Craftsman 247.38824 User manual

PARTSLIST
19” Mulching/Rear Discharge
PUSH LAWN MOWER
Model No.
247.388240
CAUTION: Before using this product,
read this manual and follow all Safety
Rules and Operating Instructions.
Sears, Roebuck & Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179, U.S.A.
Printed in U.S.A. 770-10185A
SAFETYASSEMBLYOPERATIONMAINTENANCEADJUSTMENTS
Owner’s Manual
ES
STORAGE
(1/99)
ESPANÓL

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Warranty Information ...................................2
Safe Operation Practices.............................3
Slope Gauge................................................6
Assembly.....................................................7
Operation.....................................................9
Maintenance..................................................12
Content Page
Service & Adjustment.....................................15
Storage..........................................................17
Trouble-Shooting...........................................19
Parts List........................................................20
Espanól..........................................................26
These accessories were
available when the lawn
mower was purchased. They
are also available at most
Sears retailoutlets, and
service centers. Most Sears
stores can order repair parts
for you when you provide the
model number of your lawn
mower.
Horsepower: 4.0
Engine Oil 21 oz. SAE 30 oil
Fuel Capacity: 1.5 quarts
Spark Plug J19LM
Gap .030 inches
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Please record model number, serial number, and
date of purchase here for future reference.You will
find this information on the model plate located on
the cutting deck of your mower.
Model Number .........................................................
Serial Number...........................................................
Date of Purchase ......................................................
Engine Oil Stabilizer
Spark Plug
Grass Catcher
Muffler Wheels
Gas Can Blade
Safety
Glasses
Two-Year Warranty on Craftsman Lawn Mower
For two years from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman lawn mower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned
up according to the instructions in the owner’s manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defects in material or
workmanship. If this lawn mower is used forcommercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies foronly 90 days
from the date of purchase.
This warranty does not cover:
1. Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters,
belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
2. Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to
maintain equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner’s manual.
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN LAWN MOWER TO THE
NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER IN THE UNITED STATES. THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE
THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE IN THE UNITED STATES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck And Co., D/817WA,Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
ACCESSORIES
WARRANTY INFORMATION

3
GENERAL OPERATION
•Read this owner’s guide carefully in its entirety
before attempting toassemble thismachine.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on
the machine and in the manual(s) before
operation. Be completely familiar with the controls
and the proper use of thismachinebefore
operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for
future and regular reference, and for ordering
replacement parts.
•Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise
extremecaution at alltimes. Your unit has been
designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not
use it forany other purpose.
•Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
a power mower. Children14 years old and over
should only operate mower under close parental
supervision. Only responsible individuals who are
familiar with these rules of safe operation should
be allowed to use your mower.
•Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
particularly small children and pets. Stop engine
when they are in the vicinity of yourmower to help
prevent blade contact or thrown object injury.
Although the area of operation should be
completely cleared of foreign objects, an object
may have been overlooked and could be
accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction
and cause serious personalinjuryto the operator
or any others allowed in the area.
•Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones, toys and other foreign objects which could
be picked up and thrown by the mower in any
direction and cause serious personal injuryto the
operator or anyothersallowed inthe area.Plan
your mowing pattern to avoiddischarge ofmaterial
towardroads, sidewalks, bystandersand the like.
To help avoid a thrown object’s injury, keep
children, bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet
from the mower while it is in operation.
•Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
duringoperationorwhileperforminganadjustment
or repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects that
may be thrown from the machine in anydirection.
•Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts. Shirtsand pants that cover
the arms and legs andsteel-toed shoes are
recommended. Do not wearloose fitting clothes or
jewelry.Theycanbecaughtinmovingparts.Never
operate aunit in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light
weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts.Keep clear of discharge opening at all times
as the rotating blade can cause injury.
•Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being
pulled over the footduring a fall. Do not hangon to
the mower if youare falling; release the handle
immediately.
•Never pull the mower toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a
This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the per-
sonal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before
attempting to operate your lawn mower. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—heed its warning.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator
can result in serious injury. If you violate any of these rules, you may cause serious injury to
yourself or others.
DANGER:
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on ornear any unimproved
forest-covered, brush-covered orgrass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system isequipped with a
spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it shouldbe
maintained in effective workingorder by the operator.
In the State ofCaliforniathe above is required bylaw (Section 4442 of the California PublicResources
Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the
muffler is available through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center (See the REPAIR PARTS section
of this manual.)
WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals knownto the State of California to
cause cancer,birth defectsor other reproductive harm.
SAFETY

4
wallorobstructionfirstlookdownandbehind,and
then follow these steps:
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your
arms.
b. Be sureyou are well balanced with sure
footing.
c. Pullthe mower backslowly,nomorethanhalf
way toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
•Do not operate the mower while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
•Thebladecontrolhandleisa safetydevice.Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes
the safety device inoperative andmay result in
personal injury through contact with the rotating
blade.The blade controlhandle must operate
easily in both directions and automatically return
to the disengaged position when released.
•Never operate themower in wet grass. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. Keep a firm hold on the
handle and walk, never run. If you feel you are
losing your footing, RELEASE THE BLADE
CONTROL HANDLE IMMEDIATLEY and the
blade will stop rotating within three seconds.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Stopthebladewhencrossinggraveldrives,walks
or roads.
•If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine and check
immediatelyfor thecause.Vibrationisgenerallya
warning of trouble.
•Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging thechute.The cutting
blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after
the engine is shut off. Never place any part of the
bodyinthebladeareauntilyouare sure the blade
has stopped rotating.
•Never operate mower without proper guards,
grass catcher, plates or other safety protective
devices in place.
•Muffler andengine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
•Do not adjust the throttle control with the engine
running.
•Onlyuse accessories approved for this machine
by the manufacturer. Read, understand, and
follow all instructions provided with the approved
accessory.
•If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual,use care and goodjudgment.Contact
your dealer for assistance.
Slope Operation
For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of
thismanualtomeasureslopesbeforeoperatingthisuniton
a slope or hilly area.If the slope isgreater than 15 degrees
as shown on the slope gauge (page 6), do not operate this
unit on that area or serious injury could result.
DO:
•Mow across the face of slopes; never up and
down. Exercise extreme caution when changing
direction on slopes.
•Watch for holes, ruts, hidden objects, or bumps.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Alwaysbe sure ofyour footing.A slip and fall can
cause seriouspersonal injury. Ifyou feel you are
losing your balance releasethe blade control
handle immediately and the blade will stop in less
than 3 seconds.
•ON MODELS WITH CASTER WHEELS: Lock
bothfront wheels so they do not pivot while
mowing on the face of slopes. To turn the mower,
depress the handle and raise the front wheels
slightly.
DO NOT:
•Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose footingor
balance.
•Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
shown onthe slope gauge.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could
cause slipping.
•ON MOWERS WITH CASTER WHEELS: Do Not
mow on slopes with casters unlocked since the
mower has a tendency to drift down hill.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
mower and the mowing activity. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keep children outof the mowing area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult other than
the operator.
•Be alert and turn moweroff if a child entersthe
area.
•Before and while moving backwards, look behind
and down for small children or other objects.
•Never allow children under age 14 to operate the
mower. Children 14 years of age and above
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual.
•Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, orother objects that may
obscure yourvision of a child or hazard.
Service
•Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
•Use only an approved gasoline container.
•Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the
engine is running. Allow engine to cool at least
two minutes before refueling.

5
•Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe offany
spilled gasoline before starting the engine as it
may cause a fire or explosion.
•Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
•Neverrefuelmachineindoorsbecauseflammable
vapors will accumulate in the area.
•Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an openflame or sparksuch as a
gas water heater, space heater, orfurnace.
•Never run an engine inside a closed area.
•To reduce fire hazard, keepmower free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or
fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool at least 5
minutes before storing.
•Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and
keepthe wire away from the sparkplugto prevent
accidental starting.
•Checkthe blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent,
cracked or worn). Replace with blade which
meets original equipmentspecifications listed in
this manual.
•Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
•After striking a foreign object, stopthe engine,
remove the wire from the spark plug,and
thoroughlyinspect the mower for anydamage.
Repairthe damagebefore starting and operating
the mower.
•Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
•Grass catcher components are subject to wear,
damage and deterioration, which could expose
moving parts or allowobjects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components
and replace with manufacturer’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 enginegovernorsetting or
overspeed the engine.Excessive engine speeds
are dangerous.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Restrict the use of this power machine to
persons who read, understandand follow the
warnings and instructions in this manual and
on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
Following are representations of the safety labels on your lawn mower. Maintain safety while operating the mower.
Please have the part number readywhen re-ordering safety labels.

6
SLOPE GUAGE
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLDONDOTTEDLINE,REPRESENTINGA15°SLOPE
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes. Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
WARNING
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT
OPERATE SAFELY:

7
Removing Unit From Carton
•Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to
open carton.
•Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e.,
owner's manual, etc.).
•Cut along dotted lines and lay carton down flat.
•Remove packing material. Roll unitout of
carton. Check carton thoroughly for loose parts.
Note: Make sure not to crimp the cable while
removing loose parts or the unit from the carton.
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline
or oil in the engine. Be certain to service engine with
gasoline and oil before operating your mower.
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the
mower and/or front or behind the mower is observed
from the operating position.
Loose Parts
a. Owner’s Manual
b. A Bottle of Engine Oil
c. Parts for Grass Bag: Frame, Bag
d. Discharge Chute
Tools Required
a. Pair of Pliers
b. Funnel
Disconnecting Spark Plug
•Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect
the spark plug wire from the spark plug, and
ground it against the engine. See Figure 1.
•Attach rubber boot to a bolt on the engine to
ground as shown below.
Figure 1
Assembling Handle
•Raise lower handle in direction A shown in
Figure 2. It should snap into place.
Note: Make sure to route the cable inside the lower
handle. Also do not crimp the cable while lifting the
handle up
Spark Plug
Wire Rubber Boot
Spark Plug
Figure 2
For shipping purposes, the hairpin clip is placed in the
outer hole of the weld pin on the lower handle.
•Remove the hairpin clip from the outer hole of
the weld pin. See Figure 3.
Figure 3
•Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into
the inner hole in the weld pin.See Figure 3.
Repeat on other side.
•Raise the upper handle in the direction B shown
in Figure 2. Tighten the wing nutswhich are
already on the handle.
•Attach control cable to the lower handle with the
cable tie already on the lower handle. Pull tight
the cable tie and cutoff extra. See Figure 4.
Figure 4
A
B
Lower Handle
Upper Handle
Hairpin
Clip
Weld Pin
Lower
Handle
Outer Hole on
Weld Pin
Cable Tie
ASSEMBLY
ASSEMBLY

8
Attaching Starter Rope
The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the upper handle of your mower. See Figure 5.
•Withthesparkplugwiredisconnectedand
grounded,holdthebladecontrolhandleagainstthe
upperhandle,andpull starterropeoutoftheengine.
•Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown in
Figure 5. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope
guide to the upper handle.
Figure 5
Attaching Discharge Chute
•There is a groove 2”from the leftend of the rod.
Bend and snap off approximately 2”of the rod
with a pair of vise grips. See Figure 6.
•Insert push cap, provided with the chute rod,
onto the end of the rod which you just snapped
off. Tap on with a hammer. See Figure 6.
Figure 6
•To attach discharge chute: Lift the discharge
door and place the ends of the chute rod into
the slot on each handle bracketassembly.
Release the rear discharge door.
•To remove discharge chute: Lift the rear
discharge door of the mower.Lift the discharge
chute up and outwards and pull it outof the
slots on the handle bracket assemblies.
Release the rear discharge door.
Assembling Grass Catcher
NOTE: Make certain bag is turned right side out
before assembling (warning label will be on the
outside).
Wing Nut
Rope
Guide
Recoil
Starter
Discharge
Chute
Chute
Rod
Push
Rear Discharge
Door
Cap
Groove
•Place bag over frame (black plastic side is the
bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of
the plastic channel on bag over the hooks on the
grass catcher frame.
•Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure
7. All of the plastic channels except center top of
bag attach from the outside of bag. Center top of
bag attaches from the inside of bag.
Figure 7
Attaching Grass Catcher to Mower
•Lift the chute door on the mower. Remove the
mulching plug or the discharge chute. See
Figure 8.
Figure 8
•Holding the grass bag firmly, place the bag on
the mower as shown in Figure 9.
Figure 9
•Place hooks, located on two sides of the grass
catcher frame, in the slots on the handle
brackets. See Figure 9. Release the chute
door.
Warning: Never operate the mower unless
the grass catcher frame isfirmly seated on
the chute door pivot rod,and the rear
discharge door rests firmlyon top of the
grass catcher.
Frame
Bag
Hook
Plastic
Channels
Grass
Mulching
Plug
Grass Catcher
Hook
Slot

9
Know Your Lawn Mower
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare theillustrations in Figure
10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this
manual for future reference.
WARNING: The operation ofany lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the
operator’s eyes and causing severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses while operating the
mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Figure 10
Gas Tank Cap
Recoil Starter
Oil Fill Plug
Adjustment Lever
Front Height
Spark Plug Wire
Primer
Rear Height Adjustment Lever
Grass Catcher
Blade Control
Handle
Meets CPSC Blade Safety Standards
Craftsman Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers conform to thesafety standards of the American National Standards Institute
and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
OPERATION
WARNING: This blade control mechanism
is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
its operations.
Height Adjustment Lever
These levers are located on each wheel and are used
to adjustthe cutting height.All four levers have to beat
the same relative position to ensure uniform cut.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the handle. Stand
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start
the unit.
Primer
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor.
Use it to start a cold engine, but do not use it to
restart a warm engine after short shutdown.
Blade Control Handle
The blade control handle is located on the upper
handle of the mower. The blade control handle must
be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release
blade control handle to stop engine and blade.
OPERATION

10
Stopping Engine
•Release blade control handle to stop the
engine and the blade.
•Disconnect spark plug wire and move away
from spark plug to preventaccidental starting.
WARNING: Before using your lawn mower,
again refer to the safety rules on pages 3-5
of this manual. Always be careful.
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
Engine Oil
Only use high quality detergentoil rated with API
service classification SF, SG or SH. Select the oil’s
viscosity grade according to your expected operating
temperature. Follow the chart below.
•Use SAE30 oil; do not use 10W40 oil.
•Fill oil sump and check the oil level as follows:
a. Position the mower on level ground.
b. Clean area around oil fill plug.
c. Remove oil fill plug and dipstick.
d. Wipe dipstick clean, insert it into oil fill hole
and tighten securely.
e. Remove dipstick and check oil level. If the
oil is not upto FULL mark on the dipstick,
pour recommended oil through the oil fill
and check the level again.
•Install oil fill plug and dipstick, tighten securely.
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30,
etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these
multiviscosity oils will result in increased oil
consumption when used above 32oF. Check the oil
level more frequently to avoid possible engine
damage from running low on oil.
Gasoline
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,or
when engine is running or hot. Do not
smoke when filling fuel tank.
•Clean area around gas tankcap. For location,
see Figure 10. Remove cap.
•Use a funnel to prevent spillage.
•Pour approximately 1.5 quarts of fresh, regular
grade, unleadedgasoline slowly tothe fuel tank.
IMPORTANT: Never mix engine oil with gasoline.
•Fill tank to 1/2”below the bottom of the filler
neck. Wipe anyfuelspillage.Do not fill fueltank
completely. Provide space for fuel expansion.
32oFWarmerColder
5W30 SAE 30
Oil Viscosity Grade Chart
Starting Engine
(Refer to Figure 11.)
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the
operator is standing near the lawn mower
while starting or operating.
•Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make
certain the metal cap on the end of the spark
plug wire is fastened securely over the metal tip
on the spark plug.
WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING: Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts
on engine and lawn mower.
•Push primer three times. Wait about two
seconds between each push.In cold weather
around 55oF or below, prime five times. Do not
prime to restart a warm engine after a short
shutdown.
•Hold control handle against the upper handle.
Grasp recoil starter and pull rope outslowly
until engine reaches the start of compression
cycle (rope will pull slightly harder atthis point).
See Figure 11 inset. Let the rope rewind slowly.
Figure 11
Fill gasoline
Check/fill oil
Prime 3 times
Attach spark
plug wire
Pull recoil starter
Hold handles firmly

11
•Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm
stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the recoil starter,
let the rope return to the starter slowly.
Using Your Lawn Mower
Your mower isdesigned to operate as amulching ora
side discharge unit.
•For converting from a mulcher to a side
discharge unit, refer to instructions on page 8.
Do not operate mower without the mulching
deflector or the grass catcher properly
installed and tightly secured.
•Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks,
wire, orother objects which coulddamage lawn
mower or engine. Such objects could be
accidently thrown by the mowerin anydirection
and cause serious personal injury to the
operator and others.
•For best results, do not cut wet grass because
it tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings,
and could causeyou to slipand fall.New grass,
thick grass or wet grass may require a
narrower cut. Blade speed should be adjusted
to the condition ofthe lawn.
•The best mowing patternis one that allows the
clippings to discharge towards the uncut part of
the lawn. This permits recutting of the clippings
to further pulverize them. When cutting high
weeds, discharge towards cut portion, then
recut at right angles to first direction.
•For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or
less of the total length of the grass. Lawn should
be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
•This mower is designed to be operated at full
throttle to give you the best cut and do the
most effective job of bagging the clippings.
WARNING: If the mower strikes a foreign
object,stop the engine.Remove spark plug
wire from spark plug and thoroughly inspect
the mower for any damage. Repair the
damage before restarting the mower.
Extensive vibration during operation is an
indication of equipmentdamage.
Using Grass Catcher
You can use thegrass catcher bag to collectclippings
while operating the mower.
•Attachthegrasscatchertothe mower following
instructions on page 8 of this manual.
•Operate the mower till the grass catcher bag is
full, or the job has been completed whichever is
earlier.
•Stop the engine completely by releasing the
blade control handle. Make sure thatthe unit
has come to a complete stop and the blade has
stopped rotating. Empty the grass catcher bag
as follows.
•Lift the discharge door and pull the grass bag
away from the mower as shown in Figure 12.
•Holding the bag firmly, carrythe bag away from
the mower. Dispose offthe clippings
appropriately.
Figure 12
Height Adjustment
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 16 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting
height and the handle height.
For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height
position highuntil it is determined which heightis best
for your lawn.
Chute Door
Bag Handle
Hold bag with
clippings firmly

12
General Recommendations
•Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
•The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover
itemsthathavebeensubjectedto operatorabuse
or negligence. To receive full value from the
warranty,operatormustmaintainthelawnmower
as instructed in this manual.
•Changing of engine governed speed will void
engine warranty.
•Some adjustments will have to be made
periodically to maintain your unit properly.
•All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual should be checked at
least once each season.
•Follow the maintenance schedule given below.
•Periodically check all fasteners and make sure
these are tight.
WARNING: Always stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire before
performing any maintenance or adjustments.
Cleaning
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent any buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt , or other debris. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will result in rust and corrosion.
•Disconnect spark plug wire.
•Drain the gasoline from the lawn mower, or
place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.
•Tip the mower so that it rests on the housing.
Keep the side with the air cleaner facing up.
Hold it firmly.
•Scrape clean the underside ofthe deck with a
suitable tool.
•Put the mower back on its wheels on the
ground. If you had put plastic under the gas
cap, make sure to remove it now.
WARNING: Never tip the mower more
than 90 degrees and do not leave the
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil
can drain into the upper part of the engine
causing a starting problem.
NOTE: We do not recommendusing a gardenhose to
clean mower unless the muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.Water in
engine can shorten engine life.
Engine Maintenance
WARNING: Always stop engine,
disconnect spark plug wire, and move it
away from spark plug before performing any
adjustments or repairs.
MAINTENANCE
Customer Responsibilities
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
PRODUCT
ENGINE
SERVICE
DATES
Aftereachuse
Firsttwohours
Every25hours
Every50hours
Beforestorage
Every100hours
Onceaseason
Lubricate wheels
Lubricate casters
Lubricate blade control
Clean deck
Blade care
Change oil
Clean engine
Replace air filter
Check spark plug
Check spark arrester (if any)

13
Engine Oil
•Only use high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH. Select
the oil’s viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature. Refer to page
10 of this manual for viscosity chart.
•Stop engine and wait several minutes before
checking oil level. With engine on level ground,
the oil must be to FULL mark on dipstick .
•Change engine oil after the first five hoursof
operation, and every twenty-five hours
thereafter.
To Change Engine Oil
Change oil after first two operating hours and every
25 operating hours thereafter. Drain oil while engine
is warm. Follow the instructions given below.
•Tip the mower with the spark plug facing up.
•Place a container under the dipstick. Pull the
dipstick out ofoil fill.
•Drain the oil sump empty, collecting oil in an
approved container.
•Fill oil sump with 21 ounces of fresh SAE 30 oil.
Refer to page 10 of this manual for oil fill-up
instructions.
Air Cleaner
The air cleaner prevents damaging dirt, dust, etc.,
from enteringthe carburetorand being forced into the
engine and is important to engine life and
performance. Replace filter once a year or every 100
operatinghours,moreoftenifusedin extremelydusty
conditions.
To Service Air Cleaner:
•Turn air filter cover counterclockwise and
remove the cover and filter from the flange.
See Figure 13. Discard filter.
Figure 13
Air Cleaner
Filter
Cover
Flange
Tab
Slot
Retainer
Retainer
Turnto
remove
Turnto
tighten
•Clean cover and flange thoroughly.
•Insert the new filter into the cover.
•Place the cover and the filter against flange
with tab on the cover inserted into lower left
corner of slot in flange. See Figure 13.
•Push cover firmly against flange and turn it
clockwise as far as it will go. Make sure that the
retainers are locked around the flange. See
Figure 13.
WARNING: Never run the engine without
air cleaner completely assembled.
Clean Engine
•Clean engine periodically. Remove dirt and
debris with a cloth or brush.
•Frequently remove grass clippings, dirt and
debris from cooling fins, air intake screen and
levers and linkage. This will help ensure
adequate cooling and correct engine speed.
NOTE: Do not clean with a forceful spray of water as
water could contaminate the fuel system.
Spark Plug
•Clean spark plug and reset gap to .030" at least
once a season or every 50 hoursof operation.
See Figure 14. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each season. Refer
to engine parts list for correct spark plug type.
NOTE: Do not sandblast spark plug. Spark plug
should be cleaned by scraping or wire brushing and
washing with a commercial solvent.
Figure 14
Muffler
WARNING: Do not operate the lawn
mower without a muffler, or tamper with
the exhaust system. Damaged mufflers or
spark arresters could create a fire hazard.
Temperature of muffler and nearbyareas
may exceed 150oF(65oC).
Feeler gap .030”
Spark Plug
MAINTENANCE

14
Blade Care
Periodically inspect the blade adapter forcracks,
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when
necessary.
WARNING: When inspecting the cutting
blade, protect hands by using heavy
gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting
blade.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
•Turn mower on its sidemaking surethat the air
filter and the carburetor are up to check the
blade. If the blade needs to be serviced, refer
to the instructions on blade care in the “Service
& Adjustments”section of this manual.
Lubrication
Wheels
•Lubricate the wheels at least once a season
with light oil or engine oil. Also, if the wheels are
removed for any reason, lubricate the surface
of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light oil.
Blade Control Handle
•Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a
season with light oil. The blade control handle
must operate freely in both directions. For
complete lubrication chart,see Figure 15.
Chute Deflector
•Lubricate the torsion spring and the pivot point
on each end of the chute deflector using a light
oil. This will preventrusting and ensure that the
deflector, which is a safety device, can always
work properly. Figure 15
Lubricate
NOTE: For sake of clarity, illustrations in the insets represent view from another perspective rather than from the operating position.
Lubricate
Lubricate
Figure 15: Lubrication Chart

15
Servicing Blade
To Remove Blade
•Remove the bolt and blade bell supportwhich
hold the blade and adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 16.
•Remove the blade and adapter from the
crankshaft.
To Replace Blade:
•Before reinstalling the blade and the blade
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine
crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade
adapter with light oil.
•Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with
the “star”away from the engine. See Figure 16.
Figure 16
•Place the new blade with the side marked
bottom (or with part number) facing away from
the adapter.
•Place the bell supportnext. Make sure to align
the tabs in the holes of the blade with the hole in
the bell support.
•Insert the hexbolt through the blade assembly.
Figure 16 shows the correct order of assembly.
•Use block of wood to hold blade again while you
tighten the bolt clockwise. Follow the
recommended torque for the bolt which is 450-
600 in.-lbs.
IMPORTANT: The bolt, used to secure the blade to
the engine, is specially heat-treated. Do not
substitute. To order replacement bolt, refer to the
Repair Parts section of this manual.
WARNING: To ensure safe operation of
your unit, all nuts and bolts must be
checked periodically for correct tightness.
Blade Adapter
Blade Bell
Support
Hex Bolt
Blade
Crankshaft
To Sharpen Blade:
The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding
wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
•Follow the original angle of grind as a guide.
Make sure that each cutting edge receives an
equal amount of grinding to prevent an
unbalanced blade.
NOTE: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause
damage to the mower and could break, causing
personal injury.
•Test the blade by balancing it on a round shaft
screwdriver or a blade balancer.See Figure 17.
•If the blade is not balanced, remove metal from
the heavy side until itbalances evenly.
Figure 17
Engine Adjustments
WARNING: Do not make unnecessary
adjustments on the engine. Factory settings
are satisfactory for most conditions.
If any adjustments are made to the engine
while the engine is running, keep clear of all
moving parts. Be careful of heated
surfaces and muffler. Keep your hands
away from these parts.
Carburetor
The carburetor has been pre-set at the factoryand
should not require adjustment.
•If the engine on your mower does not operate
properly due to suspected carburetor problems,
take your lawn mower to your nearest SEARS
service center.
•Engine performance may be affected in altitudes
above 4000 feet. To improve engine
performance, install a high altitude adjustment
kit, available at the SEARS service center.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor.
1. Insert screw driver through hole
2. Blade should be parallel to ground
Screw
Driver
Ground
Blade
SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENTS

16
Engine Speed
WARNING: Overspeeding engine above
the factory setting can be dangerous. Do not
attempt to increase engine speed or it may
result in personal injury. Changing ofengine
governed speed will void engine warranty.
•If you believe the engine isrunning too fast or
too slow, take your lawn mower to the nearest
SEARS service center.
Adjusting Handle Height
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the handle height,proceed
as follows.
•Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
•Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle
out of the way, being careful not to bend or kink
the cable.
•Remove the hairpin clip from the weld pin on the
handlebracketoneachsideofthelowerhandle.
See Figure 18 inset. Press out on the legs of the
lower handle. Remove lower handle from the
mower.
•Turn the lower handle around so the notch on
the bottom of the lower handle is facing forward
as shown in Figure 18. Reassemble, placing the
bottom hole on the handle over the weld pin in
the handle mounting bracket.
•Reassemble the upper handle to the lower
handle.
•Place the hairpin clipsin the inner holes in the
weld pins and attach the starter rope as
instructed in the Assembly section. See Figure
18 inset.
Figure 18
Notch
Lower
Handle
Hairpin
Clip
Lower
Handle
Adjusting Cutting Height
IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the same
relative position.
•Raise the mower wheels for low cut and lower the
wheels forhighcut.For rough or uneven lawns,
move the height adjustment lever to a higher
position. This will help stop scalping of the
grass.
There is an adjusting plate and thumb lever at each
wheel position to adjust the cutting height. Each
adjustingplate hasnine heightpositions.Heightof cut
will change if you move the thumb lever from one hole
to another.
•Simply depress the lever towards wheel and
move the wheel and lever assembly to the
desired position. See Figure 19.All wheels
must be placed in the same relative position for
uniform cutting height.
•For rough or uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment handles to positions which will give
a higher cutting height.Both front and rear
handles must be placed in the same relative
position.
Figure 19
Height Adjustment
Lever

17
STORAGE
Prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or
more. Store the mower in a clean, dry area.
Mower
•Clean underside of the mower following
instructions in the Maintenance section of this
manual.
•Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required.
RefertotheMaintenancesectionofthismanual
for blade care instructions.
•Lubricate mower following the lubrication chart
on page 14 of this manual.
You can fold your mower’s handle for convenient
storage as shown in Figure 20. Follow the steps
below to fold the handle.
•Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
•Loosen the two hand knobs on the sides of the
handle, and let the upper handle fold down to
the rear.
•Move the hairpin clips to the outer hole in the
weld pins on the handle mounting brackets.
•Spread the sides of the lower handle, and push
it forward and down.
Figure 20
NOTE: When folding the handle for storage or
transportation, be careful not to bend or kink the
cable.
Engine
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum deposits
from forming in essential fuel system parts such as
carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose, or tank during
storage. Also, experience indicates thatalcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads to
separation and formation ofacids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
Lower
Handle
Upper Handle
Drain fuel system & carburetor
WARNING: Drain fuel into approved
container outdoors away from open flame.
Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke.
•Drain the fuel tank.
•Start the engine and letit run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty.
•Drain carburetor by removing bowl drain screw
which is located below the carburetor. See
Figure 21.
Figure 21
Note: Do not drain carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
WARNING: Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank
or permanent damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
Use fuel stabilizer
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during
storage.
•Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container.
•Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container.
•Run engine at least 10 minutesafter adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the
carburetor.
•Do not drain the gas tank and carburetor if
using fuel stabilizer. Drain all the oil from the
crankcase (This should be done after the
engine has been operated and is still warm)
and refill the crankcase with fresh oil.
Carburetor
Bowl Drain
STORAGE

18
Oil cylinder bore
After you have drained the fuel tank, protect the
inside of the engine as follows:
•Remove spark plug, pour approximately one
ounce (30 ml) ofengine oil into spark plug hole,
and crank slowly to distribute oil.
WARNING: Avoid spray from spark plug
hole when cranking the engine slowly.
•Replacesparkplug;donotconnectsparkplugwire.
Change oil
•Change oil if it has not been changed in the last
three months. For instructionson how to
change oil refer to the Maintenance section of
this manual.
Clean engine
•Clean engine and remove any grass clippings,
dirt, or chaff from the exterior of the engine.
•Remove any dirt or debris from cooling fins, air
intake screen, levers, and linkage.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
•Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause
problems. Store unit ina clean,dryarea. Donot
store next to corrosive materials, such as
fertilizer.
NOTE: If storing in an unventilated or metal storage
shed, be certain torustproofthe equipmentbycoating
with a light oil or silicone.

19
TROUBLE-SHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION
Engine fails to start 1. Blade control handle disengaged
2.Spark plug wire disconnected
3.Throttle control lever not in starting position
4.Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel
5.Blocked fuel line
6.Faulty spark plug
1. Engage blade control handle.
2.Connect wire to spark plug.
3.Move throttle lever to starting position.
4.Fill tank with fresh, clean fuel.
5.Clean fuel line.
6.Clean, adjust gap or replace.
Engine runs erratic 1. Spark plug wire loose
2.Blocked fuel line or stale fuel
3.Vent in gas cap plugged
4.Water or dirt in fuel system
5.Dirty air cleaner
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2.Cleanfuelline,filltankwithclean,fresh
gasoline.
3.Clear vent.
4.Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5.Clean air cleaner. Refer to
Maintenance section ofthis manual.
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low
2.Air flow restricted 1. Fill crankcase with proper oil. 2.Clean lawn mower engine.
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed
1. Spark plug gap too close 1. Adjust gap to .030 inches.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too wide
2.Dirty air cleaner
1. Reset gap to .030 inches or replace
spark plug.
2.Clean air cleaner following instructions
on page 13.
Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced
2.Bent cutting blade
3.Bent engine crankshaft
1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance
blade.
2.Replace blade.
3.Contact your SEARS Service Center.
Mower will not
mulch grass 1. Wet grass 2.Excessively high grass
3.Dull blade
1. Wait until later to cut.
2.Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height. Make a
narrower cutting swath (1/2) width. Do
not cut off more than 1/3 of the total
length.
3.Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not in same height position
2.Dull blade
1. Place all four wheels in same relative
height position.
2.Sharpen or replace blade.
For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above,
please contact your nearest SEARS Service Center.

20
PARTS LIST
SEARS CRAFTSMAN 4.0 H.P. LAWN MOWER MODEL 247.388240
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16 17
18
19
21
22
23
24
25
28
29
30
43
34
35
36
37
38
43
45
46
47
48
49
31
50
36
37
A
A
33
10
9
9
31
32
35
44
42
39
41 40