK-

KEYWAY

HARDENED

WASHER TRAILING

LOCK WASHER EDGE

"CRANK_

SHAFT

BLADE ADAPTER

FIG. 11

GRASS CATCHER

The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must

be dry when used

Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterio-

ration. Through normal use it will wear If catcher

needs replacing, replace only with a manufacturer

approved replacement catcher Give the lawn mower

model number when ordering

DRIVE WHEELS

Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be

sure they move freely

The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings,

etc are in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free

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 and/or drive wheel gear teeth.

Put wheels back in place

If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely,

contact your nearest authorized service center.

GEAR CASE

To keep your drive system working properly, the gear

case and area around the drive should be kept clean

and free of trash build-up Clean under the drive cover

twice a season

The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level

at the factory The only time the lubricant needs

attention is if service has been performed on the gear

case

If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Pre-

mium 1 Grease, Part No 750355 Do not substitute..

i,,, ,,i,r,

CUSTOMER RESPONS E}RLITmES

,i,i

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service

classification SF or SG Select the oil's SAE viscosity gfade

according to your expected operating temperature

SAE VISCOSITY GRACES

NOTE: Althougl ly 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 the first two hours of operation and

every 25 hours thereafter 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 (See Fig. 12)

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 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. Fil! only to the "FULL" line on the

dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.

.Replace engine oil cap.

.Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

CONTAINER

AIR FILTER FIG. 12

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 (See Fig. 13)

Remove the air filter cover by turning counterclock-

wise to the stop and pull away from collar.,

o Remove filter from inside of cover

Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove

any dirt accumulation

Insert new filter into cover

Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab

with the slot

Push in on cover and turn clockwise to tighten.

COLLAR

SLOT

AIR FILTER

COUNTER-

CLOCKWISE

TO REMOVE

TAB

I'URN CLOCKWISE

AIR FILTER COVER TO TIGHTEN

FIG. 13

MUFFLER

inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a

fire hazald and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to make your engine

start easier and run better Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: FOR REST PERFORMANCE, KEEP

MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH CLEAN THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR MOWER

AFTER EACH USE

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark

plug,

Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure 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 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 ouL

Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER

Clean under drive cover at least twice a season_ Scrape

underside of cover with putty knife or' similar tool to remove

any build-up of trash or grass on uRderside of drive cover

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

°Release control bar.

,o Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place where it cannot come in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST 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 REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT

(See Fig. 14)

•Remove drive cover Remove belt by pushing down on

gear case pulley

Turn lawn mower on its side with carburetor and fuel

cap up

Remove blade.

Remove debris shield

Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft

,, Install new belt by reversing above steps

oAlways use factory approved belt to assure fit and long

life

DRIVE

COVER BELT

PRESS

FIG. 14

ii,

SERVmCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Figs. 15 Thru 17)

Your lawn mower handle can be raised or lowered for your

mowing comfort Four (4) positions are available: high,

medium high, medium low and low Handles are shipped

mounted in the medium low position

To change from medium low to medium high position,

the upper and lower handle sections will have te be

turned over (See Fig_ 15B)

. Remove the controls and operator presence control

bar from the upper handle.

Remove the starter rope guide from the lower handle,

• Remove hairpin cotters

Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets

(See Fig, 17)

• Turn the handle over and reassemble the hairpin

cotters that have been removed

o Reassemble the star_er rope guide

o Reassemble the controls and the operator presence

control bar to the upper handle

CAUTION: The operator presence con-

trol bar must pivot freely to permit blade

brake engagement when control bar is

released. Do not over tighten the

fasteners holding the controls to the

upper handle.

To change from medium tow to high position only the

upper handle section will have to be turned over (See

Fig 16A)

o To change from medium low to low position, only the

lower handle section wil! have to be turned over (See

Fig 16B)

SHIPPING POSITION

MEDIUM LOW MEDIUM HIGH

FIG. 15A FIG. 15B

LOW

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set, Do not attempt

to increase engine speed or it may result in personalinjury.

Ifyou believe that the engine is running too fast ortoo slow,

take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for

repair and adjustmenL

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non*adjustable fixed main jet for

mixture control. If your engine does not operate properly

due to suspected carburetor problems, take your lawn

mower to an authorized service center for repair and/or

adjustrnent,

FIG. 16A

SQUEEZE

TO REMOVE

HAIRPIN CLIP

FIG. 16B

LOWER HANDLE

HANDLE

BRACKET

FIG. 17

,,u ,i ,,,,i u i i ,,,,,,,, i , i

STORAGE

i i = ,, ,, i ,,i , .,,,,,, ,,,,,,i

immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the ENGINE

end of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days

or more_ FUEL SYSTEM

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 "CLEANING" in the

Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).

Lubricate as shown in tile Customer Responsibilities

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 (See Fig. 18)

You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage

Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handle toward

each other until the lower handle dears the handle

bracket, then move handle forwar&

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,

LOWER HANDLE

BRACKET

SQUEEZE TO

FOLD

HAIRPIN

COTTER

OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROL BAR

UPPER HANDLE

FOLD FORWARD

FOR STORAGE

FOLD BACKWARD

MOWING

POSITION

LOWER HANDLE

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 DAMAGE 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 stor_

age Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage

container Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding

stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor, Do

not drain the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer,

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine

oil (See "ENGINE" in the Customer Responsibilities

section of this manual)

CYLINDER

Remove spark plug.

Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole

into cylinder.

Pull stader handle slowly a few times to distribute oil.

Replace with new spark plug_

OTHER

" Do not store gasoline from one season 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 and dirt

Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that

does not retain moisture, 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

'CAUTIONI"'Never store the lawn mower

with gasoline in the tank inside a build-

ing where fumes may reach an open

flame or s park. Allow the eng ine to cool

before storing in any enclosure.

FIG. 18 17

iii,

SERVICE NOTES

i H llllll

TROUBLESHOOTING POmNT$

PROBLEM

Does not start

Loss of power

Poorcut-uneven

Excessive vibration

Sta[ter rope hard to pull

Loss of drive

Grass catcher not filling

(If so equipped)

Hard to push

CAUSE

Dirty air filter

Out of fuel

Stale fuel

Water in fuel

5 Spark plug wire is disconnected

6 Bed spark plug

7 Loose blade or broken blade adapter

8 Control bar in released position

9 Control bar defective

1 Rear of lawn mower housing/blade dragging

in heavy grass

2 Cutting 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 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

1 Engine flywheel brake is on when control bar is

released

2 Bent engine crankshaft

3 Blade adapter broken

4 Blade dragging in grass

1 Drive wheels not turning with drive control engaged

2 Belt not driving

1 Cutting height too low

2 Lift on 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

CORRECTION

1 Clean/replace air filter

2Fill fuel tank

3 Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel

4 Drain fuel tank and carburetorand refill tank with fresh

gasoline

5 Connect wire to plug

6 Replace spark plug

Tighten blade bolt or replace blade adapter

8 Depress control bar to handle

9 Replace control bar

Set in "Higher Cur" position

2 Set in "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 Tighten blade bolt

2 Set all wheels at same height

3 Set engine speed control in fast position

4 Clean underside of mower housing

1 Replace blade Tighten blade bolt

2 Contact authorized service center/department

1 Depress conlrol bar to upper handle before

pulling starter rope

2 Contact authorized service center/department

3 Replace blade adapter

4 Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface

to start engine

1 Adjust or replace drive control cable, if broken

2 Put belt on pulleys or replace belts if broken

1 Raise cutting height

2Replace blade

3 Clean grass catcher

4 Set engine speed control in fast position

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 917376283 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides L0807203

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0807203 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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