Craftsman 917.377130 User manual

Owner's Manual
(RAFTSMAN+
6.0 HORSEPOWER
22" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377130
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Espafiol .
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
VisitourCraftsmanwebsite:www.sears.comJcraftsman

Warranty .............................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................ 2
Assembly ............................................. 4
Operation ............................................. 6
Maintenance Schedule ....................... 10
Maintenance 10
Product Specifications ........................
Service and Adjustments ....................
Storage ...............................................
Troubleshooting .................................
Repair Parts ........................................
Back Co
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintair
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workr_
ship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warra
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 plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructior
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the neaff
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 wl
vary from state to state.
SEARS ROEBUCKAND CO. D/817 WA HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standard's require operator
presence controls to mimimize the risk of
injury. Your unit is equipped with such
controls. Do not attempt to defeat the
function of the operator presence controls
under any circumstances.
TRAINING:
• Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
•Do not allow children to use your
mower. Never allow adults to use mower
without proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this
manuaL,
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner
Always have damage repaired befor
using your mower.
•Do not use accessory attachments tr
are not recommended by the manufa
turer. Use of such attachments may b
hazardous.
•The blade turns when the engine is
running,
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to
mowed and clear it of all stones, stick
wires, bones, and other foreign objec
These objects will be thrown by the
blade and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while usinc
your mower.
2

•Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or weadng open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank.
Clean off any spilled gasoline before
starting the engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your
mower and the area being cut. Do not
let other interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing - keep a firm hold
on the handles and walk.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
and any gravel-covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of material
toward bystanders nor allow anyone
near the mower while you are operating
it.
•Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all
moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and keep
it away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object. Follow the proce-
dure outlined above, then repair any
damage before restarting and operating
your mower.
• Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage
or personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required.
• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
•Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow exces-
sively steep slopes. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when changing directions - maintain
good footing.
• Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
•Check the blade and the engine
mounting bolts often to be sure they are
tightened properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive
grease and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of
your mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
• Allow engine to cool before storing in
any enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
_Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!t! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_,CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outletsand service
centers. Moot Sears stores can also 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.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
FOR REAR OISCHAP, GE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS STABILIZER
REAR DISCHARGE SlOE OtSCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the exception of
those parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. To ensure safe and proper
operation of your lawn mower, all parts and
hardware you assemble must be tightened
securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
saryto ensure proper tightness. All parts
suchas nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been
placed in the parts bag.
TOREMOVELAWNMOWERFROM
CARTON
•Remove loose parts included with mower.
•Cut down two end comers of carton end
lay end panel down flat.
•Remove all pacldng matenals except
padding between upper and lower handl_
and padding hdld'_g operator presence
control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
4

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables
•Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower handle
and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjustment
section of this manual.
Operator presence control
bar
Upper handle
Lift u
Mowing position
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to hagging or
discharging:
•Open rear door and remove mulcher plug.
Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
• You can now install catcher or optional
clipping deflector.
• To return to mulching operation, install
muioher plug into discharge opening of
mower.
Mulcher plug
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without muloher plug in place or
approved clipping deflector or grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear
door removed or propped open.
Lower handle
5

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUF
LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yours
with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control cable presence control bar
Throttle
control Drive control
lever
Starter handle
Grass catcher,,.. Handle knob
Engine oil cap w/dipstick
sing
Mulcher plug
Gasoline filler cap
Primer
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine.
Drive cover
Wheel adjuster
(on every wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
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 Commi
siGn. The blade turns when the engine is running,
Operator presence control bar -must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter handle- used for starting the
engine.
Drive control lever -used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of lawr
mower.
Muloher plug - must be removed to
convert to bagging or discharging
operation,
Throttle control - Used for starting the
engine and allows you to select either f_
or slow engine speed,
6

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend a wide vision safety
mask over spectacles or standard safety
glasses.
HOWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed is controlled by a
throttle located on the side of the upper
handle. Fast position is for starting,
normal cutting, trimming and better grass
bagging. Slow position is for light cutting,
trimming and fuel economy.
,_ Slow
Fast ,," ""
Lower Wheels for High Cut Plate Tab
Lever
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Lift the rear doer of the lawn mower
and place the grass catcher frame
hooks onto the door pivot pins.
• The grass catcher is secured to the
lawn mower housing when the rear
door is lowered onto the grass catcher
frame.
_,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place, Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Pivot )ins Rear door
Grass
catcher
handle
/
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_I, CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
•Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
•Adjust cutting height to suit your
requirements. Medium position is best
for most lawns.
•To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require-
ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Catcher
frame hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• Lift up on grass catcher using the frame
handle.
° Remove grass catcher with clippings
from under lawn mower handle.
• Empty clippings from bag using both
frame handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecess_n)a_e_ar.
catcher
frame
(r°°°'°
handle
7

DRIVE CONTROL
•Self-propelling is controlled by holding the
operator presence control bar down to the
handle and pushing the dnve control lever
forward until itclicks; then release the drive
control lever.
•Forward motion will stop when the operator
presence control bar is released. To stop
forward motion without stopping engine,
release the operator presence control bar
slightly until the drive control disengages.
Hold operator presence control bar down
to handle to continue mowing without self-
propelling.
•To keep drive control engaged when
turning comers, push down on handle and
liftfront wheels off ground while turning
lawn mower.
Operator presence
control bar
Drive Drive
control control
To engage Drive control
drive control disengaged
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
engine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fillis clean.
•Remove engine oilcap and fillto the full
lineon the dipst'_k.
NOTE: Allow oiito settledown into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type and
grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
• Pour oilslowly. Do not over fill
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time.
•Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
•Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may need
to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove
and discard the debris plug that is inside
the tank.
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with aminimum of
87 octane(Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
AWARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended 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 of 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 season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
Gasoline filler cap Engine oilcap
(Discard
debris plug
inside)
8
TO START ENGINE
• To start acold engine, push primer three
(3) times before trying tostart. Use afirm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few minutes.
•Move throttle control lever to fast
position.
• Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle
quicldy. Do not allow starter rope to snap
back.
To stop engine, release operator presence
control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
•Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
lawn mower over the area a second
time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the 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 clippings is left on the right
side of arear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect the clippings on the
next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and c{ean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See "Cleaning" in
MAINTENANCE section of this manual.
The special mulching blade will recur the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass wil
biedegrade quickly to provide nutrients tor
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide
the best recutting action of the blades.
Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass
blades. Ifthe lawn is overgrown itwill be
nesessa_ to raise the height of cut to
reduce pushing effort and to keep from
overloading the engine and leaving
clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
Certain types ot grass and grass condi-
tions may require that an area be mulched
a second time to completely hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
Change your cutting pattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week. This
will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
9

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
_ERVICE DATES
Check for Lc_se Faste_rs
Clean/Inspect GrassCatcher
(IfEquipped)
C_eanLawnMower
Clean Under DriveCover
Power-PropelledMowers)
Check drive beWpulleya
(Power-PropelledMowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade
Lubrica'_lonChart
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectdc Start MowersI
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter
Inspect Muffler
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
Replace AirFilterPaper Cartrk:lge
I-Change more often when operating under a heavy Load or in high ambient temperatures.
2-SerVice more often when operating In dirty or dusty conditions.
3-Replace blades more often when mowing In sandy soiL
4- Charge 48 hours at end of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does
not cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain mower as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filter element and check
blade for wear. A new spark plug and
clean/new air fiRer e_ement assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel Adjuster
Engine c
(_) Handle bracket
mounting pin
Rear door
hinge
(_ Spay lubricant
(_) Refer to MAINTENANCE "ENGINE"
section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plast
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the
life of the self lubricating bearings. If you
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS
JNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F/
20 OZS.
CHAMPIONR J19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .005" - .007"
EXHAUST: .007" - .009"
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .010 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm
rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp, Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: 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
• Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
11

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend
sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure
the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower
or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• 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 nail. If blade is balanced, it should
remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade
is balanced. Blade Crank-shaft
adapter keyway
Key.,
Blade
bolt
Lockwash_
Hardened Trailing
washer edge
GRASS CATCHER
Crank-
Blade shaft
adapter
• The grass 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. Give the lawn mower model
number when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time
before you mow to be sure they move
freely.
The wheels not turning freely means
trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive
wheel area and must be cleaned to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
•Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/
or drive wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.
• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do
not turn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.
GEAR CASE
•To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area
around the drive should be kept clean
and free of trash build-up. Clean under
the drive cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the
gear case.
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.
750369. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according
to your expected operating temperature.
SAE VlSCosrrY GRADES
2O"
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oils will result in
increased oil consumption when used above
32°F. Check your engine oil level more
frequently to avoid possible engine damage
from running low on oil.
Change the oilafter every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. "13ghtenoil plug securely
each time you check the oillevel.
12

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fuel tank by running
engine until fuel tank is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot come
in contact with spark plug.
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
• Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and
drain oil into a suitable container. Rock
lawn mow_ back and forth to remove any
oil trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and
on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT overfill.
• Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run property and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
•Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
•Carefully remove cartddge.
•Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
_,CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do
not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
• Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.
Li
Cover
tabs Back
plate
Slots
Cover
Cartridge
MUFFLER
inspect and replace corroded muffler as il
could create a fire hazard and/or dam-
age.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to
make your engine start easier and run
better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
•Turn lawn mower on itsside. Make sure air
filter and carburetor are up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by scraping
to remove buildup of grass and trash.
•Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
•Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of
all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to dean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water out..
Water in engine can result in shortened
engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover with putty
knife or similar tool to remove any buildup of
trash or grass on underside of drive cover.
13

A, CAUTION: Before performing
anyservice or adjustments.
•Release control bar and stop engine.
• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CU'I-FING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your lawn mower, is
provided to minimize the possibility that
objects wil_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 REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
• Remove drive cover. Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and
rolling belt off it.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with
carburetor and fuel cap up.
•Remove blade.
•Remove debris shield.
•Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.
•Install new belt by reversing above
steps.
• Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high,
low position. The mounting holes in th,
bottom of lower handle are off center f(
raising or lowering the handle.
•Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
•Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
• Squeeze lower handle in to remove i
from mounting pins.
• Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
•Squeeze lower handle in and positic
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
• Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
cover Belt
Mowing ,-, Mowing (-,,
position bJ, position ,"7
[-... r
Low position High position
Lower
handle
Rotate
Push
down
14

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
•Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. It
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
,&CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Catcher
frame
handle
\
Frame
opening
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine spee,
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fa.,
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take you
lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and/or adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think th_
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest
authorized service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to
make any necessary adjustments.
15

Immediately 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.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage
and wear. Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the handle bracket,
then move handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle
for storage or transportation, be sure to
fold the handle as shown or you may
damage the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position. Lower handle
Squeeze to fold
Handle
bracket
Hairpin cotter
Operator presence control bar
Upper Handle
Fold
forward for
storage
Lower handle
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
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 that alcohol
blended 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.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
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 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
•Remove spark plug.
•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
•Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
16 °Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and
dirt.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm
_,CAUTION: Never store the lawn mowq
with gasoline in the tank inside a buildin!
where fumes may reach an open flame c
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
CAUSE CORRECTIONPROBLEM
Does not start
Loss of power
1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4, Water in fuel,
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
Cutting too much grass.
,
3.
4.
5.
6.
Dirty air filter.
Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
Too much oil in engine.
Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Low engine speed
4. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
17
Poor cut- uneven
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
4, Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
i
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.
5. Check oillevel.
6. Cut at slowerwalking
speed.
1. Replace blade. "13ghten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Contact an authorized center/
department
4. Clean underside of
mower housing.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Loss of ddve
Grass catcher
not fiBing (ifso
equipped)
Hard to push
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4, Blade dragging in grass,
1. Drive wheels not tuming
with drive control engaged.
2, Belt not driving
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lift on blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catchertoo full.
4. Handle height position not
rightfor you.
1. Replace blade. lighten
blade bolt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4, Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
1. Adjust or replace drive contr(
cable.
2. Put belt on pulleys or
replace belts if broken.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
surf.
18

36

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.377130
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
IS
14
17
KEY
NO.
2
3
4
6
7
8
9
PART
NO.
17490416
137055X004
137053
57O72
48373
77881
137051
137074
DESCRIPTION KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 10 57079 HardenedWasher
1-1/4 11 131484 Clutch Yoke
Engagement Bracket 12 700343 Bushing
Shifter
Seal 13 86447 Plug
14 137050 Helical Gear
Gear Case Halves Kit 15 750436X Clutch Jaw
(Includes Key Nos. 4, 16 750369 Grease
and 7) 17 12000003 E-Ring
Bearing 18 850848 Hi-Pro Key
Worm Shaft 19 81585X004 Spring Bracket
Drive Shaft
NOTE: All component dimensions given
in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
37