Craftsman 917.372451 User manual

MODELNUMBER917'.37245 ®
OWNER'SMANUAL
_Assembly
°Operation
°Maintenance
oService
eAdjustments
_RepairParts
Caution:
ReadandFollow
all Safety Rules
and Instructions
BeforeOperating
This Equipment
....................................................... ,,,, i i i ill i ,11i,iii,iiiii

SAFETYRULES
CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE AND PLACE WIRE
,_ WHERE tT CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL ,_
sT T,.Gw. NS T ,NG-U . ADJUS ,NGAK,NG
TOYOUAW.MOWE
IMPORTANT
FEDERAL REGULATIONS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE BLADE STOP CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE
RISK OF BLADE CONTACT INJURY. YOUR LAWN MOWER IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS. DO
NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES_
°BE CAREFUL-WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUN-
NING THE BLADE IS TURNING,,
•Please read your owner's manual Only allow
persons who know the safety rules to useyour
lawn mower.
• DO NOT tie the engine control bar to the han-
dle_ Control must be free to permit brake
engagement when handles and control are
released.
,D)tOO NOT allow children to use your lawn
mower_
°Check your lawn mower over before each use,
Tighten any loose bolts, nuts, etc.
= Remove all sticks,stones, wires, cans, boards,
etc, from area to be mowed. These objects can
be thrown by the blade_
• DO NOT allow children, bystanders or pets in
the area -while mowing.
°Always wear shoes when mowing DO NOT
operate lawn mower when barefoot or wear-
ing open sandals.
•_tways wear safety glasses or eye shields
before starting your lawn mower' and while
mowing.
=Always shut off engine before trying to adjust
whee/heights.
•When engine is running, DO NOT put hands
or feet under lawn mower or in the discharge
chute, nor make any adjustments.
• Stay clear of discharge opening at all times_
= Do not fill gas tank when engine is running,
when indoors or when engine is hot. Allow
engine to coot for several minutes before fill-
ing gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline
before starting engine.
oMow only in goodlight_
• Always stop blade when not cutting grass or
when crossing gravel drive, sidewalk, or'
roadway_
°DO NOT continue to run your lawn mower if
c_ou hit a foreign object. Stop the engine,
isconnect the spark plug wire from the spark
plug, inspect the lawn mower' for damage and
make repairs as required.
• DO NOT usea damaged lawn mower. Always
have damage repaired before mowing°
•DO NOT run your lawn mower if it vibrates
too much. Stop engine and make repairs.
Vibration is an indication of damage_
• Never use your lawn mower without proper
guards or deflectors in place.
•Always mow across a slope or inclined area.
DO NOT mow up or down a slope or inclined
area.
° DO NOT mow in wet grass. Be careful of
footing when mowing in wet grass, use shoes
with good traction.
°DO NOT run with the lawn mower.
•DO NOT run your' lawn mower indoors. Ex-
haust gases are deadty poison.
• Always disconnect the spark plug wire from
spark plu.g to prevent accidental starting when
transporting or storing your' lawn mower after
the mowing season.
DO NOT attempt 1o raise engine speed above
factor-i settings. Engine damage or personal
injury may result_
•If a grass catcher isused on your lawn mower,
check the catcher often for damage or
deterioration_ tt wilt wear through normal use_
Use only a recommended replacement catcher_
• Always stop blade to remove or install catcher.
° DO NOT store your lawn mower or gasoline
where fumes may reach an open flame and
cause a fire.
•DRAIN THE GASOLINE from your lawn
mower before transporting your' lawn mower
inside your car or other vehicle°
I ,00,
TANTSAFETYPRECAUTIONS.ITMEANS..-ATTEN-J
TION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETYIS J
INVOLVED. J

CONGRATULATIONSon your purchase of a Sears Craft-
sman Lawn Mower. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give you the best
possible dependability and performance,
Should you experience any problem you cannot easi-
ly remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Ser_
vice CentertDepartment. We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to service
or repair this unit°
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions
will enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn
mower properly. Always observe the "SAFETY
RULES"°
_ll __lllJi _,,,i_lj j _±l, n,m_m,iii i ii
MODEL
NUMBER 917.372451
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF
PURCHASE
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE
FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR
OF THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER
AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP tN A SAFE
PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS
iiiii iii, ,, ii
HORSE POWER: 5.0
DISPLACEMENT: 11.57 cu: in.
JI i jiiiii ii
GASOLt N E CAPACITY: 1.5,quarts
_umeaaea I
OIL (21 oz. Capacity): SAE 30 or
(SAE10W30)
SPARK PLUG (GAP .030 in,): Champion
RJ19-LM or
Sears 7_ 33312
VALVE CLEARANCE: Intake: _006 in,
Exhaust: _008 in.
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: ,010 in_
ii/ii _Ji,ill/_,l
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 ft_-tbs,
MAINTENANCEAGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details,
CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
*Read and observe the safety rules.
o Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower,
oFollow the instructions under "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this Owner's Manual°
TWOYEARLIMITEDWARRANTYON CRAFTSMANPOWERMOWER
Fortwo years from the date of purchase, when thisCraftsman Lawn Mower ismaintained, lubricated and tuned-
up according to theinstructionsin theowner's manual, Searswill repair, free of charge, any defect in material
and workmanship°
tf this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90
days from the date of purchase
Thiswarranty does not cover:
Expendable itemswhich become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters,
belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessarybecause of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to
maintain the equl'pment accord_'ng to the instructions contained in the owner's manual_
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER TO THE ....
NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT 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 may vary from state
to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Company, D/731CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60684
3

'TABLEOFCONTENTS
SAFETY RULES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
WARRANTY ...............
LAWN MOWER ACCESSORIES
ASSEMBLY
OPERATION ,.
MAINTENANCE ,
INDEX
Adjustments:
Carburetor |5,16
Handle Height 16
Height of Cut 9
Air Filter:
Replacement 13
Assembly:
Grass Catcher 6
Handle 5,6
Accessories 5
Btade:
Replacement 1!
Sharpening tI
Co0troJs:
Engine Zone Control Cable 8
Engine Control Bar 7
Drive Control Bar 7
Engine Speed Control 8
Customer Responsibilities 3
Cutting Levels 9
Engine:
Oil Change 12
Oil Level 9
Oil Type ,9
Starting 10
Storage 17
Fuel:
Type .9
Storage 17
2
3
3
3
, , 5
,5,6
,7-I0
11.13
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT 14-16
STORAGE ................. 17
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS ........ 18
TROUBLE SHOOTING ............... 19
REPAIR PARTS-LAWN MOWER ....... 20-24
REPAIR PARTS-ENGINE ............ 26-29
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ...... Back Cover
g
Handle:
Adjustment 16
Assembly 5,6
Lubrication:
Brake Spring Bracket 18
Engine
Handle Bracket Mounting Pin 1818
Wheel Adjuster I B
M
Maintenance:
Agreement .3
Air Filter' 13
Blade CareiReptacement 1!
Grass Catcher' 12
Drive Wheels , 12
Lubrication 18
Spark Plug 13
Mowing Tips 10
Oil:
Engine .9
Storage !6
Operation:
Operating Lawn Mower 7-I0
Options:
Attachments 5
Parts 20_24
Safety Rules 2
Service and Adjustments:
Drive Belt 14
Drive Controi ... 15
Carburetor 15
Engine Speed t5
Handle . 16
Rear'Deflector . | 6
Speed Control Range 15
Service Recommendation 18
Spark Plug . 13
Specifications 3
Speed Control:
Engine ..8
Starting the Engine .10
Starter Handle .... 7,10
Stopping Your Lawn Mower 10
Storage 17
f
TroubleShootingChart 19
W
Warranty ,3
Wheels:
Wheel Adjusters 7,9

MOWERACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are also available at most Sears
retail outlets, catalog and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you, when you provide
the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
ENGINE
MUFFLERSPARKPLUG ©
LAWNMOWERMAINTENANCE
AIR FILTER ,,, , ..,.,, ............................ GASCAN
BELT
....:=::.... ..................................
ENGINEOIL
BLADE BLADEADAPTER
ASSEMBLY
WHEEL5
STABILIZER
LAWN MOWERCOVER
l
tory except for the Grass Catcher Bag and the Grass
Catcher Frame.
TO REMOVELAWNMOWERFROMCARTON
• Cut down the corners of the carton and lay ends
and sides down.
• Cut the plastic wrapping and remove from over
Handles and lawn mower.
•Remove Catcher Frame, Fabric Bag and Oil Bot-
tle from on top of lawn mower.
•Remove Engine Cover and discard.
•Lift lawn mower off of shipping base and check
carton for loose parts_
HOWTOSET-UPYOURLAWNMOWER
TO UNFOLDHANDLE
Remove any packing material from around Control
Bars°
oRaise Lower Handle section until it isin the upright
storage detents (See Fig. 2).
•Raise Upper Handle section until it isin-line with
Lower Handle and tighten one Handle Knob (See
Fig. 1).
•Lower the entire Handle Assembly to the mow-
ing position and engage the Height Adjustment
Links onto the Handle Bracket Pins (See Fig 2)o
See "Adjust Handle" section, page t6 to select
the most comfortable Lawn Mower Handle posi-
tion. Be sure both sides are in same adjustment
hole_
CONTROL BAR_
"_/ LOV_ER , -
,'_ HA\DLE ,."
HANDLE KNOB_ "V. /_ , "'-"
L,_Tu_f_;_-::_.?L:,Y:'.::,".'b" •LX
=0_ " 3",.
FIG. 1
HANDLE
BRACKET
OETENTS
HEIG
ADJUSTMENT
LINK
FIG. 2

'll '1
................... ill,iiiiii i .......................
TO UNFOLDHANDLE (CONT'D)
ASSEMBLY
III I III1,1,1,111I
•Your lawn mower has been shipped with Protec-
tive Handle Padsplaced between the upper and
lower sections or the Handle. For best lawn
mower performance these Pads need to be
discarded after the Handle isplaced in the mow-
ing position°
=Once the Handle is in the mowing position,
remove the Handle Knob, Handle Bolt and Pro-
tective Pad from the side with the loose Handle
Knob. (Make sure the other' side is tight to sup-
port the Upper Handle).
•Discard the Pad and reinstall the Handle Bolt and
Knob--Tighten securel/.
° Loosen and remove the Handle Knob, Handle
Bolt and Protective Pad from the other side and
discard the Pad°
° Reinstall the Handle Bolt and Knob-. Tighten
securely° Now your Handles should be clamped
together without the Protective Pads.
TO ASSEMBLE& ATTACHGRASSCATCHER
•Put Grass Catcher Frame into Grass Bag with stiff
part of Bag on the bottom (See Fig. 3). Make sure
the Frame Handle is outside of the Bag top.
• Slip vinyl bindings over Frame (See Fig_ 3)_
=Jf vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold them in warm
water for a few minutes, tf Bag gets wet, let it dr,i
before using.
° Lift the Rear Door of the lawn mower and place
the Catcher Frame Side Hooks onto the Handle
Bracket Hooks (See Fig_ 4).
•The Grass Catcher is secured to the Lawn Mower
Housing when the Rear Door islowered onto the
Grass Catcher" Frame_
CAUTION: DONOTRUNYOURLAWNMOWER
WITHOUTCLIPPINGDEFLECTORORAPPROVED
GRASSCATCHERIN PLACE.NEVERATTEMPTTO
OPERATETHELAWNMOWERWITH THEREAR
DOORREMOVEDOR PROPPEDOPEN.
iiiiiiiii
CATCHER
HANDLE
IIII
IIIIIIlll II IIIITI'III'I
FIG. 3
MI'I I lllll Ill
FRAME
O_ENING
Iii,rl1,111,1,
\
rl,lll i i L" I'1'111'111III
DOOR GRASS
FRAME
CATCHEt
FRAME
SiDE HOOK
BRACKET_
FIG. 4
THINGSTO CHECKBEFOREMOWING
* The Drive Control has provisions for adjustments,
*See "TO ADJUST DRIVE CONTROL" section
under "SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS" section
on page 15.
* Checking this adjustment isonly a precaution that
your new lawn mower is properly prepared for
use.

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER_ Com_
andPareadjustments.theillustratiOnSsaveWiththisy°urmanualLawnforM°werfuturetOreferenceofamiliarizeyourself with the location of various controls
!NE CONTROL BAR
DRIVE
CONTROL LEVER DRIVE CONTROL BAR
STARTER HANE HANDLE KNOB
GRASS CATCHER EN(_INE OIL CAP WITH DIPSTICK
GASOLINE FILLER
PRIMER
WHEEL ADJUSTER
ON EACH WHEEL}
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL [
LAWN MOWER HOUSING
FIG. 5
MEETSCI C SAFETYREQUIREMENTS
Sears Rotary Walk-Behind Power Lawn Mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National
Standards Institute and the U,,S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade turns when the engine
is running. ,............................
inr,.r ......................
ENGINE CONTROL BAR. must be held'to the han-
dle to start the engineL Release to stop the engine_
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER - located on the
left side of the engine which allows you to selecteither
"HIGH" or "LOW" engine speed.
DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER- used to select the
drive speed of your !:_wn mower°
..................III'1'I I I II'll
STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine_
DRIVE CONTROL BAR -used to engage power-
propelled forward motion of lawn mower.
PRIMER -pumps additional fuel from the carburetor
to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine°

OPERATION
•. iiii....................................................................
HOWTOUSEYOURLAWNMOWER
ENGINESPEEDCONTROL
The engine speed iscontrolled by a lever (red knob)
located on the right side of the engine (See Fig. 6).
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
.......... CAUTION:FEDERALREGULATIONSREQUIREAN
ENGINECONTROLTO BEINSTALLEDON THIS
LAWNMOWER IN ORDERTO MINIMIZE THE
d_ RISKOF BLADECONTACTINJURY. DO NOT
UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCESATTEMPTTO
DEFEATTHE FUNCTIONOF THE OPERATOR
CONTROL.THEBLADETURNSWHENTHEENGINE
ISRUNNING....
Your lawn mower is equipped with an Operator
Engine Control Bar' which requires the operator
to be positioned behind the Lawn Mower Han-
dle to start and operate the lawn mower' (See Fig.
9).
GROUNDDRIVEFOURSPEEDS
Your lawn mower provides four (4) speeds to let you
select the speed that suitsyou best.,
• Your' engine isequippedwith a Variable Speed
Throttle,
•The Drive Speed Selector' Lever can be changed
while you are mowing.
•Speeds I and 2 are found when the Engine Speed
Control (red) Lever isset between "HIGH" and
"LOW" positions (See Figs. 6& 7),
.Speeds ! and 2 are for slower', light grass cut-
ting, trimming and _quietoperation.
•Speeds 3 and 4are found when the Engine Speed
Control (red) Lever is in "HIGH" position (See
Figs, 6 & 7).
=Speed 3 isfor"slow, heavy/thick grass cutting or
trimming°
•Speed 4is for normal cutting and bagging and
for' ground transport.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHIFT SPEEDS
WITH THE DRIVE CONTROL BAR
ENGAGED UNLESS THE ENGINE IS
RUNNING_
TO OPERATEDRIVESYSTEM
', Select ground speed by moving Drive Speed
Lever to 1-3 or 2_4 position and selecting either'
HI or LOW engine speed,
• 1-3 is slower and 2-4 is faster_
....................... "' II1,11',,'1
""!' !' '!' I !'. I
FIG. 6
DRIVE SPEED
SELECTOR LEVER
,iIr"'!.............. I',11 FIG. 8
*The _round speed may be selected either when
standing or moving. '
,To start forward motion, slowly pull up Drive Con-
trol Bar to the Handle (See Fig. 8)_
o To slow or stop forward motion tet the Drive Con-
trot Bar move forward away from Handle,
,To stop forward motion release Drive Control Bar
(See Fig_ 8).
8

OPERATION
TO OPERATEDRIVESYSTEM(CONT'D)
By slightly releasing the Drive Control Bar, the
Drive can be slowedor "feathered" so you may
make turns around obstacles or at end of rows
(See Fig. 8).
TO EMPTYGRASSCATCHER
o To remove Grass Catcher, release Engine Con-
trol Bar to stop engine (See Fig, 9).
oLift up Rear Door and remove the Grass Catcher
by the Handle.
*Emp_ty by_ shaking Catcher with open end
downward (See Fig. 10)_
NOTE: Do not drag the Bag when emptying; it will
cause unnecessary wear_
TO ADJUSTCuI"rlNGHEIGHT
Raise Wheels for low cut and lower Wheels for
high cut.
* Wheels are set in a tow cut for shipping. Adjust
cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium
position is best for most lawns.
oTo change cutting height, squeeze Adjuster Lever
toward Wheel. Move Wheel up or down to suit
your requirements° Be sure all Wheels are in the
same setting (See Fig_ 11)_
BEFORESTARTHNGENGHNE
D_SENGAGED
ENGAGED POS)TIC )SLTION
(ENGINE STOP)
ENGINE CONTROL BAR
FIG. 9
FIG. 10
OIL:
A 20 oz= bottte of Pennzoil SAE 30 Oil is included
with your new lawn mower°
• Remove Engine Oil Cap with dipstick (See Fig.
12) and fill to the FULL line on the dipstick°
• Use 20 ozs. of SAE 30 oi!. SAE 10W 30 oil can
also be used.
oPOUR OIL SLOWLY° DO NOT OVERFILL°
•Check oil level before each use. Add oi! if need-
ed. Fill to FULL line on dipstick.
= To read proper level, tighten Engine Oil Cap each
time.
,, Reinstall Engine Oil Cap and tighten.
o After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change
the oil, and every 25 hours thereafter. You may
need to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirty conditions_
FIG. 11

II ii "_'_'_'__.... i ii II '111'111I...........................
OPERATION
I' I II'111 .........................................................
BEFORESTARTINGENGINE(€ONT'O) ..... .................. MLL'I
Ill IIIl!lIJI
GAS:
•Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded
gasoline. DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE.
BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERFILL TANK (SEE
FIG. 12)_
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blend-
ed fuels (called gasoho! or using ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of ac:ids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage thefuel systemof an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system shouidbe
emptied before storage for' 30 days or longer. Drain
the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the
fuel|ines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for additional
information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may occurs.
TOSTARTENGINE
•Make sure Fuel Shut-Off Valve isopen (See Fig_
t2)
• To start a cold engine, push Primer five (5) times
before trying to start. Use a firm push being sure
to cover the hole in the Primer Bulb with your
finger. This step is not usually necessary when
starting an engine which has already run for a
few minutes°
• Push Engine Speed Control Lever to HIGH
position°
Hold Engine Control Bar down to the Handle and
pull Starter Handle quickly. Do not allow Rope
to snap back.
• To STOP engine, release Engine Control Bar,
NOTE: tn cooler weather it may be necessary to
repeat priming steps. In warmer weather over"prim-
ing may cause flooding and engine will not start, tf
you do flood engine wait a few minutes before at-
tempting to start and DO NOT repeat priming steps.
NOTE:Close Fuel Shut-Off Valve when equipment is
not in operation (See Fig. 12).
OIL FILL CAP ENGINE SPEED
WtDIPSTtCK
FUEL CLEANEE
TANK
GASOLINE
FiLL CAP
SHUT-OFF
VALVE
FIG. 12
MOWINGTIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass,
it may be necessary to raise the height of cut and
lower' the ground speed to keep from overloading
the engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of
cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower hous-
ing one (1) wheel adjustei' setting higher than the
front for better discharge ofgrass_
oFor better grass bagging andmost cutting con-
ditions, the engine speed should be set in the
"HIGH" (FAST) position.
°When using a rear discharge lawn mower in
moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not
enter the grass catcher. Reduce ground speed
(pushing speed) and/or run the lawn mower over
the area a second time.
° if a trail of grass clippings is left on the right side
of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a
clockwise direction with a small overlap to col-
lect the clippings on the next pass.
° Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled
with dirt and dust with use and catchers will cot-
led less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose cat-
cher off with water and let dry before using.
° Keep top of engine around starter clea_and clean
of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine
air flow and extend engine life.
10

MAINTENANCE
GENERALRECOMMENDATION
o Once ayear you should replace the Spark Plug,
clean or replace Air Filter and check Blade for
wear. A new Spark Plug and Air Filter assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your engine run
better and tast longer°
• You should check all fasteners and be sure they
are tight.
°Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on
page 18_
LAWNMOWER
LOCKWASHER
CRANKSHAFT KEYWAY
BLADEIBLADEADAPTERCARE FIG. 13
Your lawn mower will work better with a sharp
Blade.
/1111111111111 i iii iiiii iiiiiii iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARKPLUG WIRE
FROMSPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHERE
ITCANNOTCOMEIN CONTACTWITHTHESPARK
PLUG.
lliH HHHHll
TO REMOVE BLADE:
• Turn lawn mower on its side° Make sure Air Filter
and carburetor are down.
o Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn
Mower Housing to prevent Blade from turning
when removing the Blade Boll
,, Protect your hands with gloves and!or wrap
Blade with heavy cloth.
o Remove Blade Bolt by turning counter-clockwise°
Use a 9/16" box or open-end wrench_
oRemove Blade and attaching hardware (Bolt,
Lockwasher and Hardened Washer) (See Fig,
13).
NOTE:Remove the Blade Adapter and check the Key
inside Hub of Blade Adapter. The Key must be in
good condition to work properly. Repface Adapter
if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE:
oPosition the Blade Adapter on the engine
crankshaft. Be sure Key in Adapter and Keyway
in Crankshaft are aligned.
o Position Blade on to the Blade Adapter aligning
the two (2) holes in the Blade with the raisedLugs
on the Adapter.
NOTE: Be sure the word TOP (stamped on the Blade)
is toward the engine (See Fig. 13).
• Install the Blade Bolt with the Lockwasher and
Hardened Washer into Blade Adapter and
Crankshaft (See Fig. 13).
°Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn
Mower Housing and tighten the Blade Bolt, turn-
ing clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft
Ibs.
o Torque wrenches are available at most Sears
stores and through the catalog.
................................. i i
CAUTION:ALOOSEBLADECANBEDANGEROUS
ANDMAYMAKETHEENGINEHARDTOSTART.
Use only a Sears authorized replacement Blade to
get the best cutting results.
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening Blade ° but
if you do, be sure the Blade is balanced.
TO SHARPEN BLADE:
,, The Blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while
on the lawn mower.
o Care should be taken to keep the Blade balanc*
ed_ An unbalanced Blade will cause excessive
vibration when running and eventual damage to
lawn mower or engine° "
o To check Blade balance, drive a nail into a beam
or wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail
exposed. Place center hole of Blade over the head
of the nailo tf Btade is balanced, it should remain
in a horizontal positiom If either end of the Blade
moves downward, Blade is not balanced°
Sharpen the heavy end until the Blade is
balanced.
11

MAINTENANCE
DRIVEWHEELS
Check Rear Drive Wheels each time before you mow
to be sure they move freely_ The Wheels not turning
freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc., are inside the
Drive Wheel and DustCover area and mustbe clean-
ed out to free Drive Wheels.
If necessary to clean the Drive Wheels, check both
Rear Wheels (See Fig. 14).
Remove Hubcaps, Hairpin Coffers and Washers.
•Remove Wheels from Wheel Adjuster Axtes_
•Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside
the Dust Cover, Pinion and/or Drive Whee; Gear
Teeth.
• If you remove the Drive Pinion and Drive Pawt,
reter to fig_ 15 for correct assembly of Drive Pawlo
,p The Pinion Gear must be installed with the Left
Gear" on the left side and the Right Gear on the
right side, from an operator's view.
• The Pinion Gear isstamped with an "L" (Left) or
"R" (Right) on the inside. If installed incorrectly,
the Drive System will not work.
• Place Wheels back on Adjuster Axles.
• Replace Washers, Hairpin Coffers and Hubcaps.
NOTE:Pinionsand Drive Pawls shouldbe cleaned and
lubricated with spray lul_ricant approximately every
25 hours_
GRASSCATCIK'R
The Grass catcher may be hosed with water, but
must be dry when usod.
Check your Grass Catcher often far damago or
deterioration. Through normal use it wi|l wear.
If C_cher needs repla_cing, replace onty with a
manufacturer choproved replacement Catcher
from Sears_ Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering L
ENGINE
TO CHANGEOIL (WARMOIL DRAINSBETTER)
.................. : : .... : ,i i i i ii L ,.i ii
o
o
CAUTION:DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIREFROM
d_ SPARKPLUGANDPLACEWIREWHEREITCANNOT
COMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARKPLUG.
Remove Engine Oil Cap with dipstick; lay aside
on a clean surface_
Tip lawn mower on its side as shown in Fig. 16
and drain oil into suitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped
inside of engine.
II iliH
WASHER
HAIRPIN
COTTER
DRIVE PAWL
DUST COVER
rl
ASHER
CAP
'IIII I"
FIG. 14
PINION
TOP OF MOWER
FRONT OF MOWER
DRIVE SHAFT__ DRIVE PAWL
.... ,ll, ......................
FIG. 15
FIG. 16
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and on
side of engine_
• Fill engine with SAE 30 or 10W 30 oil, fill only
to the "FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
overfill.
• Replace Engine Oil Cap.
• Reconnect Spark Plug Wire to Spark Plug.
12

TENANCE
AIR FILTER ............................................................................................................................................................................................_.............
Clean or replace Air Filter every 25 hours or every
season, whichever occurs firsL
NOTE: Service Air Filter more often under dusty
conditions,
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
o
oLoosen Screw and tilt Cover as shown in fig. 17.
Carefully remove Cartridge.
Clean by tapping gently on a flat surface. If very
dirty, replace Cartridge or clean as follows:
Wash in a low or non-sudsing detergent and
warm water solution. Rinsethoroughly with flow-
ing water from mesh side until water runs clear.
Let Cartridge air dry thoroughly before using.
I I t I LLJJJIIIII IIIIIIIII UII I II II I I III II I UIIIIIIII
CAUTION:PETROLEUMSOLVENTS,SUCHAS
KEROSENE,ARENOTTOBEUSEDTOCLEAN
CARTRIDGE.THEYMAY CAUSEDETERIORA-TIONOFTHECARTRIDGE.DONOTOIL CAR-
TRIDGE.DO NOTUSEPRESSURIZEDAIRTO
CLEANOR DRYCARTRIDGE.
• lnstalt Cartridge, then replace Cover making sure
the tabs are aligned with the slots in Back Plate.
Fasten Screw securely (See Fig. 17)°
SPARK PLUG
Change your Spark Plug each year to make your
engine start easier and run better_ Set Spark Plug
gap at °030 inch.
LIP
CARTRIDGE
BACK LATE
FIG. 17
CLEANING
We recommend that you clean the underside of your
lawn mower after each use.
CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARK PLUG WIRE
FROMSPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHERE
IT CANNOTCOMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARK
PLUG.
_' Turn lawn mower on its side with Carburetor
down o
', Clean the underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash°
,, Clean your lawn mower and engine often to keep
trash from accumulating around engine. A clogg-
ed engine runs hotter and shortens engine llfe.
NOTE: We DO NOT recommend using agarden hose
to clean lawn mower unless the Electrical System,
Muffler, Air Filter, and Carburetor are covered to
keep water out. Water in engine can resultin shorten-
ing engine life.
13

I'111111'1,',1' II1' '............................ '...................................... _lJ__
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENT
II .............................
TO REMOVE/REPLACEDRIVE BELT
'"'"'""""' ............................ iii, i, _,, ,
CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARKPLUG WIRE
FROMSPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHERE
IT CANNOTCOMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARK
PLUG. ,,,,,_,,
Lift Rear Door and remove Grass Bag, it will be
helpful if you temporarily block the Rear Door
open_
Locate Belt Tension Spring and Retention Pin
which is located on back side of lawn mower (See
Figr 1B),
Using a piece of wire, pull Spring through hole
and remove Retention Pin° Allow Spring to slide
into the Plastic Access Cover' (See Fig_ 18)o
Remove Plastic Access Cover by pushing down
on its top surface to disengage Top Hooks_pull
Cover to rear and lift up (See Fig. 19).
Turn lawn mower' on its right side.
Loosen Engine Boltholding Belt Snubber. See Fig
20A, and slip Belt off of Engine Pulley.
Tilt Driven Pulley and Drive Assembly rearward
until Locknut on Pulley Assembly is visible (See
Fig. 19). Loosen Locknut until Belt can be slipped
out from under Belt Keeper_ Slip Belt forward
from underside of Deck. Pull Belt from under
Plastic Baffle and slip over' Blade to remove
completely (See Fig° 20).
To install Belt, slip Belt over Blade, pushup under
Plastic Baffle and slip under Belt Keeper onto
Driven Pulley. Tilt Drive Assembly forward to
allow Belt to seat into Engine Pulley. Readjust
Engine Pulley Belt Snubber and tighten Bolt (See
Fig_ 20A).
Tilt Driven Pulley until Belt istight and holdo Turn
Belt Keeper until right side is flush with outside
of AccessOpening, and tighten Locknuton Driven
Pulley (See Fig, 19 and Diagram 19A).
Using a piece of wire, pull the Belt TensionSpring
End through the Access Cover Spring Hole 'ISee
Fig° 19)_ •
While holding tension on the Spring, with the
piece of wire, install Access Cover by placing
Lower Tabs into position. Make sure Spring End
is pulled through the Spring Hole (See Fig_ 19).
lnstall Retention Pin by pulling Spring End
through hole while slipping the Pm through the
Spring End so the Pin seats in the Access Cover
Pocket. Release tension on the Spring.
I ' /l'_/Irl'lllll'lIH'l I'1
REAR
DOOR
FIG. 18
FIG. 19
ORtVE BELT
\O_IVEN PULLEY
I1'1111 III I I"1'1111
RETENTION
:ACCESS COVER
i,i1',II1,1
ACCESS OPENING
DIAGRAM19A
14

ST 1'
TO ADJUST DRIVE CONTROL
o To check for proper adjustment of Drive Control,
slowly pull up on the Drive Bar while pulling lawn
mower backwards until Rear Wheels stop turning.
• When Rear Wheels stop turning, hold the Drive
Bar and check the dimension as shown in fig. 21
oThe Drive Control is properly adjusted when the
measurement over the Handle and Drive Bar is
approximately 3 1/2" (See Fig. 21)° If the
measurement is less than 3 1/2" adjust Drive
Control Cable°
• The Drive Control Adjuster is the one closest to
operator_
• To make the Drive Control adjustment, hold the
Upper Hexagon Fitting and turn the Adjusting
Sleeve clockwise from operator position (See Fig
22),
• This adjustment should be checked after approx-
imately 25 hours of operation.
o if after several adjustments no further adjustment
is left, the Drive Wheel must be replaced°
NOTE:Through normal use the Drive Wheel wilt wear**
• if you have problems making the described ad-
justments, contact your nearest Sears Service
Center°
SPEEDCONTROLRANGE
The Speed Control Range is properly set at the
factory and should not requireadditional adjust-
ment. Ifyou feel Speed Adjustment is incorrect
or Speed Control does not operate properly con-
tact your nearest Sears Service Center.
CARBURETORADJUSTMENTS
Minor Carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, teml_erature,
altitude or toad. The Air Cleaner and Air Cleaner
Cover must be assembled to Carburetor when
running_
......ii,l,,i,,i....................i ,,,i,, i , , i , _....... , ............... ,, _ , , ,J ......................... _,_ l_J.........
FIG, 20
APPROX 1 32
BELT SNUBBER '., _'_"_ ENGINE
k, // MOUNTING
._,,1" BOLT
FIG. 20A
UPPER
DRIVE BAR
ENGINE
CONTROL
BAR
FIG. 21
15

II I'll i1,,11 1,1,11111II , ,lllllllllllIll ...............................................
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENT
........... II II IJlll II '"11'1'111111 J'l I'lL !111111'11Ill ............ !' II1'11'1 I1!1
CARBURETORADJUSTMENT(CONT'D)
INTIAL ADJUSTMENT:
With the engine not running, gently turn idle Mix-
ture Screw do&wise until it just closes. Screw ma)_
be damaged by turning it in too far (See Fig. 23)_
Next open the Screw one turn counter-ctockwiseo This
initial adjustment will permit the engine to be started
and warmed up (approximately 5minutes) prior to
final adjustment (See Fig. 23)_
NOTE:DO NOT adjust top no load adjusting Screw°
(Pre-set at Factory).
'FINAL ADJUSTMENT
I,II,I
UPPER HEXAGON
FITTING
_" "\ CONTROL
ADJUSTER
SET AT FACTORY
II_ ..................... _;_ III
DRIVE CONTROL
CABLE
,_k-,"UPPER HEXAGON
'i"' Ill'Ill' '1
FIG. 22
Place Equipment Control Lever in "IDLE" or
"SLOW" posifion_ Adjust idle RPM, by turning Idle
Speed Adjusting Screw to obtain 1400 RPMo Next,
turn Idle Mixture Screw in (clockwise - lean mixture)
until engine just starts to slow. Then turn idle Mix-
ture Screw out (counter-clockwise -rich mixture) un-
til engine runs unevenly. Now turn idle Mixture
Screw midway between rich and lean. Engine should
accelerate smoothly. If engine does not accelerate
properly, the Carburetor should be readjusted,
usually to a slightly richer mixture, by turning the idle
Mixture Screw counter-clockwise 1/8 turn more (See
Fig_ 23)_
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not at-
tempt to increase engine speed or itmay result in per-
sonal injury, if you believe that the engine is runn-
ing too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower' to
an authorized Sears Service Center for repair and
adjustment.
REARDEFLECTOR
The Rear Deflector, attached between the Rear'
Wheels of ycourlawn mower, is provided to minimize
the possibility that objects wilt be thrown out the rear
of the lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position°
If the Rear' Deflector becomes damaged, it should
be replaced.
TO ADJUSTHANDLE
" Grass bag should be removed temporarily for
easier adjustment of Handle.
• The Handle on your lawn mower has three (3)
suits you.
heights - adjust to the height that _h_)
• To adjust the Handle, push in on Adjusting
Levers to clear the Pins (See Fig. .
I................ Ill'I'll'Ill
TOP NO LOAD SCREW
IDLE SPEED
ADJUSTING
SCREW
IDLE
MIXTURE
SCREW
FIG. 23
LOWER HANDLE.._% HANDLE _T
PIN
ADJUSTI
LEVER
I
I
FIG. 24
Raise or lower Handle and position the Adjusting
Levers on to the Pins.
Be sure that Handle Bracket Pin is in the same
Lever Hole on both sides of the lawn mower.
16

STORAGE
Your lawn mower and engine should be prepared
for off-season storage as follows:
LAWN MOWER
oClean underside of Lawn Mower Housing° (See
"Cleaning" in maintenance section of manual°)
o Inspect and replace/sharpen Blade, if required
(See "Blade/Blade Adapter Care" in
maintenance section of manual).
o Hose Grass Catcher off with water and let dry
before storing°
oLubricate as shown in Service Recommendation
chart on page 18 of manual.
HANDLE
e You can fold your Lawn Mower Handle for
storage as shown in Fig. 2&
o To fold, push in on the Adjusting Levers to clear
the Pins, then move Handle forward (See Fig. 24).
IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE
FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORTA-
TION, BE SURE TO FOLD THE HAN-
DLE AS SHOWN IN FIG. 25. IF YOU
FOLD THE UPPER HANDLE SEC-
TION THE WRONG WAY, YOU
MAY DAMAGE THE CONTROL
CABLES°
ENGINE
oChange oil (See "To Change Oil" in maintenance
section of manual).
•Drain fuel and run engine until fuel system is
,TJs,MPORTANTTOPREVENT
GUMDEPOS,TSFROMFORM,NG
IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS
SUCH AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL
FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DUR-
ING STORAGE ALSO, EXPER-
IENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL
BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASO-
HaL OR USING ETHANOL OR
METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOIS-
TURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARA-
TION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS
DURING STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS
CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM
OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN
STORAGE°
OTHER
oDo not store gasoline from one season to another.
o Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to
rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline can cause
probtems_
• Do not store your lawn mower under any plastic
cover_ Plastic cannot breathe which allows con-
densation to form and can cause your lawn
mower to rust.
,, When setting up your Handle from the storage
position, the Lower Handle will require manual-
ly locking into the mowing position.
17

'1{'{' 1{1' { 1' '1'{'1{{{{ 111 ' {'11{II ................................................. 1{!{I
SERVICERECOMMENDATIONS
IIIIII,,
S£RVICERECORD
Fill in dates as you camp{ere regu{ar
service
Blade Checked
Engine Oil Change
Engine Oil Check
First
2
Hours
SCHEDULE
Every Every Every
10 25 Use
Hours Hours
Air Cleaner
Spark P,ug Repl;ced
Lubricate Lawn Mower t,,"
.... = ..........................
Cleaning .............................. /,_ .........
Grass Ca,,!cher(if applicable) ...................... _ ........
Drive Pinions and Drive Pawls
II1,1111IIIIIII1'11,1I II II I III' IIII IR'I, I
LUBRICATIONCHART
SERVICEDAT_
Q SAE 30 MOTOR OIL(lOW 30)
(_ SPRAY LUBRICANT
ENGINE OIL
HANDLE BRACKET
MOUNTING PIN
DRIVE PINIONS
DRIVE
L ADJUSTER
18

TROUBLESHOOTINGPOINTS
PROBLEM
i
DOESFlat
STAi_
LOSSOF
POWER
POORCUT.
UNEVEN
TOOMUCH
VIBRATION
i i
ST_P:,.RROPE
HARDTO PW.L
_TatER HOT
FIU,INg_Y
(trAeeU_m)
LOSSOFDRIVE
CAUSE
i u u ..u.u.,........................................
1. Dirty air'liter.,
2_ Out of gasoline
3. Stale gasoline
4, Spark plug wire is disconnected
from the spark plug,
5, Bad spark plu_
6_ Water in gasotine_,
7., Loose blade or broken blade
adapter,
Engine control bar in released
position
Engine control bar defective,
CORRECTION
, Replace or clean air filter,
_,Fill gasoline tank.
3. Drain gas tank and refill with fresh
gasoline_
4, Connect wire to spark plug
5_ Replace spark plug,
6 Drain tank and refill with fresh, clean
gasoline,
7_ Tighten blade bolt andlor replace
blade adopter,
8, Depressengine control bar
9 Replace engine control bar,
8,,
9,
1_ Rear of lawn mower housing/blade
dragging in heavy grass
2, Cutting leo much grass,
, Dirty air filter
oBuild_upof grass, leaves, and
trash under lawn mower housing
5_ Ground drive speed too fast
1. Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1)
setting higher than front.
2o Set in HIGHER CUT position.
3, Clean or replace air filter_
4Disconnectspark plug wire and
clean underside of lawn mower housing
5Cut at slower ground drive speed_
6_
3_
4o
,
2.
3_
,,
3,
4_
1o Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade worn off°
3, Catcher bag dirty, poor air
ventin 9
,_. Low _glne speed_
Too much oil in engine, 6
rl
Worn, bent or loose blade_, 1.
Wheel heightsuneven_ 2,
Low engine speed, 3
Build-up of grass, leaves and trash
under lawn mower housing. 4,
Worn or bent blade° 1_
Looseblade, 2o
Bent engine crankshaft,
Flywheel brake is on when engine to
control bar is released,
Bent engine crankshaft, 2.
Blade adapter sheared, 3,
Blade dragging in grass° 4_
1,,
2,
3,
4,
II II JII I I II' I ........ i
High grass or cutting height too low, t_
Rear of lawn mower housing_lade 2_
dragging i_theavy grass,
GFal_ catcher too full 3_
Handle height position not right for you, 4o
Drive pawls hanging-upo 5
,,
4_
5_
Check engine oil level,
Replace blade Tighten blade bolt,
Set all wheels at same height
Set engine speed control in FAST or
HIGH position,
Disconnectspark plug wire & clean
underside of lawn mower housing,
Replace blade.
Tighten blade boll,,
Contact Sears Service Department_
Depress engine control bar to upper
handle before pulling on starter rope
Contact Sears Service Department
Replace blade adapter.
Get over low grassand!or hard surface
to start engine_
Raise cuttingheight,
Replace blade,
Clean/replace catcher bag,
(If optional gross catcher is being
used).
Set engine speed control in FAST or
HIGH position_
Raise cutting height°
Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1)
setting hlgh_r tha'n front_
Empty grass catc:her.
Adjust handle height to suit,
Cleon drive pawls and tubricate_
1, Drive not fully engaged,
2_ Belt wear°
3, Belt off of pulleys_
4o Lostspring tension retainer
5. Friction wheel worn
6 Friction wheel excessively wet°
19
1, Check and adjust drive control
2_ Check/replace drive belt,
3. Check/reinstall drive belt_
4, Replace spring retainer,
5. Check/replace friction wheel,
6, Allow wheel to dry before use_

CRAFTSMAN 22" ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.372451 REPAIR PARTS
Rev. 2
0
\
\