Craftsman 917388290 User Manual 5.5 HP 21 REAR DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 99040584

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 99040584 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917388290 917388290 CRAFTSMAN 5.5 HP 21 REAR DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN 5.5 HP 21 REAR DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER #917388290. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman 5.5 HP 21 REAR DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manual

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Owner's Manual

CRAFTS[MAN+

55 HORSEPOWER

21" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No

917.388290

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

•Maintenance

•EspaSol

•Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck_and Co Hoffman Estates IL 60179

Visit our Craftsman ,{website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 10

Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 12

Assembly 4 Storage 13

Operation 6 Troubleshooting 15

Maintenance Schedule 9 Repair Parts 32

Maintenance 9 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 workman-

ship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty

applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest

Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

while this product is in use in the United States.

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator

presence control to minimize the risk of

injury. Y_ur unit is equipped with cuch

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

persogs, especially small children and

pets.

•Use mower only as the manufacturer

intended and as described in this

manu,_l.

•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 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 repair-

ing 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 your mower.

• Do not change the governor settings or

overspeed the engine. Engine damage

or personal injury may result.

• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates

abnormally. Excessive vibration is an

indication of damage; stop the engine,

safely check for the cause of vibration

and repair as required.

• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust

fumes are dangerous.

•Never cut grass by pulling the mower

towards you. Mow across the face of

slopes, never up and down or you

might lose your footing. Do not mow

excessively steep slopes. Use caution

when operating the mower on uneven

terrain or when changing directions -

maintain good footing.

•Never operate your mower without

proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

•Check the blade and the engine

mounting bolts often to be sure they are

tightened propedy.

•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, clothes dryer, etc.

Look for this symbol to point out important

safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!!

BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS

INVOLVED.

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.

These accessories were available when this

lawn mower was produced. They are not

shipped with your mower. They are also

available at most Sears retail outlets and

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

service centers. Most Sears stores can also

order repair parts for you, when you provide

the model number of your lawn mower. Some

of these accessodes may not apply to your

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

lawn mower.

MULCHER KITS

_l GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS 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.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the

engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exception of

those parts left unassembled for shipping

purposes. 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 neces-

sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts

such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-

sary to complete the assembly have been

placed in the parts bag.

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.

HOWTO SET UP YOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

•Raise lower handle section to operating

position and squeeze the bottom ends

of lower handle towards each other

until the pin in handle can be inserted

into one of the three height adjustment

holes.

• Remove protective padding, raise

upper handle section into place on

lower handle and tighten both handle

knobs.

•Remove any packing material from

around control bar.

• Your handles may be adjusted for your

mowing comfort. Refer to Service and

Adjustments section of this manual.

TO INSTALL A'I-rACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher.

Operator

presence

contml bar

handle

Lift up

Lower

handle

Handle

Mowing

position

3-position

Handle

adjustment

bracket

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN

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

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

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

product. Learn and understand their meaning.

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

DR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control

bar

Engine zone control cable

Grass

cap

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the

engine.

Lawn mower housing

Wheel adjuster

(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.

Operator Presence Control Bar- must be

held down to the handle to start the engine.

Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when

starting 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, whm_,h

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

ENGINESPEEDCONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-

able.

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 circum-

stances 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 CU'I-rlNG HEIGHT

•Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut.

•Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

ments. Medium position is best for most

lawns.

•To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster

lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or

down to suit your requirements. Be sure all

wheels are in the same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when

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

position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever

to be positioned between the plate tabs.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Plate Tab

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

Lever

TOATTACH GRASS CATCHER

•Lift.the rear door of the lawn mower and

place the grass catcher frame side hooks

onto the door pivot pins.

•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 dipping deflector or approved grass

catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the

lawn mower with the rear door removed or

propped open.

il, ." _: "

Pivot pros _'_'\ "--

TO EMPTY'GRASS CATCHER

•Lift up on grass catcher using the frame

handle.

•Remove grass catcher with clippings from

under lawn mower handle.

• Empty clippings from bag using both frame

handle and beg handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptyinq;

it will cause unnecessary wear.

Bag /

handle Grass

catcher frame

handle

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 dean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full

line on the dipstick.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into

engine for accurate dipstick reading.

• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type and

grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in

Maintenance section of this manual.

•Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill

•Check oil level before each use. Add oil if

needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

•To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap

each time.

•Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

•Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need

to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirty conditions.

GAS

•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular

unleaded gasoline witll a minimum of 87

7 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Purchasefuel in quantities that can be

used within 30 days to assure fuel

freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture

which leads to separation and formation of

acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage

the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

To avoid engine problems, the fuel system

should be emptied before storage of 30 days

or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the engine

and let it run until 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 fuel tank or permanent damage

may occur.

Engine oil

cap cap

TO START ENGINE

•To start acold 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.

MOWlNGTIPS

• 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 dumps 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.

•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 dean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flew and extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and

trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning" in

MAINTENANCE section of this manual.

•The special mulching blade will recut the

grass dippings many times and reduce

them in size so that as they fall onto the

lawn they will disperse into the grass and

not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will

biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for

the lawn. Always mulch with your highest

engine (blade) speed as this will provide

the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet

grass tends to form dumps and interferes

with the mulching action. The best time to

mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. At

this time the grass has dried and the newly

cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts

off only the top one-third of the grass

blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be

necessary to raise the height of cut to

reduce pushing effort and to keep from

overloading the engine and leaving

dumps of mulched grass. For extremely

heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut,

mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn

mower one wheel adjuster setting higher

than the front.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions

may require that an area be mulched a

second time to completely hide the

clippings. When doing a second cut, mow

across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to

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.

Max 1/3

AsYouCOMPLETE

.EGU ,.SE.V,C ySERV'CEOATES

Check for Loose Fasteners I_ ll/

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

M Clean Lawn Mower

O Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-PropelledMowers)

Check ddve belt/pulleys

E (P0wer-Pr0pelled Mowers)

CheckJSharpen/Replace Blade 3

Lubrication Chart V'

Clean Battery/Recharge

(Electric Start Mowers) I_ _4

ECheck Engine Oil Level !/

NChange Engine Oil Ij/1,2

GClean Air Filter ii/=

I Inspect Muffler i##

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge I/2

1 - Change rr_ceonen whenoperatingunder a heavyloadof inh_ghambienttemperatures.

2-_mcreoften whenoper_ng In d_dyor dusly cond_Jons.

3-Replace blades rnoreoftenwhen rno_ng in sandysoil.

4-Charge48 hoursedend of w.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not

cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full

value from the warranty, operator must

maintain mower as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual should be

checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check blade

for wear. A new spark plug and dean/new

air filter element assures proper air-fuel

mixture and helps your engine run better

and last longer.

•Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

•Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION

CHART'S.

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel

adjusters

Brake spring

_gineoil

(_) Rear

door (_) Handle bracket

hinge mountingpin

(_ SPRAY LUBRICANT

(_) SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO

ENGINE -MAINTENANCE SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubncants will attract

dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self

lubricating bearings. If you feel _ey must be

,lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite

type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.388290

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 5.5

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

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

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004 -.008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space

provided above.

LAWN MOWER

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 damaqe.

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.

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 _olade 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 sharpen-

ing 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. Crank shaft

Blade keyway

Bolt Crank

Lockwasher Hardened Blade shaft

washer Trailing adapter

edge

GRASS CATCHER

•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 manufacturer approved

replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower

model number when ordedng.

ENGINE

LU BRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF, SH or

SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

-20"

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

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. Tighten oil plug

securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to

drain oil, drain fuel tank by running

engine until fuel tank is empty.

•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

•Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

•Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil

into a suitable container. Rock lawn

mower back and forth to remove any oil

trapped inside of engine.

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower

and on side of engine.

•Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the

"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT

OVER FILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using adirty air filter.

Replace the air filter every year, more

often if you mow in very dusty, dirty

conditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter cover by turning

counterclockwise to the stop and pull

away from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

•Clean the inside of the cover and the

collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

•Insert new filter into cover.

•Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.

• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to

tighten.

Collar

Slot

Clip Turn

counter--

ctockwise to

remove

clockwise

Air filter cover to tighten

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create afire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to

make your engine start easier and run

better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built--up grass

and trash. Clean underside of mower

housing after each use.

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark

plug.

• 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 CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your lawn mower, is

provided to minimize the possibility that

objects will be thrown out the rear of the

lawn mower into the operator's mowing

position.

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle on your lawn mower has

three (3) height positions - adjust to height

that suits you.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pin

in handle can be inserted into one of

the three height adjustment holes.

Low

Handle pin

3-position

Handle

adjustment

bracket

ENGINE

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-acljustable fixed

main jet for mixture control. Ifyour 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 tamperwith 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 toe fast ortoo 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.

LAWNMOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a period

of time, clean itthoroughly, remove all dirt,

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

•Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-

ING" in the Maintenance section of this

manual).

•Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

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

are securely fastened. Inspect moving

parts for damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightty before painting.

HANDLE

•You can fold your lawn mower handle

for storage.

•Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on

sides of the upper handle and allow

handle to fold down to the i'ear.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle toward each other until pins in

handle clear the brackets and pivot

entire handle assembly forward and

allow it to rest on mower.

•When setting up your handle from the

storage position, the lower handle will

require manually locking into the

mowing position.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for

storage or transportation, be sure to fold

the handle as shown or you may damage

the control cables.

Med.

Low

3-position

JHandle

adjustment

I_racket

Operator Presence

Control Bar

Upper

Handle

Fold Forward

For Storage :old

Backward

Mowing

, Position

Lower

Handle

ENGINE

FUELSYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum

deposits from forming in essential fuel system

parts such as carburetor, fuel tilter, fuel hose,

or tank during storage.

Also, experience indicates that alcohol

blended fueLs (called gasohol or using

ethanol ormethanel) can attract moisture

which leads to separalion end formation of

acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage

the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

•Drain the fuel tank.

•Start the engine and let it run until the fuel

lines and carburetor are empty.

•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

•Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable

altemative in minimizing the formation of fuel

gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer

to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.

Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 10 minutes

after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to

reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINEOIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with

clean engine oil (See "ENGINE" in the

Maintenance section of this manual).

CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug.

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

plug hole into cylinder.

•Pull starter handle slowly a few times to

distribute oil.

•Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

•Do not store gasoline from one season to

another.

•Replace your gasoline can if your can

starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in 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. Plastic cannot breathe which

allows condensation to form and will cause

your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

CAUTION: Neverstorethe lawn mowerwith

gasolineinthe tank insidea buildingwhere

fumes may reach an open llama orspark.

Allowthe engineto coolbefore storing in any

enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start

Loss of power

1. Dirty air fiiter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Waterinfuel.

5. Spark plug wire is

disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.

8. Control bar in released

position.

9. Control bar defective.

1. Rear of lawn mower housing

or cutting blade dragging

in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter.

4. Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

5. Too much oil in engine.

6. - Walking speed too fast.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refill with

fresh dean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refill tank

with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. Tighten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to

handle.

9. Replace control bar.

1. Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

2. Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

3. ClearYreplace air fiiter.

4. Clean underside of mower

housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking

speed.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Poor cut - uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

topull

Graes catcher

not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

1. Wom, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves

and hash under mower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

1. Cutting height too low.

2. Lift on blade worn off.

3. Catcher not venting air.

1. Grass is too high orwheel

height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging

in grass.

3. Grass cetcher too full.

4. Handle height position not

right for you.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade boll

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Clean underside of

mower housing.

1. Replace blade.T'_hten

blade belt.

2. Contact an authorized

servicecenter.

1. Depress control bar to

upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact an authorized

service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface

to start engine.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

1. Raise cuttingheight.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher.

3. Empty grass cetcher.

4. Adjust handle height to

suit.

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388290

44 31

u33

,, J

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388290

KEY

NO.

PART

NO,

131696

166860X479

161105X479

132001

63601

131959

66426

74780512

166785

164362

168552

750097

850733X004

136376

51793

147286

165946X479

17600406

167132X004

167133X004

165858

168360X004

166875

751153

166236X479

165243X479

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Control Bar 27 851856 Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8

UpperHandle 28 63124 Nut

LowerHandle 29 160835X007 Wheel Adjusting Bracket -Front

RopeGuide 30 19112222 Spacer

Locknut 1/4-20 31 151161 Wheel

Handle Bolt 33 87877 Selector Knob

WireTie 34 167130X004 AxleArm Assembly -LR

Hex Bolt5/16-18 x 3/4 35 57143 Wavewasher

Locknut5/16-18 35 160828 Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

Shoulder Bolt 37 151162 Wheel Assembly

Engine Zone ControlCable 38 73990500 Nut

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 39 83923 Flanged Locknut

Up-Stop Bracket 40 77400 Hubcap

Handle Knob 41 88652 HingeScraw

HairpinCotter 42 165766 Spdng(LH)

HingeRod 43 165767 Spdng(RH)

Support Bracket 44 165912 Door Bolt

Screw 45 150406 Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1

Axle Arm Assembly - LF 46 85463 DangerDecal

Axle Arm Assembly - RF 47 161551 Adjustment Bolt

Rear Skirt 48 167131X004 Axle Arm Assembly - RR

Selector Spring 52 166872 Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)

Rear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Springs) 53 851084 Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8

Locknut 5/16-18 54 850263 Helical Lockwasher

Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) 55 851074 HardenedWasher

Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) 56 165833 21" Blade

57 851514 Bleda Adapter

67 166113 Grass Bag

68 165755 CatcherFrame

70 ...... Engine -(See Breakdown)

Craftsman 143.995502

- - 161058 Warning Decal (NotShown)

-- 166881 Owner'sManual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.995502

4O0

370C

135

298

!,3O0

61"-.292

130

416

126

120 119

125

275

182

172

178

38O 2O7

238 25O

310

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

KEY PART

NO, NO. DESCRIPTION

137266

2 26727

6 33734

7 36557

12 36775

1ZA 36558

12B 36694

!4 28277

15 30589

16 34839A

17 31335

18 651018

19 36281

20 32600

30 36776

40 40004

40005

41 36070

36071

42 40006

40007

43 20381

45 36777

46 32610A

48 27241

50 36778

52 29914

69 35261

70 34311E

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

119 36787

120 36825

125 37288

126 37289

130 6021A

135 35395

150 31672

151 31673

151A 40017

169 36783

KEY

NO.

MODEL NUMBER 143.995502

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

Cylinder 172 36784

(Ind. 2,20 & 150) 174 30200

DowelPin 178 29752

BreatherElement

Breather Ass'y. 182 6201

(Incl. 6 & 12A) 184 26756

BreatherTube

Breather Cover & Tube 185 36785

(Ind. 12B) 186 32653

BreatherTube Elbow 189 650839

Washer 191 36559A

Governor Rod (Ind. 14)

Govemor Lever 195 610973

Governor Lever Clamp 207 34336

Screw, Torx "I"-15,8-32 x 216 33086

19/64" 223 650451

Extension Spring 224 36786

Oil Seal 238 650932

Crankshaft 239 34338

Piston, Pin & Ring Set 241 35797

(Std.) 245 35O66

Piston, Pin & Ring Set 250 35065

(.010" OS) 260 36980

Piston & Pin Ass'y. 261 30200

(Std.) (Incl. 43) 262 650831

Piston & Pin Ass'y. 275 36790A

(.010" OS) (Ind. 43) 277 650988

Ring Set (StdJ 285 35000A

Ring Set (.010" OS) 287 650926

Piston Pin Retaining Ring 290 29774

Connecting Rod Ass'y. 292 26480

(Incl 46) 298 28763

ConnectingRod Bolt 300 36916

Vatve Lifter

Camshaft(MCR) 301 36246

Oil Pump Ass'y. 305 35647

*MountingFlange Gasket 306 36998

Mounting Flange (Ind. 72 307 35499

thru 83,306) 309 650562

Oil Drain Plug 310 35648

Oil Seal 313 34080

Governor Shaft 325 37152

Washer 370A 36261

Governor Gear Ass'y. 370C 37199

(Incl. 81) 370K 36695

Governer Spool 380 640174

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-114" 390 590737

Flywheel Key 400 36792B

Flywheel

BelleviltaWasher 416 36085

FlywheelNut

Solid State ignition 417 650821

Spark Plug Cover

Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24 900

x 15116"

GroundW=re

* Cylinder Head Gasket 900

CylinderHead

Exhaust Valve (Std.)

(Incl. 151)

Intake Valve

(Std.) (Incl. 151)

Screw, 5116-18 x 1o1/2"

Resistor Spark Plug

(RJ19LM)

Valve Spring

Valve Spring Cap

Intake Valve Seal

* Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-

Screw, 114-28x 7/8"

•Carburetor To Intake

Pipe Gasket

Intake Pipe

Governor Link

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

S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl.

195)

Terminal

Throttle Link

R.PM. AdjustingLever

Screw, 114-20x 1"

* Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

•Air Cleaner Gasket

Air Cleaner Collar

Air Cleaner Filter

Air Cleaner Cover

BlowerHousing

Screw, 10-24 x 9116"

Screw, 114-20x 1/2

Muffler

Screw, 114-20x 2-5/16"

Starter Cup

Screw, 8-32 x 21164"

Fuel Line

Fuel LineClamp

Screw, 10-32 x 35164"

Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 &

301)

Fuel Cap

Oil Fill Tube

*=O'-Ring

"O'-Ring

Screw, 10-32 x 112"

Dipstick

Spacer

SpringClip

Lubrication Decal

PdmerDecal

Starter Decal

Carburetor (Ind. 184)

RewindStarter

Gasket Set (Incl. Items

Marked *)

Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.

417)(Optional)

Screw, 10-32 x 112"

(Optional)

ReplacementEngine

750826A, order from 71-

999

Replacement Short Block

750796B, order from 71-

999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This engine could have been builtwith 590694

starter

NOTE: All componentdimensions given in U.S. inches

1 inch = 25.4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.995502

KEY

NO.

2OA

3OA

48A

PART

NO.

640174

631615

631767

631184

831183

64OO7O

65O5O6

631807

651025

630786

64OO18

640053

631867

631024

632019

631028

631021

631022

36045A

640080

632766

632547

640175

27110A

63O746

631027

632760

DESCRIPTION

Cacbum_x:(Ind.1_, _ EnginePartsLie0

_ShaR & Lever AssemlW

_P.elumSpdug

* DustSealWasher

"DustSe__)

11va_e Stlugm"

"Shut_r Scm,w

FuaiF_r_,_

Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

TensionSlxing

Idle Resb_tar Screw .

Mle Resfficto( Screw Cap

Roar Bo_

* Float Shaft

Float

*Roar Bo._ "O"Ring

* Inlet Needle, Seat. & Clip (Incl. 31)

Spr_ugCap

PdmerBulb/RetainerRing

Main Nozzle Tube

CarburetorTube

*"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

HighSpeed Bowl Nut

BowlNut Washer

* Welch Plug, Idle MixtureWell

*Welch Plug. Atmoephe_icVent

* Welch Plug

Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked *)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.995502

B--5

O--2

KEY

NO.

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

590694 Recoil Starter

590599A Spdng Pin (Incl. 4)

590600 Washer

590696 Retainer

590601 Washer

590697 Brake Spdng

590698 Starter Dog

590699 Dog Spnng

590700 Pulley & Rewind Spring

Ass'y.

590695 Starter Housing Ass'y.

(40 degree

grommet)

590535 Starter Rope ( 98" X 91

64" dia.)

590701 StarterHandle

KEY

NO,

m__

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

590737 RewindStarter

590740 Retainer

590616 Starter Dog

590617 DogSpdng

590618A Pulley & Rewind Spring

Ass'y

590687A Starter HousingAss'y

(40 degree grommet)

590535 Starter Rope (Length 98"

x 9/64" dia.)

590701 Starter Handle

590760 SpdngClip

I_i i,, --6

Por in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-Home sM(1-800-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparacibn a domicilio

1-800-676-5811

In Canada for all your service and parts needs call

Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pieces

1-800-665-4455

For the repair or replacement parts you need:

Call 6 am-1 lpm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirect sM

1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio

1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center

in your area:

Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance Agree

ment or to inquire about an existing Agreement:

Call 9 am-5 pm, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-5655

166881 03.22.99 VB Printedin U.S.A.

Craftsman 917388290 User Manual 5.5 HP 21 REAR DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 99040584

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual 99040584 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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