Craftsman 917387302 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides 98120004

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 98120004 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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Owner's Manual

£RAFTSMAN°

6.0 HORSEPOWER

22" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.387302

•Safety

•"Assembly

•Operation

•Maintenance

•Espa_ol

•Repair Parts-

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11

Safety Rules 2Service and Adjustments 13

Assembly 4 Storage 15

Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16

Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 34

Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the

owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or 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 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, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

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 yot_r 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 it 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 tums 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.

•Dross properly. Do not operate mower

when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

Wear only solid shoes with good traction

when mowing.

•Check fuel tank before starting engine.

Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the

engine is running or when the engine is

hot. Allow the engine to cool for several

minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean

off any spilled gasoline before starting the

engine.

•Always make wheel height adjustments

before starting your mower. Never

attempt to do this while the engine is

running.

•Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower

and the area being cut. Do not let other

interests distract you.

•Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never

run while operating your mower. Always

be sure of your footing -- keep a firm

hold on the handles and walk.

•Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge

opening at all times.

•Always stop the engine whenever you

leave or are not using your mower, or

before crossing driveways, walks, roads,

and any gravel---covered areas.

•Never direct discharge of material toward

bystanders nor allow anyone near the

mower while you are operating it.

•Before cleaning, inspecting, or 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 pmceduro

outlined above, then repair any damage

before restarting and operating you

mower.

•Do not change the govemor 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 mount-

ing 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 wom 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 roach

an open flame or an ignition source such

as a hot water heater, space heater,

clothes dryer, etc.

ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug in order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

AWARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthis

lawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarealso

availableat mostSearsretailoutletsand

servicecenters.MostSearsstorescanalso

LAWNMOWERPERFORMANCE

orderrepairpartsfor you, when you provide

the model number of your lawn mower.

Some of these accessories may not apply

to your lawn mower.

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

SPARK PLUGS

b ,

WHEELS ENGINE OIL

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 as-

semble 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 comers of carton

and lay end panel down flat.

•Remove all packing materials except

padding between upper and lower

handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

•Roll lawn mower out of carton and check

carton thoroughly for additional loose

parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

•Raise handles until lower handle section

locks into place in mowing position.

•Remove protective padding, raise upper

handle section into place on lower

handles 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 bal

Lift up

Lower

handle

Mowing

position

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

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 deflector.

•To return to mulching operation, install

mulcher plug into discharge opening of

mower.

Mulcher plug _

,_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without mulcher plug in place or approved

clipping deflector or grass catcher in place.

Never attempt to operate the lawn mower

with the rear door removed or prepped

open.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

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

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

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

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

product. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

control cable

Starter handle

Handle

Grass catcher_

Air filter

Mulcher plug

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Wheel adjuster

(on each wheel)

Lawn mower 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 Commission. The blade

turns when the an_ine is runni_.

OperatorPresence Control Bar- must be

held down to the handle to start the engine.

Release to stop the engine.

Pdmer -pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting

a cold engine.

Starter Handle -used for starting the engine.

Mulcher Plug -located at the discharge

opening must be removed when converting to

bagging or discharging operation.

The operation of any lawn mower can result in

foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can

result in severe eye damage. Always wear

safety glasses or eye shields while operating

your lawn mower or performing any adjust-

merits or repairs. We recommend a wide

vision safety mask over spectacles or standard

safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance, Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of

blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

•Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

•Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut.

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

ments. Medium positionis best for most

lawns.

•To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster

lever toward wheel. M6ve wheel up or down

to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels

are in thesame setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when

plate tab inserts into hole in laver. Also, 9-

position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever

to be positioned between the plate tabs.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Plate Tab

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO A'n'ACH GRASS CATCHER

Lever

•Close the flip lid. Rip lid must be dosed

while operating lawn mower.

•Liftthe 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.

ACAUTION: 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.

Hinge

bracket Grass catcher

Formed

tabs

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

•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 willcause wear.

BEFORESTARTINGENGINE

OIL

Yourlawnmowerisshippedwithoutoilinthe

engine.

•Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fill is clean.

•Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full line

on the dipstick.

•Use20ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil

to use, see =ENGINE" in Maintenance

section of this manual.

•Pour oil slowly. Do not overfill.

•Check oil level before each use. Add ell if

needed. Fillto full line on d'_ostick.

•To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap

each time.

•Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

•Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need

to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirty conditions.

GAS

•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87

octane. Do not mLxoil with gasoline.

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used

within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture

which leads to separation and formation of

acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage

the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

To avoid engine problems, the fuel system

should be emptied before storage of 30 days

or longer. Drain the fuel tank, stad the engine

and let it run untilfuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See

Storage Instructions for additional information.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in fuel tank or permanent damage

may occur.

Gasoline

filler cap

Engine oil

cap

TO START ENGINE

•To stad acold engine, push primer fwe (5)

times before tryingto 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 stader rope to snap back.

•To stop engine,release operator presence

control bar.

NOTE: In coolerweatherif may be neces-

san/to repeatprimingsteps. Inwarmer

weatheroverprimingmaycause floodingand

enginewillnot start Ifyoudo flood engine,

waita few minutesbeforeattemptingto start

and do notrepeatprimingsteps.

MOWING TIPS

•Under certain conditions, such as very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing effort

and to keep from overloading the engine

and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It

may also be necessary to reduce

ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

•For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

•For better grass bagging and most

cutting conditions, the engine speed

should be set in the fast position.

•When using a rear discharge lawn

mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of

cut grass may not enter the grass

catcher. Reduce ground speed (push-

ing speed) and/or run the lawn mower

over 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

ovedap 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, regulady hose catcher off

with water and let dry before using.

•Keep top of engine around stader clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

MULCHINGMOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and trash.

Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING

after each use. See "Cleaning" in

MAINTENANCE section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the

grass clippings many times and reduce

them in size so that as they fall onto the

lawn they will disperse into the grass and

not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will

biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for

the lawn. Always mulch with your highest

engine (blade) speed as this will provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet

grass tends to form dumps 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, a_ust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts

off only the top one-third of the grass blades.

if the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary

to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing

effort and to keep from overloading the

engine and leaving clumps of mulched

grass. For extremely heavy mulching,

reduce your width of cut, mow slowly and

raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel

adjuster setting higher than the front.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions

may require that an area be mulched a

second time to completely hide the

clippings. When doing a second cut, mow

across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

•Changeyour cutting pattern from weekto

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.

AX 1/3

MAINTENANCESCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE SERVICE DATES

Check for Loose Fasteners q/' Vt

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

{.Equipped) V° _

M Clean Lawn Mower

wO Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-plopelted Mowers) I_

Checkdrivebel_uUeys I/

F_ Power-propelled Mowers)

Check/Sheul0_n/Replace Blade I_l

LubdcalJon Chad I_

Clean BattePj/Rechalarge

Electric Start Mowers'_ I_ 1_4

Echeck En_llneOil Level

N Chan_e Er_ineOil _/I,2

GClean Air Filter I_ 2

I Inspect Muffler

NClean or Replace Spe_ Plug

EIReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge I_2

I - Chamge more o_ee=when opetaUng unde¢ a hemp/load or in high e=mbient temperaturee_

2- Service more often when operating in dilty or dusty conditions.

3 - Replace blade= mere olten when mowingin undy soiL

4 - Charge 48 houm =t end of _

GENERAL RECOMMENDAilONS

The warranbj 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 dean/new air filter

element assures proper air-fuel mixture and

helps your engine run better and last longer.

•Follow _g?emaintenance schedule in this

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil leveL

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION

CHART').

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel

adjusters

(_)Brake spnng

bracket

oil

(_) Rear (_) Handle bracket

door

hinge mountingpin

(_) SPRAYLUBRICANT

(_) SAE30 MOTOROIL REFERTO

ENGINE- MAINTENANCE SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract

dust and dirt that will shorten the lifeof the self

lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite

typelubricantsperieg .

)RODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.387302

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 6.0

DISPLACEMENT: 11.5 CU. IN.

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 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

VALVE CLEARANCE: 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 • Remove blade and attaching hardware

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.

(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.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure

air filter and carburetor are up.

• Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning.when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or

wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-

clockwise.

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

11 35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8 heat

treated.

TOSHARPEN 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 agrinding 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 Crank shaft

adaptor

Bolt Crank

Lockwasher Hardened Blade shaft

washer Trailing adaptor

GRASS CATCHER edge

•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 itwill

wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace

only _a manufacturer approved

replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower

model number when ordeFing.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF, SH or

SG. Select the oirs SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating

temperature:

SAE VISCC61TY GRADES

T_PERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT O_LCHANGE

NOTE: Although multi--viscosity oils

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

cold weather, these multi_viscosity oils

will result in increased oil consumption

when used above 32°F. Check your

engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running low

on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera-

tion or at least once a year if the lawn mower

is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug

securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain

oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until

fuel tank is empty.

•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

•Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

• Tip lawn mower on its side as shown

and drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn mower back and forth to

remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower

and on side of engine.

• Fill engine with oil. Fill 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

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using adirty 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 cover by turning

counterclockwise to the stop and pull

away from collar,

• 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.

Slot /

Clip Tum

counter--

"_clockwise to

remove

Air filter Air filter cover to tighten

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.

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.

•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

out. Water in engine can result in

shortened engine life.

ACAUTION: 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 fromspark

plug and place where it cannot come in

contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST cu'rrlNG HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your lawn mower, is

provided to minimize the possibility that

objects will be thrown _out the rear of the

lawn mower into the operator's mowing

position.

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

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 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.

ACAUTION: 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.

Shipping Position

Medium

Medium High

Lower frame

Squeeze to

remove

Lower Handle

_Handle

Bracket

Hairpin Clip

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

•Insert leg of tubular frame through front

opening of grass catcher and thread

frame into sewn hem of bag.

NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the

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 opening.

•Assemble lower frame to tubular frame

as shown. Be sure handle is outside of

bag and frames are fully seated as

shown in inset.

•Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for afew minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

•Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed

while operating lawn mower.

&CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

Nithout clipping deflector or approved

]rass catcher in place. Never attempt to

)perate the lawn mower with the rear door

Tubular frame

(Frames must

be fully

seated)

lower frame handle .-_.

ENGINE

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed

main jet for mixture control. If your engine

does not operate properly due to sus-

pected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to an authorized service

center for repair or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which is factory set for

the proper engine speed. Overspeeding

the engine above the factory high speed

scan be dangerous. If you think the

engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest authorized

service center, which has proper equip-

ment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.

Do not attempt to increase engine speed

or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that the engine is running too fast

or too slow, take your lawn mower to an

authorized service center for repair and

adjustment.

emoved or propped open. 14

Immediatelyprepare your lawn mower for

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 it thoroughly, remove all dirt,

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

•Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"

in the Maintenance section of this manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

•Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins

are securely fastened. Inspect moving

parts for damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower

handle toward each other until the lower

handle clears the handle bracket, then

move handle forward.

• Loosen upper handle mounting belts

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

Handle

Squeeze tofold

Operator Presence

Control Bar

Upper Handle _

Fold Forward

For Storage

Hairpin

Cotter

_,_Fold Backward

Mowing Position

Lower Handle

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum

deposits from forming in essential fuel system

parts ,suchas carburetor, fuel filter,fuel hose,

or tank during storage. Also, experience

indicates that ak:ot_ blended fuels (called

gasehol 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 instorage.

• 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

alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel

gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to

gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.

Always follow the mix 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

Maintenance section of this manual).

CYLINDER

• Remove spankplug.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark

plug hole into cylinder.

• Pull starter 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 end/or dirt in your gasoline will

cause problems.

•If possible, store your unit indoors and cover

it to give protection from dust and dirt.

• Coveryourunitwithasuitableprotective

coverthatdoesnot retainmoisture.Donot

useplastic.Plasticcannotbreathewhich

allowscondensationtoform and will cause

your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

z=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 enclosure.

PROBLEM CORRECTION

Does not start

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

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

po6ition.

• Control bar defective.

• Clean/replace air filter.

•Fillfuel 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.

•"13ghtenblade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

•Depress control bar to

handle.

•Replace control bar.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Loss of power

Poor cut- uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

to pull

Grass catcher

not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

CAUSE

•Rear of lawn mower housing

or cutting blade dragging

in heavy grass.

• Cutting too much grass.

•Dirty air filter.

• Buildup o| grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

• Too much oil in engine.

• Walking speed too fast.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

•Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

• Wom, bent or looseblade.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

•Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released.

•Bent engine crankshaft.

•Blade adapter broken.

•Blade dragging in grass.

• Cutting height toolow.

•Lifton blade wom off.

• Catcher notventingair.

• Grass istoo high orwheel

height istoo low.

•Rear oflawnmower

housingor bladedragging

in grass.

•Grasscatchertoofull.

•Handle heightpositionnot

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. "tighten

blade bolt.

• Set all wheels at same

height

• Clean underside of

mower housing.

•Replace blade. "tighten

blade bolt.

•Contact an authorized

service center.

• Depress control barto

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 cutting height.

•Replace blade.

• Clean grass catcher.

•Raisecuttingheight.

• Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher.

•Empty grass catcher.

•Adjust handle height to

suit.

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387302

1 2

32 43

35 32

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.387302

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

86902

165451X479

150425

132001

157081X479

131959

66426

51793

136376

156577

750097

850733X004

63601

57143

151023

156374X479

150050

54583

140661X479

88652

700365X479

133190X479

140540

61651

161814X479

161812X479

750913X004

15OO78

7(X_25X007

146630

128415

87877

700331X004

145935X004

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

ControlBar 38 62335

UpperHandle 39 142748

40 151162

MulcherPlug

ROPeGuido 41 151161

LowerHandle 42 83923

Hand_eBolt 43 77400

Wire "rie 44 161942

HairpinCotter 45 150406

HandleKnob 46 85463

EngineZone ControlCable 47 751592

Hex Washer Head Screw 10-24x 1/2 48 88348

Up-StopBracket 50 165548

Nut 51 851084

Wave Washer 52 850263

Rear DoorAssemblyKit 53 851074

Back Plate 54 157101

SeifTappingScraw 10-24x 5/8 55 851514

Hex Head TappingScrew 1/4-20x 1/2 56 144748

Rear Baffle 57 166069

HingeScrew 1/4-20 x 1-1/4 58 ......

SideBaf_e

DischargeBaffle 59 144747

Rear Deflector 60 74760612

SpdngWasher -- 161058

HandleBracketAssembly(Lett) .. 166640

HandleBracketAssembiy(Right)

AxleArmAseambly

Screw5/16-18 x 3/4

Wheel AdjustingBracket

Spacer

PopRivet

SelectorKnob

SelectorSpring

AxleArmAssembly

Ballavilla Washer

ShoulderBait

Wheel andnra Assembly

Wheel

Hex FlangeLocknut

Hubcap

Lawn Mower Housing(Inc_.Key #16, 22, 24, 46, 50)

Hex Head Thread RollingScrew3/8-16 x 1

DangerDecal

Locknut 3/8-16

Flat Washer 3/8

Front Baffle

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

HelicalLockwasher 3/8

Washer

Blade

Blade Adapter

Tube Frame

Grass Bag

Engine- (See Breakdown)

Craftsman143.996004

Throat Frame

Hex Bait 3,'8-16x 3/4

WarningDecal(NotShown)

OwneCsManual(EnglisWSpanish)

Availableaccessodeanotincludedwithlawn mower.

71 33303 Clipping Deflector

71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

71 33500 FuelStal_lizer

•71 33000 SAE 30W Oil(20 oz.)

71 33417 DustShield

71 33316 Mower Cover

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996004

_--370K

4OO

135

298

1301

130

182 19

182 185

178

174

<//_ 245

238

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996004

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

137266

2 26727

6 33734

7 36557

12 36775

12A 36558

12B 36694

14 28277

15 30589

16 34839A

17 31335

18 651018

19 36281

20 32600

30 36776

40 40004

40005

41 36070

36071

42 40006

42 40007

43 20381

45 36777

46 32610A

48 27241

50 36778

52 29914

69 35261

70 34311E

72 30572

73 28833

75 27897

80 30574A

81 30590A

82 30591

83 30588A

86 650488

89 611004

90 611112

92 650815

93 650816

100 34443B

101 610118

103 651007

110 37047

119 36787

120 36825

125 37288

126 37289

130 6021A

135 35395

Cytinder 150 31672

(Incl. 2,20 & 150) 151 31673

Dowel Pin 151A 40017

Breather Element 169 36783

Breather Assay. 172 36784

(Incl. 6 & 12A) 174 30200

Breather Tube 178 29752

Breather Cover & Tube

(Incl. 12B) 182 6201

Breather Tube Elbow 184 26756

Washer

Governor Rod (Incl. 14) 185 36785

Governor Lever 186 32653

Governor Lever Clamp 189 650839

Screw, Torx 1"-15, 191 36559A

8-32 x 19/64"

Extension Spring 195 610973

Oil Seal 207 34336

Crankshaft 216 33086

Piston, Pin & Ring Set 223 650451

(Std.) 224 36786

Piston, Pin &Ring Set 238 650932

(.010" OS) 239 34338

Piston & Pin Aee'y. (Std.) 241 35797

(Incl. 43) 245 35066

Piston & Pin Ase'y. 250 35065

(.010 •OS) 260 36980

(Inc1.43) 261 30200

Ring Set (Std.) 262 650831

Ring Set (.010" OS) 275 36790A

Piston Pin Retaining 277 650988

Ring 285 35000A

Connecting Rod Ass'y. 287 650926

(Incl. 46) 290 29774

Connecting Rod Bott 292 26460

Valve Lifter 298 28763

Camshaft (MCR) 300 36916

Oil Pump Ass"/.

7 Mounting Flange Gasket 301 36246

Mounting Flange 305 35647

(Incl. 72 thru 83,306) 306 36996

Oil Drain Plug (Incl. 73) 307 35499

Drain Plug Gasket 309 650562

Oil Seal 310 35648

Govemor Shaft 313 34080

Washer 370A 36261

Governor Gear Ass'y. 370C 37199

(Incl. 81) 370K 36695

Governor Spool 380 640174

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4" 390 590737

Flywheel Key 400 36792B

Flywheel

Belleville Washer 416 36085

Flywheel Nut

Solid State Ignition 417 650821

Spark Plug Cover

Screw, Torx T-15, 900

10-24 x 15/16"

Ground Wire 900

* Cylinder Head Gaske

Cylinder Head

Exhaust Valve (Std.) -- --

(Incl. 151)

Intake Valve (Std.)

(Incl. 151)

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

Resistor Spark Plug

(RJ19LM)

Valve Spring

Valve Spring Cap

Intake Valve Seal

• Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Nut & Look Washer,

1/4-28

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

•Carburetor TO Intake

Pipe Gasket

Intake Pipe

Governor Link

Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"

S.E. Brake Bracket

(Incl. 195)

Terminal

Throttle Link

R.P.M. AdjustingLever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

• Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

•AirCleaner Gasket

Air Cleaner Collar

Air Cleaner Filter

AirCleaner Cover

Blower Housing

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2•

Muffler

Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"

StarterCup

Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

Fuel Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"

Fuel Tank

(Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap

Oil Fill Tube

• "O"-Ring

"O"-Ring

Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

Dipstick

Spacer

LubricationDecal

Primer Decal

Starter Decal

Carburetor (Incl. 184)

Rewind Starter

Gasket Set (Incl. Items

Marked *)

Spark Arrestor Kit(Incl.

417)(Optional)

Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

(Optional)

Replacement Engine

NONE

Replacement S/B

750796A, order from 71-

999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This engine could have been builtwith 590694

starter

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

1 inch= 25.4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4..CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996004

KEY

NO.

20A

36A

48A

?--z,

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

640174

631615

631767

631184

631183

640070

65O5O6

631807

651025

630766

640018

640053

-631867

631024

632019

631028

631021

631022

360455

640080

632766

632547

640175

27110A

630748

631027

632760

Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

ThrottleShaft & Lever Assembly

ThrottleRetum Spdng

* Dust Seal Washer

*Dust Seal (Throttler

ThrottleShutter

• Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting

ThrottleCrack Screwlldle Speed Screw

Tension Spring

Idle RestdctorScrew

Idle RestrictorScrew Cap

Float Bowl

* Float Shaft

Float

•Float Bowl =O" Ring

* Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (IncL31)

Spring Clip

Pdmer Bulb/RetainerRing

Main Nozzle Tube

Carburetor Tube

* "O"Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

High Speed BowlNut

Bowl Nut Washer

* Welch Plug, Idle MixtureWell

• Welch Plug, AtmosphericVen

* Welch Plug

Repair kit (Incl. ItemsMarked*)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996004

O--2

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

590694

590599A

590600

590696

590601

590697

590698

590699

590700

590695

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter

Spdog Pin (Incl. 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

Brake Spring

Starter Dog

Dog Spring

Pulley & Rewind Spring

Ass'y.

Starter HousingAss'y.

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/

64" dia.)

Starter Handle

nII -T

KEY

NO.

m__

PART

NO.

590737

590740

590616

590617

590618A

590687A

590535

590701

590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Retainer

Starter Dog

Dog Spdng

Pulley & Rewind Spring

Ass'y

Starter HousingAss'y

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope (Length98"

x 9/64" dia.)

Starter Handle

Spring Clip

For the repair or replacement parts you need

delivered directly to your home

Call 7 am - 7 pm, 7 days a week

1-800-366-PART

(1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a

domicilio - 1-800-659-7084

For in-house major brand repair service

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-REPAIR

(1-800-473-7274)

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a

domicilio - 1-800-676-5811

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

mmmmmm

For information on purchasing a Sears

Maintenance Agreement or to inquire

about an existing Agreement

Call 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or ordering

parts, always provide the following

information:

•Product Type -Part Number

•Model Number" o Part Description

SEARS

America's Repair Specialists

166640 10.19.98 VB Printed in U.S.A.

Craftsman 917387302 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides 98120004

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 98120004 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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