Craftsman 917388220 User Manual 4.5HP 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides L9080089

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L9080089 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917388220 917388220 CRAFTSMAN CRAFTSMAN 4.5HP 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN CRAFTSMAN 4.5HP 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER #917388220. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman CRAFTSMAN 4.5HP 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manual

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Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN+

4.5 HORSEPOWER

22" SIDE DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWE R

Model No.

917.388220

• Safety

•Assembly

•Operation

•Maintenance

•Espahol

• 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 9

Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 12

Assembly 4 Storage 13

Operation 5 Troubleshooting 14

Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30

Maintenance 8 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 daysfrom 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., Di817 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. Leam 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 preperly. 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. C;ean

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 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 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 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,

Aclothes dryer, etc.

CAUTION: 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.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects,

or other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarealso

availableat mostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters. MostSearsstorescanalso

orderrepairpartsforyou,whenyouprovidethe modelnumberof yourlawnmower.

Someoftheseaccessoriesmaynotapplyto yourlawnmower.

LAWNMOWERPERFORMANCE

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER lOTS

GRASSCATCHERS

FOR

SIDEDISCHARGE

LAWNMOWERS

STABlUZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

AIR RLTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in • Remove all packing materials except

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 MOWER

of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware TO UNFOLD HANDLE

you assemble must be tightened securely.

Use the correct tools as necessary to

ensure proper tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with

mower.

•Cut down two end corners of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

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

pads.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle 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

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 controlbar

Upper handle U_Nng

"/ position

Lower

handle

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

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

MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourselfwith the

locationof various controls and adiustments. 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 ENOJNE FAST SLOW CHOKE FU_. CtL OANGER, KEEPHANOS

C_ WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence controlbar

Starter handle

Handleknob

Engine oil cap withdipstick

Mulcher door

.Gasoline fillercap

Primer

(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

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

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

sion. The blade turns 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 add'fdonalfuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting

a cold engine.

Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

Mulcher- allows conversion to discharge or

bagging operation.

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin

foreignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcan

resultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswear

safetyglassesoreyeshieldswhile 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 CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance. Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTION: Federal regulationsrequire an

engine controlto be installedon this lawn

mower in order to minimize the riskof blade

contact injury.Do not under any drcumstances

attempt to defeat the function of the operator

control.The blade fums 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

•Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheeis

for highcut.

•Adjust cutting heightto suit your require-

ments. Medium positionis best for most

lawns.

•To change curdngheight, squeeze adjuster

lever toward wheel. Move wheal up or

down to suityour requirements. Be sure all

wheels are in the same satting.

NOTE:Adjusterisproperlyposltkxedwhen

plate tab inserts into hoie in lever. Also, g-

positionadjusters (if so equipped) allow lever

tobepos_ned betweanthep_tetabs.

Lower wheels for

high cut

Plate tab

_er

Raise wheels for low

cut

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped withoutoil inthe

engine.

•Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fillis dean.

•Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full line

onthe dipstick.

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

to use, see "ENGINE" in Maintenance

section of this manual.

•Pour oilsiowly. Do not over fill.

•Check oil leval before each use. Addoilif

needed. Fillto full line on di_

•To read proper level, tighten engine oilcap

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,

dirtyconditions.

GAS

•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87

octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be

used within 30 days to assure fuel

freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicatesthat alcohol

blended fuels (called gasuhoi or using ethanol

or methanol) can attract moisturewhich leads

to separalion and formation of acids during

storage. Acidicgas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while instorage. To avoid

engine problems,the fuel system should be

emp0ed before storage of 30 days or longer.

Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let it

run unltlfuel lines and carburetor are empty.

Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage

Instruc_onsfor addltJonalinformation. Never

use engine orcarburetor cleaner products in

fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

Engineoil cap Gasoline filler

cap

TO START ENGINE

•To start a cold engine, push primer five

(5) times before trying to start. Use a

firm push. This step is not usually

necessary when starting an engine

which has already run for a few minutes.

•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 priming steps. In

warmer weather over priming may cause

flooding and engine will not start. If you do

flood engine, wait a few minutes before

attempting to start and do not repeat

priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing effort

and to keep from overloading the engine

and leaving clumps of grass clippings. 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.

• 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, regularly hose catcher off

with water and let dry before usirig.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housingfree of built-upgrass and

trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE

section of this manual.

•The special mulching blade will recutthe

grass clippingsmany times and reduce

them in size so that as they fall onto the

lawn they will dLsperse intothe grass and

not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will

biodegrade quickly to provide nutrientsfor

the lawn. Always mulch with your highest

engine (blade) speed as this v_l provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

•Avoidcutting 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 aftemoon. At

thistime the grass has dried and the newly

cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

•For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cuttingheight so that the lawn mower cuts

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

If the lawn is overgrown it willbe necessary

to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing

effortand to keep from overloadingthe"

engine and leaving clumps of mulched

grass. For extremely heavy mulching,

reduce your width of cut by overlapping

previouslycut path and mow slowly.

•Certain types of grass and grass conditions

may require that an area be mulched a

second time to completely hide the

clippings. When doing asecond cut, mow

across or perpendicular to the flint cut path.

•Change your 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.

f •

t 'i Max. 1/3

M,, EN,,C SC.EOULE

REGULAR SERVICE ATES

Check for Loose Fasteners _I_#

ClearVlnspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) li/ t_#_'

MCk_n Lawn Mower

O/ Clean Under Drive CoverIPower-Propened Mowers) ¥/

Check drive beWpulleys

E (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_

Check/Sharpen/Replece Blade _Va

LubricationChart I/

Clean Battery/Recharge

IElectrle Start MowersI _ t//4

ECheck Engine Oil Level I_ !

NChange Engine Oil 11/1.2

G Clean Air Filter _2

IInspect Muffler

NCleanorReplaceSparkPlug

EReplace Air FilterPaper Carlridge I#/2

1oChlmgemore c_ton v_lon oporatingUIZd_8 hoary loador rnhigh Inlblent tonlpomt_s.

2. Servk_ more often_ _md_g _ dklyor d_ty _dkbns.

$. Rep_ce b_d_ moreoftenv_n _ _ _mdy sol.

4. Charge48 hovqsat endof sN_.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not

cover itemsthat have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full

value from the warranty, operator must

maintain mower as instructed inthis manual.

Some adjustments willneed to be made

periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.

All adjustmentsin the Sewice and Adjust-

mants section of this manual should be

checked at least once each season.

•Once ayear, replaea the spark plug, dean

or replace air filter element and check blade

for wear. A new spark plug and dean/new

air filterelement assures proper air-fuel

mixture and helps your engine run better

and last longer.

•Followthe maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

•Check engine oil level.

•Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICATION

CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Wheel (_ Mulcher door

adjuster

(_ Broke spring

(D bracket

Handle bracket

mountingpin

(_) Spray lubricante

(_) Referto MAINTINANCE'ENGINE'

SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract

dust and dirtthat will shortenthe lifeof the self

lubricatingbearings. If you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite

type lubricantsparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.388220

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 4.5

DISPLACEMENT: 11.5 CU. IN.

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°1:)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°1=)

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

controlchemicals 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

tuming when removing 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

Key adapter Crankshaft

_. keyway

Blade

Lockwasher

Blade shaft

bolt Hardened Trailing

washer edge Blade adapter

GRASS CATCHER

(If purchased as an accessory)

•The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

•Check your grass catcher often for

damage or detedoration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher needs

replacing, replace only with a manufac-

turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number

when ordedng.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high qualitydetergent oil rated with

API service classificationSF, SG or SH.

Select the oil'sSAlE viscositygrade according

to your expected operating temperature.

SAEVISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscostty oils (5"W30,

10W30 etc.) improve startingin cold weather,

these multi-viscosityoils 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

operation orat least once a year ifthe 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. T_hten 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.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may be

damaged by using aditty air fitter.

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 counter-

clockwise to the stop and pull away from

collar.

• Remove filterfrom 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 intocollar

aligning the tab withthe slot.

•Push in on cover and turn clockwise to

tighten.

Turn

counter-

clockwise

to remove

Slot

Tum

Air filter Tab clockwise

Air filtercover 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, kiip

mower housing free of built-grassand trash.

Clean the underside of your mower alter each

use.

ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plugwire

lrom spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact withthe spark plug.

•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air

filter and cadouretorare up. Clean the

underside of your lawn mower by scraping

to remove build-up of grass and trash.

•Clean engine oftento keep trash from

accumulaltng. 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 filterand

ca_ouretorare covered to keep water out.

Water in engine can result in shortened

engine life.

ACAUTION: Before performing any

service and 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 CU'I-rlNG 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 mower, is provided to

minimize the possibility that objects will be

thrown out of the rear of the mower into

the operator's 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 position. If the discharge guard

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 tumed

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.

ShippingPosition

Mediumlow Medium high

High "_. Low

_CAUTION: The operator presence

control bar must pivot freely to permit

blade/brake engagement when control bar

is released. Do not overtighten 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 tumed over.

__.._ Lower handle

Squeezeto\\ ndleb acket

remove _ntin pin

Hairpincotter

ENGINE

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 engine is running too fast or

too slow, take your mower to an authorized

service center for repair and adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Yourcarburetorhasa non-adjustablefixed

mainjet for mixturecontrol. Ifyourengine

doesnotoperateproperlydueto sus-

pectedcarburetorproblems,takeyour

lawnmowerto anauthorizedservice

centerfor repair and/or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine govemor, 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.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for

storage at the end ofthe 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 dean, 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 securaly fastened. Inspect moving

parts for damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightlybefore 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

beck.

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.

Lowerhandle

Squeeze to

remove

H_rpin pin

co_er

Operator presence control

bar

Upper handle

Fold forwa.rd for

storage

Fold

backward

Mowing

position

Lower handle

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum

deposits from forming in essential fuel system

parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hos e,

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. Acidicgas

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 carburetorcleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur,

•Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizeris an acceptable

alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel

gum depositsduring storage, Add stabilizerto

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 allowthe stabilizer to

reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor if usingfuel stabilizer.

ENGINEOIL

Drainoil(withengine warm) and replace with

dean 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 starter handle slowly a few times to

distributeoil.

•Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

•Do not storegasoline from one season to

another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts

to rusL Rust and/or dirt inyour gasoline will

cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoorsand cover

it to give protectionfrom dust and dirL

•Cover your unit with a suitable protective

cover that deas not retain moisture. Do not

use plastic. Plasticcannot breathe which

allows condensation to form and will cause

your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mowerwhile

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

ACAUTION: 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.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

Dirty airtilter.

•Out of fuel.

•Stale fuel.

•Water infuel.

•SparkplugwireLs

CORRECTION

•Clean/replace air fliter.

•Fillfuel tank.

• Drain tank and refillwith

fresh clean fuel.

•Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refilltank

with fresh gasoline,

•Connect wire to plug.

disconnected.

•Bad sparkplug.

• Loose bladeorbrokenblade

adapter.

•Control bar in released

position.

• Control bar defective.

•Replace spark plug.

•T_jhten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

•Depress control bar to

handle.

•Replace control bar.

PROBLEM

Loss of power

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

CAUSE '

•Rear of lawn mower housing

or cuttingblade dragging

in heavy grass.

•Cut_ng too much grass.

Poor cut- uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

to pull

Grass catcher

not filling (rf so

equipped)

Hard to push

•Dirty air filter.

•Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

•Too much oil in engine.

•Walking speed too fast.

•Wom, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

•Wom, bent or loose blade.

•Bent engine crankshaft.

• Engineflywheelbrake ison

whencontrolbar is released.

•Bent engine cranksl_ft

• Blade adapter broken.

• Blade dragging in grass.

•Cutting height too low.

• Lifton blade wom off.

•Catcher not venting air.

•Grass is too highor wheel

height is too low.

• Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging

in grass.

•Grass catcher too full.

•Handle height positionnot

rightfor you.

CORRECTION

• Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

•Bet to "Higher Cut"

position.

•Clean/replace air filter.

•Clean underside of mower

housing.

• Check oil level.

• Cut at slower walking

speed.

•Replace blade. T_hten

blade bolt.

•Set all wheels at same

height

•Clean underside of

mower housing.

•Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

•Contact an authorized

sewice center.

•Depress control barto

upper handle before

pullingstarter rope.

•Contact an authorized

se_,ice center.

•Replace blade adapter.

•Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface

• Raise cutting height.

• 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.

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -MODEL NO. 917.388220

46 63

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - MODEL NO. 917.388220

KEY

NO.

PART

63601

869O2

132001

160834X479

160609X479

131959

153892

75O097

850733X004

136376

51793

165858

66426

16O831

16O832

160833

751153

168164X479

168165X47g

160835X007

168360X004

87877

19112222

160828

146248

83923

DESCRIPTION

Locknut114-20

ControlBar

Rope Guide

Upper Handle

Lower Handle

Handle Bolt 5/16-18

Engine Zone ControlCable

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2

Up-StopBracket

Handle Knob

HairpinCotter

Rear Deflector

Wire Tie

DischargeGuard

TorsionSpring

Hinge Rod

Nut Hex Flange Lock 5/16 -18

Wheel Bracket Support(Left)

Wheel Bracket Support(Right)

Wheel BracketAdjuster

SelectorSpring

SelectorKnob

Washer

ShoulderBolt (5/16-18 x .33)

Wheel Assembly

Locknut 1/16-18

KEY PART

NO. NO DESCRIPTION

50 77400 Hubcap

51 17600406 Screw Hex Serrated 114x 20.tt

52 150406 Hex Heed Threed RollingScrew 3/8-16 x 1

55 85463 Danger Decal

59 161345 LawnMower Housing (Incl. Key Nee, 55)

61 851514 BladeAdapter

62 141114 22" Blade

63 851074 HardenedWasher

64 850263 HelicalLockwashar 3/8

65 851084 Screw Hex Head 3/6-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd. 8)

67 ...... Engine-Tecumseh Model No. 143.994500

72 167132X004 AxleArmAssm. (RR/LF)

73 167133X004 AxleArmAssm. (RF/LR)

74 751153 Nut

76 161622 Clip.Closeout

77 750097 Screw

78 87584X004 HingeBracket

79 160828 ShoulderBolt (5/16-18 x .51)

80 160830 Mulcher Plata

--166636 .Owner's Manual

-- 161058 Wamlng Decal(NotShown)

Availableaccessories notincludedwithlawn mower:

7133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

7133500 Fuel Stabilizer

7133300 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994500

4OO 136

120

I416

119

125

is 19

182

185

I 41

I43

O-_ri'oK

313

298

1301

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37266 Cylinder(Incl. 2,20 &

150)

2 26727 Dowel Pin

6 33734 Breather Element

7 36557 Breather Ass'y.(Incl. 6 &

12A)

12 36775 BreatherTube

12A 36558 Breather Cover & Tube

(Incl. 12B)

12B 36694 BreatherTube Elbow

14 28277 Washer

15 30589 Govemor Rod (IncL 14)

16 34839A GovernorLover

17 31335 Govemor Lever Clamp

18 651018 Screw, TorxT-15, 8-32 x

19/64•

19 36281 ExtensionSpdng

20 32600 Oil Seal

30 36776 Crankshaft

40 40004 Piston,Pin & Ring Set

(Std.)

40005 Piston, Pin& Ring Set

(.010" OS)

41 36070 Piston& Pin Ass'y. (Std.)

(Incl. 43)

36071 Piston& Pin Ass'y. (.010"

OS)

(Incl.43)

42 40006 Ring Set (Std.)

42 40007 Ring Set (.010" OS)

43 20381 PistonPin Retaining

Ring

45 36777 ConnectingRodAss'_

(Incl. 46)

46 32610A ConnectingRod Bolt

48 27241 Valve Lifter

50 36778 Camshaft (MCR)

52 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y.

69 35261 * MountingFlangeGasket

70 34311E MountingFlange (Incl. 72

thre 83,306)

72 30572 Oil Drain Plug (Incl. 73)

73 28833 Drain PlugGasket

75 27897 Oil Seal

80 30574A Govemor Shaft

81 30590A Washer

82 30591 GovemorGear Ass'y.

(Incl. 81)

63 30588A GovernorSpool

86 650488 Screw, 1/4-20 x I -I/4"

89 611004 FlywheelKey

90 611112 Flywheel

92 650815 BellevilleWasher

93 650816 FlywheelNut

1O0 34443B Solid State Ignition

101 610118 Sberk Plug Cover

103 651007 Screw, TorxT-15, 10-24

x 15/16"

110 37047 GroundWire

119 36787 * Cylinder Head Gaske

120 36825 CylinderHeed

125 37288 ExhaustValve (Std.)

pr_. 151)

126 37289 Intake Valve (Std.) (incl.

151)

130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

135 35395 ResistorSpark Plug

(RJ19LM)

MODEL NUMBER 143.994500

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

150 31672 Valve Spring

151 31673 Valve SpringCap

151A 40017 Intake Valve Seal

169 36783 * Valve Cover Gasket

172 36784 Valve Cover

174 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

178 29752 Nut & LockWasher, 1/4-

182 6201 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"

184 26756 * CarburetorTo Intake

PipeGasket

185 36785 IntakePipe

186 32653 Govemor Link

189 650839 Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"

191 36559A S.E. BrakeBracket(Incl.

195)

195 610973 Terminal

207 34336 ThrottleLink

216 33086 R.P.M. AdjustingLever

223 650451 Screw, I/4-20 x I"

224 36786 * Intake PipeGasket

238 650932 Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

239 34338 "Air CleanerGasket

241 35797 Air CleanerCollar

245 35066 Air Cleaner Filter

250 35065 Air CleanerCover

260 36980 BlowerHousing

261 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

262 650831 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"

275 36790A Muffler

277 650988 Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"

285 35000A StarterCup

287 65(}926 Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

290 29774 Fuel Line

292 26460 Fuel Line Clamp

298 28763 Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"

300 36916 Fuel Tank (IncL292 &

301)

301 36246 Fuel Cap

305 35647 Oil FillTube

306 36996 *"O-Ring

307 35499 • "O"-Ring

309 650562 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

310 35648 Dipstick

313 34080 Spacer

325 37152 SpringClip

370A 36261 LubricationDecal

370C 37199 PdmerDecal

370K 36695 Starter Decal

380 640174 Carburetor (Incl. 184)

390 590737 RewindStarter

400 36792B Gasket Set (Incl. Items

Marked*)

416 36085 SparkArrestorKit (Incl.

417)(Optlenel)

417 650821 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

(Optional)

900 ---- ReplacementEngine

NONE

900 -- -- ReplacementS/B

750796A, orderfrom 71-

999

---- RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This enginecouldhave been builtwith590694

starter

NOTE: AllcomponentdimensionsgiveninU.S. inches

1 inch= 25.4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994508

KEY

NO.

20A

27 •

36A

48A

_;>...i/

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

640174

631615

631767

631184

631183

640070

65O5O6

631807

651025

630766

640018

64OO53

631867

631024

632019

631028

631021

631022

36045A

640080

632766

632547

640175

27110A

630748

631027

632760

Carburetor(Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

ThrottleShaft &Lever Assembly

Throttle ReturnSpring

• DustSeal Washer

* DustSeal (Throttle)

Throt6e Shutter

• ShutterScrew

Fuel Fitting

Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

Tension Spdng

Idle RestrictorScrew

Idle RestrictorScrew Cap

Float Bowl

•FloatShaft

Float

•Float Bowl"O"Ring

* Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip(IncL 31)

SpringClip

PrimerBulb/RetainerRing

Main Nozzle Tube

CarburetorTube

•"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

HighSpeed Bowl Nut

BowlNut Washer

• Welch Plug, Idle MixtureWell

= Welch Plug,AtmosphericVent

* Welch Plug

Repair kit(Ind. ItemsMarked °)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL HUMBER 143.994508

B--5

Q--2

KEY PART

NO. NO.

---- 590694

1 590599A

2 590600

3 590696

4 59O601

5 590697

6 590698

7 590699

8 590700

11 590695

12 590535

13 590701

DESCRIP_ON

RecoltStarter

Spring Pin (Incl. 4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

BrakeSpring

StarterDog

Dog ,Spdng

Pulley& Rewind

SpdngAss'y.

StarterHousingAss'y.

(40 degree grommet)

StarterRope

( 98" X 9/64" alia.)

StarterHandle

KEY PART

NO. NO.

-- _ 590737

3 59O740

6 590616

7 590617

8 590618A

11 590687A

12 590535

13 590701

14 590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Retainer

StarterDog

spring

Pulley & Rewind

SpdngAss'y '

StarterHousingAss'y

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope

(Length 98" x 9/64" dia.)

Starter Handle

Spdng Clip

Fortherepairor replacementpartsyouneed

delivereddirectlyto yourhome

Call7 am- 7 pm,7 daysaweek

1-800-366-PART

(1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a

doreicilio - 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

dornicilio - 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

For information on purchasing a Sears

Maintenance Agreement or to inquire

about an existing Agreement

Call 9 am - 5 pro, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or ordering

parts, always provide the following

information:

•Product Type •Part Number

•Model Number •Part Description

SEARS

America's Repazr Specialists

166636 REV.3 06.21.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.

Craftsman 917388220 User Manual 4.5HP 22 ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides L9080089

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L9080089 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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