Craftsman 917388260 User Manual WALK BEHIND LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides L9910355
CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L9910355 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides
User Manual: Craftsman 917388260 917388260 CRAFTSMAN WALK BEHIND LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN WALK BEHIND LAWN MOWER #917388260. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman WALK BEHIND LAWN MOWER Manual
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Owner's Manual
£RI:IFTSMIIN+
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.388260
•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
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Warranty 2 Product Specifications 9
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 11
Assembly 4 Storage 13
Operation 5 Troubleshooting 14
Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30
Maintenance 8 Parts Ordering BackCover
:RAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For one ye,_ purchase, _hen this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up acc ordihg tci the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repai r free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is!use_ for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days fron_ the dat_ of purchase.
This Warranty doe_ not cover: . !
•Expendable items which become ,,_'ornduring normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, &Jr 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 your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
• The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
•Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
2
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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 artiticial
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 belts 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 deterioFa-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
mower.
•Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
•Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
•Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach
an open flame or an ignition source such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.
&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.
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Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmower was produced. They are also
available at most Sears retailoutlets and service centers. Most Soars stores can also order
repair partsfor you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these
accessories may notapply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDEDISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABlUZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR RLTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS 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 excep-
tion of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete the assembly have been placed in
the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper
operation of your lawn mower, all parts
and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
•Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton 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 handte
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.
4
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•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 _._ Liftupj,_
•,.up 7// //7
_/7 Mowing
_- position
Now2;;;.
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 EN<31NE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL OANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF ANO FEET AWAY
Engine zone control_.
cable
Operator presence controlbar
Grass
Air filter
Primer
Lawn mower housing
Engine oil plug ajduster
(on each wheel)
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 engine is running.
uperator presence control Ioar - must De Palmer- pumps additional fuel from the
held down to the handle to start the engine, carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
Release to stop the engine, a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.
5
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The operation of any lawn mower can
result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye
damage. Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields while operating your lawn
mower or performing any adjustments or
repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over 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
&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
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
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 require-
ments. 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.
Lower wheels for
high cut
Raise wheels for low
cut
Le_ver
Plate tab
TO ATTACH 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.
bracket
Formed
tabs
Grass
frame
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 whdn
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
• Remove engine oil plug and fill to the
top of slot in filler hole.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade
of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed.
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•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
•Fillfuel 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 quanti-
ties 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
Engine oil plug
TO START ENGINE
•To startacoldengine,pushprimerfive(5)
timesbeforetryingtostart. Use a firmpush.
Thisstepis notusuallynecessarywhen
startingan enginewhich has alreadyrunfor
afew minutes.
•Holdoperatorpresencecontrolbardownto
the handleand pullstarter handlequickly.
Do notallow starter ropeto snapback.
•To stopengine,releaseoperatorpresence
controlbar.
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.
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
overlap to collect the clippingson 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.
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AS YOU COMPLETE OX_ _._x't _, _,.,_¢_ 0_-
Check for Loose Fasteners i¥1 i if
Clean/InspectGrassCatcher
M Clean Lawn Mower
O CleanUnderDriveCover(Power-Propened Mowers) Ivl
Check drive belt/pulleys
RE (Power.PropelledMowers I
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade I_g
Lubrication Chart _I_
Clean Battery/Recharge
Electric Start Mowers II_ I/4
ECheck Engine Oil Level I/
NChange Engine Oil t/I,2
GClean Air Filter IJ s
I Inspect Muffler
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
NiReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge ItS2
v'
1 - Change nm_eoften when operatingunder aheavy _oador in high ambient temperatures.
2-Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty condi_s,
3 - Replace blades more oftun when mowing insandy =oil.
4 oCharge 48 hours at end of seaSOn.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjectedto
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed inthis manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace
air filterelement and check blade for wear.
A new spark plug and clean/new air filter
element assures proper air-fuel mixture and
helps your engine run better and last longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
LUBRICATION CHART
) Wheel
Lister
(_) Rrea;
door
hinge
andle bracket
(_ Brakespringe
bracket
(_ Engine oil
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oil level.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated(Sea "LUBRICATION
CHART").
(_) Spray lubricant
(_ SAE 30 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 life
of the self lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.388260
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 4.0
DISPLACEMENT: 11.5 CU. IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
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
(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.
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm
rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
•Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when 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
35-40 ft. Ibs.
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IMPORTANT: Blade bolt 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 Cranksha_
adapter keyway
Key
Blade
Blade
bolt
Lock-
washer Hardened Blade
washer Trailing adapter
edge
GRASS CATCHER
Crank-
shaft
•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 manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
,',__ _e__4cec_assification SK SG or SH.
:'_ _ct "P,_oii'_ SAE v!scosit_] _rade accordin_
', : 21.r.,!C[£: O_;.e!::_!:,_'Ctg"]i::_.'i'&_L:r_.
oF .20, O. _, a_Z, 40" _, el_ tOO'tO0_I
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
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. l]ghten 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 p_ug.
• After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not over fill. L
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
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
:qemove the air filter by turning counter-
_!eckwis,_ to the stop and ou!! -3way from
!iJ
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• 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. Turn Counter-
Collar Clockwise to
Remove
Air Filter
Tab
Air Filter Cover
tm Clockwise
to "nghten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create afire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plugeach 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.
ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We DO NOT recommend using a
garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electrical system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to keep
water out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
=,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 cu'rnNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUI-I'ING HEIGHT" inthe
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your lawn mower, is providedto
minimize the possibilitythat objects will be
thrown out the rear of the lawn mower intothe
operator'smowing position.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it
shouk:lbe replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDU =
Your lawn mower handlecan be raisedor
lowered for your moving comfort. Four (4)
positions are available: high, medium high,
medium low and low. Handles are shipped
mounted in the medium low pos'ition.
• 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 guidefrom the
upper handle.
• Remove hairpincotters.
• 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.
J, 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 holdingthe
controlsto 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
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Shippingposition
Mediumlow
F?
High
Lower handle
Squeeze to
remove
Hairpin clip
Medium high
bracket
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair 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.
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.
12
![](asset-d.png)
Immediately prepare 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 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 "CLEAN-
ING" 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 lower
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
Lower handle
Squeeze to fold
Handle
bracket
Hairpincotter
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is importantto prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor,fuel filter,fuel hose,
or tank duringstorage. Also, experience
indicatesthat alcohol blended fuels (called
gesohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. 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 carburetor cleaner
products inthe fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizingthe 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.
Upper handle "-'-----_7 /"_
Fold forward _ _ _ Fold
for storage _._. _i_ -_ _,/_K_,,_,=,/,backward
_:._: __ _ Mowing
_-_ = ,_ position
Lower handle
13
![](asset-e.png)
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (withengine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" inthe
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYMNDER
• Remove spark plug.
•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole into cylinder.
• 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 ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirtin your gasoline will
cause problems,
•If possible, store your unit indoors and cover
it to give protection from dust and dirt.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do not
use plastic. Plasticcannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and willcause
your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
&CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline inthe 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 n_s_
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
ad_Dter,
O:_(iOT'..
CORRECTION
•Clean/replace air filter.
•Fillfuel tank.
•Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
•Drain fuel tank and
carburetorand refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.
• Replace spark plug.
•"lqghtenblade bolt or
_'eplacebiade adapter,
,_ ;'epress con_ci b_r_c
F sF:_-ce,?o:_trciD&':.
![](asset-f.png)
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Lo_ofpewer
Poor cut- uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
Hard to push
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass
•Cutting too much grass
•Dirty air filter
•Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower
•Too much oil in engine
•Waiking speed too fast
• Worn, bent or loose blade
•Wheel heights uneven
•Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower
•Wom, bent or loose blade
•Bent engine crankshaft
•Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released
• Bent engine crankshaft
•Blade adapter brokan
•Blade dragging in grass
•Cutting height too low
•Lifton blade wom off
•Catcher not venting air
•Grass is too high orwheel
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
• 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 belt.
•Contact an authorized
service center.
•Depress control barto
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
•Contactan authorized
service center
•Replace blade adapter
•Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard surface
•Raise cuttingheight.
•Replace blade
• Clean grass catcher
• Raise cuttingheight
• Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setting
higher
•Empty grass catcher
•Adjust handle height to
suit
15
![](asset-10.png)
ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.388260
o
57
42 39
43
65
39
36 38
43
64
4O
![](asset-11.png)
ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.388260
KEY PART
NO. NO.
186902
2 165451 )(479
3 150424
4 132001
5 157081X479
7131959
8 66426
9 51793
10 136376
11 156577
13 750097
14 850733X004
15 63601
17 147613
18 700367X479
19 150050
21 54583
22 700063X479
23 88652
24 700363X479
25 144875X479
26 140657
28 161757X479
29 161756X479
31 150078
32 700325X007
33 146630
34 128415
35 87877
36 700331X004
KEY PART
DESCRIPTION NO, NO.
Control Bar 37 145935X004
Upper Handle 38 62335
Mulcher Plug 39 142748
Rope Guide 40 151161
Lower Handle 42 83923
Handle Bolt 43 77400
Wire Tie 44 85463
Hairpin Cotter 45 150406
Handle Knob 46 161857
Engine Zone Control Cable 47 751592
Hex Washer Head Screw 10-24 x I/2 50 144915
Up-Stop Bracket 51 851084
Keps Locknut 1/4-20 52 850263
Rear Door Assembly Kit 53 851074
Back Plate 54 145106
Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x 5/8 55 850977
Hex Head Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 1/2 56 88614
Rear Baffle 57 166072
Hinge Screw 1/4-20 x 1-1/4 58 ......
Side Baffle
Discharge Baffle 60 74760612
Rear Deflector 61 750913X004
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) 62 61651
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) 63 88348
Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4 64 151162
Wheel AdjustingBracket 65 57143
Spacer - - 161058
Pop Rivet - - 166867
Selector Knob
Selector Spdng
DESCRIPTION
Axle Arm Assembly
Belleville Washer
Shoulder Bolt
Wheel and Tire Assembly
Hex Flange Locknut
Hubcap
Danger Decal
Hex Head Thread RollingScrew 3/8-16 x 1
Lawn Mower Housing (IncL Key #18, 22, 24, 44, 50)
Locknut3/8-16
Front Baffle Kit
Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd. 8)
Helical Lockwssher 3/8
Washer
Blade 20"
Blade Adapter
Tube Frame
Grass Bag
Engine - (See Breakdown) Craftsman
Model 143.994022
Bolt
Axle Arm
Washer
Washer
Wheel
Wave Washer
Warning Decal (Not Shown)
Owner's Manual
Available accessodes not includedwith lawn mower:
71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer
71 33000 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
71 33417 Dust Shield
71 33316 Mower Cover
71 33303 Chute Deflector
![](asset-12.png)
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143o994022
400
135
130
120 11g
370C
,,of '°'!
1L_6 10
182 19
172
207 52
182
185
178
46
32
![](asset-13.png)
MODEL NUMBER 143.994022
i
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 37280
226727
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 36793
40 35544A
40 35545A
40 35546
41 35541
41 35542
41 35543
42 35547A
42 35548A
42 35549
43 20381
45 36777
46 32610A
48 27241
50 37032
52 29914
69 35261
70 32612C
72 36083
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
1t 9 37028
120 36825
KEY PART
NO. NO.
Cylinder (Incl.2,20 & 125 37288
150)
Dowel Pin 126 37289
BreatherElement
Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 & 130 6021A
12A) 135 35395
BreatherTube
Breather Cover & Tube 150 31672
(Incl. 12B) 151 31673
Breather Tube Elbow 151A 40017
Washer 169 36783
GovernorRod (Incl. 14) 172 36784
GovernorLever 174 30200
GovernorLever Clamp 178 29752
Screw, TorxT-15, 8-32 x
19/64" 182 6201
ExtensionSpring 184 26756
Oil Seal
Crankshaft 185 36785
Piston,Pin & Ring Set 186 32653
(Std.) 189 650839
Piston,Pin & Ring Set 191 36559A
(.010" OS)
Piston,Pin & Ring Set 195 610973
(.020" OS) 207 34336
Piston& Pin Ass_].(Std.) 216 33086
(Incl. 43) 223 650451
Piston& Pin Ass'y. (.010" 224 36786
OS) (Incl. 43) 238 650932
Piston& Pin Ass'y. (.020" 239 34338
OS) (IncL43) 241 35797
RingSet (Std.) 245 35066
RingSet (.010" OS) 250 35065
RingSet (.020 OS) 260 36834
PistonPin Retaining 261 30200
Ring 262 650831
ConnectingRod Ass'y. 275 36790A
(Incl. 46) 277 650988
ConnectingRod Bolt 285 35000A
Valve Lifter 287 650926
Camshaft (NCR) 290 34357
Oil PumpAss'y. 292 26460
* MountingFlangeGasket 300 35586
MountingRange (Incl. 72
thru83) 301 36246
Oil Drain Plug 311 27625
Oil Seal 313 34080
Govemor Shaft 370A 36261
Washer 370C 37199
GovernorGear Ass'y, 370K 36695
(incl.81) 380 640174
Govemor Spool 390 590737
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-I/4" 400 37029A
FlywheelKey
Flywheel 416 36085
BellevilleWasher
FlywheelNut 417 650821
Solid State Ignition
Spark PlugCover 900 ---
Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24
x15/16"
GroundWire 900 ----
* CylinderHead Gasket
CylinderHead
DESCRIPTION
ExhaustValve (Std.)
(Incl. 151)
IntakeValve (Std.) (Incl.
151)
Screw,5/16-18 x 1-1/2"
ResistorSpark Plug
(RJ19LM)
Valve Spdng
Valve SpringCap
IntakeValve Seal
* Valve Cover Gasket
Valve Cover
Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"
Nut & LockWasher, 1/4-
28
Screw,1/4-28 x 718"
• CarburetorTo Intake
Pipe Gasket
IntakePipe
GovernorLink
Screw,1/4-20 x 3/8"
S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl.
195)
Terminal
ThrottleLink
R.P.M. AdjustingLever
Screw, 114-20x 1"
* Intake PipeGasket
Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"
•AirCleaner Gasket
AirCleaner Collar
AirCleaner 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
Fuel Tank (Incl.292 &
301)
Fuel Cap
Oil Fill Plug
Spacer
LubricationDecal
Primer Decal
StarterDecal
Carburetor(Incl. 184)
Rewind Starter
Gasket Set (Incl. Items
Marked *)
SperkArrestorKit (IncL
417)(Optional)
Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"
(Optional)
ReplacementEngine
750830, orderfrom 71-
999
ReplacementShortBlock
750829A,
orderfrom 71-999
RPM High2900 to 3200
NOTE: This engine could have been built with590694
NOTE: Allcomponentdimensionsgivenin U.S. inches
1 inch =25.4 mmetarter).
33
![](asset-14.png)
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994022
KEY
NO.
1
2
4
5
6
7
16
17
18
20
20A
25
27
28
29
30
31
35
36
36A
37
40
44
47
48
48A
6O
PART
NO. DESCRIPTION
640174
631615
631767
631184
631183
64OO70
650506
631807
651025
630766
640018
640053
631867
631024
632019
631028
631021
631022
36O45A
640080
632766
632547
640175
27110A
630748
631027
631027
632.760
Carburetor
(Incl. 184 of Engine PartsList)
ThrottleShaft & Lever Assembly
Throttle ReturnSpring
•Dust Seal Washer
•Dust Seal (Throttle)
Throttle Shutter
• ShutterScrew
Fuel Fitting
Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw
Tension Spdng
IdleRestr'_-'torScrew
Idle RestrictorScrew Cap
FloatBowl
•FloatShaft
Float
* FloatBowl"_' Ring
•Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (IncL31)
SpringClip
PrimerBulb/RetainerRing
Main Nozzle Tube
CarburetorTube
*"Ct"Ring, Main Nozzle Tube
High Speed BowlNut
BowlNut Washer
* Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well
•Welch Plug, AtmosphericVent
•Welch Plug
Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked *)
34
![](asset-15.png)
3RAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994022
i5
Q--2
r]-,
II
KEY
NO.
I
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
11
12
13
PART
NO.
590694
590599A
590600
590696
590601
590697
590698
590699
590700
590695
590535
590701
DESCRIPTION
RecoilStarter
SpringPin (Incl, 4)
Washer
Retainer
Washer
Brake Spring
StarterDog
Dog Spring
Pulley& RewindSprieg
Ass'y.
StarterHousingAss'y.
(40 degree grommet)
StarterRope( g8" X 9/
64" dia.)
StarterHandle
q3
t2
nR--7
KEY
NO. PART
NO.
---- 590737
3 590740
6 590616
7 590617
8 590618A
11 590687A
12 590535
--8 13 590701
14 590760
DESCRIPTION
RewindStarter
Retainer
Starter Dog
Dog Spdng
Pulley & RewindSpring
Ass'y
StarterHousingAss'y
(40 degree grommet)
Starter Rope (Length 98"
x 9/64" dia,)
StarterHandle
SpringClip
35
![](asset-16.png)
Forthe repairor replacementpartsyou 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 aday, 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
mmlmml
mmmmm|
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 •Part Description
SEARS
America's Repair Specialists
166867 REV.1 03.29.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.