Craftsman 917.377390 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRAFTXMAN°
6.75 HORSEPOWER
22" REAR DISCHARGE
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No
917.377390
• Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
• Maintenance
•EspaSol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 16
Operation 6Troubleshooting 17
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 37
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or 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 plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained 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
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator
presence controls to minimize 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 before
using your mower.
•Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
•The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear itof all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the
blade and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
2

•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 ifyou
hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating you
mower.
• Do not change the govemor 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
excessively 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 abuilding where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!H 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 retailoutletsand service
centers. Mast Sears stores can also order repair pads for you, when you provide the model
number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply toyour lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
L
.{@F.,_'_Y.*°. J
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR FILTERS
WHEELS
I
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand this manual in its
entirety before you attempt to assemble or
operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT- This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.
-Your new lawn mower has been assembled
at the factorywith the exception of those pads
left unassembled for shipping purposes. All
partssuch as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the pads bag. To ensure safe
and proper operation of your lawn mower, all
pads and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correct tools as
necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TOREMOVE LAWNMOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose pads includedwith mower.
• Cut down two end comers of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
•Remove all pecking materials except
padding between upper and lower handle
and padding holding operator presence
control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
pads.
4

HOWTO SET UPYOURLAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so as
not to pinch or damage control cables.
•Raise handles untillower 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 mow_g comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjustment
section of this manual.
Operator presence control
bar _U_
Upper handle
Lift up
tMowing
position
Lowerhandle
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
•Open rear door and remove mulcher plug.
Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
•You can now installcatcher or optional
clipping deflector.
•To retum to mulching operation, install
mulcher plug into discharge opening of
mower. Be sure all tabs are seated
properly.
Mulcher plug
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without mulcher 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.
5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location qf variqus qontrolsand adjustment _. Save _hismanual fqr fyture reference,
_symbolsmay appearon your lawn mower or in literaturesuppliedwilh the product.Learnand
understandtheir meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control cable Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Starter handle
Grass catcher
Mulcher plug _
Handle knob
Gasoline cap
Housing
_r
Engine oil
cap w/
dipstick
Primer
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped Wheel adjuster
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. (on each 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 Commission. The blade
tums 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.
Palmer - 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 lawn mower.
Mulcher plug - mustbe removed to convertto
bagging or discharging operation.
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.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
A, CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to De installeo 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 cu'n'ING HEIGHT
•Raise wheels forlow cut and lower wheels
for highcut.
•Adjustcuttingheight to suityour require-
ments. Medium positionis best for most
lawns.
•To change cuttingheight,squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
down to suityour requirements. 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.
Plate Tab
LowerWheels for High
Lever
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO A'n'ACH GRASS CATCHER
• Lift the rear door 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.
ACAUTION." 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 prepped open.
door
Grass
catcher
handle
Pivot
pins 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 unnecessary wear.
Bag handle (Grass
frame
handle
7

DRIVE CONTROL
•Self-propelling is controlled by holding
the operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pushing the drive
control lever forward until itclicks; then
release the 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 corners, push down on handle
and liftfront wheels off ground while
turning lawn mower.
Operator presence control bar Drive
control
To engage drive Drive control
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
fill is dean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full
lineon the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
•Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype and
.grade of oilto use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
•Pour oilslowly. Do not overfill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed, Fillto 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 GASOUNE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
_WARNING: .E._.rience indicatesthat
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. Acidicgas
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 itrun untilthe
fuel lines and carburetor are empty, Use
fresh fuel nextseason. See Storage
Instructionsfor additionalinformation. Never
use engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may
Occur.
_CAUTION: Fillto 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.
Engine oil cap Gasoline filler cap
TO START ENGINE
• To start a cold engine, push primer three
(3) times before tryingtostart. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for afew minutes.
• 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.
8

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 (push-
ing 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 a rear 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 clean 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-upgrass and
trash. See "Cleaning" in Maintenance section
ofthis manual.
•The special mulching blade will recut the
grass clippingsmany 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 will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
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 aftemocn. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
SUn.
•For best results,adjustthe lawn mower
cuttingheightso that the lawn mower cuts
off onlythe top one-thirdofthe grass blades.
Ifthe lawn is overgrown itwill be necessary
to raisethe height ofcut to reduce pushing
effortand to keep from overioadingthe
engine and leaving clumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce yourwidth ofcut by overlapping
previouslycut path and mow slowly.
•Certain types of grass and grass cond_ions
may requirethat an area be mulched a
second time to completely hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the firstcut path.
•Change your curlingpattern from weak to
weak, Mow northto southone week then
change to east to west the next week. This
will help prevent mattingand grainingofthe
lawn.
/3
9

AS YOU COMPLETE ._'__Y"._'_O_"_ ......
REGULARSERVICE /__'_._#e" SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners I/# 1/
Clean/InspectGrassCatcher
(If Equipped) yt _ V'_
Clean LawnMower
Clean Under Drive Cover
_ (Power-Propelled Mowers) ,
Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade 3
LubricationChart I/'
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers I _ I/4
NE Check En_iine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil i,/ra
G Clean Air Filter _2
Inspect Muffler
NClean°r ReplaceSparkPlug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 2
1+Changemore oftenwhenoperatingundera heavy load orin highambienttemperatures.
2-Sen/ice moreoftenwhen operatingIndilly ordusty conditions,
3 - Replacebladesmoreoftenwhen mowing in sandyso_l.
4 - Charge48 hoursat 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. Anew spark plug and
clean/new air filter element 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 ineoil
\
Rear door hinge
(_) Handle bracket mounting pin
(_) Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract
dust and dirtthat willshortenthe lifeof the self
lubricatingbearings. Ifyou feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry,powdered graphite
type lubricantsparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIALNUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
20 OZS.
CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008
.0125 IN.
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 tiresfree 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 sharpen-
ing 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. Crank shaft
Blade _ _ keyway
adapter _-y_ _/
BladeKey _
/L,
Lock_ \ Trailin I_lade
washer Hardened edge adapter
washer
GRASS CATCHER
• 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 itwill wear. Ifcatcher 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 ddve 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 VISCOSITY GRADES
-20" o" 30" 3_" 40"
TEMPERATURERANGE ANTICIPATEDBEFORE NEXTOIL 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 oil after 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. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil
level.
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 mower 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 properly 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. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter by turning
clockwise to the stop and pull away
from collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
• Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any dirt accumulation.
• Insert new filter into cover.
• Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
• Push in on cover and turn counter-
clockwise to tighten.
Collar
Slot
Clip
Turn
clockwise
to remove
Tab
Air filter Air filter
cover Turn counter-
clockwise to tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as
it could create a fire hazard and/or
damage.
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 its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up
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 clean 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
build-up of trash or grass on underside
of drive cover.
13

_,CAUTION: Before performing any
service and 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 CUTTING HEIGHT
See '%0 ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" inthe
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to
minimize the possibilitythat objects willbe
thrown out the rear of the lawn mower intothe
operator'smowing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, itshould be
replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
•Remove drive cover, Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and roll
belt off.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with carbure-
tor and fuel cap up.
•Remove blade.
• Remove debris shield.
•Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft.
•Installnew belt by reversing above steps.
•Always use factory approved belt to assure
fit and longlife.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The upper handle may be adjusted to fou
(4) different height positions.
• Loosen both handle knobs only enougl
to allow the upper handle to pivot to th_
desired adjustment position..
• Tighten both handle knobs securely.
Handle Knob
Drive
cover
Belt
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 afew minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
ACAUTION: 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
,,, bi
Frame
opening
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. Ifyou
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has anon-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixture control. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
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 the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorzed
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 ifthe 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 "CLEAN-
ING" 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 foldingthe handle for
storage or transportation,be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you any damage the
control cables.
•When setting up your handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will
automatically lock intothe mowing position.
S_lueezeto fold
_b Lower
eHandle
racket
Hairpin
cotter
Operator presence control bar
Fold foward ._
for storage
t. j-.
Lower _
handle
Upper
j handle
backward
Mowing
position
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important toprevent gum
depositsfrom forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor,f fuel filter, fuel hose
or tank duringstorage. Also, exparience
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 inthe 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 usingfuel stabilizer.
16

ENGINEOIL
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 oilthrough spark
plug hole into cylinder.
•Pullstarter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
•Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
CAUSEPROBLEM
Doesn=stad
Loss of power
Poor cut - uneven
1. Dirtyair filter.
2. Out offuel.
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
pos .
9. Control bar defective.
,
.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
Cutting too much grass.
Dirtyair filter.
Buildupof 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. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
17
•Replace your gasoline can ifyour can
startsto rust. Rust and/or dirtin your
gasoline will cause problems.
•Ifpossible, store your unitindoors and
cover itto give protectionfrom dust and dirt.
•Cover your unitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do
not use plastic. Plasticcannot breathe
which allows condensation to form and will
cause your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
ACAUTION: Never store the lawn
mower with gasoline in the tank inside a
building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool
before storing in any enclosure.
CORRECTION
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.
7.
8.
9.
1.
Replace spark plug.
T'_hten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
Depress controlbar to
handle.
Replace control bar.
Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut"
po_on.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
1. Replace blade. "l-K:jhten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
topull
Loss of drive
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
Hard to push
1. Wom, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
,
.
3.
4.
Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft.
Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.
1. Drive wheels not tuming
with drive control engaged.
2. Belt not ddving
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height istoo low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
rightfor you.
1. Replace blade. Fv:jhten
blade bolt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pullingstarter 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 control
cable.
2. Put belt on pulleys or
replace belts if broken.
1. Raise cuttingheight.
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
suit.
18

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.377390
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
KEY
NO.
2
3
4
6
7
8
PART
NO.
17490416
137055X004
137053
57072
48373
77881
137051
KEY PART
DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 9 137074 Drive Shaft
1-1/4 10 57079 Hardened Washer
Engagement Brecket 11 131484 Clutch Yoke
Shifter 12 700343 Bushing
Seal 13 86447 Plug
Gear Case Halves Kit 14 137050 Helical Gear
(Includes Key Nos. 4, 15 750436X Clutch Jaw
and 7) 16 750369 Grease
Beadng 17 12000003 E-Rir_:j
Worm Shaft 18 850848 Hi-ProKey
19 81585X004 Spring Bracket
NOTE: All component dimensions given
in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
37

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.377390
lO
10,
14
16 12
_11 2035
3O 73
56
77
I
•_23
37
35
3O 28
29
25 41