Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN3.5 HORSEPOWER20" SIDE DISCHARGEROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.917.387206

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance

• Espa_ol• Repair Parts

CAUTION:Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructionsbefore operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craltsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 9Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 11Assembly 4 Storage 12Operation 5 Troubleshooting 14Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30Maintenance 8 Parts Ordedng Back Cover

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions inthe owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-ship.If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warrantyapplies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.This Warranty does not cover:• Expendable items which become worn dudng normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscontained 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 onlywhile this 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 the risk ofinjury. Your unit is equipped with suchcontrols. Do not attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator presence controlsunder any circumstances.

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 yourmower. Never allow adults to usemower without proper instructions.

* Keep the area of operation clear of allpersons, especially small children andpets,

• Use mower only as the manufacturerintended and as described in thismanual.

• Do not operate mower ff 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.

2

• Dress 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 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 governor 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: Exhauslfumes 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 t(be 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.

_,Look for this symbol to point outimportant safety precautions. It meansCAUTIONI!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOURSAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A, 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,

AWARNINGThe engine exhaust from this productcontains chemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer, birth defects,or other reproductive harm.

3

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They ere notshipped with your mower.They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and servicecenters. Most 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

CLIPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KR'S

GRASS CATCHERSFOR

REAR DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS GRASS CATCHERS

FORSIDE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

AIR FILTERS

WHEELS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual

in its entirety before you attempt toassemble or operate your new lawnmower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shippedWITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the

engine.Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exceptionof those parts left unassembled forshipping purposes. All parts such asnuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary tocomplete the assembly have beenplaced in the parts beg. To ensure safeand proper operation of your lawnmower, all parts and hardware youassemble must be tightened securely.Use 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.• Remove all packing materials except

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

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and

check carton thoroughly for additionalloose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWNMOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefullyso as not to pinch or damage controlcables.• Raise handles until lower handle

section locks into place in mowingposition.

4

• Remove protective padding, raiseupper handle section into place onlower handle and tighten both handleknobs.

• Remove handle padding holdingoperator presence control bar to upperhandle.

• Your lawn mower handle can be

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

Operator presence_control bar ,

Upper handie_ Liftup ,_;,

Lift up Y// // _/_ /77/ ,/L ,Y

" Mowing

Lo e,hand,e

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

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

location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with theproduct. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENQ_E F_T SLOW _HOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANOS

OR W _'_K_ ON OFF M,IO F_E1 _Wk, Y)1

Engine zonecontrol cable

presence contro_ bar

Starter handle

Handle knob.

Engine oil plug

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Primer

Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT; This lawn mower is __Wheel ajdustershipped without OIL OR GASOLINE in (on each wheel)the enoine.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 CommL_sion. The bladetums when the engine is running.i

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 whenstarting a cold engine.Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

5

The operationof any lawnmowercan 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 safetyMasses.

OW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factoryfor optimum performance. Speed is notadjustable.ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_I, 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 anoperator 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 lower

wheels for high cut.• Adjust cutting height to suit your

requirements. Medium position is bestfor most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeezeadjuster 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, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)allow lever to be positioned between theplate tabs.Lower wheels for

high cut

Raise wheels for low

L 8_ver

Plate tab

cut

BEFORE STARTING ENGINEOIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil inthe engine.• Be sure mower is level and area

around oil fill is clean.

• Remove Engine oil plug and fill to thetop of slot in filler hole.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down intoengine for accurate reading.

• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For typeand grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE"in Customer Responsibilities section ofthis manual.

• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.• Chock oil level before each use. Add

oil if needed.

• To read proper level, tighten engine oilplug each time.

• Reinstall engine oil plug and tighten.• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You mayneed to change the oil more oftenunder dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of87 octane. (Use of leaded gasolinewill increase carbon and lead oxidedeposits and reduce valve life). Do notmix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel inquantities that can be used within 30days to assure fuel freshness.

A, 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.ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tankfiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or usegasoline near an open flame.

6

Gasoline fillercap

Engine oil

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer five (5)times before trying to start. Use a firm push.This step is not usually necessary whenstarting an engine which has already runfor a few minutes.

• Hold operator presence control bar downto the handle and pull starter handlequickly. 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.

MOWINGTIPS

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. It may also be necessary toreduce ground speed and/or run thelawn mower over the area a secondtime.

For extremely heavy cutting, reduce th_width 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,Cutting in a counter-clockwise directionstarting at the outside el the area to becut, spreads grass clippings moreevenly and puts less load on theengine. To keep clippings off ofwalkways, flower beds, etc., make thefirst cuts in a clockwise direction.

Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust with us_and catchers will collect less grass. Toprevent this, regularly hose catcher offwith water and let dry before using.Keep top of engine around starter clealand clean of grass clippings and chaff.This will help engine air flow andextend engine life.

7

,v,A,NTENANCESO.ED,.,LEFILL,.OATESCheck for Loose Fasteners ¥# I_C_ear_lnspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) I_#' _#

a Clean Lawn MowerCIea,n UnderDriveCover(Power-Pr0pelled Mowers)

W Check drive belVpulleys_Led Mowers)

R ChecWSharperdReplace Blede 1_3

Lubrication1 Chart _

Clean Battery/RechargeIElectric Start Mowers_ I1_ 1_4

E_ine Oil Level _'

G Clean Air Filter ........ _ 2

N Clean or Replace Spark PlugReplace Air Filter Peper Cartridge I,'#'2

I - Ch_ln_ trite oftAn whAn Operating UN_f a heavy load or In high ambient temperatures.

2 - S e_,lce more (1finn when Operating In dirty or dusty conditions.

3 - nepla(:_ blatle_ m_re oflp.n when rnnwlng In _andy soil.

4 - Ch_tf_'_ 4_ ho_Jf'_ _t prld or _;eR_on.

GENERALRECOMMENDATIONS

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 this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodically to properly maintain your unit.All adjustments in the Sewice and Adjust-ments section of this manual should bechecked at least once each season.• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check bladefor wear. A new spark plug and clean/newair _er element assures proper air-fuelmixture and helps your engine run betterand 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

doorhinge

(_ Brake springbracket

(_) Engine oil

bracket

@ Spray lubricantSAE 30 Motor oil. Refer to ENGINE

(_) MAINTENANCE Section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plasticwheel bearings. Viscous lubricants willattract dust and dirt that will shorten thelife of the self lubricating bearings. If youfeel they must be lubricated, use only adry, powdered graphite type lubricant

8 sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONSi

MODEL NUMBER

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:

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

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

917.387206

1.25 QUARTSUNLEADED REGULAR

i

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

20 OZS.

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .004 - .008EXHAUST: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITIONAIR 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 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 damagedb_ades.

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 andmower 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 hardwan(bolt, lock washer and hardenedwasher).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter andcheck the key inside hub of blade adapte_The key must be in good condition to worproperly. 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.

9

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.

Bladeadapter Crankshaft

ke

Blade Key_

Blade 1bolt

Lock- Hardenedwasher washer Trailing

edge

Crank-shaft

Bladeadapter

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. Through normaluse it will wear. If catcher needs replacing,replace only with a manufacturer approvedreplacement catcher. Give the lawnmower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated withAPI service classification SF, SG orSH. Selectthe oil's SAE viscosity grade according to yourexpected operating temperature.

10

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,these multi-viscosity oils will result in in-creased oil consumption when used above32°F. Check your engine oil level morefrequently to avoid possible engine damagefrom running low 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 inone year.Check the crankcase oil level before startingthe engine and after each five (5) hours ofcontinuous use. "13ghtenoil plug securelyeach time you check the oil level.TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.• Oil will drain more freely when warm.• Catch oil in a suitable container.

• Remove bottom oil drain plug.• After oil has drained completely,

replace oil drain plug and tightensecurely.

• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Donot over fill.

• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

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 turning counter-clockwise 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 clockwise to

tighten. Turn Counter-Collar Clockwise to

Remove

Air FilterTab Clockwise

to TightenAir Filter Cover

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as itcould create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUGChange your spark plug each year to makeyour engine start easier and run better. Setspark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of built-up gra_and trash. Clean underside of mower

housing after each use.•,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wir_from spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make su_

air filter and carburetor are up. Cleanthe underside of your lawn mower byscraping to remove build-up of grassand trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating. A clogged engine runshotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels freof all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We DO NOT recommend using agarden hose to clean lawn mowerunless the electrical system, muffler, aifilter and carburetor are covered to

keep water out. Water in engine canresult in ine life.

A, CAUTION: Before performing anyservice or adjustments

• Release control bar and stop engine.• Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.• Disconnect spark plug wire from

spark plug and place where it cannotcome in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWERTO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHTSee 'fro ADJUST CU'I-FING HEIGHF' in the

Operation section of this manual.

TOADJUSTHANDLE

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's mowing position. If thedeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.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.

11

The handle can be mounted in a high orlow position. The mounting holes in thebottom of lower handle are off center for

raising or lowering the handle.• Remove upper handle and all parts

attached to lower handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters from lowerhandle bracket mounting pin.

• Squeeze lower handle in to remove itfrom mounting pins.

• Turn lower handle over to raise or Iowehandle.

• Squeeze lower handle in and positionholes onto mounting pins on handiebracket.

• Reassemble upper handle and all part:removed from lower handle.

Mowing Mowing

position ,_, position ,(_i'

f-_'4 I t-o,l

,Low position High position

¥ k.\, ...... Lowerhandle

Rotate

ENGINECARBURETORYour carburetor has a non-edjustable fixedmain jet for mixture control. It your enginedoes not operate propedy due to suspectedcarburetor problems, take your lawn mower toan authorized service center for repair oradjustment.

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 authorizedservice center, which has properequipment and experience to make anynecessary adjustments.

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.

your awn mowerstorage at the end of the season or if theunit will not be used for 30 days or more,

LAWN MOWERWhen lawn mower is to be stored for a

period of time, clean it thoroughly, removeall dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean, dry area.• Clean entire lawn mower (See

"CLEANING" in the Maintenance of thismanual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenancesection of this manual.

• Re sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, andpins are securely fastened. Inspectmoving parts for damage, breakageand 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 thelower handle clears the handle bracket,then move handle forward.

• 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.

Operator presence control bar

Upper

Fold forward

for storage

Foldbackward

Mowingposition

Lower handle Lower handle

Squeeze to fold

/t

Mounting pin

Hairpin cotter

12

ENGINEFUELSYSTEMIMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gumdeposits from forming in essential fuel systempads such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,or tank during storage. Also, expedenoeindicates that alcohol blended fuels (calledgasohol or using ethanol or methanol) canattract moisture which leads to separation andformation of acids dunng 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 fuellines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleanerproducts 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.

ENGINE OIL

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 m|) of oil through spark

plug hole into cylinder.• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to

distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

O1HER• Do not store gasoline from one season to

another.• Replace your gasoline can if your can

starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in yourgasolinewillcause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors andcover it 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._I, CAUTION: Never store the lawn mow,with gasoline in the tank inside a buildinwhere fumes may reach an open flame €spark. Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one seasonto another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your canstarts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in yourgasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors andcover it to give protection trom dust an(dirt,

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-tive cover that does not retain moistureDo not use plastic. Plastic cannotbreathe which allows condensation toform and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm._,CAUTION: Never store the lawn mew_with gasoline in the tank inside a buildincwhere fumes may reach an open flame ospark. Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure.

13

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHARTCAUSE_ROBLEM

Does not start

Loss of power

Poor cut - uneven

1. Dirty air 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

position.9. Control bar defective.

1. Rear of lawn mower housingor cutting blade draggingin heavy grass.Cutting too much grass..

3.4.

5.6.

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

Too much oil in engine.

Walking speed too fast.

1. Wom, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leavesand trash under mower.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.2. RII fuel tank.3. Drain tank and refillwith

fresh dean fuel.4. Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refill tank

with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

'6. Replace spark plug.,7. T_jhtan blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.5. 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 same

height3. Clean underside of

mower housing.

14

TROUBLESHOOTING CHARTPROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Excessivevibration

Starter rope hardtopull

1. Replace blade. T_htenblade bolt.

2. Contact an authorizedservice center.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Engine flywheel brake is onwhen control bar is released.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.4. Blade dragging in grass.

Cutting height too low.Lift on blade worn off.

Catcher not venting air.

Grass is too high or wheelheight is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or b_x:le draoj_ngin grass.

3, Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position notright for you.

1. Depress control bar toupper handle beforepulling starter rope.

2. Contact an au',hofized

service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.4. Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface

Grass catcher 1. 1. Raise cutting height.notfllling(Ifso 2. 2, Replace blade.

equipped) 3. 3. Clean grass catcher.

Hard to push 1. ! 1. Raise cutting height.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) settinghigher.

3, Empty grass catcher.4. Adjust handle height to

suit.

15

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387206

33

39

36

35

35

34

15

36 33

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.387206

G]

KEYNO.

12345789

10121314151617192122232425262728293132333435

PARTNO.

8690215.3638851201X004165452X479157081X479131959850733X00475009716855266426517931363767520521284156360185185588602150215140543750085X00787584X004170345X479170346X47961537146630700331X00487877145935X47962335142748

KEY PARTDESCRIPTION NO. NO.

Control Bar 36 700263RopeGuide 37 83923EngineWasher 39 800090Uppar Haodle 41 149741Lower Handle 42 85463Handle Bolt5/16-18 x 1-3/4 43 751592Up-Stop Bracket 44 150406Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 46 171778EngineZone ControlCable 49 851084WireTie 50 850263Hair Pin Cotter 51 851074STD. Knobs 52 850972DischargeGuard 53 850977Rivet 55 700839X479Locknut 1/4-20 56TorsionSpringHingeDeflector -. 171774HingeRod - - 161058Rear DeflectorWheel AdjustingBracketDeflector BracketHandle Bracket Assembly(Right)Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)WasherSpacerSelectorSpringSelectorKnobAxleArmAssemblyBellevilleWasherShoulderBolt

DESCRIPTION

Wheel andTire AssemblyNutHubcapThread Cutting Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4Danger DecalLocknut 3/8-16Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8Lawn Mower HousingHex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd.8)Helical Lock washer 3/8HardenedWasherBlade 20Blade AdapterFront BaffleEngine (See Breakdown) CraftsmanModel 143.993512Owner'sManualWarningDecal (NotShown)

Availableaccessories not included with lawn mower:7133077 Grass Catcher7133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)7133500 Fuel Stabilizer7133300 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)7133417 Dust Shield7133316 MowerCover

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993512

4OO

135

130

120

I 416 1

126

119

125

275 •

_261

101

182 19

182185

178

46

72

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37280

2 267276 337347 36557

12 3677512A 36558

12B 3669414 2827715 3058916 34839A17 3133518 651018

19 3628120 3260030 3679340 35544A

35545A

35546

41 35541

35542

35543

42 35547A35548A35549

43 2038145 36777

46 32610A48 2724150 3703252 2991469 3526170 32612C

72 3608375 2789780 3O574A81 3O580A82 30591

83 3O588A86 65048889 61100490 61111292 65O81593 650816

100 344438101 610116103 651007

110 37047119 37028120 36825125 37288

KEYNO.

PARTNO.

MODEL NUMBER 143.993512

Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 126 37289150)DowelPin 130 6021ABreather Element 135 35395Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 &12A) 150 31672BreatherTube 151 31673BreatherCover & Tulle 151A 40017(Incl. 12B) 169 36783BreatherTube Elbow 172 36784Washer 174 30200Governor Rod (Incl. 14) 178 29752GovernorLeverGovernor LeverClamp 182 6201Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32 x 184 2675619/64"ExtensionSpring 185 36785Oil Sea[ 186 32653Crankshaft 189 650839Piston, Pin & Ring Set 191 36559A(Std.)Piston, Pin & Ring Set 195 610973(.010" OS) 207 34336Piston, Pin & Ring Set 216 33086(.020" OS) 223 650451Piston & Pin Ass'y, 224 36786(Std.) (Incl. 43) 238 650932Piston & Pin Ass'y, 239 34338(.010" OS) (Incl. 43) 241 35797Piston & Pin Ass'y. 245 35066(.020" OS) (Incl. 43) 250 35055Ring Set (Std.) 260 36834Ring Set (.010" OS) 261 30200Ring Set (.020 OS) 262 650831Piston Pin Retaining Ring 275 36790AConnecting Rod Ass'y. 277 650988(Incl. 46) 285 35000AConnectingRod Bolt 287 650926Valve Lifter 290 34357Camshaft(NCR) 292 26460Oil Pump Ass'y. 300 35586

* Mounting Flange GasketMounting Flange (Incl. 301 36246

72 thru 83) 311 27625Oi!Drain Plug 313 34080Oil Seal 370A 36261Governor Shaft 370C 37199Washer 370K 36695Governor Gear Ass'y. 380 640174(Incl. 81 ) 890 590737Governor Spool 400 37029AScrew, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"Flywheel Key 416 360_5FlywheelBelieviIle Washer 417 650821Flywheel NutSolid State Ignition 900Spark PlugCoverScrew, Torx T-15, 10-24X 15/16' 900Ground Wire

• Cylinder Head GasketCylinderHead _ _Exhaust Valve (Std.)(Incl. 151)

DESCRIPTION

Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl.151)Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"ResistorSpark Plug(RJ19LM)Valve SpdngValve SpringCapIntake Valve Seal

* Valve Cover GasketValve CoverScrew, 10-24 x 9/16"Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28Screw, 114-28x 7/8"

• Carburetor To IntakePipe GasketIntake PipeGovernor LinkScrew, 1/4-20 x 3/8"S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl.195)Terrn_'_alThrottleLinkR.P.M.AdjustingLeverScrew, 1/4-20 x 1•

* Intake Pipe GasketScrew, 10-32 x 49/64"

* Air Cleaner GasketAirCleanerCollarAirCleaner FilterAirCteanerCoverBlowerHousingScrew, 10-24 x 9/16"Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"MufflerScrew, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"Starter CupScrew, 8-32 x 21164"FuelLineFt_elLineCtampFuel Tank (Incl. 292 &301)FuelCapOil Fill PlugSpacer

LubricationDecalPdmerDecalStarter DecalCarburelor (Incl. 184)Rewind StarterGasket Set (IncL ItemsMarked *)Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.417)(Optional)Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"(Optional)Replacement Engine750830, order from 71 -999Replacement ShortBlock750829A,order from 71-999RPM High 29001o 3200

NOTE: Allcomponent dimensionsgiven in U.S. inches1 inch = 25,4 mm

33

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993512

KEYNO.

124567

16171820

20A252728293O313536

36A374O444748

48A6O

PARTNO.

64O17463161563176763118463118364007065O5O663180765102563076664OO1864OO5363186763102463201963102863102163102236045A64O08O63276663254764017627110A63074863102763102763276O

DESCRIPTION

Cadouretor(Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)Throttle Shaft & Lever AssemblyThrottle Return Spring

• Dust Seal Washer• Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttk3 Shutter= ShutterScrew

Fuel FittingThrottle Crack Screw/Idle Speed ScrewTension SpringIdta Restr_ctorScrewIdle Restrictor Screw CapFloatBowl

• Float ShaftRoat

• Float Bowl"O"Ring• Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

SpringClipPrimerBulb/RetainerRingMain Nozzle TubeCart)uretorTube

* "O"Ring, Main Nozzle TubeHigh Speed Bowl NutBowl NutWasher

" Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well* Wek;h Plug, AtmosphericVent• Welch Plug

Repair kit {Incl. Items Marked ")

34

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993512

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

5

59O6941 590599A2 5906003 5906964 5906015 5906976 5906987 5906998 590700

11 590695

12 590535

13 590701

RecoUStarterSpring Pin (Incl, 4WasherRetainerWasherBrake SpringStarter DogDog SpringPulley & RewindSpnngAss'y.Starter Housing Ass'y.(40 degree grommet)Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/64* alia.)Starter Handle

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

3678

11

12

1314

590737590740590616590617590618A

590687A

590535

590701590760

Rewind StarterRetainerStader DogDog SpringPulley & RewindSpringAss'yStarter Housing Ass'y(40 degree grommet)Starter Rope (Length 98"x 9/64" dia.)Starter HandleSpdng Clip

35

For in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-HOME s" (1-600-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio1-800-676-5811

In Canada for all your service and parts needs call

Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pieces1-800-665-4455

For the repair or replacement parts you need:Call 6 am-11 pm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirect1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center

in your area:

Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance

Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement:Call 9 am-5 pm, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-6655

• SEARS •

171774 10.07.99 VB

Home Central sM

Printed in U.S.A.i