Owner's Manual

6.0 HORSEPOWER21" MULTI-CUTROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.917.388732

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:Read and follow allSafety Rules and Instructionsbefore operatingthis equipment

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

2Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4Assembly ................................................ 5Operation ............................................. 6-9Maintenance Schedule ........................ t OMaintenance .................................... 10-13

Product Specifications .......................... 11Service and Adjustments................. 13-14Storage ............................................ 14-15Troubleshooting .............................. 15-16Repair Parts .......................................... 32Parts Ordering ........................ Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions inthe owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in malarial or workman-ship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental puq_oses,this warrantyapplies for only 90 days fTomthe date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower

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

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the 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 dghts, and you may also have other rightswhichvary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet andthrowing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructionscould result insedous injury Q"death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and 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 obiects 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.

• Do not operate the mower whenbarefoot or wearing open sandals.Always wear substantialfoot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unlessabsolutely necessary. Always lookdown and behind before and whilemoving backwards.

• Do not operate the mower withoutproper guards, plates, grass catcher orother safety protectivedevices inplace.

• See manufacturer's instructionsforproper operation and installationofaccesseries. Only use accessoriesapproved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravelddves, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever youleave the equipment, before cleaningthe mower or 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 mecha-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 tdm near drnp-offs, ditches orembankments. The operator could losefooting or balance.

• Do not tdm excessively steep slopes.• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

footing could cause slipping.

III. 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 trimmingareaand under the watchful care of anotherresponsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if childrenenter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,look behind and down for smallchildren.

• Never allow childrento operate themachine.

• Use extra care when approaching blindcomers, 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 refueling. 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 dosedarea.

• Never make adjustments or repairs withthe engine (motor) running. Disconnectthe spark plugwire, 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 regulady.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, orother debris build-up. Clean oil or fuelspillage. Allow machine to cool beforestodng.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if youstdke 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 governor3 setting or overspeed the engine.

&Lookfor this symbol to point outimportantsafety precautions. It meansCAUTIONI!! BECOMEALERT!_! YOURSAFETY IS iNVOLVED.

A WARNING: In order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transpor'dng,adjusting or making repairs,always disconnect spark plug wire andplace wire where it cannot contact sparkplug.

,&WARNING'. Engine exhaust, some ofits constituents, and certain vehiclecomponents contain or emit chemicalsknown to the State of California to causecancer and birth defects or other repro-ductive harm.

,&WARNING: Battery posts, terminals andrelated accessories contain lead andlead oumpounds, chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancer andbirth defects or other repmducf_veharm.Wash hands after handling.

,&CAUTION: Muffler and other engineparts become extremely hot dudngoperation and remain hot after enginehas stopped, To avoid severe burns oncontact, stay away from these areas.

These accessorieswere availablewhen this lawn rnowerwas produced. They are notshipped wRhyour mower, They are alsoavailableat mostSears retailoutletsand servicecenters. MostSes_'sstorescan alsoorderrepairpads foryou,when youprovidethe modelnun'b_ _ your lawn mower. Some of theseacoessedesmaynotapplyto yourlawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FORREAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANC

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FORSIDE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

AIR FILTERS

SLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

4

Read these instructions and this manualin its entiretybefore you attempt toassemble or operate your new lawnmower.IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.Your now lawn mower has been as- Operatorsembled at the factory with the exception conk-olbarof those parts left unassembled forshipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,washers, bolts, etc., necessary to corn- Liftplete the assembly have been placed inthe parts bag. To ensure safe and properoperation of your lawn ntower, 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 comers of cartonand lay end panel down fiat.

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 and 3-Positioncheck carton thorougly for additional handleloose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWNMOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully soas not to pinch or damage control cables.1. Raise lower handle section to

operating position and squeeze thebottom ends of lower handle towardseach other until the pin in handle canbe inserted into one of the threeheight adjustment holes.

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

3. Remove any packing matedal fromaround control bar.

Your handles may be adjusted for yourmowing comfort. Refer to Service andAdjustments section of this manual.

Mowingposition

Lower handle

bracket

pin

/

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready tobe used as a mulcher. To convert tobagging or discharging, see =TO CON-VERT MOWER" in the Operation sectionof this manual.

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWERREAD THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND 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 yourlawn mower or in literature supplied

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDSOR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

presence control bar

Handle knobcap with dipstick

Grass

Muffler

Mulcher door

WheeladjusterIMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped (on eachwheel)WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of theAmerican National Standards Instituteand the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-sion, The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator Presence Control Bar- must behelddownto _ handleto starttheengine.Release to stop theengine.Mulcher door- allows conversion todischarge or bagging operation.

Pdmer- pumpsadditionalfuel from Mecarberetorto the cylinderfor use whenstartinga coldengine.Starter Handle - usedfor startingtheengine.

6

Theoperationofanylawnmowercanresultinforeignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcanresultinsevereeyedamage.

Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreyeshieldswhileoperatingyourlawnmowerorperfo_ingBey adjustments or repairs.We recommend a wide vision safetymask over spectacles or standard safetyglasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWERENGINE 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 dskof blade contact injury. Do not under anycircumstances attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator control. The bladerums 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 HEIGHTRaise wheels for low cut and lowerwheels for high cut, adjust cutting heightto suityour requirements. Mediumposition is best for 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 propedy positionedwhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.Also, 9-pesition adjusters (if so equipped)allow lever to be positioned between theplate tabs.

LowerWheels_r HighCut P._ Tab_

RaiseWheels for LowCut Lever

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready tobe used as a mulcher. To convert tobagging or discharging:

REAR BAGGING• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and

place the grass catcher frame hooksonto the door pivot pins.

• To convert to mulching or dischargingoperation, remove grass catcher andclose rear door.

Pivot pins Rear Grasdoor oatche

Catcher frame hook

SIDE DISCHARGING• Rear door must be closed.• Open mulcher door and installdis-

charge deflector under guard as shown• Mower is now ready for discharging

operation.• To convert to mulching or bagging

operation, discharge deflector must beremoved and melcher door must beclosed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBERWHENCONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FORMULCHING-1. Rear door closed.2. Mulcher door closed.FOR REAR BAGGING -1. Grass catcher installed.2. Mutcher door closed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -1. Rear door closed.2. Side discharge deflector installed._,CAUTION: Do not run your lawnmower without rear door closed orapproved grass catcher in place.Never attempt to operate the lawn mowerwith the rear door removed or preppedopen.

7

Discharge

Mulcherdoor

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into enginefur accurate reading. To read 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 hoursof

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

ADD GASOLINE

NOTE: Before fillingfuel tank, removeand discard the debris plug that is insidethe tank.• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of87 octane. Do not mix oil withgaso-line. Purchase fuel in quantities thatcan be used within 30 days to assurefuel freshness.

A.WARNING: Experience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) can attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids duringstorage. 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 Instructionsforadditional information. Never use engineor carburetor cleaner products in the fueltank or permanent damage may occur._, CAUTION: Fill to bottomof gas tankfiller neck. Do not ovenlll. Wipe off anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill oruse gasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline filler cap Engine oil(Discard debris cap

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OILYour 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, 8

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatingson theengine, a small amount of smoke may bepresent during the initialuse of theproduct and should be considerednormal.1. To start a cold engine, push primer

three (3) times before tryingto 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: ta cooler weather itmay benecessary to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather over pdming 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 very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raisethe height of cut to mduca 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 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.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust withuse and catchers will collect less grass.To prevent this, regularly hose catcheroff withwater 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 MOWINGTIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of built-upgrass and trash, See "CLEANING" intheMaintenance section of this manual.• The special mulching blade will recur

the grass clippingsmany 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 nutrientsfor the lawn.Always mulch with your highest engine(blade) speed as this will provide thebest recuttingaction 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 eadyafternoon. At this time the grass hasdded 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 dumps 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 firstcut 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,

MAI,,.E NCESC.EOU'.EAs, ooCOMPLETE EOU 'SEaV'CECheck for Loose Fasteners _ _/Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher(If Equipped) it/ I_ _/

M Clean Lawn Mower iv/ _,/

V_ Clean Under Ddve Coveri (power-Propelled MOWers! _/Check drive bctt!pulleys

E (Power*propelled Mowers) If! Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _'3

Lubdcalion ChartIClean 6/ I'/

Baite_dRechargeEleCtric Brad MOWerSI b/ it/4

E 3heck Engine Oil Level _/N Chan_leEngine Oil 1€#4_

G Clean Air Filter b/I Inspect Muffler i,/

Ni CleanorReplaceSparkPJug t,/Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge f/'z

1 - Change mo_ ofle_ when operating under a heavy bad or in highambiee__atltperatur_2 * Sewic_ morn OQIe_when opera,rig i_ dl'iy or du4ty co,dittos3 - Re_ b,ladesmote _en when fnowing in _ancly sod.4. Chage 48 hoursat end of seasoe

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 madepededically to propedy maintain yourunit.All adjustments in the Service andAdjustments section of this n',anualshould 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 elementassure proper air-fuel mixture and helpyour engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule inthis manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-CATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

G)

Mulcher

door hinge

Rear door

hi_je

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or greaseplastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri-cants will attract dust and dirt that willshorten the life of the selfJubricatingbearings. If you feel they mustbelubdcated, use only a dry, powderedgraphite type lubricant sparingly.

10

(_) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

(_) Handle bracket mounting pins

(_) Spray lubricant

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIAL NUMBER:

DATE OF PURCHASE:

SASOUNE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTSUNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)20 OZS.

31LTYPE (API-SF-SJ):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LMBLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and sadal numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of thelawn mower housing, Record both sedal number and date of purchase in spaceprovided above.

LAWNMOWERAlwaysobservesafetyroleswhenperfon_ingany maintenance.TIRES• Keeptiresfreeofgasallee,oil,or insect

controlchemicalswhichcanharmrubber.• Avoidstumps,stones,deepruts,sharp

objectsandotherhazards_ maycausetiredamage.

BLADE CAREFor bestresults,mowerblademust bekeptsharp. Replacebentordamagedblades.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 propedy. 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 belt is grade 8 heattreated.

Crankshaft

Key_ keyway

Blade shaftbolt \

washer Trailingedge Bladeadapter

11

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: 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 willcause eventual damage to lawn moweror engine.• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a gdnding wheel. Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nailinto a beam or wall. Leave about oneinch 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.

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed withwater, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often fordamage or detedoration. Throughnormal use it willwear. If catcher needsreplacing, replace only with a manufac-turer approved replacement catcher.Give the lawn mower model numberwhen ordering.

ENGINELUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwithAPI service classificationSF-SJ.Select the oil's SAE viscosity gradeaccording to your expected operatingtemperature.

I__E tSAE VISCONTY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscesityoils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting incold weather, these muifi-viscesity oilswill result in increased oil consumptionwhen used above 32°F. Check yourengine oil level more frequently to avoidpossible engine damage from runninglow on oil.Change the oil after every 25 hours ofoperation or at least once a year if thelawn mower is not used for 25 hours inone year.

Check the crankcase oil level beforestarting the engine and after each five (5)hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plugsecurely each time you check the oillevel.

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 whore 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 Operation section of this manual}.

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to sparkplug,

3ontainer

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and maybe damaged by using a dirty air filter.Replace the air filter every 100hours ofoperation or every season, more often ifyou mow in very dusty, dirty conditions.TO CLEAN AIR FILTER1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.2. Carefully remove cartridge.3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat

surface. If very dirty, replace cartddge.ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such askerosene, are not to be used to cleancartridge. They may cause detedoratioo ofthe cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do notuse pressudzed air to clean or drycartridge.4. Install cartddge, then replace cover

making sure the tabs are aligned withthe slots in the back plate. Fastenscrew securely.

12

Back

Up

Cartridge Cover tabs

MUFFLER

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

Replace spark plugs at the beginning ofeach mowing season or a_er every 100hours of operation, whichever occurs first.Spark plug type and gap setting areshown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"in Maintenance section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of built-upgrass and trash. Clean the underside ofyour mower after each use.ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plugwirefrom 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.

_.CAUTION: 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 MOWERTO 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 possibilitythat objects willbe thrown out of the rear of the mower intothe operator mewing position. If thedeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle on your lawn mower hasthree (3) height positions - adjust to heightthat suitsyou.• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pinin handle can be inserted into one ofthe three height adjustment holes,

13

__ Handl

Handlepin

Squeeze

3-position.----'"_ _,_, _ HighHandle _ _ _adjustment _'_F,_'_ \_ Mediumbracket _\ t\ _\_ \ \

_'Low

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1, Put grass catcher frame into grass bagwith rigidpart of bag on the bottom,Make sure the frame handle is outsideof the bag top.

2, Slip vinyl bindings over frame,NOTE: If vinyl bindingsare too stiff, holdthem inwarm water for a few minutes, Ifbag 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.

Catcher _ _'_ - _-'_J'_

frame : _\handle

/7 _,._ Vinyl _,bindings

ENGINEENGINESPEEDYourenginespeedhasbeenfactoryset.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 aSears or other qualified service center forrepair and adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Yourcarburetor is not adjustable. If yourengine does not operate propedy due tosuspected carburetor problems, take yourlawn mower to a Sears or other qualifiedservice center for repair and/or adjust-ment.IMPORTANT: Never tamper withtheengine governor,which is factory set forproper engine speed. Overspeeding theengine above the factory high speedsetting can be dangerous. If you think theengine-govereed high speed needsadjusting, contact a Sears or otherqualified service center, which has properequipment and axbedence to make anynecessary adjustments.

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 MOWERWhen lawn mower is to be stored for aperiod of time, clean it thoroughly, removeall did, grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean, dry area.1. Clean entire lawn mower (See

"CLEANING" in the Maintenancesection of this manual).

2. Lubdcate 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. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on

sides of the upper handle and allowhandle to fold down to the rear.

2. Squeeze the bottom ends of lowerhandle toward each other until pins inhandle clear the brackets and pivotentire handle assembly forward andallow it to rest on mower.

• When setting up your handle from thestorage position, the lower handle willrequire manually locking into themowing position.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor storage or transportation, be sure tofold the handle as shown or you maydamage the controlcables.

Operatorpresencecontrolbar

Upperhandle-..-........__,_

Lowerhan_e_

'N- /

'old _.ward,iS7)ol!/

/,_ Fold

_,7_,a ckwardMow_g

position

pin

/3-Positionhandleadjustmentbracket

14

ENGINEFUEL 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 flesh fuel next season.NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptablealternative in minimizing the formation offuel gum deposits dudng 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.

ENGINE OIL

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.4. Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from oneseason to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if yourcan starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt inyour gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoorsand cover it to give protectionfromdustand dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitableprotective cover that does not retainmoisture. Do not use plastic. Plasticcannot breathe, which allowscondensation to form and will causeyour unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whileengone and exhaust areas are stillwarm.

_. CAUTION:Never store the lawnmower with gasoline in the tank insidea buildingwhere fumes may reach anopen flame or spark. Allow the engineto cool before storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHARTPROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start 1. Dirty air filter.2. Out of fuel.3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire isdisconnected.

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

blade adapter.8. Control bar in released

position.9. Control bar defective.

CORRECTION

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

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 belt or

replace blade adapter.8. Depress control bar to

handle.9. Replace control bar.

15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHARTPROBLEM CAUSE

Loss of power

Poor cut-uneven

Excessivevibration

1. Rear of lawn mower

housing 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. 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 walking

speed.

1. Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at sameheight,

3. Clean underside ofmower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.

2. Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.

Starter rope hard 1. Engine flywheel brake is ortopull when control bar is release_

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

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

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.

Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.notfllllng (Ifso 2. Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.

Hardtopush 1. Raise cutting height.1. Grass is too highor wheelheight is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mowerhousing or blade draggingin grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.4. Handle height position not

dght for you.

2. Raise rear of lawn mowerhousing one (1) settinghigher,

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

suit.

16

67

68

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NUMBER917.388732

_44_ 7°

23

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NUMBER 917.388732

KEY PARTNO. NO.

1 1316962 166860X4793 1611o53(4794 1320015 636016 1319597 664268 747805129 15413210 16575411 17655612 75063413 86899X00414 13637615 5179316 14728617 165946X47918 1760040619 16713ZX00420 167133X00421 165858Z2 168360X00423 16687524 75115325 166236X47926 166243X47927 85185625 15212429 160835X00730 1911222231 16576033 8787734 167130X00435 16678536 16082837 151162

DESCRIPTION

KEY PART

NO, NO. DESCRIPTION

Conttut Bar 38 164,362Upger Handle 39 83923Lower Handld 40 77400Roge Guide 41 88652Loci

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12H802-2639-BI

lk REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLSTO INSTALL. SEE REPAIRINSTRUCTION MANUAL•

11058 OWNER'S MANUAL I

307_

15_

• 3O6

1095VALVEGASKET SET

34

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12H802-2639-B1

69_

188_

977 CARBURETORGASKET SET 365

I121 CARBURETOR OVERHAUL lOT

'_ 708@ ._

_--_163_

13_17_ 104_

276© 127_

276

J 276

35

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12HS02-2639-B1

921

304

305

JI 1030 EMISSIONS LABEL I

332

363 _ 455 _

L.. ....

es_

592_ 58_'_

i

689_"_ 60

456_

597_

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12H802-2639-BI

74 5

615

404 _ 22_

37

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12H802-263

KF-Y PART KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 493260 Cylinder Assembly 50 497465 Manifold-Intake2 399269 Kit-Bushing/Seat 51 272199 • Gasket-intake3 299819 • Seal-Oil (Magneto Bide) 54 691650 Screw (intake Manifold4 493279 Bump-Engine 55 691421 Hot_ing-Rewlnd Starte5 691160 Head-Cylinder 58 692259 Rope-Starter (Cut to7 692249 -+ Gasket-Cyfinder Head Required Length)8 695250 Breather Assembly 60 291434 Grip-Starter Rope

272481 -+ Gasket-Breather 65 690759 Screw (Rewind Starter)90 691125 Screw (Breather Assembly) 81 691740 Lock-Muffler Screw1 t 691781 Tube-Breather 95 691636 Screw (Throttle Valve)12 692232 • Gasket-Crankcase 97 493267 Bhaft-Throttta13 690912 Screw Cyl[nderHend) 104 691242 O PIn°FloatHInge15 691680 plug-Oil Dra n 117 494670 Jet-Main(Standard16 691451 Crankshaft 497315 Jet.Main (High _5tude)20 399781 • Seat-Oil PTO Side 121 498260 Klt.Carbureto( Overhaul22 691092 Screw (Engne Bump 125 498170 Carburetor23 692315 Flywheel 127 694466 O Plug-Welch24 222698 Key-Flywheai 130 691203 Valve-Throttle25 499429 Piston Assembly Standard) 133 398187 Float-Carburetor

499430 Platon Assembly (.010" O.S,) 134 398186 0 Vaive-NeeblelSeat499431 Piston Assembly (.020" O.S.) 137 693981 0:[: Gasket-Fidat Bow[499432 Piston Assembly (.030" O.S.) 146 690979 Key-Timing

26 499425 Ring Set-Piston (Standard) 159 691753 Bracket-Air Cleaner Pdr499426 Ring Set-Piston {.010" O.S.) 163 272653,O_ Gasket-._r Ck_anet499427 Ring Set-Piston (.020" O.S.) 187 691050 Line-Fuai Cut to Lengt499428 Ring Set*Piston (.030" O.S.) 188 690877 Screw Conb'ol Bracket

27 691866 Lock-Pistan Pin 190 690940 Screw Fue Tank28 499423 Pin-Piston 202 691829 Link-Mechanical Gove029 499424 Rod-Connecting 209 696319 Spring-Governor32 691664 Screw (Connecting Rod) 222 692467 Bracket-Contrbl32A 695759 Screw (Connecting Rod) 227 690783 Control Lever-Govemol33 262651 Valve-Exhaust 276 271716 0::[; Sealing Washer34 262652 Valve-Intake 287 690940 Screw (DipsUck Tube)35 691270 Spring-Valve (Intake) 360 692036 Muffler36 691276 Spring-Valve (Exhaust) 304 695892 Housing-Blower40 692194 Retainer-Valve 305 691105 Screw (Blower Housing43 69t 997 Slinger-Governor/Oil 306 690450 Shtetd-Cylinder45 690548 Tappet-Valve 367 690345 Screw (Cylinder Shield46 691449 Camshaft 332 690662 Nut (Flywheel46 498826 Short BloCk (Replacement 333 802574 Armature-Magneto

Engine 123802-2915-81} 334 691061 S_ew (_n_e Magr

38

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER12H882.2639-BI

KEY PART KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

337 802592 Spark Plug 847 692017 Assembly-DipsUck/Tube356 692390 Wlre-Sto }p 861 493880 TermlnaI-Sparkplu_358 497316 Engine Gasket Set 669 691155 Seat-Valve (Inta ke_363 19069 Flywheel Puller 870 690380 Seat-Valve (Exhaust)365 692524 Screw (Carburetor) 871 262001 Bushing-Guide (Exhaust)383 89838 Wrench-Ssparrk Plug 63709 Bushing-Guide (Intake)464 690272 Washer (Governor Crank) 921 497233 Cover-Slower Housing426 690670 Screw (Air Cleaner Cover) 922 692135 Spdng-Brake443 692523 Screw (Air Cleaner Pdmer 923 695891 Brake

Base) 957 397974 Cap-Fuel Tank445 491888 Filter-Air Cleaner Cartridge 966 496116 Base-Air Cleaner Primer455 691219 Cup-Flywheel 968 692298 Cover-Air Cleaner456 692299 Plete-Pawi Fdction 969 690700 Screw

459 281505 Pawl-Ratchet (Blower Housing Cover)505 231082 Nut (Governor Control Lever) 970 691669 Screw523 495264 D_pstlek (Air Cleaner primer Bracket)524 692296 • Seal-Dipstick Tube 972 495224 Tank-Fuel525 495265 Tube-Dipstick 975 493640 Bowl-Float829 691923 Grommet 976 496115 PdmeroCarburetor562 92613 Bolt (Governor Control Lever) 977 498261 Set-Carburetor Gasket584 692342 Cover-Breather Passage 1019 494256 Kit-Label585 691879 • Gasket-Breather Passage 1036 695111 Label-_mlssions592 690800 Nut (Rewind Starter) 1058 274265 Owner's Manual597 691696 Screw (Pawi Fdctlon Plate) 1059 692311 Klt-ScrewNVasher601 95162 Clamp-Hose 1095 498526 Bet-Valve Gasket609 497680 Starter-Rewind 1210 498144 Assembly-Pulley/Spring613 691340 Screw Muffler) (Pulley)615 690340 Retaner-Governor Shaft 1211 496144 Assembly-Pulley/Spdng616 691306 Crank-Governor (Spring)617 270344 O:_ SeaI-O Ring (intake Manifold)621 692310 Switch-Stop • Included in Engine Gasket Set, Key #358635 66538 BooI-Sparkplug668 493823 • Spacer (Inoludes 2) O thduded in Carburetor Overhaul Kit, Key #121670 692294 Spacer-Fuel Tank684 690345 Screw .1: Included in Carburetor Gasket Set, Key #977

(Breather Passage Cover)689 691855 Sprthg-t-Frlction + Included in Varve Overhaul Kit, Key #1095708 691321 O._ Seal-Throttle Shaft741 691830 Gear-Timing NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.842 691031 • SeaI-O Ring (Dipstick Tube) Inches. 1 Inch = 25.4 mm

39

Forrepairofmajor brand appliancesInyour own home...nomatterwhomade it,no matterwhosold

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For raperof cany-inproductslikevacuums,lavmequipment,and._ electronics,callforthe nearestSears Partsand RepairCenter,

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Forthe raplacernentparts,accessoriesandowner'smanualsthatyouneedtode-it-yourself,callSearsPartsDirectS_!

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