Craftsman 917.377421 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRRFTSMRN"
6.5 HORSEPOWER
22" EZ MULCH
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377421
• Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Espa_ol
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 15
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 33
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 retuming the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Depadment 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
TRAINING:
•Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controlsand
know how to operate your mower prop-
erly. Leam how to quicklystop mower.
•Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions. ::_
•Keep the area of operationclear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
•Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manu-
al.
•Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
usingyour mower.
•Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
•The blade tums when the engine is run-
ning.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughlycheck the area to be
mowed and clear it of 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 solidshoes 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 if you
hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating you
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 in-
dication 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 pullingthe mower
towards you. Mow acrossthe face of
slopes, never up and down or you
might lose your footing. Do not mow ex-
cessivelysteep slopes. Use caution
when operatingthe mower on uneven
terrain or when changing directions--
maintaingood footing.
• Never operate your mower without prop-
er guards, plates, grass catcher or other
safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
•Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts often to be sure they are tight-
ened properly.
•Check all bolts, nuts and screws at fre-
quent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure mower is in safe working condition.
•Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
•To reduce firs 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 rec-
ommended by and comply with specifi-
cations of the manufacturer of your
mower.
•Always keep asharp 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.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot con-
tact spark plugin order to prevent acci-
dental starting when setting up, transport-
ing, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains chemicals known to the State of Cali-
fornia to cause cancer, birth defects, or
other reproductive harm.
3

These accessorias were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are also
available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most 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
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
V
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
MUFFLERS
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower. Your
new lawn mower has boon assembled at
the factory with the exception of those
pads left unassembled for shipping pur-
poses. All parts such as nuts, washers,
bolts, etc., neceSSary to complete the as-
sembly have been placed in the pads bag.
To ensure safe and proper operation of
your lawn mower, all padsand hardware
you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to
ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
•Remove loose parts included with
mower.
•Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
•Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower han-
dle and padding holding operator pres-
ence control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose pads.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully
so as not to pinch or damage control
cables.
•Raise handles until lower handle sec-
tion locks into place in mowing position.
•Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handles and tighten both handle
knobs.
4

• Removehandlepaddingholdingopera-
torpresencecontrolbarto upperhan-
dle.
•Your lawn mower handle can be adjust-
ed for your mowing comfort. Refer to
"Adjust Handle" in the Service and Ad-
justment section of this manual.
Operatorpresence
controlbeJ
Upper han-
dle Liftup
Lower
handle (
Mowing
position
5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNERS MANUAl_AND SAFETY RULES BEFOREOPERATINGYOUR LAWN
MOWER. Comparethe_ wi_ yourlawnmowertofarniliadzeyourselfw#hthe locationof
variouscontrolsandadj_ Save_is manualforfuture reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the prod-
uct. 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 Operator presence control bar
_Drivecontrol lever
Starter handle
Handle knob
Engine oil cap
with dipstick Gasoline fillercap
Primer
Drive cover
Deflector Muicher door Lawn mower housing
Wheel adjuster
(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 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 car-
buretor to the cylinder for usa 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 Door -allows conversion to dis-
charge or bagging operation.
6

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan
resultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe
eyes, which can result in severe eye dam-
age. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower or
performing any adjustments or repairs. We
recommend awide vision safety mask over
spectacles or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
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 cimum-
stances 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'I'rlNG HEIGHT
•Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
•Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns.
•To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements. Be
sure all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-pesition adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs. -Plate
Lower Wheels for High Cut Tab _
Raise _ _ Lever
Wheels for
Low Cut
DRIVE CONTROL
•Self-propelling is controlled by holding
the operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pushing the drive con-
trol lever forward until it clicks; then
release the lever.
•Forward motion will stop when the opera-
tor 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
tuming comers, push down on handle
and lift front wheels off ground while tum-
ing lawn mower.
Operator presence control bar Drive control
To engage _ _'_, Drive control
drive control disengaged
NOTE: Your lawn mower has been
shipped ready for mulching operation. To
convert to discharging operation, you
must install the discharge deflector attach-
ment included with your mower.
TO INSTALL DISCHARGING
DEFLECTOR
•Lift door upward on it's hinge until the
deflector frame can be hooked over the
door mounting bracket as shown.
•Release the door to rest against deflec-
tor frame.
•To return to mulching operation, reverse
the above steps and be sure door is in
closed position.
CAUTION: Do not operate your lawn
mower without mulcher door in locked
position, discharge deflector in place, or
approved grass catcher in place.
Deflector _ar Door
_'_/-- Mounting
bracket
7

BEFORESTARTINGENGINE
OIL
Yourlawnmowerisshippedwithoutoilin
theengine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
•Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill
to the full line on the dipstick.
•Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Maintenance
section of this manual.
•Pour oil slowly. 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.
GAS
•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Pur-
chase fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that al- •
cohol 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 en-
gine while in storage. To avoid engine •
problems, the fuel system should be emp-
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let
it run until fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additional informa-
tion. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent •
damage may occur.
Engine oilcap
w/dipstick
Gasoline
filler cap
TO START ENGINE
•To start a cold engine, push primer five
(5) times before trying to start. 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
quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap
back.
•To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces-
sary to repeat priming steps. In warmer
weather over priming may cause flooding
and engine will not starL If you do flood
engine, wait a few minutes before attempt-
ing to start and do not repeat priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
Under certain conditions, such as very tail
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.
For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting
in a counter-clockwise direction, starting
at the outside of the area to be cut,
spreads grass clippings more evenly and
puts less load on the engine. To keep clip-
pings off of walkways, flower beds, etc.,
make the first cuts in a clockwise direc-
tion.
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 catchers 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.
8

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPS
IMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrassand
trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER
HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning"
in Maintenance section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut 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
will biodegrade quickly to provide nutri-
ents 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
aftemoon. 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. If the lawn is overgrown it will be
necessary 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, mow slowly and raise the rear of the
lawn mower one wheel adjuster setting
higher than the front.
•Certain types of 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 grain-
ing of the lawn.
9

AS YOU COMPLETE ._'_._O_O_ _.x'__:_/ _€_:_p¢,,1_ _O_ CE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners t,#* If
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
M clean LawnMower
(p_,er-Pr,_lea Movers) _*'
E (Power-PropelledMowers) t/
Ched_eplsce Blade _=
Lubrication Chart I_'
Clean Bane_/Rechwrge
IEk,_cs=. Mo._ i/ v',
ECheck Engine Oil Level t#/
NChange Er_line Oi_ Ill.2
SClean AirFilter If /2
I Inspect Muffler If
NClean or Replace Spark Rug
E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartddge I/2
1. Change more c4terr when _emting utld_ aheavy load or in high ambient temperer uru.
2. Selvlce moei onen when o1_ In dllty or duMy condilk)nlk
3. Replace blldee mole oltlm when mowing _nlandy loll
4. Charge 48 houmat end ot slmson.
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 manu-
al.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments 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 filter element assures proper air-fuel
mixture and helps your engine run better
and last longer.
•Fellow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel
adjusters (_) Brake spdng
bracket
®
Engine oil
Handle bracket
mountingpin
(_ SPRAY LUBRICANT
®SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO
ENGINE - MAINTENANCE SECTION
•Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART").
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will at-
tract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the self lubdcating beatings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, pow-
dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
10

)RODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377421
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.5
DISPLACEMENT: 12.56 CU. IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030 =) CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 =- .008"
EXHAUS'E .004" - .008"
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 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 pro-
vided above.
LAWN MOWER • Remove blade and attaching hardware
Alwaysobserve safety rules when perform-
ing 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.
(bolt, lock washer and hardened wash-
er).
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 dam-
aged.
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.
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 wash-
er and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
•Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, tuming clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
11

IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8heat
treated.
TOSHARPENBLADE
NOTE: Wedo notrecommendsharpen-
ingblade- butifyou do,besuretheblade
isbalanced.
Careshouldbetakento keeptheblade
balanced.Anunbalancedbladewillcause
eventualdamageto lawnmoweror
engine.
• Thebladecan besharpenedwithafile
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 cen-
ter 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
adaptor _keyway
Crank
Bolt
Lockwasher Hardened Blade
washer Trailing adaptor
edge
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
•The grass catcher may be hosed with
water_ but must be dry when used.
•Check your grass catcher often for dam-
age or deterioration. Through normal
use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-
ing, replace only with a manufacturer
approved replacement catcher. Give the
lawn mower model number when order-
ing.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time before
you mow to be sure they move freely.
The wheels not tuming 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 autho-
rized service center.
GEAR CASE
•To keep your drive system working prop-
eriy, 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.
750355. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF, SH or
SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating tem-
perature.
SAEVISCO61TYGP.AOES
=C _0- _ .10_O" 20" 30"
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 oil after every 25 hours of oper-
ation 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 start-
ing 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
OVER FILL.
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Containel
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
ifyou mow in very dusty, dirty conditions.
TO CLEAN 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 col-
lar 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 rum counter clock-
wise to tighten.
Clip "rum
clockwise
to remove
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 bast performance, keep
mower housing free o! built---up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing
after each use.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark plug.
•Tum lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by scrap-
ing to remove build_up of grass and
trash.
•Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs hot-
ter 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.
Air flltel
Air filter covbr clockwise
to t_ghten
13

CAUTION: Before performing any service
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 CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTI'ING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your lawn mower, is provid-
ed to minimize the possibility that objects
will 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.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the dis-
charge opening of your lawnmower, is pro-
vided to prevent the possibility of injury
resulting from objects being thrown out of
the discharge opening into the operator
mowing position. If the discharge guard
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 carbu-
retor 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.
Belt ""'P"usush__ n
down- _::=--_-_H
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered for your mowing comfort. Four
(4) positions are available: high, medium
high, medium low and low. Handles are
shipped mounted in the medium low posi-
tion.
•To change from medium low to medium
high pesition, the upper and lower handle
sections will have to be turned over.
•Remove the cable clipe.
•Remove the controls and operator pres-
ence control bar from the upper handle.
•Remove the starter rope guide from the
upper handle.
•Remove hairpin cotters.
•Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
•Tum the handle over and reassemble the
hairpin cotters that have been removed.
•Reassemble the starter rope guide.
•Reassemble the controls and the operator
presence control bar to the upper handle.
CAUTION: The operator presence control
bar must pivot freely to permit blade brake
engagement when control bar is released.
Do not over tighten the fasteners holding
the controls to the upper handle.
Shipping Position
Medium Low Medium High
High %w
14

•To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be turned over.
•To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section
will have to be turned over.
_Co Handle
unting Pin
tter
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixture control. If your
engine does not operate prepedy due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to an authorized service Cen-
ter for repair or adjustment.
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may resultin personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is runningtoo fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
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 aperi-
od 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 sur-
faces; 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 fold-
ed 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 posi-
tion.
Lower Handl,
Squeeze to fold
J
mounting pin
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Upper
Hairpin Cotter
Fold
Backward
ig PosilJon
Lower Handle
Fold Forward For Storage
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
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
15

whileinstorage.
•Drab the fuettank
• b-_ the eng_e and let itnJnun_'lthe tuel
linesarKIcarburetorare ernpty.
•Never use angine or cad:xxetorcleaner prod-
uctsin the fuel tank or permanent damage
may occur.
•Use fresh fuet nextseaso_
NOTE: Fuel_r isan acceptable alterna-
tivein minimiz_ the fo_ offuel gum
depositsduringstorage.Adds_oilizertogaso-
linein fuel t_k or storage contai_r./_Jways fol-
low the mix ra_ofound on stabiT_ercontainer.
Run engine at least 10 m_,tes after ad_ sta-
bilizerto allowthe stabilizerto reach the carbure-
tor. Do not drain the ges tank and cad0uretorif
using_stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Dra_ dl (w_h anojne warm) and re,ace w_h
clean engine o11.(See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance ssc_on of this manual).
CYUNDER
•Removeaparkp_g.
• Pouroneoume(29rnl)ofoilthroughspark
p_gho_i_.
•Pul stader handle slowlya few trees to ds-
tri:x_ oil.
°Replacewithnewspa_plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoine from one season to
another.
•Replace yourgasorinecan ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirtinyour gesolinewill
cause problems.
•Ifposr:Zole,store yourunit indoorsand cover it
to give protec_on from dust and rid.
• Cover your unitwi_ a suitable proteclJve
coverthat does not retainmoisture. Donot
use ples_ Plasticcannot breathe which
allows_to form and willcause
yourunitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower wh_ eng_
and exhaust ares_ am _11warm.
CAUTION: Never storethe lawn mower with
gasoline in the tank inside a b_'ld'mg where
fumes may reach an open flame or spa_ Allow
the angine to coolbefore st_ng in any ando-
sure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Does not start •Dirty air filler. • Clean/replace air filler.
•Out of fuel.
•Stale fuel.
•Water in fuel.
• Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
•Bad spark plug.
•Loose blade or broken blade
- adapter.
•Control bar in released
position.
•Control bar defective.
•Fill fuel tank.
• Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
• Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
•Connect wire to plug.
•Replace sparkplug.
•Tightenbladeboltor
replaceblade adapter.
* Depresscontrolbar to
handle.
•Replace controlbar.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Loss of power
Poor cut - uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped).
Hard to push
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting,bladedragging /
in heavy grass.
•Cutting too much grass.
• Dirtyair filler.
•BuilcLupof grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
•Too much oil inengine.
•Walking speed too fast.
•Wom, bent or loose blade.
• Wheel heights uneven.
•Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
• Wom, bent or loose blade.
•Bent engine crankshaft.
• Engine flywheel brake is on
when controlbar is released
•Bent enginecrankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
•Blade draggingin grass.
•Cutting heighttoo low.
•Lifton blade worn off.
•Catcher notventingair.
•Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
•Rear oflawn mower
housingor blade dragging
in grass.
•Grass catchertoo full.
•Handle height positionnot
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
•Set to =Higher Cut"
position.
•Set to "HigherCut"
position.
•Clean/replace airfilter.
•Clean underside of mower
housing.
• Check oillevel.
•Cut at slowerwalking
speed.
•Replace blade. Tighten
bladebolt.
•Set allwheels at same
height
•Clean undersideof
mower housing.
• Replace blade. Tighten
blade boll.
•Contactan authorized
servicecenter,
•Depress controlbar to
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
•Contactan authorized
servicecenter.
•Replace blade adapter.
•Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
to startengine.
•Raise cuttingheight.
•Replace blade.
•Clean grass catcher.
•Raise cutting height.
•Raise rear of lawnmower
housingone (1) setting
higher.
•Empty grasscatcher.
•Adjust handle height to
suit,
17

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.377421
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
1
i
KEY
NO.
2
3
4
6
7
8
9
10
11
PART
NO.
17490416
137055X004
137053
57O72
4_373
77881
137051
137074
57079
131484
DESCRIPTION
Tapping Screw 1/4-20
x 1-1/4
Engagement Bracket
Shifter
Seal
Gear Case Halves Kit
(Includes Key Nos. 4, 5,
and 7)
_a_ing
Worm Shaft
Drive Shaft
Hardened Washer
Clutch Yoke
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
12 700343 Bushing
13 86447 Plug
14 137050 Helical Gear
15 750436X ClutchJaw
16- 750369 Grease
17 12000003 E-Ring
18 850848 Hi-Pro Key
19 81585X004 Spring Bracket
NOTE: All component dimensions given in
U.S. inches.
1 inch = 25.4 mm
35

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.377421
72
(,0
crJ 26
62
52

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.377421
KEY PART
NO. NO. KEY PART DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 165451X479
2 STD541425
3 156577
5 153638
7 131959
8 66426
9 51793
10 136376
11 88348
12 157081X479
16 STD512505
17 165175X479
18 151667X479
19 151665X479
22 140540
23 750097
24 87584X004
25 151889
26 152904
27 147286
28 154132
29 152124
30 751592
31 700168X479
32 700166X479
33 STD523707
35 750085X007
36 146630
38 700331X004
39 701037
40 750913X004
41 61651
42 142748
Uppor Handle 43 151138
Locknut 44 57143
Zone ControlCable 45 83923
Rope Guide 46 85463
Handle Bolt 48 149741
Wire Tie 49 STD541425
HairpinCotter 51 134612
Handle Knob 52 150406
Flat Washer 3/8 53 851084
Lower Handle 54 850263
Hex Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 1/2 55 851074
SupportRod 56 152202
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) 57 851514
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) 58 752118
Rear Deflector 59 751399
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 60 74180410
DeflectorBracket 62 156516
DischargeGuard 63 85543
Decal, Mulching Door 64 87677
Hinge Rod 68 ......
Housing Bracket
TorsionSpring 69 15335OX479
Loci(nut 70 153262X479
Support Bracket (Left) 71 63601
SupportBracket (Right) 72 151440
Hax Hea(:lBolt3/8-16x3/4 --166736
Wheel AdjustingBracket --161058
Spacer
Selector Spring
Selector Knob
Axle Arm Assembly 71 33072
BellevilleWasher 7133623
Shoulder Bolt 7133500
71333OO
71 33316
Wheel &Tire Assembly
Wave Washer
Locknut3/18-16
Danger Decal
Thread Cuffing Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4
Hex Locknut
Debris Shield
Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd. 8)
Helical Lockwashar
Hardened Washer
Blade 22"
Blade Adapter
Deflector
Bracket, Deflector
screw 1/4-20
Lawn Mower Housing (incl. Raf. #46)
Engine Pulley
Hi-Pro Key #HP 505
Engine -(See Breakdown) Craftsman
Model 143.996502
Support BaldHandle RH
Support Brk'tHandle LH
Locknut Kaps
Hubcap
Owner's Manual (English/Spanish)
Warning Decal (Not SHown)
Available accessories not includedwith lawn mower:
Grass Catcher
Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
FuelStabilizer
SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
Mower Cover