Craftsman 917386101 User Manual 3.8 HP 20 SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 99040586

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 99040586 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917386101 917386101 CRAFTSMAN 3.8 HP 20 SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN 3.8 HP 20 SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER #917386101. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman 3.8 HP 20 SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manual

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Owner's Manual

[IIIIF'I'|MIIN+

3.8 HORSEPOWER

20" SIDE DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.386101

•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 Product Specifications 13

Safety Rules -_ .2 Service and Adjustments 15

AssemblY 7 Storage 16

Operation 9 Troubleshooting 17

Maintenance Schedule 12 Repair Parts 36

Maintenance 12 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two (2) years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is main-

tained, lubdcated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instruc-

tions 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 dudng normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-

shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

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

Sears Service 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 ESTATES ILLINOIS

Safety standards require operator pres-

ence controls to minimize the risk of injury.

Your unit is equipped with such controls.

Do not attempt to defeat the function of the

operator presence controls under any

circumstances.

TRAINING:

•Read this operator's manual carefully.

Become familiar with the controls and

know how to operate your mower

properly. Learn how to quickly stop

mower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower.

Never allow adults to use mower without

proper instructions.

•Keep the area of operation clear of all

persons, especially small children and

pets.

•Use mower only as the manufacturer

intended and as described in this manual.

•Do not operate mower if it has been

dropped or damaged in any manner.

Always have damage repaired before

using your mower.

•Do not use accessory attachments that

are not recommended by the manufac-

turer. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

•The blade turns when the engine is

running.

PREPARATION:

•Always thoroughly check the area to be

mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,

wires, bones, and other foreign objects.

These objects will be thrown by the blade

and can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eye

shields when starting and while using

your mower.

•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 slippe_ 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, reads,

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 repairing

your mower, stop the engine and make

absolutely sure the blade and all moving

parts have stopped. Then disconnect the

spark plug wire and keep it away from the

spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

•Do not continue to run your mower if you

hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure

outlined above, then repair any damage

before restarting and operating you

mower.

•Do not change the governor settings or

overspeed the engine. Engine damage or

personal injury may result.

•Do not operate your mower if 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 exces-

sively steep slopes. Use caution when

operating the mower on uneven terrain or

when changing directions -- maintain

good footing.

•Never operate your mower without proper

guards, plates, grass catcher or other

safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

•Check the blade and the engine 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!If BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED

ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire a_ndplace wire where it cannot

contact spark plug in order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

AWARNING

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects, or

other reproductive harm.

_ccessones nthislawnmower was produced. ,arealso

availableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters.MostSearsstorescanalsoorder

repairpartsforyou,when youprovide_ modelnumberofyourlawnmower.Some ofbese

accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

GRASSCATCHERS

FOR

SIDEDISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

.AWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLAOES BLADE ADAPTERS

AIR RLTERS

WHEELS

STABIUZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(4) Hex Bolts (4) Flange (4) Locknuts

3/8-16 x 1 Locknuts 3/8-16

3/8-16 (4) Washers 7/8"

(4) Shoulder Bolts

(2) Washers 1-1/4"

(2) Hex Bolts

1/4-20 x 1-1/2

(2) Washer 3/4"

(5) Locknuts

1/4-20

(2) Hex Bolts1/4-20 x 3/4

(1) Hex Washer Head Self-tapping Screw #10-24 x 1/2

Parts packed separately in carton

(1) Discharge Guard

(4) Wheels

(1) Lower Handle (1) Upper Handle

(1) Control Bar (1) Engine Zone Control Cable

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

(1) Rope Guide

(1) Wire Tie

(4) Spacers

(1) Upstop Bracket

ACAUTION:Donotoperatethisrnowerwithout

thedischargeguardoran entre approysdgrass

catcherinplace. Theseguardsarefo_your

protec_onandare req_rsdbythe/_

NationalStandardsInstituteand Consumer

ProductsSafetyCommission.

_,CAUTION: Disconnectsparkplugwirefrom

sparkplugandplacewire whersit cannotceme in

p g.

Read these instrud_ns and this manual inits

entirety before you attempt to assemble or

operate your new lawn mows. Your new lawn

mower has bean assembled at the factoq/with

the exception of those parts left unassembled

for shipping puq0o.ses.All parts such as nuts,

washers, bolts,etc., necessary to complete the

assembly have bean placed in the parts bag.

To ensure safe and proper o_ d your

lawn mower, all parts and hardware you

assemble must be t_:j_ened securely. Use the

correct tools as necessary to ensure proper

_jhthess.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assemb,_

easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 5/16" Wrench (1) AdjustableWrench

(1)3/4"Wrench (2)7/16"Wm_P--s

(2) 9/16" Wrenches

When righthand or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, itmeans when you are standing

in the operating position,behind the handle.

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all loose parts from carton

(See pagas 5 and 6).

• Examine all items. Compare with r_ of

unassembled parts and ham_are

(See pages 5 and 6).

•Remove lawn mower housingwith care.

Avoid touching blade under housing.

Always wear gloves or other protection

when working under or liftingmower.

ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE

•For ease of lower handle assembly, raise

rear of deck and block securely.

• Position lower handle on deck so cot-off flat

is forward as shown.

•Align holes in handle with holes in deck as

shown and assemble 3/8-16 x 3/4 hex bolts,

fiat washers, and Iocknuts. Tighten

securely.

•Repeat for opposite side of _er.

Lower handle=Range

locknuts

Hex

bolts

washers

Cut-off fiat |onNard

ASSEMBLE UPPER HANDLE

• Position upper handle over lower handle

with small hole for mounting up-stop

bracket to left side and assemble 114-20

x 1-1/2 hex bolts and 1/4-20 Iocknuts.

Tighten securely.

ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET

•Position upstop bracket on the |eft inside

of upper handle as shown.

•Install the hex washer head screw into

the hole in up-stop bracket and upper

handle. Tighten securely.

AS VIEWED FROM FRONT OF MOWER

Locknuts

ASSEMBLE WHEELS

Cutting height is determined by assembling

the wheels inone of four possible positionson

the mower housing. All wheels must be in the

same heightpositionfor even cutting.

•For each wheel, assemble shoulderbolt

and spacer as shown

• Assemble 1-1/4" dia. washer (rear wheels

only) and 3/8-16 Iocknut on inside of mower

housing and tighten securely. 3/8 - 16

Mower housing

Shoulder bolt

Wheel

1-114"DIA.

Washer(Rear

wheelsonly)

ASSEMBLE DISCHARGE GUARD

•Race discharge guard on top of lawn

mower discharge opening.

• Installtwo (2) 1/4-20 x 3/4 hex boltsthmugll.

housing and discharge guard.

•Installtwo (2) 3/4" die. washers and two (2)

1/4-20 Iocknuts. Tighten securely.

Washers

Hex bolts

.Locknuts

Housing

ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

CABLE TO UPPER HANDLE

Assemble cable to opposite side of up-stop

bracket.

•Route cable below crossbar of lower handle

and up to control bar.

• Hook "Z"bend titlingon inner wire into hole

incontrol bar.

•Attach cable fittingto uoper handle as

shown.

•Secure cable to lower handle with cable dip.

Upper handle ,bar

INSTALL CONTROL BAR

• Position control bar so flattened section

hole is to oppositeside of up-stopbracket.

•Insert one end of control bar into handle

hole on inside of handle. Carefully push in

on opposite end of control bar and insert

into hole on opposite side of handle.

Controlbar

Up-stop

ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE

CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE

•Straighten cable and find the end with

the small plastic fitting.

•Hook the "Z" bend fitting on inner wire of

cable into hole in brake arm of engine.

•Align the tapered end of the small plastic

fitting with the hole in the mounting

bracket and push in until fitting snaps

into place.

Brake arm

Zone control

cable

INSTALL STARTER ROPE

•Put threaded end of rope guide through

hole in side of upper handle above lower

handle crossbar. Secure with 1/4-20

Iocknut.

•Hold control bar against upper handle

and slowly pull engine starter rope out

until rope will slip into loop of rope guide

Upper handle

Locknut

Engine

starter Lower

rope

Push in

Small Mounting

plastic bracket

fitting

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULESBEFORE OPERATINGYOUR LAWN

MOWER. Compare the illustrationswithyour lawn mower to familiarize yourself withthe

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

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature suppliedwith the product.

Leam and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP H/_NOS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Enginezone control

cable peratorpresence control bar

Gasolinefillercap

Starter handle

Air filter

Engine oil

fi!lerplug

Primer

Discharge guard

Housing

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

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

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

sion. The blade tums when the engine is running.

Operator presence control 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

acold engine.

Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan result in

foreign objects thrown intothe eyes. which can

resultin severe eye damage. Always wear

safety glasses or eye shieldswhile operating

your lawn mower or performing any adjust-

ments 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 was set at the factory for

optimum performance. Speed is notadjust-

able.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTION: Federal regulationsrequire an

engine controlto be installed on this lawn

mower in order to minimize the riskof blade

contact injury.Do not under any circumstances

attempt to defeat the function of the operator

control.The blade turns when the engine is

running.

•Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence controlbar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Adjust cuttingheight to suityour requirements.

Medium positionis best for most lawns. Raise

wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high

cut.

• Remove wheel bolt, and hardware and

reassemble in desired adjustment hole,

•Reinstall wheel components inthe same

order as they were before removal. T_hten

securely.

3/8-16 Locknut

Wheel

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 plug and fill to the

top of slot in filler hole.

•Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade

of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

•Pour oil slowly, Do not over fill,

•Check oil level before each use. Add oil

if needed.

•Reinstall engine oil plug 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;

GAS

•I=illfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87

octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will

increase carbon and lead oxide deposits

and reduce valve life). Do not mix oilwith

gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that

can be used within30 days to assure fuel

freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicatesthat alcohol

blended fuels (celled gesohol orusing ethanot

or methanol) can attract moisturewhich leads

to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoi

engine problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage of 30 days or longer.

Drain the gas tank, startthe engine and let it

run untilthe fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Uselmsh fuel next season. See

Storage Instruc_onsfor additional information

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products inthe fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

Bolt Gasoline fillercap

Oil filler

TO START ENGINE

•To start a cold engine, push primer five

(5) times before trying to start. Use a

firm push. This step is not usually

necessary when starting an engine

which has already run for a few minutes.

•Hold operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pull starter

handle quickly. DO NOT allow starter

rope to snap back.

•To STOP engine, release operator

presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be

necessary to repeat pdming steps. In

warmer weather over priming may cause

flooding and engine will not start. 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. 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 ovedapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

•For better grass bagging and most

cutting conditions, the engine speed

should be set in the fast position.

° For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting

in a counter-clockwise direction, starting

at the outside of the area to be cut,

spreads grass clippings more evenly.

and puts less load on the engine. To:

keep clippings off of walkways, flower

beds, etc., make the first cuts in a

clockwise direction.

° Pores in cloth grass catchers can

become filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers will collect less grass. To

prevent this, regulady 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.

CheckforLooseFasteners t/ ivI

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

{If Equipped) ll/

M CleanLawnMower _

_ lean Under Drive Cover

(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check drive belt/pulleys

ER (Power-Propeiled Mowers) li/

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade t/=

Lub_llan _ _

Clean Batterj/Recharge

IElectricStart Mowers) l/ _4

ECheck En_linsOil Level I_

NChange Engine Oil t/1,2

GClean Air Filter II/

| Inspect Muffler v'

Nclaan or Replace Spark Plug I

EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge t/=

I - Change more oRenwhenopeca_ngund•r •heavy _or in high_bient temperatures.

2. Sewine rno_ olten_operating indidyor duslycondition.

3. ReFace 10bd*sa_q_ oftenwhenmow_g insandysol

4. Charge 48 hoursid ond of =ea_.

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,

clean or 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

(_) Wheel (_) Engineoil

i_ II (_) Brake

spdng

I_ Discharge bracket

guard

hinge pin

(_) Handle bracket

mountingpin

(_) Spray lubricant

Refer to MAINTENANCE "ENGINE"

vsection.

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,

powered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.386101

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 3.8

DISPLACEMENT: 9.05CU. IN.

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

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

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space

provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety 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 remov'lng blade bolt.

•Protect your hands with gloves and/or

wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-

clockwise.

•Remove blade and attaching hardware

(bolt, lock washer and hardened

washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key inside hub of blade adapter.

The key must be in good condition to work

properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

•Position the blade adapter on the engine

crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and

crankshaft keyway are aligned.

•Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

•Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

•Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into blade

adapter and crankshaft.

•Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT:BLADEBOLT 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.

Blade Crankshaft

adapter'_',_ keyway

Key

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) hoursof

continuous use. "13ghtenoil plug securely each

time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

•Disconnect spark plugwire from spark plug

and place wire where it cannot come in

contactwith spark plug.

•Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.

• Oil will drain more freelywhen warm.

•Catch oil in asuitablecontainer.

•Remove bottom oil drain plug.

•After oil has drained completely, replace oil

drain plug and tighten securely.

•Refillengine withoil. Pour slowly. Do not

overfill.

•Fillto top of slot insideof fillerhole.

• Reconnect spark plugwire to spark plug.

Crank-

shaft

Blade

bolt Lock Blade

washer edge adapter

Hardened

washer

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high qualitydetergent oil ratedwith

API servicecla_'_cationSF,SG orSH.

Selectthe oirs SAE viscositygradeaccording

to yourexpectedoperatingtemperature.

NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils (5W30,

10W30 etc.) improve startingin cold weather,

these multi-viscosity oilswifl result in increased

oil censumption when used above 32°F.

Check your engine oil level more frequently to

avoid possible engine damage from running

Iowon oil.

Drain plug

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properlyand may be

damaged by using a dirty air filter. Clean the

element after every 25 hours of operation,

more often if mower is used in very dusty, dirty

conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT

•Remove the air filter cover by liftingon edge

of cover.

•Remove filter element carefullyto prevent

dirtfrom antering carburetor.

•Clean the inside of the cover and the body

to remove any dirt accumulation.

•Wash filterelement in liquiddetergent and

water.

•Wrap filter element in cloth and squeeze

dry.

• Ughtly coat flfler element with clean engine

oil. Squeeze in towel to remove excess oil.

Do notsaturate.

•Installfilter element into tilterbody.

• Install filter cover and press down to snap

14 into place.

Cover

Element Air Filter Body

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffleras it

could create a fire hazard 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 best performance, keep

mower housing free of buiit-upgrass and

trash. Clean the underside of your mower

after each use.

ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plugwire from

spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with the spark plug.

•Tum lawn mower on its side. Make sure air

filterand carburetor are up. Clean the

underside of your lawn mower by scraping

to remove build-up of grass and trash.

•Clean engine oftento keep trash from

accumulating. Adogged engine runs hotter

and shortens engine life.

•Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of

all gasoline, oil,etc.

•We de not recommend usinga garden

hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electricai system, muffler, air fitterand

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 stopengine.

•Make sure the blade and all moving parts

have completely stopped.

•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug

and place where it cannot come incontact

with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CLFR'ING HEIGHT" in the

Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the rear

wheals of your mower, is provided to minimize

the possibilitythat objects will be thrown out of

the rear of the mower into the operator

mowing position. If the deflector becomes

damaged, it should be replaced.

DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard attached to the

discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of injury

resulting from objects being thrown out of the

discharge opening into the operator mowing

pesitien. If the discharge guard becomes

damaged, it should be replaced.

ENGINE

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

adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, 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-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest

AUTHORIZED service center, which has

proper equipment and experience to make

any necessary adjustments,

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed has been factory set. Do

not attempt to increase engine speed as it

may result in personal injury. If you believe the

engine is running too fast or too slow, take

your lawn mower to an authorized service

center for repair and adjustment.

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor

storage at the end of the season or ifthe 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 itthoroughly,remove all dirt,

grease, leaves, etc Store ina dean, 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 nots, belts, 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 lightlybefore painting

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 damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage

•Drain the fuel tank

• Start the engine and let it run untilthe fuel

lines and carburetor are empty.

•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur

•Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable

aitemative in minimizing the formation of fuel

gum deposits duringstorage. Add stabilizerto

gasoline infuel tank or storage container.

Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container Run engine at least 10 minutes

after adding stabilizerto 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

Maintenance section of this manual).

CYUNDER

• Remove spark plug.

•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark

plug hole into cylinder

•Pull starterhandle slowly a few times to

distribote 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 end/or dirt inyour gasoline will

cause problems

•if possible, store your unit indoors and cover

ifto give protectionfrom dust and dirt

•Cover your unitwith a suitable protective

cover that does not retain moisture. Donot

use plastic Plast_ cannot breathe Which

allows condensation to form and willcause

your unitto rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm

ACAUTION: Never store the lawn mower

with gasoline in the tank insole a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or

spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing

in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

Dirty air filter.

Out of fuel.

Stale fuel.

Water in fuel.

•Spark plug wire is

disconnected.

•Bad spark plug.

•Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.

•Control bar in released

position.

• Control bar defective.

CORRECTION

• Clean/raplace air filter.

• Fill fuel tank.

• Drain tank and refill with

fresh clean fuel.

•Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refilltank

with fresh gasoline.

• Connect wire to plug.

• Replace spark plug.

•Tv:jhtenblade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

•Depress controlbar to

handle.

•Replace control bar.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Loss of power

Poor cut- uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

ito pull

Grass catcher

not filling (ff so

equipped)

_topu_

CAUSE

• Rear of lawn mower housing

or cuttingblade dragging

inheavy grass.

•Cuttingtoo much grass.

•Dirty air filter.

•Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

•Too much oilin engine.

•Walking speed too fast.

•Wom, bent or loose blade.

•Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

•Engine flywheel brake is on

when controlbar is released.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

•Blade adapter broken.

•Blade dragging in grass.

• Cutting height too low.

•Liftoo blade wom off.

• Catcher notventing air,

•Grass istoo highor wheel

heightis too low.

•Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging

in grass.

•Grass catcher too full.

•Handle height position not

rightfor you.

CORRECTION

•Set to"Higher Cut"

position.

• Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

• Clean/replace air filter.

• Clean underside of mower

housing.

•Check oil level.

•Cut at slower walking

speed.

•Replace blade.'l]ghten

blade bolt.

• Set all wheels at same

height

• Clean underside of

mower housing.

• Replace blade. 1]ghten

blade bolt.

• Contact an authorized

service center.

•Depress controlbar to

upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

• Contact an authorized

service center.

•Replace blade adapter.

•Move lawn mower to cut

grass orto hard surface

to start engine.

• Raise cuttingheight.

•Replace blade.

• Clean grass catcher.

•Raise cutting height.

•Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher.

• Empty grass catcher.

• Adjust handle height to

suit.

SERVICE NOTES

SERVIC.E NOTES

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993802

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

---- 590694

590599A

59O6OO

59O696

590601

590697

590698

590699

590700

590695

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

RecoilStarter

SpringPin (Incl. 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

Brake Spring

StarterDog

DogSp_ng

Pulley & RewindSpdng

Ass'y.

StarterHousingAss'y.

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/

64" dia.)

Starter Handle

-- -14

I_ U w7

KEY

NO.

R__

PART

NO.

590737

590740

590616

590617

590618A

590687A

59O535

590701

590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Re_ner

StarterDng

Dogsp_ng

Pulley& RewindSpring

Ass'y

StarterHousingAss_

(40 degreegrommet)

StarterRope(Length98"

x 9/64" dia.)

StarterHandle

spdngcnp

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL;NUMBER 143.993802

KEY PART

NO. NO.

---- 632733

1 631615

2 631767

4 631184

5 631183

6 632504

7 65O506

16 631775

25 631867

27 631024

28 632019

29 631028

30 631021

31 631022

35 36045A

36 632735

37 632547

40 632736

44 27110

48 631027

DESCRIPTION

Cerburetor(IncL184 of Engine

PartsList)

ThrottleShaft& Lever Assembly

ThrottleReturn Spring

DustSeal Washer

DustSeal (Throrae)

ThrottleShutter

ShutterScrew

Fuel Fitting

FloatBowl

FloatShaft

Float

FloatBowl"O"Ring

Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (IncL

31)

SpringClip

Primer Bulb/RetainerRing

Main Nozzle Tube

"(7' Ring,Main Nozzle Tube

High Speed BowlNut

BowlNut Washer

Welch Plug,AtmosphericVent

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143_993862

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

36470A

26727

33734

36557

12A 36558

14 28277

15 30589

16 31383A

17 31335

18 651018

19 36281

20 32600

30 37307

40 34514

34515

34516

41 32538B

32548B

32549B

42 28986

28987

28988

43 20381

45 30963B

46 32610A

48 27241

50 35990

52 29914

69 35261

70 30571C

72 36O83

75 26208

80 30574A

81 30590A

82 30591

83 30588A

86 650488

89 611004

90 611112

92 650815

93 650816

100 34443S

103 651007

110 37047

119 36437

120 36474

125 36471

125 36472

126 29314C

126 29315C

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Cylinder(Ind. 130 6021A

2,7,20,125,169,172,174) 135 35395

Dowel Pin

BreatherElement 150 31672

BreatherAss'y. (Ind. 6 & 151 31673

12A) 169 27234A

BreatherCover & Tube 172 32755

Washer 174 30200

Govemor Rod (Ind. 14) 178 29752

GovernorLever

GovernorLeverClamp 182 6201

Screw,Torx T-15, 8-32 x 184 26756

19164"

ThrottleSpdng 185 31384A

Oil Seal 186 32653

Crankshaft 189 650839

Piston,Pin & Ring Set 191 36559A

(Std.)

Piston,Pin & Ring Set 195 610973

(.010" OS) 207 34336

Piston, Pin& Ring Set 216 33086

(.020" OS) 223 650451

Piston& Pin Ass'y.(Std.) 224 34690A

(Incl. 43) 238 650806

Piston &Pin Ass'y. (.010" 239 34338

OS) (Incl. 43) 240 34858

Piston&Pin Ass'y.(.020" 245 34340

OS) (Incl.43) 250 34341B

RingSet (Std.) 260 35491

RingSet (.010"OS) 261 302(}0

RingSet (.020"OS) 262 650831

pistonPin Retaining 275 35708

Ring 277 650795

ConnectingRod Ass'y. 285 35000A

(Incl. 46) 287 650926

ConnectingRod Dolt 290 34357

Valve Lifter 292 26460

Camshaft (BCR) 300 35586

Oil PumpAss'y.

* MountingFlangeGasket 301 36246

MountingFlange (Ind.72 311 27625

thru83,311) 313 34080

Oil Drain Ping 370A 36261

O=1Seal 370C 37199

GovernorShaft 370K 36695

Washer 370R 37317

GovernorGear Ass'y. 380 632733

(Ind. 81) 390 590737

GovernorSpool 400 36475B

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"

FlywheelKey 900

Flywheel

BellovilleWasher 900

RywhealNut

Solid State Ignition

Screw,Torx I"-15, 10-24

x 15/16"

GroundWire

•CylinderHead Gasket

Cylinder Head

ExhaustValve (Std.)

(ind. 151)

Exhaust Valve (1/32"

OS) (Incl. 151)

IntakeValve (Std.) (Incl.

161)

Intake Valve (1/32" OS)

(Ind. 151)

Screw,5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

ResistorSpark Plug

(FU19LM)

Valve Spring

Valve SpringCap

* Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover

Screw,10-24 x 9116"

Nut & LockWasher, 1/4-

Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"

"Carburetor To Intake

Pipe Gasket

Intake Pipe (Ind. 224)

GovernorLink

Screw, 114-20x 3/8"

S.E. Brake Bracket(Ind.

195)

Terminal

ThrottleLink

R.P.M. AdjustingLever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

• Intake PipeGasket

Screw, 10-32 x 5/8"

• AirCleaner Gasket

AirCleaner Body

Air Cleaner Filter

Air Cleaner Cover

BlowerHousing

Screw,10-24 x 9/16"

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"

Muffler(Incl. 277)

Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-1/4"

StarterCup

Screw,8-32 x 21/64"

Fuel Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Fuel Tank (ind. 292 &

301)

Fuel Cap

O, Fill Plug

Spacer

Lubrication Decal

PrimerDecal

StarterDecal

WarningDecal

Carburetor(ind. 184)

RewindStaRer

Gasket Set (Incl. Items

Marked*)

ReplacementEngine

NONE

ReplacementS/B

750699B, order from 71-

999

RPM High2900 to 3200

NOTE: ThiS engine could have been built with 590694

starer

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches

1 inch = 25.4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993802

Q-370K

130

120 119

126 195

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO, 917.386101

29 26 42j

24 25 •

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO. 917.386101

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIP_ON

KEY PART

NO. NO, DESCRIPTION

.,j

1 86902

2 165538X479

3 132001

4 165537X479

5 63601

6 87584X004

10 156569

11 63601

12 850733X004

13 66426

14 132010

15 74350424

16 750097

17 140541

18 53847

22 752052

23 67609

24 800060

25 136624

26 85463

27 137009

28 751592

29 74760412

ControlBar 30 150406

UpperHandle

RopeGuide 31 850977

Lower Handle 32 145106

Lock,nut 1/4-20 33 851074

Bracket 34 850263

Engine ZoneControlCable 35 851084

Locknut.Keps 1/4-20 38 164942

Up-Stop Bracket 39 61537

Tie Wire 40 700839X479

Locknut 41 ......

Hex Head Screw

Hex Washer Head TappingScrew #10-2 42 128415

Rear Deflector 43 851201X004

FlatWasher 1/4 44 132004

DischargeGuard 47 55611

ShoulderBolt - - 161058

Wheel Assembly - - 132004

Spacer -- 169060

Danger Decal

Hex Head Bolt 3/8-16 x I

Locknut3/8-16

Hex Head Bolt 114 - - 71 33623

-- 71 335O0

--7l 33OOO

Hex Head Thread RollingScrew 3/8-16 x

1-1/8

BladeAdapter

20" Blade

HardenedWasher

Helicalwasher, Lock 3/8

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

Lawn Mower HousingKit

Washer

Front Baffle

• Engine- ( See Breakdown)Craftsman

Model 143.993802

BlindRivet

EngineWasher

Hex Nut

Washer

WarningDecal (Not Shown)

Hex Nut (Not Shown)

Owner's Manual

Availableaccessoriesnot includedwith lawnmower:

Gee Can (2.5 gal.)

Fuel Stabilizer

SAE 30W OII (20oz.)

FJr in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-Home s" (1-800-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparacibn 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,11pm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirects.

1-800-36S-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio

1-600-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center

in your area:

Call 24 Hours aday, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance

Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agree-

ment:

Call 9 am-5 pro, Monday -Saturday

1-800-827-6655

169060 02.19.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.

Craftsman 917386101 User Manual 3.8 HP 20 SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 99040586

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 99040586 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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