Craftsman 917388410 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides L0040141

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0040141 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917388410 917388410 CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN ROTARY MOWER #917388410. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman ROTARY MOWER Manual

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Owner's Manual

[RI:IFTXMI:IN°
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.
917.388410

•
•
•
•
•
•

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 6017_
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ...............................................
Safety Rules .........................................
Assembly ..............................................
Operation ..............................................
Maintenance
Schedule ........................
Maintenance .........................................

2
2
4
6
10
10

Product Specifications .......................... 11
Service and Adjustments ...................... 13
Storage .................................................
14
Troubleshooting
...................................
15
Repair Parts ..........................................
34
Parts Ordering ...................... Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
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, ROEBUCKAND
CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator
presence control to minimize the risk of
injury. Your 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
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this

• 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 manufacturer. 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

manual.

sandals. Wear only solid shoes with
good traction when mowing.
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank.
Clean off any spilled gasoline before
starting the engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your
mower and the area being cut. Do not
let other interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass.
Never run while operating your mower.
Always be sure of your footing - keep a
firm hold on the handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks,
roads, and any gravel-covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of material
toward bystanders nor allow anyone
near the mower while you are operating
it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop the engine and
make absolutely sure the blade and all
moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and
keep it away from the spark plug to
prevent accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if
you hit a foreign object. Follow the
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 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 deterioration 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.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions.
It means
CAUTIONH! BECOMEALERT!H
YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_I,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 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 accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER

CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS

KITS

STABILIZER

GRASS

FOR
!

SIDE DISCHARGE
GRASS
LAWN CATCHERS
MOWERS
GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER

MAINTENANCl

AIR FILTERS

MUFFLERS

BELTS

BLADES

BLADE ADAPTERS

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 assembled 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 necessary 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
CARTON

SPARK PLUGS

WHEELS

ENGINE OIL

LAWN MOWER

FROM

• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end comers of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER

Operator
presence
control bar
U
handle

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.

Lift up
Mowing
posiUon

Lower
handle

3-Position
handle
adjustment
Handle
pin

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see "To convert
mower" in the OPERATION section of this
manual.

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
product. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION
OR WARNING

ENGINE
ON

ENGINE
OFF

FAST

SLOW

CHOKE

Operator
bar

FUEL

presence

OIL

supplied with the

DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY

control

Engine zone control cable

Handle

G rass

filler cap

Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Mulcher door

Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT:
This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT
OIL OR GASOLINE
in the

Wheel adjuster

engine.

(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

tums 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
nto 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.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER

REAR BAGGING
• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place
the grass catcher frame hooks onto the
door pivot pins.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and close
rear door.

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.

SIDE DISCHARGING
• Rear door must be closed.

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 CUTrlNG 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 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

Pivot pins

• Open mulcher door and install discharge
deflector under guard as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door must be
closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING • Rear door closed.
• Mulcherdoor closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING

• Grass catcherinstalled.
• Mulcherdoorclosed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door closed.
• Side dischargedeflector
installed.
_CAUTION:
Do not run your lawn
mower without rear door closed or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or prepped open,

Lever

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO CONVERT MOWER

Mulcher
door

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:

Open
Mulcher

Door

Discharge
deflector

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.
ACAUTION:
Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
Gasoline filler

Engine oil
cap

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 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.

_i_

cap

TO START ENGINE
• To start a cold engine, push primer three
(3) times before tryingto start. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has already
run for a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle
quickly. Do not allow 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.

ADDGASOUNE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
_WARNING:
Experience 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

MOWINGTIPS

MULCHING 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.
• 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.

IMPORTANT:
For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER
HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning"
in MAINTENANCE
section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, 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 clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattem 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.

1/3

MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ERVICE DATES
¥#

(If Equipped)
CleardlnspectGrass Catcher

(_ Clean
Clean Under
Lawn Mower
Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers)

!_#

W Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-PropenedMowers)
R Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

I11
1_3

LubricationChad
Clean Battery/Recharge
(Electric Start Mowers)
E Check
OilOilLevel
ChangeEngine
Engine

Ip#

I#/

1_4

_1,2

Inspect Muffler
Clean Air Filter

_12

Clean
orAir
Replace
Replace
Filter Spark
Paper Plug
Cadrtdge

f_'2

I
2
3
4

- Change more offe_ when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient lernperalures.
° Service n_ore often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
- Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
- Charge 48 hours at end of season.

GENERAL

LUBRICATION

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
periodicallyto 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").

CHART

) Wheel
adjusters

_rake spdng
bracket
Engineoil
Rear
door

t Handle bracket

hinge

mounting pin

SPRAY LUBRICANT

SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO 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
SERIAL

SPECIFICATIONS

NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE
OILTYPE

CAPACITY/TYPE:
(API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:
;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:

1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
20 OZS.
CHAMPION
INTAKE:
EXHAUST:

RJ19LM OR J19LM
.004 - .008
.004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:

.0125 IN.

BLADE BOLTTORQUE:

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
ob'._-'tsand 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 counterclockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE

BLADE

• Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft
keyway are
aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended
tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT:
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.
Crank shaft
Blade
keyway
Ke

Bolt
Lockwasher

Hardened
washer

Trailing
edge

Blade
adapter

Crank
shaft

GRASS CATCHER
• 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, rep_ce
only with a manufacturer approved
replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower
model number when ordering.

ENGINE

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

LUBRICATION
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

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

.=o +

TEMPERATURE

RANGE

ANTICIPATED

BEFORE

NEXT OIL CHANGE

• Remove the air filter by turning clockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
• Clean the inside of the cover and the
12 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 counterclockwise to tighten,

CLEANING

ACAUTION:
Before performing any
service or adjustments:
• Release control bar and stop engine.
• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST HANDLE

IMPORTANT:
For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built--up grass
and trash. Clean underside of mower
housing after each use.
_kCAUTION:
Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
Turn
cannot come in contact with the spark
clockwise to
plug.
remove
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean
the underside of your lawn mower by
Slot
scraping to remove build--up of grass
Air filter
Turn counter-and trash.
clockwise
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
Air filter cover
to tighten
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
MUFFLER
hotter and shortens engine life.
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
could create afire hazard and/or damage.
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We DO NOT recommend using a
SPARKPLUG
garden hose to clean lawn mower
Change your spark plug each year to
unless the electrical system, muffler, air
make your engine start easier and run
filter and carburetor are covered to
better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.
keep water out. Water in engine can
result in shortened engine life.

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.

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.

J
Handle
adjustment
bracket

TO ASSEMBLE

GRASS

CATCHER

• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
_,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.
Catcher
frame
handle

"_--

Frame

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 runningtoo fast or too slow,
take your lawn mower to an authorized
service center for repair and adjustment.

opening

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or ifthe unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a period
of time, clean it thoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance section of this
manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, belts, 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.
• 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 rear.
• 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.
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Upper
_'Nx"

Handle
Fold Forward

_:,6"///

For Storage

' .,,
!IV *"Fold
_
Backward
Mowing
Position
Lower Handle

storage container. Always follow the mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL

_, Handle
r
adjustment

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.

acket

ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT:
It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids during storage. 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
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
Does not start

_,CAUTION:
Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.

CHART
CAUSE

CORRECTION

1.
2.
3.

Dirty air filter.
Out of fuel,
Stale fuel.

1.
2.
3.

Water in fuel.

Spark plug wire is
disconnected.

6.
7.

Bad spark plug.
6.
Loose blade or broken blade 7.

adapter.
8.

Control bar in released

position.
Control bar defective.

Clean/replace air filter.
Fill fuel tank.
Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
Connect wire to plug.
Replace spark plug.
Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
Depress control bar to
handle.
Replace control bar.

TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
Loss of power

CHART
CAUSE
1.

Rear of lawn mower housing 1.
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
Cutting too much grass.
2.

2.
3.
4.

Poor cut - uneven

Excessive
vibration

Starter rope hard
topull

CORRECTION
Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
Set to "Higher Cut_'
position.
Clean/replace air filter.
Clean underside of mower
housing.
Check oil level.

3.
4.

5.
6.

Dirty air filter.
Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
Too much oil in engine.
Walking speed too fast.

Cut at slower walking
speed.

Wom, bent or loose blade.

Wheel heights uneven.

Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.

Replace blade. _ghten
blade belt.
Set all wheels at same
height
Clean underside of
mower housing.

Wom, bent or loose blade.

Bent engine crankshaft.

3.
4.

Engine flywheel brake is on 1.
when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft.

Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.

3.
4.

Replace blade. 13ghten
blade bolt.
Contact an authorized
service center.
Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
Contact an authorized
service center.
Replace blade adapter.
Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
to start engine

Grass catcher
not filling (,'so

1.
2.

Cutting height too low.
Lift on blade wom off.

equipped)

Catcher not venting air.

Hard to push

Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
Grass catcher too full.

3.
4.

Handle height position not
right for you.

1.
2.
3.

Raise cutting height.
Replace blade.
Clean grass catcher.

Raise cutting height.

Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
Empty grass catcher.
Adjust handle height to
suit.

3.
4.

CRAFTSMAN

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388410

49
14

34
25

33
68
21
47

CRAFTSMAN

KEY
NO.

PART
NO.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

131696
166860X479
161105X479
132001
63601
131959
66426
74780512
154132
165754
156577
750097
850733X004
136376

15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

51793
147286
165946X479
17600406
167132X004
167133X004
165858
168360X004
166875
75115,3
166236X479
166243x479
851856
152124
160835X007
19112222
165760

ROTARY LAWN MOWER--

DESCRIPTION
Control Bar
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
RopeGuide
Locknut 1/4-20
Handle Bolt
WireTie
Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4
Hinge Bracket
Mulcher Door
Engine Zone Control Cable
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2
Up-Stop Bracket
Handle Knob
Hairpin Cotter
Hinge Rod
Support Bracket
Screw
Axle Arm Assembly - LF
Axle Arm Assembly - RF
Rear Skirt
Selector Spring
Rear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Spdngs)
Locknut 5/16-18
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8
Hinge Spdng
Wheel Adjusting Bracket - Front
Spacer
Clip on Discharge Guard

KEY
NO.

PART
NO.

33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
67
68

87877
167130X004
166785
160828
151162
164362
83923
774O0
88652
165766
165767
165912
150406
85463
63124
167131X004
151161
57143
73990500
166878
851084
850263
851074
165833
851514
161551
166113
165755

......

- - -

161058
174409

MODEL NO. 917.388410

DESCRIPTION
Selector Knob
Axle Arm Assembly - LR
Looknut 5/16-18
Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18
Wheel Assembly
Shoulder BOlt
Flanged Locknut
Hubcap
Hinge Screw
Spdng (LH)
Spnng(RH)
Door Bolt
Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1
Danger Decal
Nut
Axle Arm Assembly - RR
Wheel
Wave Washer
Nut
Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8
Helical Lockwasher
Hardened Washer
21" Blade
Blade Adapter
Adjustment Bolt
Grass Bag
Catcher Frame
Engine - (See Breakdown)
Craftsman 143,006714
Waming Decal (Not Shown)
Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN

4-CYCLE

ENGINE

MODEL

NO. 143.006714

4OO
135

130

_',.
120

'_310

223.
182

185

239

._)

370C

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Craftsman 917388410 User Manual ROTARY MOWER Manuals And Guides L0040141

CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Manual L0040141 CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Walk Behind Lawnmower, Gas installation guides

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