Craftsman 917387256 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides 99040578

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 99040578 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917387256 917387256 CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER #917387256. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman ROTARY MOWER Manual

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Owner's Manual

rRAFTSMAN°
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No,
917.387256

•
•
•
•
•
•

Safety
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
Espa_ol
Repair Parts

CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck
Visit our Craftsman

and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

website:

www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty
Safety Rules
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance

2
2
4
5
8
8

Product Specifications
Service and Adjustments
Storage
Troubleshooting
Repair Parts
Parts Ordering

9
11
13
14
30
Back Cover

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN
POWER MOWER
For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
_ubricated, 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 States. This warranty applies only while
this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator 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.

• 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
TRAINING:
......
hazardous.
• Read this operator's manual carefully_ _" '
Become familiar with the controls and
": " The blade turns when the engine is
running.
know how to operate your mower
.... :
properly. Leam how to quickly stop
'_ PREPARATION:
mower.
,_ • Always thoroughly check the area to be
• Do not allow children'to_use-your mOwe:=:.
__
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
Never allow adults to use mower wit_ut
"
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
proper instructions .......
:. _i _:
These objects will be thrown by the blade
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
and can cause severe injury.
persons, especially small children and
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
pets.
shields when starting and while using
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
your mower.
intended and as described in this manual.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
2

when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean
off any spilled gasoline before starting the
engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing -- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
and any gravel-_covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repaidng
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 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 olten 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 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.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark p_ug
wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.

3

Theseaccessories
wereavailable
whenthislawnmowerwasproduced.
Theyarenotshipped
withyour mower.They
arealsoavailable
atmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters.Most
Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your
lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

;t
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
GRASS
LAWN CATCHERS
MOWERS

STABlUZER

FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
GRASS
LAWN CATCHERS
MOWERS

_

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS

AIR FILTERS

BLADES

BLADE

Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.
IMPORTANT:
This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the
engine.
Your new lawn mower has been 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.

ADAPTERS

SPARK PLUGS-

WHEELS

TO REMOVE
CARTON

ENGINE

LAWN MOWER

OIL

FROM

• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end corners ef carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR
MOWER
TO UNFOLD

LAWN

HANDLE

IMPORTANT:
Unfold handles carefully
so as not to pinch or damage control
cables.
• Raise handles until lower h_ndle
section locks into place in mowincl
position.

•

Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs,
• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort.
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustment section of this manual.

Operator presence control bar
u

Lift up
Lift up

Mowing
position

Lower handle

KNOW YOUR

LAWN

MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAl_AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future referance.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION
EP_IINE
OR WARNING
ON

ENGINE
OFF

F,_ST

SLOW

CHOKE

FUEL

OIL

DANGER. KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence controlbar

Engine zone control....
cable
Starter handle

Handl_
Grass
,Gasoline filler cap
Air filter
Primer
Lawn mower housing

Engine oil plug
IMPORTANT:
This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE
in the engine.
MEETS

CPSC SAFETY

_jduster
(on each wheel)

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 Commission. The blade
tums when the engine is running.
uperator presence control par - must De
held down to the handle to start the engine,
Release to stop the engine,

Primer - pumps additionalfuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.
5

The operationofanylawnmower

can
result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye
damage. Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields while operating your lawn
mower or performing any adjustments or
repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW

TO USE YOUR

ENGINE

LAWN

MOWER

SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance.
Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION:
Federal regulations require an
engine control to be installed on this lawn
mower in order to minimize the risk of
blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start

TO ATTACH

Grass
frame

bracket
Formed
tabs
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

and operate the lawn mower.

• To remove grass catcher, release
operator presence control bar to stop
engine.
• Lift up rear door and remove the grass
catcher by the handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

TO ADJUST
CUTTING
HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
• Adjust cutting height to suit your
requirements. Medium position is best
for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.

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 full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.

Lower wheels for

Raise wheels for low

GRASS CATCHER

• 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.

Plate tab

cut

• Engine h01ds 20 ozs. of oil. For type
and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
6

• Pour oil slowly. Do not overfill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil
plug each time.
• 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

TO START ENGINE

• Fill fuel 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 oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to
assure fuel freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines and
carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information.
Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
Gasoline filler
cap

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

(Discard debris
plug inside)

Engine oil

• 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.

• Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing effort
and to keep from overloading the engine
and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It
may also be necessary to reduce
ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• 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
o,_er the area a second time.
• If a trail of clippings is left on the right
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect 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 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.

MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check for Loose Fasteners
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
Equipped)
i (If
Clean
t.awn Mower

i

SERVICE DATES
"V t

_'

"

'

'

i_
_

O

(Power-Propelled
Clean
Under DriveMowers)
Cover
Check drive belt/pulleys

tf

E

(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

t'/
b/' s

Lubrication Chart
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers 1

it/

If

it/

$/4

E

Check Engine Oil Level

N

Change Engine Oil

i/1,2

G

Clean Air Filter

Ii/
_/

N

Inspect Muffler
Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

t/2

I

I23 4 -

b/
2

Change m<_e oftenwhen opera,rig uncut a heaw load or in high ambient temperatures.
Sewice more oftenwhen operating in dirty or dusty condi_ns.
Replace blades more c_en when motw_gin sar_y soil
Charge 48 hours al end of season.
LUBRICATION

GENERAL

CHART

Wheel
adjuster

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 instructedin this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodk:allyto properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service end 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 de_uVnew air filter
element assures proper air-fuel mixture and
helps your engine run better end last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.

(_ Brake spdnge
bracket
(_) Engine oil
door
hinge

BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.

(_)

Spray lubricant

(_

SAE 30 Motor oil. Refer to ENGINE
MAINTENANCE Section.

IMPORTANT:
Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBFIICATION
CHART').
8

PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL

917.387256

NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:

4.0

DISPLACEMENT:

11.5 CU, IN.

GASOLINE

1.25 QUARTS

CAPACITY/TYPE:

UNLEADED
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG(GAP:

20 OZS.
.030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

CHAMPION

RJ19LM

OR J19LM

INTAKE:

.004 - .008

EXHAUST:

.004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION
_,IR 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

• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bott, 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

• 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 fi_ter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
mower housing to prevent blade from
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
turning when removing blade bolt.
•
The recommended tightening torque is
Protect your hands with gloves and/or
35-40 ft. Ibs.
wrap blade with heavy cloth. ;
• Remove blade bolt by turning=counterclockwise.
9

IMPORTANT:
treated.

Blade bolt is grade 8 heat

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
adapter

Crankshaft
keyway

Key
Blade
Blade
bolt

shaft
washer Hardened
washer
:
GRASS CATCHER

Trailing
edge

Blade
adapter

SAIEVISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased
oilconsumption when used above 32°F.
Check your engine oil level more fr_uently to
avoid possibleengine damage from running
low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. 5ghten oil plug securely each
time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• Remove bottom oil drain plug.
• After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not over fill.
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.

• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration.
Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufacturer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classifP..ationSF, SG or SH.
Select the oil's SAE viscositygrade according
to your expected operating temperature.

Drain plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE

AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by turning counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
10

•

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

Air Filter

Turn CounterClockwise to
Remove

_rnClockwise
to "13ghten

Air Filter Cover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as 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.

CAUTION:
Before performing any service
or adjustments
•
Release control bar and stop engine.
•
Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
•
Disconnect spark plug wire from
spark 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 s_'_on of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels ot your lawn mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will be
thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the
operator's mowing position.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it
should be replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered for your mowing comfort. Four (4)
positions are available: high, medium high,
medium 16wand low. Handles are shipped
mounted in the medium low position.

CLEANING
IMPORTANT:
For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing
after each use.
CAUTION"
Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• 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 electdeal system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to keep
water out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.

• To change from medium low to medium
high position, the upper and lower handle
sections will have to be turned over.
• Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator presence
control bar from the upper handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the
upper handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
• Turn the handle over and reassemble the
hairpin cotters that have been removed.
• Reassemble the starter rope guide.
• Reassemble the controls and the operator
presence control bar to the upper handle.
CAUTION: The operator presence control 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 low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be turned over.
• To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section
will have to be turned over.
11

Shipping position

ENGINE
CARBURETOR

Medium high

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate propady due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service canter for repair or
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.

Medium low

Lower handle

ENGINE

Squeeze to
remove

SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.

Hairpin clip
bracket

12

Lower handle

Immediatelyprepare

your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN

bracket

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 Maintenance of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened.
Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of the tower
handle toward each other until the lower
handle clears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT:
When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
the handle as shown or you may damage
the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Operator presence controlbar
Upper handle -_'-_

Fold forward
_
for storage _
y
j_,"_"_:'!.::

_
Hairpin cotter

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fue! filter, fuel hose,
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alc_nct b_ended 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
altemative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. 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.

;,7'2_P
_,_

_'_(,,,
] Fold
_" .,j_'_
_'/backward
_"f_S? Mowing

g

Handle

poeton

Lower handle

13

ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
dean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance sect_n of this manual)
CYLINDER

• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover
it to give protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unitwith 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.
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower with
gasoline in the tank inside a building where
fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any

• Remove spark plug
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole intocylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distributeoil.
• 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.

TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
Does not start

enclosure.

CHART
CAUSE

CORRECTION

• Dirty air filter.
• Out of fuel.
• Stale fuel

• CleaWreplace air filter.
• Fill fuel tank.
• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
• Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank

• Water in fuel.

with fresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.

• Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug
• Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
• Control bar in released
position.
• Control bar defective
14

• Replace spark plug.
• _ghten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
• Depress control barto
handle.
• Replace control bar.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
CAUSE
Lossof power
• Rear of lawn mower

CORRECTION

housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
• Cutting too much grass.

• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.

• Dirty air filter.
• Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.

• Clean/replace air filter.
• Clean underside of mower

• Too much oil in engine.
• Walking speed too fast.

• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.

housing.
• Check oil level,
• Cut at slower walking
speed.

Poor cut-

uneven

•Wom,

bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Replace blade. Tighten"
blade bolt.
• Set all wheels at same
height

Excessive
vibration

• Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.

• Clean underside of

•Wom,

• Replace blade. TEjhten
blade belt.
• Contact an authorized
serv_.e center.

bent or loose blade.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

Starter rope hard
to pull

• Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
• Blade dragging in grass.

mower housing.

• Depress centrol barto
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
• Replace blade adapter.
• Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard surface

Grass catcher
not filling ('rfso
equipped)

Hard to push

• Cutting height too low.
• Lifton blade worn off.
• Catcher not venting air.

• Raise cutting height.
• Replace blade.
• Clean grass catcher.

• Grass istoo high or wheel
height is too low.
• Rear of lawn mower

• Raise cutting height.

housing or blade dragging
in grass.
• Grass catcher too full.

housing one (1) setting
higher.
• Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit.

• Handle height position not
right for you.
15

• Raise rear of lawn mower

For in-home major brand repair service:
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-HOME SM(1-800-469-4663)
Para pedir servicio de 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

PartsDirect S"
1-800-366-PART

(1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio
1-800-659-7084
For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center
in your area:
Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222
For information
Agreement

on purchasing

a Sears Maintenance

or to inquire about an existing Agreement:
Call 9 am-5 pro, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-6655

Home CentraF
168844

03.18.99

VB

Printed in U.S.Ao



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