Owner's Manual rRAFTXMAN ° 6.75 HORSEPOWER 22" REAR DISCHARGE POWER PROPELLED ROTARY LAWN MOWER Model No 917.377390 • 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
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917.377390 - Fermilaborgs.fnal.gov/gardenclub/training/EasyStartMulchingMower.pdfblades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug. • Repairs necessary because of operator
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CAUTION:Read and follow allSafety Rules and Instructionsbefore operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14Assembly 4 Storage 16Operation 6 Troubleshooting 17Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 37Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWERFor 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 theowner'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 warrantyapplies 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 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 nearestSears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only whilethis product is in use in the United States.This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights whichvary from state to state.SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operatorpresence controls to minimize therisk of injury. Your unit is equippedwith such controls. Do not attempt todefeat the function of the operatorpresence controls under anycircumstances.TRAINING:
• Read this operator's manual carefully.Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mowerproperly. Learn how to quickly stopmower.
• 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 andpets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturerintended and as described in thismanual.
• Do not operate mower if it has beendropped or damaged in any manner.Always have damage repaired beforeusing your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments thatare not recommended by the manufac-turer. Use of such attachments may behazardous.
• The blade turns when the engine isrunning.
PREPARATION:
• Always thoroughly check the area to bemowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,wires, bones, and other foreign objects.These objects will be thrown by theblade and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eyeshields when starting and while usingyour mower.Dress properly. Do not operate mowerwhen barefoot or wearing open sandals.Wear only solid shoes with good tractionwhen mowing.2
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.Do not fill gas tank indoors, when theengine is running or when the engine ishot. Allow the engine to cool for severalminutes before filling the gas tank. Cleanoff any spilled gasoline before startingthe engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustmentsbefore starting your mower. Neverattempt to do this while the engine isrunning.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on yourmower and the area being cut. Do not letother interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Neverrun while operating your mower. Alwaysbe sure of your footing -- keep a firmhold on the handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or underrotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-charge opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever youleave or are not using your mower, orbefore crossing driveways, walks, roads,and any gravel--covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of materialtoward bystanders nor allow anyonenear the mower while you are operatingit.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairingyour mower, stop the engine and makeabsolutely sure the blade and all movingparts have stopped. Then disconnect thespark plug wire and keep it away fromthe spark plug to prevent accidentalstarting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if youhit a foreign object. Follow the procedureoutlined above, then repair any damagebefore restarting and operating youmower.
• Do not change the govemor settings oroverspeed the engine. Engine damageor personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibratesabnormally. Excessive vibration is anindication of damage; stop the engine,safely check for the cause of vibrationand repair as required.
• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaustfumes are dangerous.
• Never cut grass by pulling the mowertowards you. Mow across the face ofslopes, never up and down or youmight lose your footing. Do not mowexcessively steep slopes. Use cautionwhen operating the mower on uneventerrain or when changing directions --maintain good footing.
• Never operate your mower withoutproper guards, plates, grass catcher orother safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
• Check the blade and the enginemounting bolts often to be sure they aretightened properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws atfrequent intervals for proper tightness tobe sure mower is in safe workingcondition.
• Keep all safety devices in place andworking.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the enginefree of grass, leaves or excessivegrease and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-tion and wear and replace worn bags.Use only replacement bags that arerecommended by and comply withspecifications of the manufacturer ofyour mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on yourmower.
• Allow engine to cool before storing inany enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes mayreach an open flame or an ignitionsource such as a hot water heater,space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
ALook for this symbol to point outimportant safety precautions. It meansCAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!H YOURSAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_CAUTION: Always disconnect sparkplug wire and place wire where it cannotcontact spark plug in order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_WARNINGThe engine exhaust from this productcontains chemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer, birth defects,or other reproductive harm.
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These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are notshipped with your mower, They are also available at most Sears retailoutletsand servicecenters. Mast Sears stores can also order repair pads for you, when you provide the modelnumber of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERSFOR
REAR DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS
L
.{@F.,_'_Y.*°. J
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FORSIDE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR FILTERS
WHEELS
I
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand this manual in its
entirety before you attempt to assemble oroperate your new lawn mower.IMPORTANT- This lawn mower is shippedWITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.-Your new lawn mower has been assembled
at the factory with the exception of those padsleft unassembled for shipping purposes. Allparts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,necessary to complete the assembly havebeen placed in the pads bag. To ensure safeand proper operation of your lawn mower, allpads and hardware you assemble must betightened securely. Use the correct tools asnecessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROMCARTON• Remove loose pads included with mower.• Cut down two end comers of carton and
lay end panel down flat.• Remove all pecking materials except
padding between upper and lower handleand padding holding operator presencecontrol bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and checkcarton thoroughly for additional loosepads.
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HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWERTO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so asnot to pinch or damage control cables.• Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower handleand tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding operatorpresence control bar to upper handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be adjustedfor your mow_g comfort. Refer to "AdjustHandle" in the Service and Adjustmentsection of this manual.
Operator presence control
bar _U_Upper handle
Lift up
t Mowing
position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to beused as a mulcher. To convert to bagging ordischarging:• Open rear door and remove mulcher plug.
Store mulcher plug in a safe place.• You can now installcatcher or optional
clipping deflector.• To retum to mulching operation, install
mulcher plug into discharge opening ofmower. Be sure all tabs are seated
properly.
Mulcher plug
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawnmower without mulcher plug in place orapproved clipping deflector or grasscatcher in place. Never attempt tooperate the lawn mower with the reardoor removed or propped open.
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KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWNMOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location qf variqus qontrolsand adjustment _. Save _his manual fqr fyture reference,_ symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literaturesuppliedwilh the product.Learn andunderstandtheir meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDSOR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control cable Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Starter handle
Grass catcher
Mulcher plug _
Handle knob
Gasoline cap
Housing
_r
Engine oilcap w/dipstick
Primer
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shippedWheel adjuster
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the AmericanNational Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The bladetums when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar - must beheld down to the handle to start the engine.Release to stop the engine.Palmer - pumps additional fuel from thecarburetor to the cylinder for use whenstarting a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.Drive control lever - used to engage power-propelled forward motion of lawn mower.Mulcher plug - mustbe removed to converttobagging or discharging operation.
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The operation of any lawnmower can result in foreignobjects thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage.Always wear safety glasses or eye shieldswhile operating your lawn mower orperforming any adjustments or repairs.We recommend a wide vision safety maskover spectacles or standard safetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factoryfor optimum performance. Speed is notadjustable.ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
A, CAUTION: Federal regulations requirean engine control to De installeo on thislawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under anycircumstances attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator control. The bladeturns when the engine is running.• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar whichrequires the operator to be positionedbehind the lawn mower handle to start andoperate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheelsfor high cut.
• Adjustcutting height to suityour require-ments. Medium position is best for mostlawns.
• To change cutting height,squeeze adjusterlever toward wheel. Move wheel up ordown to suityour requirements. Be sure allwheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positionedwhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)allow lever to be positioned between theplate tabs.
Plate Tab
Lower Wheels for High
Lever
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO A'n'ACH GRASS CATCHER
• Lift the rear door of the lawn mowerand place the grass catcher framehooks onto the door pivot pins.
• The grass catcher is secured to thelawn mower housing when the reardoor is lowered onto the grass catcherframe.
ACAUTION." Do not run your lawnmower without clipping deflector orapproved grass catcher in place. Neverattempt to operate the lawn mower withthe rear door removed or prepped open.
door
Grasscatcherhandle
Pivot
pins Catcherframe hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• Lift up on grass catcher using the framehandle.
• Remove grass catcher with clippingsfrom under lawn mower handle.
• Empty clippings from bag using bothframe handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag whenemptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
Bag handle
(Grass
framehandle
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DRIVE CONTROL
• Self-propelling is controlled by holdingthe operator presence control bar downto the handle and pushing the drivecontrol lever forward until it clicks; thenrelease the lever.
• Forward motion will stop when theoperator presence control bar isreleased, To stop forward motionwithout stopping engine, release theoperator presence control bar slightlyuntil the drive control disengages. Holdoperator presence control bar down tohandle to continue mowing without self-propelling.
• To keep drive control engaged whenturning corners, push down on handleand lift front wheels off ground whileturning lawn mower.
Operator presence control bar Drivecontrol
To engage drive Drive controlcontrol disengaged
BEFORE STARTING ENGINEOILYour 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 fullline on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into enginefor accurate dipstick reading.
• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type and.grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" inMaintenance section of this manual.
• Pour oilslowly. Do not overfill.• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed, Fillto 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 needto change the oil more often under dusty,dirty conditions.
ADD GASOUNE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.Purchase fuel in quantities that can beused within 30 days to assure fuelfreshness.
_WARNING: .E._.rience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) can attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidicgascan damage the fuel system of an enginewhile in storage. To avoid engine problems,the fuel system should be emptied beforestorage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gastank, start the engine and let it run untilthefuel lines and carburetor are empty, Usefresh fuel next season. See StorageInstructionsfor additional information. Never
use engine or carburetor cleaner products inthe fuel tank or permanent damage mayOccur.
_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tankfiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill oruse gasoline near an open flame.
Engine oil cap Gasoline filler cap
TO START ENGINE
• To start a cold engine, push primer three(3) times before tryingto start. Use a firmpush. This step is not usually necessarywhen starting an engine which hasalready run for a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar downto the handle and pull starter handlequicldy. Do not allow starter rope to snapback.
• To stop engine, release operator presencecontrol bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may benecessary to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather over priming may causeflooding and engine will not start. If youdo flood engine, wait a few minutesbefore attempting to start and do notrepeat priming steps.
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MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as verytall grass, it may be necessary to raisethe height of cut to reduce pushing effortand to keep from overloading the engineand leaving clumps of grass clippings. Itmay also be necessary to reduceground speed and/or run the lawnmower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce thewidth of cut by overlapping previouslycut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and mostcutting conditions, the engine speedshould be set in the fast position.
• When using a rear discharge lawnmower in moist, heavy grass, clumps ofcut grass may not enter the grasscatcher. Reduce ground speed (push-ing speed) and/or run the lawn mowerover the area a second time.
• If a trail of clippings is left on the rightside of a rear discharge mower, mow ina clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect the clippings on thenext pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust with use
and catchers will collect less grass. Toprevent this, regularly hose catcher offwith water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clearand clean of grass clippings and chaff.This will help engine air flow and extendengine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keepmower housing free of built-upgrass andtrash. See "Cleaning" in Maintenance sectionof this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut thegrass clippingsmany times and reducethem in size so that as they fall onto thelawn they will disperse into the grass andnot be noticed. Also, the mulched grass willbiodegrade quickly to provide nutrients forthe lawn. Always mulch with your highestengine (blade) speed as this will provide thebest recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wetgrass tends to form clumps and interfereswith the mulching action. The best time tomow your lawn is the early aftemocn. Atthis time the grass has dried and the newlycut area will not be exposed to the directSUn.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mowercutting heightso that the lawn mower cutsoff only the top one-third of the grass blades.If the lawn is overgrown itwill be necessaryto raise the height of cut to reduce pushingeffort and to keep from overioadingtheengine and leaving clumps of mulchedgrass. For extremely heavy mulching,reduce yourwidth of cut by overlappingpreviouslycut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass cond_ionsmay require that an area be mulched asecond time to completely hide theclippings. When doing a second cut, mowacross or perpendicular to the firstcut path.
• Change your curlingpattern from weak toweak, Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week. Thiswill help prevent matting and graining of thelawn.
/3
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AS YOU COMPLETE ._'__Y"._'_O_"_ ......
REGULARSERVICE /__'_._#e" SERVICE DATESCheck for Loose Fasteners I/# 1/Clean/InspectGrassCatcher
(If Equipped) yt _ V'_
Clean LawnMowerClean Under Drive Cover
_ (Power-Propelled Mowers) ,
Check drive belt/pulleys(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade 3
LubricationChart I/'Clean Battery/RechargeIElectric Start Mowers I _ I/4
NE Check En_iine Oil LevelChange Engine Oil i,/ra
G Clean Air Filter _2Inspect Muffler
N Clean °r ReplaceSparkPlugReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 2
1 +Change more oftenwhen operatingundera heavy load or in highambient temperatures.2 - Sen/ice moreoftenwhen operatingIndilly or dusty conditions,3 - Replace bladesmoreoftenwhen mowing in sandyso_l.4 - Charge48 hoursat end of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does notcover items that have been subjected tooperator abuse or negligence. To receivefull value from the warranty, operator mustmaintain mower as instructed in thismanual.Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodically to properly maintain your unit.All adjustments in the Service andAdjustments section of this manual shouldbe checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,replace air filter element and checkblade for wear. A new spark plug andclean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your.engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in thismanual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.• Check for loose fasteners.LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-TION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel adjuster ine oil
\
Rear door hinge
(_) Handle bracket mounting pin
(_) Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plasticwheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attractdust and dirtthat will shorten the life of the selflubricatingbearings. Ifyou feel they must belubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphitetype lubricantsparingly.
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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIALNUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030")VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITIONAIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
1.5 QUARTSUNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)20 OZS.
CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .004 - .008EXHAUST: .004 - .008
.0125 IN.
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 spaceprovided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performingany maintenance.TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insectcontrol chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts,sharpobjects and other hazards that may causetire damage.
BLADE CAREFor best results, mower blade must bekept sharp. Replace bent or damagedblades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Makesure air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade fromturning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/orwrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware(bolt, lock washer and hardenedwasher).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter andcheck the key inside hub of blade adapter.The key must be in good condition to workproperly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
• Position the blade adapter on theengine crankshaft. Be sure key inadapter and crankshaft keyway arealigned.
• Position blade on the blade adapteraligning the two (2) holes in the bladewith the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade(opposite sharp edge) is up toward theengine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lockwasher and hardened washer intoblade adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade andlawn mower housing and tighten theblade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is35-40 ft. Ibs.
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IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heattreated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-ing blade - but if you do, be sure the bladeis balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the bladebalanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower orengine.• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nailinto a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nail exposed. Placecenter hole of blade over the head ofthe nail. If blade is balanced, it shouldremain in a horizontal position. If eitherend of the blade moves downward,sharpen the heavy end until the bladeis balanced. Crank shaft
• The grass catcher may be hosed withwater, but must be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often fordamage or deterioration. Through normaluse it will wear. If catcher needs replacing,
"replace only with a manufacturer approvedreplacement catcher. Give the lawnmower model number when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time before
you mow to be sure they move freely.The wheels not turning freely meanstrash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drivewheel area and must be cleaned to freedrive wheels.If necessary to clean the drive wheels,check both front wheels.
• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters andwashers.
• Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttingsfrom inside the dust cover, pinion and/or drive wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.• If after cleaning, the ddve wheels do
not turn freely, contact your nearestauthorized service center.
GEAR CASE
• To keep your drive system workingproperly, the gear case and areaaround the drive should be kept cleanand free of trash build-up. Clean underthe drive cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant tothe proper level at the factory. The onlytime the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on thegear case.
• If lubricant is required, use only TexacoStarplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.750369. Do not substitute.
ENGINELUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwith API service classification SF, SG orSH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity gradeaccording to your expected operatingtemperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
-20" o" 30" 3_" 40"
TEMPERATURERANGE ANTICIPATEDBEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting incold weather, these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased oil consumptionwhen used above 32°F. Check yourengine oil level more frequently to avoidpossible engine damage from runninglow on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours ofoperation or at least once a year if thelawn 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 plugsecurely each time you check the oillevel.
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TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower todrain oil, drain fuel tank by runningengine until fuel tank is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on aclean surface.
• Tip lawn mower on its side as shownand drain oil into a suitable container.Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside ofengine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mowerand on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOToverfill.
AIR FILTERYour engine will not run properly andmay be damaged by using a dirty airfilter.
Replace the air filter every year, moreoften if you mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter by turningclockwise to the stop and pull awayfrom 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 counter-
clockwise to tighten.
Collar
Slot
Clip
Turnclockwiseto remove
Tab
Air filterAir filtercover Turn counter-
clockwise to tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler asit could create a fire hazard and/ordamage.SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year tomake your engine start easier and runbetter. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of built-upgrass and trash. Clean the underside ofyour mower after each use.
_CAUTION" Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.Clean the underside of your lawnmower by scraping to remove build-upof grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating. A clogged engine runshotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheelsfree of all gasoline, oil,etc.
• We do not recommend using a gardenhose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter andcarburetor are covered to keep waterout. Water in engine can result inshortened engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVERClean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover withputty knife or similar tool to remove anybuild-up of trash or grass on undersideof drive cover.
13
_,CAUTION: Before performing anyservice and adjustments:
• Release control bar and stop engine.• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot comein contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See '%0 ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rearwheels of your lawn mower, is provided tominimize the possibilitythat objects will bethrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the
operator's mowing position. Ifthe reardeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
• Remove drive cover, Remove belt bypushing down on gear case pulley and rollbelt off.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with carbure-
tor and fuel cap up.• Remove blade.• Remove debris shield.• Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.• Installnew belt by reversing above steps.• Always use factory approved belt to assure
fit and long life.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The upper handle may be adjusted to fou(4) different height positions.• Loosen both handle knobs only enougl
to allow the upper handle to pivot to th_desired adjustment position..
• Tighten both handle knobs securely.
Handle Knob
Drivecover
Belt
Pushdown
14
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bagwith rigid part of bag on the bottom.Make sure the frame handle is outsideof the bag top.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, holdthem in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mowerwithout clipping deflector or approvedgrass catcher in place. Never attempt tooperate the lawn mower with the reardoor removed or propped open.
Catcherframehandle
,,, bi
Frame
opening
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor it may result in personal injury. If youbelieve that the engine is running too fastor too slow, take your lawn mower to anauthorized service center for repair andadjustment.CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustablefixed main jet for mixture control. If yourengine does not operate properly due tosuspected carburetor problems, take yourlawn mower to an authorized servicecenter for repair and/or adjustment.IMPORTANT: never tamper with theengine governor, which is factory set forproper engine speed. Overspeeding theengine above the factory high speedsetting can be dangerous, if you think theengine-governed high speed needsadjusting, contact your nearest authorzedservice center, which has properequipment and experience to make anynecessary adjustments.
15
Immediately prepare your lawn mower forstorage at the end of the season or if the unitwill not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a periodof 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 section of thismanual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenancesection of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pinsare securely fastened. Inspect movingparts for damage, breakage and wear.Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle forstorage.• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the lowerhandle clears the handle bracket, thenmove handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting boltsenough to allow upper handle to be foldedback.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle forstorage or transportation, be sure to fold thehandle as shown or you any damage thecontrol cables.
• When setting up your handle from thestorage position, the lower handle willautomatically lock into the mowing position.
S_lueezeto fold
_b Lower
eHandle
racket
Hairpincotter
Operator presence control bar
Fold foward ._
for storage
t. j-.
Lower _
handle
Upperj handle
backward
Mowingposition
ENGINEFUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gumdeposits from forming in essential fuel systemparts such as carburetor, f fuel filter, fuel hoseor tank during storage. Also, exparienceindicates that alcohol blended fuels ( calledgasohol or using ethanol or methanol) canattract moisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidic gascan damage the fuel system of an enginewhile 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 permanentdamage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptablealternative in minimizing the formation of fuelgum deposits during storage. Add stabilizerto gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizercontainer. Run engine at least 10 minutesafter adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer toreach the carburetor. Do not drain the gastank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
16
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace withclean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in theMaintenance 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.
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHARTCAUSEPROBLEM
Doesn=stad
Loss of power
Poor cut - uneven
1. Dirtyair filter.2. Out of fuel.3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire isdisconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.8. Control bar in released
pos .9. Control bar defective.
,
.
3.4.
5.6.
Rear of lawn mower housingor cutting blade draggingin heavy grass.Cutting too much grass.
Dirtyair filter.Buildup of grass, leaves,and trash under mower.
Too much oil in engine.Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leavesand trash under mower.
17
• Replace your gasoline can if your canstarts to rust. Rust and/or dirtin yourgasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors andcover itto give protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protectivecover that does not retain moisture. Donot use plastic. Plasticcannot breathewhich allows condensation to form and willcause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whileengine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.ACAUTION: Never store the lawnmower with gasoline in the tank inside abuilding where fumes may reach an openflame or spark. Allow the engine to coolbefore storing in any enclosure.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.2. Fill fuel tank.3. Drain tank and refill with
Upper HandleEngine Zone Control CableMulcher PlugWirel"ieHandle KnobControl BarRear Door KitPop RivetSelf Tapping Screw #10-16 x 1/2Hex Tapping Screw w/Sems 1/4-20 x 1/2HubcapBack PlateSide Baffle
Discharge RaffleRear BaffleKeps Locknut 1/4-20Rear SkirtEngine PulleyHi-Pro Key #505Hex Flange NutWheelShoulder Bolt 3/8-16 x 1Belleville WasherAxle Arm AssemblySelector KnobSelector SpringSpacerWheel Adjusting Bracket (Right)Thread Cutting Screw w/Sems 5/16-18 x 3/4NutHandle Bracket Assembly (Left)Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8
ControlCableAssemblyLocknut#10-24HexWasher Head Screw 1/4-20x2.12V-BeltSpringRetainerHubcapLocknutWheel& TireAssemblyE-RingPinionDustCoverFeltWasherWasher 1/2 x 1-1/2 x ,134SelectorKnob
Pan HeadTappingScrew#10-24 x2-3/4DriveCoverHex Flange NutDrivePulleyWheel AdjusterAssembly(Left)Gear Case AssemblySpringLocknut1/4-20SpringWheelAdjusterAssembly(Right)GrassbagAssemblyDriveshaftCoverFrame