Owner's Manual I CRAFT..TMAN" I 6.75 HORSEPOWER 22" REAR DISCHARGE POWER PROPELLED ROTARY LAWN MOWER Model No, 917,378311 • 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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ProductSpecifications........................1 tService and Adjustments....................14Storage ...............................................16Troubleshooting................................. 17Repair Parts........................................37Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover
LIMITEDTWO YEARWARRANTYON CRAFTSMAN POWERMOWERFor two years from date of purchasa,when thisCraftsmanLawnMower is maintained,lubdcated,and tuned up accordingto the operatingand maintenanceinstructionsinthe owner'smanual,Sears will repair free of chargeany defectin materialor workman-ship.If thisCraftsmanLawnMower is usedforcommemialor rental purposes,thiswarrantyappliesfor only90 days from the date of purchase.This Warrantydoes notcover:• Expendableitemswhichbecomeworn duringnormaluse, suchas rotarymower
blades, blade adapters,belts, air cleanersand spark plug.• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse or negligence,includingbent
crankshaftsand the failure to maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructionscontainedin the owner'smanual.
Warrantyserviceis availableby returningthe Craftsmanpower mowerto the nearestSears ServiceCenter/Departmentin the UnitedStates.This warrantyappliesonlywhile thisproductis in use in the UnitedStates.This Warrantygivesyou specificlegal dghts,and youmay also have other rightswhichvaryfrom stateto state.SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES,ILLINOIS 60179
IMPORTANT: This cuttingmachineis capable of amputatinghandsand feet andthrowingobjects.Failureto observethe following safetyinstructionscould resultinsedousinjuryor death.
I.GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, end follow allinstructions on the machine and in themanual(s) before starting. Be thor-oughly familiar with the controls and theproper use of the machine beforestarting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or underrotating parts. Keep clear of thedischarge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, whoare familiar with the instructions, tooperate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., whichcould be picked up and thrown by theblade.
• Be sure the area is clear of otherpeople before mowing. Stop machine ifanyone enters the area.
2
• Do notoperatethe mowerwhenbarefootor wearingopen sandals.Alwayswear substantialfoot wear.
• Do notpull mowerbackwardsunlessabsolutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown and behind before and whilemovingbackwards.
• Do notoperate the mowerwithoutproperguards,plates, grasscatcherorother safetyprotectivedevicesinplace.
• See manufacturer'sinstructionsforproperoperationand installationofaccessories.Only use accessoriesapproved by the manufacturer.
• Stopthe engine (motor)wheneveryouleave the equipment,before cleaningthe moweror uncloggingthe chute.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and waituntil the blade comes to complete stopbefore removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.
• Do not operate the machine whileunder the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass.Always be sure of your footing: keep afirm hold on the handle and walk; neverrun.
• Disengage the self-propelled mocha-nism or drive clutch on mowers soequipped before starting the engine(motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrateabnormally, stop the engine (motor)and check immediately for the cause.Vibration is generally a warning oftrouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safetyglasses with side shields whenoperating mower.
I1.SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slipand fall accidents which can result insevere injury.All slopes require extracaution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, donot mow it.DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: neverup and down. Exercise extreme cautionwhen changing direction on slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, treelimbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tallgrass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
• Do not trim near drep-offs, ditches orembankments. The operator could losefooting or balance.
• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing could cause slipping.
II1. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operatoris not alert to the presence of children.Children are often attracted to themachine and the mowing activity. Neverassume that children will remain whereyou last saw them.• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of anotherresponsible adult.
• be aled and turn machine off if childrenenter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards,look behind and down for smallchildren.
• Never allow children to operate themachine.
• Use extra care when approaching blindcorners, shrubs, trees, or other objectsthat may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasolineand other fuels. They are flammableand vapors are explosive.-Use only an approved container.- Never remove gas cap or add fuelwith the engine running. Allowengine to cool before refuelirtg. Donot smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.- Never store the machine or fuelcontainer inside where there is anopen flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closedarea.
• Never make adjustments or repairs withthe engine (motor) running. Disconnectthe spark plug wire, and keep the wireaway from the plug to prevent acciden-tal starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially bladeattachment bolts, tight and keepequipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, orother debris build-up. Clean oil or fuelspillage. Allow machine to cool beforestoring.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if youstrike an object. Repair, if necessary,before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel heightadjustments while the engine (motor) isrunning.
• Grass catcher components are subjectto wear, damage, and deterioration,which could expose moving parts orallow objects to be thrown. Frequentlycheck components and replace withmanufacturer's recommended parts,when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, anduse extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governorsetting or overspeed the engine.
_Look for this symbol to point outimportant safety precautions, it meansCAUTION!tf BECOMEALERTl!! YOURSAFETY IS INVOLVED._ WARNING: In order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transporting, adjusting or making repairs,always disconnect spark plug wire andplace wire where it cannot contact sparkplug.
_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some bf itsconstituents, and certain vehicle compo-nents contain or emit chemicals known tothe State of California to cause cancerand birth defects or other reproductiveharm.AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals andrelated accessories contain lead andlead compounds, chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancer andbirth defects or other reproductive harm.Wash hands after handling.
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are notshipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets andservice centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when youprovide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may notapply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASC CATCHERS
FORREAR DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
I SiDE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS
STABlUZER
<fGAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR FILTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
4
Read these instructions and this manualin its entirety before you attempt toassemble or operate your new lawnmower.IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.Your new lawn mower has been as-sembled at the factory with the exceptionof those parts left unassembled forshipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-plete the assembly have been placed inthe parts bag. To ensure safe and properoperation of your lawn mower, all partsand hardware you assemble must betightened securely. Use the correct toolsas necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROMCARTON
1. Remove loose parts included withmower.
2. Cut down two end corners of cartonand lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials exceptpadding between upper and lowerhandle and padding holding operatorpresence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton andcheck carton thorougiy for additionalloose pads.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWNMOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully soas not to pinch or damage control cables.1. Raise handles until lower handle
section locks into place in mowingposition.
2. Remove protective padding, raiseupper handle section into place onlower handle and tighten both handleknobs.
3. Remove handle padding holdingoperator presence control bar toupper handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjustedfor your mowing comfod. Refer to "AdjustHandle" in the Service and Adjustmentssection of this manual.
Operator Icontrol bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Mowing
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready tobe used as a mulcher. To convert tobagging or discharging:
Open rear door and remove mulcherplug, Store mulcher plug in a safeplace.You can now install catcher oroptional clipping deflector.
• To return to mulching operation, instaltmulcher plug into discharge openingof mower.
w_=tCAUTION:Do not run your lawn mowerhout mulcher plug in place or ap-
proved clipping deflector or grass catcherin place. Never attempt to operate thelawn mower with the rear door removedor propped open.
Mulcher
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KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOURLAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourselfwith the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for futurereference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with theproduot. Learn and understand their meaning,
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANIOR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Enginezone controlcable
\ Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Starter handle
Grass catche
MulcherplugGasoline cap
Primer
Housing
COVet
Engine oilcap w/dipstick
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in Wheet adjusterthe engine. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk-behind power lawn mowers conformto the safetystandards of the AmericanNationalStandards Instituteand the U.S. Consumer ProductSafety Commission. The blade
turnswhen the engine is runninc_.
Operator presence control bar - mustbe held down to the handle to start theengine. Release to stop the engine.Primer - pumps additional fuel from thecarburetor to the cylinder for use whenstarting a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting theengine.Drive control lever - used to engagepower-propelled forward motion of lawnmower.
Muleher plug -must be removed toconverttobegging ordischarging
6 operation.
The operation of any lawnmower can result inforeign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can resultin severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eyeshields while operating your lawn moweror performing any adjustments or repairs,We recommend a wide vision safetymask over 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
_CAUTION: Federal regulations requirean engine control to be installed 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 startand operate the lawn mower,
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lowerwheels for high cut, adjust cutting heightto suit your requirements. Mediumposition is best for most lawns,• To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Movewheel up or down to suit your require-ments. Be sure all wheels are in thesame setting,
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positionedwhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.Also, g-position adjusters (if so equipped)allow lever to be positioned between theplate tabs. PlateTab
LowerWheels for High Cutr'-_LA_.J_IIF
., ar
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower
and place the grass catcher frameside hooks onto the door pivot pins,
2, The grass catcher is secured to thelawn mower housing when the reardoor is lowered onto the grass catcherframe.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawnmower without clipping deflector orapproved grass catcher in place. Neverattempt to operate the lawn mower withthe rear door removed or propped open.
Grasscatcherhandle
Pivot _, ... \ .pinsframe hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift up on grass catcher using theframe handle,
2. Remove grass catcher with clippingsfrom under lawn mower handle,
3. 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
DRIVECONTROL• Self-propelling is controlled by holding
the operator presence control bar downto the handle and pushing the drivecontrol lever forward until it clicks; thenreleasing 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 downagainst handle to continue mowingwithout self-propelling.
• To keep drive control engaged whenturning corners, push down on handleand lift front wheels off ground whileturning lawn mower.
Operator presence controlbarDrive
, _ control
To engage Drive controldrivecontrol disengaged
BEFORE STARTING ENGINEADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil inthe engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.For type and grade of oil to use, see"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of thismanual.1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oil fill is clean.2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.Do not over fill.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into enginefor accurate reading. To road proper level,tighten engine oil cap, then remove it toread the dipstick.3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.• Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You mayneed to change the oil more often underdusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank Use fresh, clean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of87 octane Do not mix oil with gasolinePurchase fuel in quantities that can beused within 30 days to assure fuetfreshne_
_WARNING: Experience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) can attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidicgas can damage the fuel system of anengine while in storage. To avoid engineproblems, the fuel system should beemptied before storage of 30 days orlonger. Drain the gas tank, start theengine and let it run until the fuel linesand carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuelnext season, See Storage Instructions foradditional information. Never use engineor carburetor cleaner products in the fueltank or permanent damage may occur.
CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tankfiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe eft anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill oruse gasoline near an open flame.Engineoil cap Gasolinefillercap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on theengine, a small amount of smoke may bepresent during the initial use of theproduct and should be considerednormal.1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.Use a firm push. This step is notusually necessary when starting anengine which has already run for afew minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bardown to the handle and pull starterhandle quickly. Do not allow starterrope to snap back.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operatorpresence control 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.
8
MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as verytall grass, it may be necessary to raisethe height of cut to reduce pushingeffort and to keep from overloading theengine and leaving clumps of grassclippings. _t may also be necessary toreduce ground speed and/or run thelawn mower ever the area a secondtime.
• 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(pushing speed) and/or run the lawnmower over 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 smalloverlap to collect the clippings on thenext pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust with useand 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 andextend engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keepmower housing free of built-up grass andtrash. See "Cleaning" in Maintenancesection of this manual.• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times andreduce them in size so that as they fallonto the lawn they will disperse into thegrass and not be noticed. Also, themulched grass will biodegrade quicklyto provide nutrients for the lawn.Always mulch with your highest engine(blade) speed as this will provide thebest recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.Wet grass tends to form clumps andinterferes with the mulching action. Thebest time to mow your lawn is the earlyafternoon. At this time the grass hasdried and the newly cut area will not beexposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mowercutting height so that the lawn mowercuts off only the top one-third of thegrass blades. If the lawn is overgrown itwill be necessary to raise the height ofcut to reduce pushing effort and to keepfrom overloading the engine andleaving clumps of mulched grass. Forextremely heavy mulching, reduce yourwidth of cut by overlapping previouslycut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grassconditions may require that an area bemulched a second time to completelyhide the clippings. When doing asecond cut, mow across or perpendicu-lar to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from weekto week. Mow north to south one weekthen change to east to west the nextweek. This will help prevent mattingand graining of the lawn.
I Check for Loose Fasteners ; _ _/Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher(11Equipped) ¥o t/ if
M Clean Lawn Mower _ M/
Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drive belt/pulleys
E (Power-Propelled Mowers) IfCheck/Sharpen/Replace Blade bS $
Lubrication Chart V _Clean Battery/Recha_rQeElectric Start Mowers'_ II/ I/4
E Check EnQine Oil Level t/
N Change Engine Oil _I,2
G Clean Air Filter It/ 2
Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug v'E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2
1 - Change more o/ten when operating under a heavy load or In high an=blenttemperalu_s.2 - Ser_ce more O/lee when odPe_ng indidy or ckJstyCOediliC*_S3 - Replace blades more o_en when mowing in sandy sc_l.4 - Cha_e 48 hours at end of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower doesnot cover items that have been subjectedto operator abuse or negligence. Toreceive full value from the warranty,operator must maintain mower asinstructed in this manual.Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodically to properly maintain yourunit,All adjustments in the Service andAdjustments section of this manualshould be checked at least once eachseason.• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element andcheck blade for wear. A new sparkplug and clean/new air filter elementassures proper air-fuel mixture andhelps your engine run better and lastlonger.
• Follow the maintenance schedule inthis manual.
BEFORE EACH USE1. Check engine oil level.2. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-CATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
_) Wheel adjuster Engineoil
(_) Brake spring bracket
Handle bracket
mounting pin
(_) Rear door hinge
(_) Refer to maintenance "Engine" section.
_) Spray lubricant
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or greaseplastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri-cants will attract dust and dirt that willshorten the life of the self-lubricatingbearings, if you feel they must belubricated, use only a dry, powdered
10graphite type lubricant sparingly.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLIN E CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTSUNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of thelawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in spaceprovided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules whenperforming any maintenance.TIRES
• "Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insectcontrol chemicals which can harmrubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharpobjects and other hazards that maycause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must bekept sharp. Replace bent or damagedblades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Makesure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade andmower housing to prevent blade fromturning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with glovesand/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardenedwasher).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter andcheck the key inside hub of bladeadapter. The key must be in good condi-tion to work properly. Replace adapter ifdamaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on theengine crankshaft. Be sure key inadapter and crankshaft keyway arealigned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapteraligning the two (2) holes in the bladewith the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade(opposite sharp edge) is up towardthe engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lockwasher and hardened washer intoblade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade andlawn mower housing and tighten theblade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heattreated.TO SHARPEN BLADENOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-ing blade - but if you do, be sure theblade is balanced.Care should be taken to keep the bladebalanced. An unbalanced blade wiltcause eventual damage to lawn moweror engine.• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower.
11
• To check blade balance,drive a nailintoa beam orwall. Leave about oneinchof the straightnail exposed.Placecenterhole of bladeover the head ofthe nail. If blade is balanced, it shouldremainin a horizontalposition.If eitherend of the blade moves downward,sharpenthe heavy end until the bladeis balanced.
damage or deterioration. Throughnormaluse it willwear. If catcherneeds replacing,replace onlywith amanufacturer approved replacementcatcher. Give the lawnmower modelnumberwhen ordering.
DRIVE WHEELSCheck front drive wheelseach timebeforeyoumow to be sure they movefreely.The wheelsnot turningfreely meanstrash,grasscuttings,etc. are in the drivewheelarea and mustbe cleanedto freedrive wheels.If necessaryto clean the drive wheels,check bothfront wheels.1. Remove hubcaps,hairpincottersand
washers.2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.3. Removeany trashor grasscuttings
from insidethe dustcover, pinionand/or ddvewheel gear teeth.
4. Put wheelsback in place.NOTE: If after cleaning,the drivewheelsdonotturnfreely, contacta Sears or otherqualifiedservicecenter.
GEAR CASE• To keep your drivesystemworking
properly,the gear case and areaaroundthe ddveshouldbe kept cleanand free of trashbuild-up. Clean underthe drivecovertwice a season.
• The gear case is filled withlubricanttothe properlevelat the factory. The onlytime the lubricantneeds attentionis ifservicehas been performedon thegear case.
• If lubricantis required,use onlyTexacoStarplexPremium1 Grease, Part No.750369. Do notsubstitute.
ENGINELUBRICATIONUse only highqualitydetergentoil ratedwithAPI serviceclassificationSF-SJ.Select the oil'sSAE viscositygradeaccordingto your expectedoperatingtemperature.
11EMpERATURE RANGE ANllCIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Althoughmulti-viscosityoils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improvestartingincold weather,these multi-viscosityoilswill result in increasedoil consumptionwhen usedabove32°1::.Checkyourengineoil level more frequently to avoidpossibleengine damage from runninglowon oil.Changethe oil after every 25 hoursofoperationor at least oncea year if thelawnmoweris not used for 25 hoursinone year.Checkthe crankcaseoil level beforestartingthe engineand after each five (6)hoursof continuoususa. Tightenoil plugsecurelyeach time youcheck the oillevel.
12
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower todrain oil, drain fuel tank by runningengine until fuel tank is empty.1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on aclean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shownand drain oil into a suitable container.Rock lawn mower back and forth toremove any oil trapped inside ofengine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mowerand on side of engine.
5. Fill engine with oil. (See "Add Oil" inthe Operacion section of this manual.)
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to sparkplug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and maybe damaged by using a dirty air filter.Replace the air filter every year, moreoften ifyou mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
1. Remove the air filter by turningclockwise to the stop and pull awayfrom col)ar.
2. Remove filter from inside of cover.3. Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any dirt accumula-tion.
4. Insert new filter into cover.5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.6. Push in on cover and turn counter-
clockwise to tighten.
Turn
Collar Clip Clockwise toremove
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as itcould create a fire hazard and/or dam-age.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 buitt-upgrass and trash. Clean the underside ofyour mower after each use._I_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Clean the underside of your lawn
mower 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 wheels freeof all gasoline, oil,etc.
• We do not recommend using a gardenhose to clean lawn mower unless theelectrical system, muffler, air filter andcarburetor are covered to keep waterout. Water in engine can result inshortened engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice aseason. Scrape underside of cover withputty knife or similar tool to remove anybuild-up of trash or grass on underside ofdrive cover.
Air filter Tat
Air filter cover Turn counter-clockwise totighten 13
_kCAUTION: Before performing anyservice or adjustments:1. Release control bar and stop engine.2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot comein contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHTSee "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" inthe Operation section of this manual.REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between therear wheels of your mower, is provided tominimize the possibility that objects willbe thrown out of the rear of the mower intothe operator mowing position. If thedeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT1. Remove drive cover. Remove belt
from geercase pulley by pushing downon pulley and rolling belt off it.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side with airfilter and carburetor up.
3. Remove blade.4. Remove debris shield.5. Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.6. Install new belt by reversing above
steps.7. Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high orlow position. The mounting holes in thebottom of lower handle are off center forraising or lowering the handle.1. Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.4. Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handlebracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and allparts removed from lower handle.
Rotate_i__ handle
DrivVerBeR__
14
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bagwith rigid part of bag on the bottom.Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.2. 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
Frameopening
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor itmay result in personal injury. If youbelieve that the engine is running too fastor too slow, take your lawn mower to aSears or other qualified service center forrepair and adjustment.
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 a Sears or other qualifiedservice center for repair and/or adjust-ment.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 a Sears or otherqualified service center, which hasproper equipment and experience tomake any necessary adjustments.
15
Immediately prepare your lawn mower forstorage at the end of the season or if theunit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for aperiod of time, clean it thoroughly, removeall dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean, dry area.1. Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenancesection of this manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte*nance section of this manual.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,and pins are securely fastened.Inspect moving parts for damage,breakage and wear. Replace ifnecessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle forstorage.1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until thelower handle clears the handlebracket, then move handle forward.
2. Loosen upper handle mounting boltsenough to allow upper handle to befolded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor storage or transportation, be sure tofold the handle as shown or you maydamage the control cables.• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle willautomatically lock into the mowingposition,
HandleSueeze to fold bracket
pin
Operator presencecontrolbar _,
upper nanale -__ //// _, _)
Fold forward f J lstroage _ !J"_"/ I
Y .'7
3 _,.k.,_-_,_-_'_J_: y Mowing
positiooLower handle
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to preventgum deposits from forming in essentialfuel system parts such as carburetor, fuelfilter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.Also, experience indicates that alcoholblended fuels (called gasohol or usingethanol or methanol) can attract moisturewhich leads to separation and formationof acids during storage. Acidic gas candamage the fuel system of an enginewhile in storage.1. Drain the fuel tank.2. 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 offuel gum deposits during storage. Addstabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank orstorage container. Always follow the mixratio found on stabilizer container. Runengine at least 10 minutes after addingstabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reachthe carburetor. Do not drain the gas tankand carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replacewith clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" inthe Maintenance section of this manual).CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distribute oil.
164 . Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER• Donotstoregasolinefromone
seasontoanother.• Replace your gasoline can if your
can starts to rust, Rust and/or dirt inyour gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoorsand cover it to give protection fromdust and dirt.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHARTPROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start 1. Dirtyair filter.
Loss of power
Poor cut -uneven
Excessivevibration
• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-tive cover that does not retain mois-ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannotbreathe which allows condensation toform and will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whileengone and exhaust areas are still warm.A CAUTION:Never store the lawn mowerwith gasoline in the tank inside a buildingwhere fumes may reach an open flame orspark. Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure.
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
position.9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mowerhousing or cutting bladedragging 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.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leavesand trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.2. Fill fuel tank.3, Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel,4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tankwith 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, Clean/replace air filter.4. Clean underside of mower
housing.5. Check oil level,
6, Cut at slower walkingspeed,
1, Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at sameheight
3. Clean underside ofmower housing,
11, Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.
2. Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.
17
TROUBLESHOOPROBLEMStarterropehardtopull
rING CHARTCAUSE
1, Engineflywheelbrake is onwhen controlbar is release€
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.4. Blade dragging in grass.
CORRECTION
1. Depress control bar toupper handle beforepulling starter rope.
2, Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.
3, Replace blade adapter.4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
Loss of drive 1. Drive wheels not turning 1. Adjust or replace drivewith drive control engaged, control cable.
2, Belt not driving 2, Put belt on pulleys orreplace belts if broken.
Grass catcher 1, Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height,notfilling(ifso 2. Lift on blade worn off, 2. Replace blade.equipped) 3, Catcher not venting air, 3, Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push 1, Raise cutting height.1. Grass is too high or wheelheight is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade draggingin grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.4. Handle height position not
right for you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mowerhousing one (1) settinghigher.
3. Empty grass catcher.4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODE L NO. 917.378311
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
1
I
KEY PARTNO. NO.
KEY PARTDESCRIPTION NO. NO.
1 17490416 Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 9 1370741-1/4 10 57079
2 137055X004 EngagementBracket 11 1314843 137053 Shifter 12 7003434 57072 Seal 13 864476 48373 Gear Case Halves Kit 14 137050
• Carburetor To Intake PipeGasketIntake PipeGovernor LinkScrew, 1/4-20 x 3/6"S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)TerminalThrOttle LinkR.P,M. Adjusting LeverScrew, 1/4-20 x 1"
* Intake Pipe GasketScrew, 10-32 x 49/64"
* Air Cleaner GasketAir Cleaner CollarAir Cleaner Fi_terAir Cleaner CoverBlower HousingScrew, 10-24 x 9/16"Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"Recoil GrilleMufflerScrew, 1/4-20 x 2-8/16"Starter CupScrew, 8-32 x 21/64"Fuel LineFuel Line ClampScrew, 10-32 x 35/64"Fuel Tank (Inct. 292 & 301)Fuel Cap (Black)Oil FillTube
" "O"-Ring"O"-RingScrew, 10-32 x 1/2"DipstickSpacerScrew, 10-32 x 51/64"Lubrication DecalPrimer Decal (3 X)Warning DecalCarburetor (Inct. 184)Rewind S1arterGasket Set (hlncl.ItemsMarked * inNotes)Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.417)(Optional)Screw, 8-32 x 3/8" Optional)Replacement Engine NONEReplacement S/B 750865Order from 71 -999RPM High 2900 to 3200
NOTE: This engine could have been built with590702 starter
NOTE: Atl component dimensions given in U.S.inches 1 inch ,= 25.4 mm