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

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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

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

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.

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.

•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.

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.

•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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

• 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.

Shippingposition

Mediumlow

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.

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

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&':.

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

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.388260

42 39

36 38

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

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

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

MODEL NUMBER 143.994022

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-

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).

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994022

KEY

NO.

20A

36A

48A

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

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 *)

3RAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994022

Q--2

r]-,

KEY

NO.

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

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

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.

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

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