Craftsman 917.374711 User manual

MODELNUMBER917o374711
®
AL
Assembay
Operation
Customer
ResponsibRaities
Service
Adjustments
Repair Parts
%m =
.aUtlOn.
_ead and Follow
_!1Safety Rules
md Instructions
3efore Operating
I'his Equipment

SAFETYRULES
CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE AND PLACE 'WIRE
WHERE IT CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL
STARTING WHEN SETTING-UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING OR MAKING
REPAIRS TO YOUR LAWN MOWER..
OMPOBTANT
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.
o BE CAREFUL-WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUN-
NING THE BLADE IS TURNING
o Please read your owner's manual. Only allow
persons who know the safety rules to use your
lawn mower°
o DO NOT tie the operator presence control bar
to the handle. Control must be free to permit
brake engagement when handles and control
are released..
o DO NOT allow children to use your' lawn
mower.
o Check your lawn mower over before each use_
Tighten any loose bolts, nuts, etc._
o Remove all sticks, stones, wires, cans, boards,
etc. from area to be mowed. These objects can
be thrown by the blade..
o DO NOT allow children, bystanders or pets in
the area while mowing..
o Always wear shoes when mowing. DO NOT
operate lawn mower when barefoot or wear-
ing open sandals.
o Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
before starting your lawn mower and while
mowing.
Always shut off engine before trying to adjust
whee/heights_.
o When engine is running, DO NOT put hands
or feet under lawn mower or' in the discharge
chute, nor make any adjustments°
o Stay clear' of discharge opening at all times_
o Do not fill gas tank when engine is running,
when indoors or when engine is hot. Allow
engine to cool for' several minutes before fill-
ing gas tank° Clean off any spilled gasoline
before starting engine.
oMow only in goodlighto
e Always stop blade when not cutting grass or
when crossing gravel drive, sidewalk, or
roadway°
o DO NOT continue to run your lawn mower if
you hit a foreign object_ Stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark
plug, inspect the lawn mower for damage and
make repairs as required.
o DO NOT use a damaged lawn mower. Always
have damage repaired before mowing.
o 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_
o Always mow across a slope or inclined area.
DO NOT mow up or down a slope or inclined
area.
o DO NOT mow in wet grass. Be careful of
footing when mowing in wet grass, use shoes
with good traction_
o DO NOT run with the lawn mower°
oDO NOT run your lawn mower indoors_ Ex-
haust gases are deadly poison.
o Always disconnect the engine connector from
the battery connector' and the spark plug wire
from spark plug to prevent accidental starting
when transporting or storing your lawn mower
after the mowing season_
o DO NOT attempt to raise engine speed, above
factory settings.. Engine damage or personal
injury may result.
oif a grass catcher' is used on your lawn mower,
check the catcher often for damage or
deterioration_ it will wear through normal use_
Use only a recommended replacement catcher.
o Always stop blade to remove or install catcher..
o DO NOT store your lawn mower or gasoline
where fumes may reach an open flame and
cause a fire.
o DRAIN THE GASOLINE from your lawn
mower before transporting your lawn mower
inside your car or other vehicle_
LOOKFOBTHISSYMBOLTO POINT OUT IMPOR-
,_ TANTSAFETYPRECAUTIONS.IT iREAEIS--ATTEN-
TION!!J BECOME ALERT!!f YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.

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 Center/Departmento 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"_
MODEL
NUMBER 917.374711
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 IN A SAFE
PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
PRODUCTSPECnFICATBONS
HORSE POWER: 5.0
DISPLACEMENT: 10.49 cu. in,
GASOLINE CAPACITY: 10 quart.,
(umeaaea!
OIL (21 oz_ Capacity): SAE 30 or
(SAE10W30)
SPARK PLUG (GAP 030 ira): Champion
RN4C or
Sears
STD 360951
VALVE CLEARANCE: Intake: .004 ink
Exhaust: 004 ino
illl, .............
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 ino
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 ft,dbs_
MARNTENANC[AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product_ Contact your nearest Sears store for details
CUSTOMERRESPONSUBILfflES
Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a reflular_ schedule in maintaining, caring for and usingyour lawn mower
tl II It II I
o Follow the instructions under Maintenance and Storage sections of this Owner s Manual.
TWOYg:ARLRMITEDWARRANTYgN CRAFTSMANPOWERMOWF.R
For two years Fromthe date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower ismaintained, lubricated and tuned_
up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defect in material
and workmanship
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies For only 90
days from the date of purchase,
This warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters,
belts, air cleaners and spark ptug.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to
maintain the equipment according 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 1S 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

TABLEOFCONTENTS
SAFETY RULES .......
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
WARRANTY..
LAWN MOWER ACCESSORIES
ASSEMBLY
OPERATION. •
MAINTENANCE ....
UNDEX A
Adjustments:
Carburetor
Handle Height
Height of Cut
Air Filter:
Replacement
Assembly:
Battery.
Grass Catcher
Accessories
18
19
11
16
8
7
5
Blade:
Replacement
Sharpening 14
14
Controls:
Engine Speed Control
Engine Zone Control
Customer Respopsibitities
Cutting Levels
10
10
.3
11
Engine:
Oil Change
Oil Level
Oil Type
Star_ing
Storage
15
12
12
t2,1s
2O
Fuel:
Capacity
Type
Storage
.3
12
20
2
3
3
3
5
.6.8
.9-13
14-16
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ..... 17-19
STORAGE ......... 20
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS 21
REPAIRPARTS-LAWNMOWER ..... 22-25
REPAIR PARTS-ENGINE ..... 26-29
TROUBLE SHOOTING .... 31
PARTS ORDERINGISERVlCE Back Cover
H
Handle:
Adjustment 19
Assembly 6,7
Lubrication:
Brake Spring Bracket 21
Drive Pawls 2|
Drive Pinions 21
Engine 2]
Handle Bracket Mounting Pin 21
Rear Door Hinge 21
Maintenance:
Agreement .3
Air Filter' 16
Blade Care/Replacement 14
Engine 15
Grass Catcher 15
Lubrication 21
Spark Plug 16
Mowing Tips t3
Oil:
Engine t5
Storage 20
Operation:
Operating Lawn Mower 9-13
Options:
Attachments 5
Safety Rules 2
Service and Adjustments:
Carburetor 1B
Drive Belt 17
Drive Controi T8
Engine Speed 19
Handle .t9
Rear Deflector . 19
Speed Control Range 18
Service Recommendation 21
Spark Plug 16
Specifications 3
Speed Control:
Engine 10
Starting the Engine 12,13
Stopping Your Lawn Mower 13
Storage 20
T
Trouble Shooting Chart
W
Warranty
31
R
Repair/Replacement Parts 22-25
Responsibilities, Customer 3

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 con 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
SPARKPLUG MUFFLER
If lawn mower is an electric start
GASCAN
LAWNMOWERPERI:OR_ANCE
REARBAG
OPTIONAL
REPLACEMENT
BAG[ORREAR
D_SCHARGE
LAWN_OWERS
OPTIONAL
CATCHERFOR
S_DEDISCHARGE
LAWNMOWER
LAWNMOWER_A_NTENANCE
BELT
AIR FILTER
BLADE
i CHARGER
ENGINEOIL
DUSTSHIELD
FABRICBAG
1
SIDE DISCHARGECATCHER
LEAFCATCHER
PER_ANEX CATCHER
BLADEADAPTER WHEELS LAWN _OWER COVER
CLIPPINGDEFLECTOR
STABILIZER
BATTERY

Your Craftsman Lawn Mower requires some assembly to prepare for use. Follow the instructions under "HOW
'TO SET-UP YOUR LAWN MOWER" to complete the required assembly of Handles and Grass Catcher_
The Handles and Grass Catcher are shipped unassemble& A 3/4" socket or adjustable wrench is needed to
attach Handle to your lawn mower_.
TO LAWN C Rl'g
o Cut down the corners of the carton and lay ends
and sides dowm
o Cut the plastic wrapping holding the Grass Cat_
cher, Catcher Frame and customer package,
remove and lay aside.
o Cut the remaining plastic wrapping holding the
Handles.
o Remove the Lower Handle and lay aside.
o Lift up the Upper Handle with the Control Bars
and Speed Control and lay out behind the lawn
mower (See Fig_ 1).
o Remove Engine Cover and discard°
o Lift up the lawn mower and slide shipping base
from underneath lawn mower'.
HOWTOS T4JPYOg L WN
o Place the Lower Handle over the Handle Brackets
with the Adjuster Brackets down (See Fig_ 2).
o Remove the Shoulder' Bolts and Washers from the
customers package_.
o Install a Shoulder Bolt into the hole in the Lower
Handle, placing a Washer between the Lower
Handle and Handle Bracket.
o Start threads on the Shoulder Bolt into the Nut
located on the inside of Handle Bracket (See Fig.
2). Do this for both sides of lawn mower.
o Tighten the two (2) Shoulder Bolts with the 3/4
socket or' adjustable wrench.
o Raise Handle and put the center hole of the Height
Adjusting Levers over the Pins on the Adjusting
Brackets (See Fig. 3)_
To install the Adjusting Levers over the Pins, push
in on the Lever toward center' of lawn mo,_,er un-
til the Lever clears the Pin and release to lock in
place.
eCheck to be sure that the Pins and Levers are
securely in place, and in the same holes an each
side.
o Remove the two (2) Handle Knobs and Bolts from
upper part of Lower Handle (See Fig. 4).
• Place the Upper Handle onto the Lower Handle,
then put the two (2) Handle Bolts through
Handles, and install and tighten the Handle Knobs
(See Fig. 4)_
o Remove the six (6) Wire Ties from the customer
package.
• See Fig. 4 for' the following wire tie installation.
HANDLE BRACKET
DRIVE CON1 ROL BAR
UPPER
ENGINE :ONTROL BAR
LDER 8OLTS
FIG. 1
ADJUSTER BRACKET HANDLE
./
HANDLE
NUT
\\,
SHOULt
NDLE BRACKET
FIG. 2
HANDLE
BRACKET
HEIGHT
ADJUSTING
LEVER
DETENTS
FIG. 3
6

HOWTOSET-UPYOURLAWNMOWER
(CONT'D)
•Route the Wire Harness (electric,,*,,ires inside black
tubing) to fit along underside of top part of Lower
Handte_ insta!l one (1) Wire Tie around the
Handle and Harness at the left end of the Instruc-
tion Decal_ Leave some loop in the Harness on
the right side so that if the Upper Handle is fold-
ed down the Harness will not be stretched.
o Install one (1) Wire Tie around the Upper Han-
dle, Cables and Wire Harness 2 !/2 inches below
the Speed Control.
o Instal|two (2) Wire Ties on the left side of Lower
Handle over Cables and Wire Harness_
o Install one (1) Wire Tie on the right side of Lower
Handle above the Cable Adjusten
o Install one (1) Wire Tie bebw the Handle Adjuster
BrackeL
o When all six (6) Wire Ties are installed and
tightened in place, use a pair of wire cutting pliers
or sharp knife to cut off the excess ends of Wire
Ties.
o Check the Handle for a height that is comfortable
for you.
• If the center position is not comfortable for you,
refer to the "Adiust Handle Section" on page 19
of the manua_ for Handle adjustment°
TO ASSEMBLEGRASSCATCHER
ROP_ GIJIDE
LOWER 14A_OL_ /
FIG. 4
o The Catcher Frame is shipped inside the Grass
Catcher, but not assembled.
o To assemble the Grass Catcher to the Catcher
Frame, open the edges of the Plastic Clips and
slip over the Catcher Frame as shown in fig. 5.
o Assemble the Top anct Bottom Clips first, then
assemble the Side Clips..
TO ATTACHGRASSCATCHER
° Lower the Grass Catcher with Frame under the
Handles at the rear of your lawn mower.
o Open the Rear Door (red door with knob) and
hold open as shown in fig. 6_.
o Lift up the Catcher and atign the Lu3s on the Cat-
cher Frame with the Slots in the top rear of Hous-
ing as shown in fig. 6
o Slide the Grass Catcher down into the Slots and
the Retainers at the bottom rear corners of Hous-
ing (See Fig. 6).
•If Bottom Retainers are not engaged, the Catcher
may swing open at the !?ottom_
CAUTION: DONOT RUN YOUR LAWNMOWER
1
WITHOUT CLIPPINGDEFLECTOROR APPROVED
GRASSCATCHERIN PLACE.NEVERATTEMPTTO
OPERATETIlE LAWN I_OWERWITH THEREAR
DOOR REEIOVEDOR PROPPEDOPEN.
FIG. 5
FIG. 6

_OTE:YourBatterymustbechargedbeforeyoustart
your lawnmower.TheBatterydoesnot haveto be
removedto plug in thecharger.
ConnecttheBatteryCharger,includedwithyour
lawn mower,to theBatteryConnector(SeeFig°
o PlugBatteryChargerintoa 1t0 voltA_C.outlet
(SeeFig_7).
o LeavetheBatteryChargerconnectedfor24 hours
to chargeBatterythefirsttime_TheEngineAlter-
nator will not charge a discharged Battery_
• Your engine has a built-in Alternator to recharge
your Battery during use_
• After charging, connect Engine Connector to Bat-
tery Connector (See Fig. 7)_
At the end of the mowing season the Battery should
be charged for 48 hours to protect the Battery dur-
ing winter storage.
CAUTION:ALWAYSDISCONNECTTHEEflGINE
CONNECTORFROMTHEBATTERYCONNECTORTO PREVENTACCIDENTALSTARTINGWHEN
TRANSPORTINGOR STORING YOUR LAWN
. MOWER AFTERTHE_OWIflG,,,SEASON,,.,
1 10 VOLT_
A C. OUTLET
CHARGER
CONNECTOR
CHARGER CONNECTOR
FIG. 7
THINGSTO CHECKBEFOREMOWING
oThe Drive Control has provisions for adjustmenL
o See "TO ADJUST DRIVE CONTROL" section
under "SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS" section
on pages 18.
o Checking this adiustment is only a precaution that
your new lawn mower is properly prepared for
use.

_::........... J ,_J_............ ,_;;;:_.-_: :; .......... _::::::_-.:::_:_.----...:_ ............. _:_-_-:-_-:...-_._:,-_ .......... --:._ :::::_-_ ......... -.,,,,_._:_:_;_4_-<>--z;_.---_-_:-_;-_:_,_ -:¸: ; ;;:_:_-_.-._..._.,_._-.o_:_:_:_J_±'- _"_"_"_LJ:_<::_-._--¸
KNOWYOURtAWNMOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Com-
pare the illustrations with your Lawn Mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls
and adjustments_ Save this manual for future reference_
"KEY START"
SWITCH & KEY
DRIVE SPEED
CONTROL LEVER
GRASS CATCt
_INE CONTROL BAR
DRIVE CONTROL BAR
-._------'- HANDLE KN
SINGLE POINT"
HEIGHT ADJUSTER _"
HANDLE GASOLINE FILLER CAP
STARTER HANDLE
(BACK-UP}
OIL FILLER CAP WITH DIPSTICK
AIR FILTER
PRIMER
MUFFLER
LAWN MOWER HOUSING
FIG. 8
¢?S( S F TYRE g REN NTS
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. ..........
ENGINE CONTROL BAR - must be held up to the ban- STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine.
dle to start the engine,. Release to stop the engine° if the battery is discharged,
"ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER - located on the left
side of the engine which allows you to select either
"HIGH" or "LOW" engine speed.
DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER - used to select the drive
speed of your lawn mower._
KEY START SWITCH - turn this key as you would on your
automobile to crank and start 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..
SINGLE POINT HEIGHT ADJUSTER HANDLE-
used to adjust the cutting height of lawn mower.,

ENGINESPEEDCONTROL
Theengine speed iscontrolled by a lever (red knob)
located on the left side of the engine (See Fig. 9).
E_GNEZOHECOHTROL
CAUTIOH: FEDERALREGULATIOHSREQUIREAN
EHGt_E COHTROLTO BEINSTALLEDOF] THIS
LAW_ NOWER IH ORDERTO MIHI_IZE THE
RISK OF BLADECOHTACTIHJURY. DO HOT
UHDER AEIY CIRCUMSTANCESATTEMPT TO
DEFEATTHE FUNCTIOH OF THE OPERATOR
CONTROL.THEBLADETUR_SWHENTHEEHGIHE
iS RU_NIHG.
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).
GROUHDDRIVESIR SPEEDS
Your lawn mower provides six (6) speeds to let you
select the speed that suits you best°
o The Speed Selector Lever can be changed while
you are mowing°
o Speeds ], 2, and 3 are found when the Engine
Speed Control (red) Lever' is in "LOW" position
(See Figs. 9 & 10)_
o Speeds 1, 2, and 3 are for slower, light grass cut-
tin g, trimming, and quiet o p eration o
,, Speeds 4, 5 and 6 are found when the Engine
Speed Control (red) Lever is in "HIGH" position
(See Figs. 9 & 10)o
Speed 4 is for stow, heavyhhick grass cutting or
trimming.
•Speed 5 is for normal cutting and bagging.
o Speed 6 is for bagging dried clippings and
ground transporL
IMPORTANT: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHIFT SPEEDS
WITH THE DRIVE BAR ENGAGED
UNLESS THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
TOOPERATEDRIVESYSTEM
o Select ground speed by moving Drive Speed
Selector Lever to 1-3 or 4-6 position and selec-
ting either HI or LOW engine speed.
1-3 is slower and 4-6 is faster'.
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL LEVER
PRIMER ,_"
FIG 9
DR1VE
SELECTOR LEVER \
ELECTRIC START KEY
FIG. 10
DRIVE CONTROL BAR
\_ ENGINE CONTROL BAR
EN(
DISENGA " " :
FIG. ! i
o The ground speed may be selected either when
standing or moving.
• To start forward motion, slowly pull Drive Con-
trol Bar to the Handle (See Fig. 11).
o To slow or' stop forward motion let the Drive Con-
trol Bar move forward away from Handle,
o To stop forward motion release Drive Control Bar
(See Fig. 11).
10

TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM (COHT'D)
o By slightly releasing the Drive Controt Bar the
Drive can be slowed or "feathered" so you may
make turns around obstacles or at end of rows
(See Fig° 1!)_
o If the Drive is not pulling properly, the Drive
Cable may need adjusting (see "To Adjust Drive
Control" on page t8). This adjustment may be
required after 15 hours of use.
TO EMPTYGRASSCATCHER
o Lift up on Grass Catcher using the Handle of Cat-
cher Frame,
o Remove Grass Catcher with clippings from under
Handte.
o Carry Grass Catcher with clippings using Handle
of Catcher Frame.
+o Empty clippings from Bag using both Frame and
Bag Handles (See Fig_ 12).
TO ADJUSTCUTTINGHEIGHTS
o Your lawn mower is equipped witha Single Point
Height Adjuster that sets all four (4) Wheels at
one cutting heighL
o Seven (7) height of cut positions are available
from position 1 through position 7..
o Position one (1) is approximately a 1" cutting
height - position seven (7) is approximately a 4"
cutting height (See Fig. 13)_
o Your lawn mower is shipped in position 1. Ad-
just to desired height of cut position (See Fig.. 13
& 14)_
o The height of cut numbers 1 through 7 are shown
in an opening located above the Adjusting
Handle (See Figs. 13 & t4).
o To raiselawn mower to a higher position, grasp
the Adjusting Handle and squeeze the Red Lever
in the Handle to release (See Fig. 14)_
•To change height of cut positions, while squeez-
ing the Red Release Lever, push down or lift up
on Handle until desired position is viewed (See
o mid cut position (4) is approximately the
2 1!2" cut height.
A AUTIOH: DONOT ATTEt_PTTOADJUSTHEIGHT
OFCUTUHLESSTHELAWN MOWERISSITTING
UPRIGHT. PERSONALIHJUllY MAY RESULT.
FIG. 12
VIEW' WINDOW
HEIGHT INDICATOR
ADJUSTING H_ _
FIG. 13
HEIGHT
SQUEEZE LEVER T
PUSH DOWN FOR LOVv CUT
FIG. 14
11

OIL:
A 20 oz_ bottle of Pennzoil SAE 30 Oil is included
with your lawn mower.
NOTE:The use of a funnel will be helpful in filling the
engine with oil.
o Remove Engine Oil Cap (See Fig. 15) and fill to
the FULL line on the dipstick.
o Use 20 ozs_ of SAE 30 oil or equivalenL SAE
10W 30 oil can also be used° DO NOT use SAE
10W 40 oil.
o POUR OIL SLOWLY_ DO NOT OVERFILL,
o Check oil level before each use. Add oil if need-
ed. Fill to FULL line on dipstick.
oTo read proper level, tighten Engine Oil Cap each
time_
° Reinstall Engine Oil Cap and tighten_
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°
GAS:
€. Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded
gasoline. DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE.
BE CAREFUL NOT 1"O OVERFILL TANK (SEE
FIG. 15).,
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blend-
ed fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage_ Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage for 30 days or longer_ Drain
the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty_ Use fresh fuel
next seasam See Storage Instructions far additional
informatiom
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner' products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
TOSTARTIN lNE
o Remove Keys from customer package_ Install one
(I) Key in the Electric Start Key Slot located in
the Drive Control (See Fig° 17). Place the remain-
ing Key in a safe place for future use.
o To start a cold engine, push Primer one (1) time.
Use a firm push_ Pushing Primer is not usually
necessary when starting an engine which has run
for a few minutes.
o Pull Engine Speed Control Lever back to "HIGH"
position°
o Pull up and hold Engine Control (lower) Bar to
Handle (See Fig_ 16)_
o Turn Electric Start Key clockwise to crank engine.
GASOLINE FILLER CAP
ENGINE OIL CAP
WITH DIPSTICK
FIG. 15
DISENGAGED
ENGAGED PC _ POSITION
(ENGINE STOP)
ENGINE CONTROL BAR
FIG. 16
DRIVE Sf
SELECTOR LEVER \DRIVE CONTROL
ELECTRIC START KEY
H01"E:The Electric Starter will not operate unless the
Engine Control Bar is depressed against Handle (See
Fig. 16).
o If engine fails to start, repeat priming and star-
_FIVf (5)COHIINUOUS SECOHDS.WA[r 5 TO 10
EAC,ti EYOUTRY"to
START.
12

o To start engine using the Rope Starter, follow the
above steps° Exchange the use of the E_ectric Start
Key for Starter Rope.. Do not allow Starter Rope
to snap back.
o To "STOP" engine, release Enc_ine Control Bar._
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to
repeat priming steps, in warmer weather over prim-
ing may cause flooding and engine will not start_ _f
you do flood engine wait a few minutes before at-
tempting to start and DO NO1" repeat priming steps_
I IOW G T PS
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 dippings_
For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of
cut and raise the lawn mower housing one (1) set-
ting higher for better discharge of grass.
o 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 ove_"
the area a second time.
o _fa trail of grassdippings is left on the right side
of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a
clockwise direction with a small overlap to col-
le_:t the clippings on the next pass
o Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled
with dirt and dust with use and catchers wil! col-
led less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose cat-
cher off with water and let dry before using.
13

GENERALRI COMMENDAI' ON
Once a year you should replace the Spark Plug,
Air Filter and check Blade for wear° A new Spark
Plug and Air Filter assures proper air-fuel mix-
ture and helps your engine run better and last
longer.
o You should check all fasteners and be sure they
are tighL
o Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on
page 21.
BLADE/BLADEADAPTERCARE
Your lawn mower will work better with a sharp
Blade. CAUTION: DISCONNE(1 SPARI( PLUG WIRE
FROMSPAREPLUGAND PLACEWIRE WHERE
iTCANNOT€O_E IN CONTACTWITH THESPARE
PLUG DO HOT A1TEhIPTTO ADJUSTHEIGHT
OFCUTUNLESSTHELAWN h_lOWiEISSITTING
UPRIGHT. PERSONALINJURY _AY RESULT.
,,,llllll...... hi, i, i
TO REMOVE BLADE:
o Turn lawn mower' on its side Make sure Air Filter
and Carburetor are up
,_ Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn
Mower Housing to prevent Blade from turning
when removing the Blade Boll
o Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap
Blade with heavy cloth_
Remove Blade Bolt by turning counter-clockwise
Use a 9/t6" box or opemend wrench_
o Remove Blade and attaching hardware (Bolt,
Lockwasher and Hardened Washer) (See Fig
NOTI_:Remove the Blade Adapter and check the Key
inside hub of Blade Adapter_ The Key must be in
good condition to work properly. Replace Adapter
if damaged_
TO REPLACE BLADE:
o Position the Blade Adapter on the Engine
Crankshafl_ 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 raised lugs
on the Adapter°
!'_0TE: Be sure the word TOP (stamped on the Blade)
,s toward the engine (See Fig_ 18)0
o Install the Blade Bolt with the Lockwasher and
Hardened Washer into Blade Adapter and
Crankshaft (See Fig° 18).
CRANKSHAFT & _/:"___ /
BLAC'E ADAPTER /"
DETAIL O WASHt
KEY 8LADE ADAPTER
_-._e'/BLADE BOLT
_KSHAFT
LOCKWASHER
CRANKSHAFT KEYWAY .// LC _
FIG. 18
o Use block of wood between Blade and Lawn
Mower Housing and tighten the Blade Bolt, turn-
ing clockwise..
o The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft_
Ibs_
o Torque wrenches are available at most Sears
stores and through the catalog.
AND MAY MAKE THE ENGINE HARD TO START. II ....................
Use only a Sears authorized replacement Btade to
get the best cutting results.
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening Blade - but
if you do, be sure the Blade is balance&
TO SHARPEN BLADE:
o 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. Placecenter' hole of Blade over the head
of the nail. If Blade is balanced, it should remain
in a horizontal position_ If either end of the Blade
moves downward, Blade is not balanced.
Sharpen the heavy end until the Blade
balanced.
14

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. may be in-
side the Drive WheeJ and Dust Cover area and must
be cleaned out to free Drive Wheels.
If necessary to clean the Drive Wheels, check both
Rear Wheels (See Fig. 19).
, Remove Hubcaps and Locknuts.
o Remove Wheels from Wheel Adjuster Axles_
o Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside
the Dust Cover, Pinion andlor Drive Wheel Gear
Teeth.
° If you remove the Drive Pinion and Drive Pawl,
refer to fig. 20 for correct assembly of Drive Pawt.
o 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.
o The Pinion Gear is stamped with an "L" (Left) or
"R" (Right) on the inside. If installed incorrectly,
the Drive System will not work.
o Place Wheels back on Adjuster Axles
o Replace Washers, Hairpin Cotters and Hubcaps.
NOTE:Pinions and Drive Pawls shoutd be deaned and
lubricated with spray lubricant approximately every
25 hours.
GRASSCATCHER
o
o
The Catcher may be hosed with water, but must
be dry when used.
Check your Grass Catcher often for damage or
deterioration.. Through normal use it will wear..
If Catcher needs replacing, replace only with a
manufacturer approved replacement Catcher
from Sears. Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGfl E
TO CHANGEOIL (WARt_ OIL DRAINSBETTER)
CAUTION: DISCONI_ECTBATTERY CONNECTOR
FROM ENGINE AND SPARE PLUG WIRE FROM
SPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHEREIT CANNOT
,,%
_J_ COMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARKezuo _0 NOT
ATTEMPTTOADJUSTHEIGHTOFCUTUNLESSTHE
LAWN MOWER IS SITTINGUPRIGHT PERSONAL
INJURY MAY RESULT
........... i ............................ IH i _1.
O
°
Remove Engine Oil Cap; lay aside on a clean
surface.
Tip lawn mower on its side as shown in Fig 21
and drain oil into suitable container° Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped
inside of engine
DUST COVER
FIG. 19
TOP OF MOWER
FRONT ,OF MOWER
........... [?_,", E PAV'/L
DRIVE SHAF
FIG. 20
FIG. 21
15
o Wipe off any spilled oi! on lawn mower and on
side of engine°
o Fill enginewith SAE 30 or 10W 30 oil. Fill only
to the "FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
overfill
o Replace Engine Oil Cap.
Reconnect Spark Pksg Wire to Spark-Plug

T
AIRRLTEA
Your engine will not run properly and may be
damaged by using a dirty Air' Filter', Replace the Air
Filter every year', more often if you mow in very dus-
ty, dirty conditions. Do not wash Air Filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
oLoosen and remove the two (2) Plastic Cap Nuts
on top of Air Cleaner Cover (See Fig, 22),
o Lift up and rotate Cover to unhook Latch on the
front end of Cover.
o Loosen and remove the Wing Nut and Plate
holding Filter" in place (See Fig, 22),
o Lift up on the Air Filter Element and remove.
o Clean off the face of the Air Cleaner Seal on top
of Carburetor.
o When cleaning be careful to keep trash and dirt
from dropping into Carburetor,
o Put new Filter' in place,
o Put the Plate and Wing Nut back in place°
Put the Air Filter Cover back, be sure to hook the
front end into the Engine Blower Housing°
o Put the two (2) Cap Nuts back and tighten.
SPARKPLUG
Change your' Spark Plug each year to make your
engine start easier and run better. Set Spark Pl_g
gap at ,030 inch_
AIR CLEANER COVER _PLASTIC CAP
COVER LATCH "_ _ _
.... ] _ PL T
..,,/C__._. #, A_R FiL"TER ELEMENT
ENGINE /_:=_'_ _ I::_:,-
HOUS, """4 \
Y_ ""CARBURETOR
FIG. 22
(LEAN N
We recommend that you clean the underside of your'
lawn mower after each use.
CAUTION: DISCONHECTBATTERYCONNECTOR
FROM ENGINEAND SPAREPLUG WIRE FROf_
SPARE PLUG AND PLACE WIRE WHERE IT
CANNOT CO_E IN CONTACT WITH SPARE
PLUG, DO NOT ATTEI_tPTTO ADJUSTHEIGHT
OF CUTUNLESSTHE LAWN MOWER ISSITTING
UPRIGHT. PERSONALINJURY MAY RESULT.
oTurn lawn mower on its side with Carburetor up.
Clean the underside of your lawn mower' by
scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash_
o Clean your lawn mower and engine often to keep
trash from accumulating around engine_ A clogg-
ed engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.
o We DO NOT recommend using a garden hose
to clean lawn mower' unless the Electrical System,
Muffler, Air' Filter, and Carburetor' are covered
to keep water' out. Water in engine can result in
shortening engine life_
16

TO REIVIOVE/REPLACEDRIVEBELT
CAUTIOH: DISCOHNECTBATI'ERVCOHHECTOR
FROM ENGIEIEAND SPAREPLUGWIRE FROM
SPAREPLUG. PLACEWIRE WHEREIT CANNOT
COMEIH CONTACTWITH SPAREPLUG. DONOT
ATTEMPTTOADJUSTHEIGHTOFCUTUNLESSTHE
LAWH._ftOWERtSSILTINGUPRIGHT. PERSONAL
........ !NJURY MAY RESULT.................... ..........
oRemove Grass Catcher from lawn mower.
oSet lawn mower in number six (6) height of cut.
DO NOT change height setting unless lawn
mower is on its Wheels in normal operating
position.
o Turn lawn mower on its side with Carburetor up_
oLocate the Belt Tension Spring and Retaining Pin
on the Back Plate of lawn mower.
Using a piece of wire, pull the end of Tension
Spring through the hole and remove Retaining Pin
(See Fig. 23)_
Remove the HiWac Baffle, See Fig° 24 for
fastener locations°
o Remove Cable Clamp and slip Cable Ends out of
Mounting Slots (See Fig. 24A).
o Tilt Driven Pulley forward until it is resting against
Torque Bracket (See Fig. 24A). Remove Locknut
on top of Driven Pulley. This will allow you to
remove the Belt Keeper and Belt.
o Loosen Bolt holding Belt Snubber (See Fig° 24A),
and slip Belt off of Engine Pulley and over Blade.
To instatt new Belt, slip Belt over Blade and into
Engine Pulley. Readjust Belt Snubber and tighten
Bolt (See Fig° 25 on page 18).
• Place Belt on Driven Pulley and reinstall Belt
Keeper, Spacer, Spring and Locknut as shown in
Fig. 24A. (Do Not tighten Locknut at this time).
o With Driven Pulley resting against the Torc_ue
Bracket, rotate the Belt Keeper until right edge
of Keeper is approximately 1/16" from the Tor-
que Bracket (See FiB 25A on page 18) and
tighten Locknut.
oSlip Cable Ends back into Mounting Slots and
reinstall Cable Clamp_
o Using a piece of wire, pull the Tension Spring
through the hole in the Back Plate and reinstall
the Retaining Pin (See Fig. 25B on page !8).
DO NOT over stretch Spring as damage to the
Spring may result.
oReinstall Hi-Vac Baffle_
WIRE
_ACK PLATE
W_RE
RETAINING PIN
FIG. 23
i LOCKNOT
/i I I L__B_-"_HI.VAC BAFFLE
BELT CABLE
ENGINE ./" .__ _ T \ "_--#_
__-T----_.?_ _k _ ":_ ]CLAMP
CRANKSHAFT_. ,_. ,_,_: _ /S'_}/ _"_ I'--
PO LE"LJ ,q
"'----t_.,_-_ LARGE DPdVEN PULLEY
_ ..... ,_,-.---1 4-20 SCREW
FIG. 24
ENGINE MOUNTING BOLT
!I:' BELT KEEPER :
BELT SNUBBER- SPRING \"
_"" _ LOCKNUT-._-
o_
DRIVEN PULl CABLE
TORQUE _BRACKET CLAMP
FIG. 24A
17

SJ T
TO ADJUST DRIVE CONTROL
• To check for proper ad ustment of Drive Control,
slowly pull up on the Drive Bar while pulling lawn
mower backwards until Rear Wheels stop turning
o When Rear Wheels stop turning, hold the Drive
Bar and check the dimension as shown in fig 26.
oThe Drive Control is properly adjusted when the
measurement over the Handle and Drive Bar is
approximately 3 1/2" (See Fig 26)_ If the
measurement is tess than 3 1/2" adjust Drive
Control Cable
_, The Drive Control Adjuster is the one closest to
operator_
o To make the Drive Control adjustment, hold the
upper hexagon fitting and turn the Adjusting
Sleeve clockwise, from operator position (See Fig_
27).
o If after several adjustments no further adjustment
is left, the Drive Wheel must be replaced.
N0/E: Through normal use the Drive Wheel will 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 require additional adjust-
menL If you feel speed adjustment is incorrect or
Speed Control does not operate properly contact
your nearest Sears Service Center._
APPROx !:32
BELT SNUBBET"_'_" ENGINE
MOUNTING
BOLT
FIG 25
TORQUE
APPROX 1,1_6
BEL"
BELT KEEPER
FIG 25A
CARBURETOR
Your Carburetor has a non-adjustable Fixed main jet
for mixture control If your engine does not operate
properly due to suspected Carburetor problems, take
your fawn mower to an authorized Sears Service
Center for repair and adjustment° DRP
PULLEY
FIG. 25B
18

Your engine speed has been factory set° Do not at-
tempt to increase engine speed or it may 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
adiustmenL
REARDEFLECTOR
The Rear Deflector, attached between the Rear
Wheels of ycourlawn mower, is provided to minimize
the possibility that objects will be thrown out the rear
of the lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position.
tf the Rear Deflector becomes damaged, it should
be replaced.
TOADJUSTHANDLE
o Grass bag should be removed temporarily for
easier adjustment of Handle_
o The Handle on your lawn mower has three (3)
heights - adjust to the height that suits you.
To adjust the Handle, push in on the Adjusting
Levers to dear the Pins (See Fig 28)_
o Raise or lower Handle and position the Adjusting
Levers on to the Pins.
o Be sure that Handle Bracket Pin is in the same
Lever Hole on both sides of the lawn mower.
UPPER HANDLE /"_"
/
DR_VE BAR
ENGINE
CONTROL
BAR
FIG. 26
•1_ UPPER HEXAGON i__
,j FITTING
) o ,vECONTROL
DRIVE _ i ..--UPPER HEXAGON FITTING
ADJUSTING_"_
SLEEVE
FIG. 27
LOWER HANDLE HANDLE
BRACKET
PiN
ADJUSTING
LEVER
I
FIG. 28
19

Your lawn mower and engine should be prepared
for off-season storage as follows:
LAWit iVlOWER
o Clean underside of Lawn Mower Housing. (See
"Cleaning" in maintenance section of manual_)
oInspect 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.
o Lubricate as shown in Service Recommendation
chart on page 21 of manual_
HANDLE
o
o
You can stand your Lawn Mower Handle up for
storage as shown in Fig. 29.
To stand your Handle up for storage, push in on
the Adjusting Levers until the Levers clear the Pins
then raise Handle until it locks in an upright ver-
tical position (See Figs. 29 & 30),
EHGIHE
o Change oil (See "To Change Oil" in maintenance
section of manual).
_, Drain fuel and run engine until fuel system is
emptyr.
tMPORTAHT:IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT
GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING
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_
HOL 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.
BATTERY
o Disconnect the Battery from the Engine Connec-
tor and charge Battery for 48 hours.
UPPER HAND
DRIVE CONTROL BAR
CONTROL BAR
LOWER HAND1 STORAGE POSITION
ADJUSTING LEVER
FIG. 29
"_,f.LOWER HANDLE
\\ HANDLE
PiN
ADJUSTING
LEVER
FIG. 30
OTHER
o Do 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
problems.
', 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.
2O