Owner's Manual CRAFTSMAN - ManageMyLifemanagemylife.com/mmh/lis_pdf/OWNM/99040579.pdf · Owner's Manual CRAFTSMAN 6.5 HORSEPOWER 22" EZ MULCH ... • Always make wheel height adjustments

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN6.5 HORSEPOWER22" EZ MULCHPOWER PROPELLEDROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.917.377422

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance• Espa_ol• Repair Parts

CAUTION:Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructionsbefore operating this equipment

Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 10Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13Assembly 4 Storage 14Operation 5 Troubleshooting 15Maintenance Schedule 9 Repair Parts 33Maintenance 9 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAF_ 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 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 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 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 CentedDepartment 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator pres-ence controls to minimize the risk of injury.Your unit is equipped with such controls.Do not attempt to defeat the function of theoperator presence controls under anycircumstances.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully.Become familiar with the controls andknow 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 this manual.

• 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 be

mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,wires, bones, and other foreign objects.These objects will be thrown by the bladeand can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eyeshields when starting and while usingyour mower.

2

• Dross properly. Do not operate mowerwhen barefoot or wearing open sandals.Wear only solid shoes with good tractionwhen mowing.

• 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 starting theengine.

• 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 your mowerand the area being cut. Do not let otherinterests 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 dischargeopening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever youleave or are not using your mower, orbefore crossing driveways, walks, roads,and any gravel--coverod areas.

• Never direct discharge of matedal towardbystanders nor allow anyone near themower while you are operating it.

• 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 from thespark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• 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 governor settings oroverspeed the engine. Engine damage orpersonal 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 you mightlose your tooting. Do not mow exces-sively steep slopes. Use caution whenoperating the mower on uneven terrainor when changing directions -- maintaingood footing.

• Never operate your mower withoutproper guards, plates, grass catcher orother safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine mount-ing bolts often to be sure they aretightened properly.

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws atfrequent intervals for proper tightness tobe sure mower is in sate workingcondition.

• Keep all safety devices in place andworking.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the enginefree of grass, leaves or excessive greaseand 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 of yourmower.

• Always keep a sharp blade on yourmower,

• Allow engine to cool before stodng in anyenclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel in the tank

inside a building where fumes may roachan open flame or an ignition source suchas a hot water heater, space heater,clothes dryer, etc.

ACAUTION: Always disconnect sparkplug wire and place wire where it cannotcontact spark plug in order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transportir_g, 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.

3

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthis lawn mower was produced. They are alsoavailable at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can alsoorder 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

' 'CUPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERSFOR

REAR DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

MULCHERKITS

GRASSGATCHERS

FOR

I SIDEDISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

AIR RLTERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

STABlUZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

i

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in • Remove all packing matedals exceptits entirety before you attempt to assembleor operate your new lawn mower. Yournew lawn mower has been assembled at

the factory with the exception of thoseparts left unassembled for shippingpurposes. All parts such as nuts, washers,bolts, etc., necessary to complete theassembly have been placed in the partsbag. To ensure safe and proper operation MOWERof your lawn mower, all parts and hardware TO UNFOLD HANDLEyou assemble must be tightened securely. IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully soUse the correct tools as necessary toensure proper tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROMCARTON

• Remove loose parts included withmower.

• Cut down two end corners of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

padding between upper and lowerhandle and padding holding operatorpresence control bar to upper handle.

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and checkcarton thoroughly for additional looseparts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

as not 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 lowerhandle and tighten both handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holdingoperator presence control bar to upperhandle.

4

• Yourlawnmowerhandlecan be

adjusted for your mowing comfort.Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Serviceand Adjustment section of this manual.

Operatorpresence controlbar

Upper handle __Liftu_;

u.up n'n °,nW;ir

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWERREAD THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWNMOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarizeyourself with thelocationof various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with theproduct, Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW Ct'K_KE FUEL C_L DANGER, KEEP HANDSOR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control , controllever

Enginezone control cable

Starter handle e control

Handle knob

Engineoil cap withdipstick

Mulcher door

Gasoline fillercap

Primer

Drive cover

Wheel adjuster(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTSSears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of theAmerican National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-sion. The blade tums when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar- must beheld down to the handle to start the engine.Release to stop the engine.Primer- pumps additional fuel from thecarburetor to the cylinder for use when sta_r_ga cold engine.

Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.Drive control lever - used to engage power-propelled forward motionof lawn mower.Mulcher - allows conversion to discharge orbagging operation.

5

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultinforeign objects thrown into the eyes, which canresult in severe eye damage. Always wearsafety glasses or eye shields while operatingyour lawn mower or performing any adjust-ments or repairs. We recommend a widevisionsafety mask over spectacles orstandardsafety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factoryfor optimum performance. Speed is notadjustable.ENGINE ZONE CONTROLACALmON: Federal regulations require anengine controlto be installed on this lawnmower in order to minimize the riskof bladecontact injury.Do notunder any circumstancesattempt to defeat the function of the operatorcontrol. The blade turns when the engine isrunning.• Your lawn mower is equipped withan

operator presence control bar whichrequires the operator to be pos'fdonedbehind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.DRIVE CONTROL

• Serf-propellingis controlled by holdingtheoperator presence control bar down to thehandle and pushing the drive control leverforward until itdicks; then release the lever.

• Forward motion will stop when the operatorpresence control bar is released. To stopforward motionwithout stoppingengine,release the operator presence controlbarslightlyuntilthe drive control disengages.Hold operator presence control bar down tohandle to continue mowing withoutself-propelling.

• To keep drive control engaged when fumingcomers, push down on handle and liftfrontwheals off ground while turning lawnmower.

Operator presence control Drive

bar -,. _ \ . _ control

To engage ddve control disengaged

TO ADJUST cuTriNG HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheelsfor highcut,

• Adjustcuttingheight to suityour require-ments. Medium positionis best for mostlawns.

• To change cuttingheight, squeeze adjusterlever toward wheel. Move wheel up ordown to suityour requirements. Be sure allwheels am in the same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned whenplatetab insertsinto hole in lever. Also, 9-positionadjusters (if so equipped) allow leverto be positioned between the plate tabs.

Lowerwheels forhighcut

Plate tab

Raise wheelsfor low

NOTE: Your lawn mower has beenshipped ready for mulching operation. Toconvert to discharging operation, you mustinstall the discharge deflector attachmentincluded with your mower.TO INSTALL DISCHARGINGDEFLECTOR

• Lift door upward on it's hinge until thedeflector frame can be hooked over thedoor mounting bracket as shown.

• Release the door to rest againstdeflector frame.

• To retum to mulching operation, reversethe above steps and be sure door is inclosed position.

Deflector _.__,_'-" Mulcher DoorMountingBracket

ACAUTION: Do not operate your lawnmower without mulcher door in closedposition, discharge deflector in place, orapproved grass catcher in place.

6

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped wi_out oil in theengine.• Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fill is dean.• Remove engine cq]cap and fill to the full line

on the dipstick.• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil

to use, see _NGINE" in Maintenancesection of this manual.

• Pour o,1slowly. Do notover fill.• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if

needed. Fill to full line on d_• To read proper level, lighten engine oilcap

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,dirtyconditions.

GAS

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, 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: Experience indicates that alcoholblended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanolor methanol) can attract moisturewhich loadsto separation and formation of acids duringstorage. Acicr_cgas can damage the fue!system of an engine while in storage. To avoidengine problems, the fuel system should beemptied before storage of 30 days or longer.Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let itrun untilfuel lines and carburetor are empty.Use flesh fuel next season. See StorageInstructionsfor additional information. Never

use engine or carburetor cleaner products infuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer five(5) times before trying to start. Use afirm push. This step is not usuallynecessary when starting an enginewhich has already run for a few minutes.

• Hold operator presence control bardown to the handle and pull starterhandle quickly. Do not allow starterrope to snap back.

• To stop engine, release operatorpresence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may benecessary to repeat pdming steps. Inwarmer weather over priming may causeflooding and engine will not start. I! you doflood engine, wait a few minutes beforeattempting to start and do not repeatpriming steps.

Engine oil cap -------- Gasoline fillercap

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.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cuttingin a counter-clockwise direction, startingat the outside of the area to be cut,spreads grass clippings more evenlyand puts less load on the engine. Tokeep clippings off of walkways, flowerbeds, etc., make the first cuts in aclockwise direction.

• 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 and extendengine life.

7

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPSIMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keepmowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrassandtrash.See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCEsection of this manual

• The special mulching blade will reout thegrass clippings many times and reducethem in size so that as they fallonto 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 recuttingaction of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when itis wet. Wetgrass tends to form clumps and interfereswith the mulching action. The best time tomow your lawn is the early aftemoon. Atthis time the grass has dried and the newlycut area will not be exposed to the directsun.

• For best results,adjust the lawn mowercuffingheight so that the lawn mower cutsoff only the top one-third of the grass blades.If the lawn is overgrown it willbe necessaryto raise the height of cut to reduce pushingeffortand to keep from overloading theengine and leaving clumps of mulchedgrass. For extremely heaW mulching,reduce your width of cut by overlappingpreviously cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditionsmay require that an area be mulched asecond time to completely hide theclippings. When doing a second cut, mowacross or perpendicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from weektoweek. Mow north to south one weak thenchange to east to west the next week. Thiswill help prevent matting and graining of thelawn.

8

Check for Loose Fasteners _ I I/Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

M Clean Lawn Mower

_V Clean Under Drive CoverIPower-Propened Mowers) _/

RE Check drive belt/pulleys(Power-Propellad Mowers) b/

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade it/3

LubricationChart _ f_. Clean Battery/RecharQe

IElectdc Start MowersI I_ I//4

E Check Engine Oil Level q/_N Change Engine Oil Iv/t.2

G Clean Air Filter I/=I InspectMuffler v'

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug i)/E Replace Air FilterPaper Cartridge id/s

I - Changomornoee_ wheno1_ undera h4mw I_KI or inhi_ Imblerd temperatm_,2 - Sen4cemonl onen_.zen operatingIndbtyor duslycondit_ns.3 - Replace bladesrno_ onenwh_mmowing Inr,andy sol,4 - Charge48 holm It end of uason.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does notcover items that have been subjected tooperator abuse or negligence. To receive fullvalue from the warranty, operator mustmaintain mower as instructed in thismanual.Some adjustmentswiUneed tobe mede

periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-merits section of this manual should bechecked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug, deanor replace air filterelement and check bladefor wear. A new spark plug and dearVnewairfilter element assures proper air-fuelmixture end helps your engine run betterand last longer.

• Follow the maintenance .schedulein thismanual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.• Check for loose fasteners.LUBRICATION

Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICATIONCHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_) Wheel (_ Mulcher dooradjuster

oil (_) Brake spring(_) bracket

Handle bracketmountingpin

(_) Spray lubricante(_) Referto MAINTINANCE "ENGINE"

SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease plasticwheel bearings.Viscous lubricantswill attractdust and dirtthat will shorten the life of the serflubricating bearings. If you feel they must belubricated, use only a dn/, powdered graphitetypelubrk ntspar g .

9

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.377422

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 6.5

DISPLACEMENT:

GASOLINE CAPACITY/"I'YPE:

11.5 CU. IN,

1.25 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°1=)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32"F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

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

VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the

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

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performingany maintenance.TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoiine, oil,or insectcontrol chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep nJtS,sharpobjects and other hazards that may causetire damage.

BLADE CARE

For 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. Make sure

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 the enginecrankshaft. Be sure key in adapter andcrankshaft keyway are aligned.

• 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 into blade

adapter and crankshaft.• Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten theblade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is35-40 ft. Ibs.

10

IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8 heattreated.TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpeningblade - but if you do, be sure the blade isbalanced.

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 nail intoa beam or wall. Leave about one inch of

the straight nail exposed. Place centerhole of blade over the head of the nail.If blade is balanced, it should remain ina horizontal position, tf either end of theblade moves downward, sharpen theheavy end until the blade is balanced.

Blade

Key adapter Crankshaftkeyway

Blade

Lockwasher\

Blade shaftbolt

Hardened Trailingwasher edge Blade adapter

GRASS CATCHER

(If purchased as an accessory)• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.• Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Throughnormal use it will wear. If catcher needsreplacing, replace only with a manufac-turer approved replacement catcher.Give the lawn mower model numberwhen ordering.

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system workingproperly, the gear case and area aroundthe drive should be kept clean and freeof trash build-up. Clean under the drivecover 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 the gearcase.

• If lubricant is required, use only TexacoStarplex Premium Grease, part no.750369. Do not substitute.

DRIVE WHEELSCheck front drive wheels each time before

you mow to be sure they move freely.The wheels not turning freely means trash,grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheelarea and must be cleaned to free ddvewheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels,check both front wheels.• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and

washers.• Remove wheels from wheel adjuster_.• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from

inside the dust cover, pinion and/or ddvewheel gear teeth.

• Put wheels back in place.• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not

turn freely, contact your nearestauthorized service center.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated withAPI service classificationSF, SG or SH.Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade accordingto your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,10W30 etc.) improve startingin cold weather,these multi-viscosityoils will resultin increasedoil consumption when used above 32°F.Check your engine oil level more frequently toavoid possible engine damage from runninglow on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours ofoperation orat least once a year ifthe lawnmower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before startingthe engine and after each five (5) hoursofcontinuous use. "lightenoil plugsecurely eachtime you check the oil level.

11

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drainoil, drain fuel tank by running engine untilfuel tank is empty.• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug 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 toremove any oil trapped inside of engine.

• 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 NOTOVER FILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

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 if you mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by tuming clock-wise to the stop and pull away fromcollar.

• 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 counterclock-

wise to tighten.Tumclockwise

Clip to remove

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or damage.SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to makeyour engine start easier and run better Setspark plug gap at .030 inchCLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, kiipmower housingfree of built-grassand trash.Clean the undersideof your mower after eachUSe.

,&CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where it cannot

: come in contact withthe sparkplug.• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air

filter and carburetorare up. Clean theunderside of your lawn mower by scrapingto remove'build-up of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating. A dogged engine runs hotterand shortensengine life.

• Keep finishedsurfaces and wheels free ofall gasoline, oil,etc.

• We do not recommend using a gardenhose to clean lawn mower unless theelectrical system, muffler, air filter endcarburetor are covered to keep water out.Water in engine can result in shortenedengine life.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER

Clean under drive cover at least twice aseason. Scrape underside of cover withputtyI_ife or similartool to remove any build-up oftrash or grass on underside of drive cover.

Slot

Air filter

Tum

Tab clockwise

Air filter cover to tighten12

ACAUTION: 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 Cut-rING HEIGHTSee "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" inthe Operation section of this manual.DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to thedischarge opening of your lawn mower, isprovided to prevent the possibility of injuryresulting from objects being thrown out ofthe discharge opening into the operatormowing position. If the discharge guardbecomes damaged, it should be replaced.REAR DEFLECTORThe rear deflector, attached between therear wheels of your mower, is provided tominimize the possibility that objects will bethrown out of the rear of the mower intothe operator mowing position. If thedeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT

• Remove drive cover. Remove belt bypushing down on gear case pulley androlling belt off it.

• Turn lawn mower on its side withcarburetor and fuel cap up.

• Remove blade.• Remove debris shield.• Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshaft.• Install new belt by reversing above

steps.• Always use factory approved belt to

assure fit and long life.

Drivecover

Pushdown

TO ADJUST HANDLE

Your lawn mower handle can be raised orlowered for your mowing comfort. Four(4) positions are available: high, mediumhigh, medium low and low. Handles areshipped mounted in the medium lowposition.

• To change from medium low to mediumhigh position, the upper and lowerhandle sections will have to be turnedover.

• Remove the cable clips.• Remove the controls and operator

presence control bar from the upperhandle.

• Remove the starter rope guide from theupper handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters.• Disconnect the lower handle from the

handle brackets.• Turn the handle over and reassemble

the hairpin cotters that have beenremoved.

• Reassemble the starter rope guide.• Reassemble the controls and the

operator presence control bar to theupper handle.

_,CAUTION: The operator presencecontrol bar must pivot freely to permitblade/brake engagement when control baris released. Do not overtighten thefasteners holding the controls to the upperhandle.

ShippingPositionMedium low Medium high

13

• To change from medium low to highposition only the upper handle sectionwill have to be tumed over.

• To change from medium low to lowposition, only the lower handle sectionwill have to be turned over.

\ Lower handle

Squeeze to Handle bracketremove

Hairpincotter

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEEDYour engine speed has been factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor it may result in personal injury. If youbelieve that engine is running too fast ortoo slow, take your mower to an authorizedservice center for repair and adjustment.IMPORTANT: Never tamper with theengine governor, which is factory set forthe proper engine speed. Overspeedingthe engine above the factory high speedscan be dangerous. If you think theengine-governed high speed needsadjusting, contact your nearest authorizedservice center, which has proper equip-ment and experience to make anynecessary adjustments.CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixedmain jet for mixture control. If your enginedoes not operate properly due to sus-pected carburetor problems, take yourlawn mower to an authorized servicecenter for repair and/or adjustment.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower forstorage at the end of the season or ifthe unitwill not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWERWhen 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 "CLEANING"

inthe Maintenance section of this manual).• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

sectionof this manual.• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins

are securely fastened. Inspect movingpartsfor damage, breakage and wear.Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle forstorage.• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower

handle toward each other untilthe 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 forstorageortransportation, be sure to fold thehandle as shown oryou may damage thecontrol cables.• When sctting up your handle from the

storage position,the lower handle willautomatically lockinto the mowing position.

Lower handle

Squeeze toremove

7"

Hairpincotter

Operatorpresence controlbarUpper handle

Fold toP,Nardforstorage

Lower handle14

pin

Foldbackward

Mowingposition

ENGINEFUEL SYSTEMIMPORTANT: Itis important to prevent gumdeposits from forming in essential fuel systemparts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,or tank duringstorage. Also, experienceindicates that alcohol blended fuels (calledgasohol or using ethanol or methanol) canattract moisturewhich leads to separation andformation of acids duringstorage. Acidic gascan damage the fuel system of an enginewhile instorage.• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run until the fuellines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleanerproductsin the fuel tank or permanentdamage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptablealternativein minimizing the formation of fuelgum depositsduring storage. Add stabilizertogasoline in fuel tank or storage container.Always follow the mix ratiofound on stabilizercontainer. Run engine at least 10 minutesafter adding stabilizerto allow the stabilizer toreach the carburetor. Do not drain the gastank and carburetor it using fuel stabilizer.ENGINE OILDrain oil (with engine warm) and replace withclean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in theMaintenance section of this manual).

CYUNDER• 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 willcause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and coverit to give protection from dust and dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protectivecover that does not retain moisture. Do notuse plastic. Plastic cannot breathe whichallows condensation to form and will cause

your unit to rust.IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.A, CAUTION: Never store the lawn

mower with gasoline in the tank inside abuilding where fumes may reach an openflame or spark. Allow the engine to coolbefore storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

• Dirty air filter.• Out of fuel.• Stale fuel.

• Water infuel.

• Spark plug wire isdisconnected.

• Bad spark plug.• Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.• Control bar in released

position.

• Control par defective.

CORRECTION

• Clean/replace air filter.• Fill fuel tank.• Drain tank and refillwith

fresh clean fuel.• Drain fuel tank and

carburetorand refilltank

with fresh gasoline.• Connect wire to plug.

• Replace spark plug.

• "rKjhtenblade bolt orreplace blade adapter.

• Depress control bartohandle.

• Replace control bar.

15

PROBLEM

Lossof power

TROUBLESHOOTING CHARTCAUSE• Rear of lawn mower housing

or cuttingblade draggingin heavy grass.

• Cutting too much grass,

Poor cut - uneven

Excessivevibrat'mn

Starter rope hardto pull

Grass catcher

not filling ('dsoequipped)

Hard to push

• Dirty air filter.• Buildup of grass, loaves,and trash under mower.

• Too much oil in engine.• Walking speed too fast.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildup of grass, loavesand trash under mower.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Engine flywheel brake is onwhen controlbar is released.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Blade adapter broken.• Blade dragging ingrass.

• Cutting height too low.• Lifton blade worn off.

• Catcher not venting air.

• Grass is too highor wheelheight is too low.

• Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade draggingin grass.

• Grass catcher too full.

• Handle height positionnotright for you.

CORRECTION

• Set to =Higher Cut"position.

• Set to "Higher Cut"position.

• Clean/replace air filter.• Clean underside of mower

housing.• Check oil level.

• Cut at slower walldngspeed.

• Replace blade. TK:jhtenblade belt.

• Set all wheels at same

]height• Clean underside of

mower housing.

• Replace blade. T_jhtenblade bolt.

• Contact an authorizedservice center.

• Depress control bartoupper handle beforepulling starter rope.

• Contact an authorizedservice center.

• Replace blade adapter.• Move lawn mower to cut

grass otto hard surface

• Raise cuttingheight.• Replace blade.• Clean grass catcher.

• Raise cutting height.

• Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) settinghigher.

• Empty grass catcher.• Adjust handle height to

suit,

16

For the repair or replacement parts you needdelivered directly to your homeCall 7 am - 7 pro, 7 days a week

1-800-366-PART(1-800-366-7278)Para ordenar piezas con entrega adomicilio - 1-800-659-7084

For in-house major brand repair serviceCall 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-REPAIR(1-800-47_3-7274)Para pedlr servicio de reparaci6n adomicilio - 1-800-676-5811

For the location of a Sears Parts andRepair Center in your areaCall 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a SearsMaintenance Agreement or to inquireabout an existing AgreementCall 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or orderingparts, always provide the followinginformation:• Product Type • Part Number• Model Number • Part Description

SEARSAmerica's Repair Specialists

166055 REV.1 02.12.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.