Craftsman 917.377423 User manual

Owner's Manual
I:RI:IFTSHI:IN°
6.5 HORSEPOWER
22" SIDE DISCHARGE
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377423
•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
Visit our Craftsman website: wwwsears corn/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 10
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 5 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 9 Repair Parts 35
Maintenance 9 Parts Ordering Back Cover
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 workman-
ship.
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
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only
while this product 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 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.
2

• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing 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 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 itvibrates
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 a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
_pace heater, clothes dryer, etc.
Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTIONH! BECOMEALERTI!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
p_ugCAUTION: Always disconnect spark
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 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
A
STABILI_'FR
GAS CANS
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
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 is shipped
WITHOUT OILOR 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-
sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts
such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been
placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
•Remove loose parts included with
mower. 4
• Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing 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 parts.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle 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 up
//
/
Mowing
position
Lower
handle
KNOWYOUR 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 of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
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
Operator presence control
Engine zone control cable
Drive control lever
Starter handle control
Handle knob
Engine oil cap with dipstick
Mulcher door
Gasoline filler cap
Primer
Drive cover
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is sing
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE Jster
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 Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operatorpresence 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 lawn mower.
Mulcher - allows conversion to discharge or
bagging operation.
5

operation of any lawn mower
can result in foreign objects thrown
intothe 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 awide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_kCAUTION:. Federal regulations
requtre an engtne 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.
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 it dicks; 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
li_ front wheels off ground while turning
lawn mower.
Operator presence control
bar
To engage drive control
Drive
Drive
control
disengaged
TO ADJUST CUTRNG 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-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Lower wheels for
high cut Plate tab
er
Raise wheels for low
Cut
NOTE: Your lawn mower has been
shipped ready for mulching operation. To
convert to discharging operation, you
must install the discharge deflector
attachment 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
deflector frame.
•To return to mulching operation,
reverse the above steps and be sure
door is in closed position.
__,'_._ IV_ulcherDoor
Deflector "_ "_- -- Mounting
Bracket
_CAUTION: Do not lawn
operate your
mower without mulcher door in closed
position, discharge deflector in place, or
approved grass catcher in place.
6

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 clean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
• Engine holds 20ozs. of oil. Fortypeand
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 of{en under dusty,
dirtycondrdons.
ADD GASOUNE
necessary when starting an engine
which has already run for a few
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
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.
Engine oil cap _ ,----"-- Gasoline filler
cap
\I I
MOWING TIPS
•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular •
unleaded gasoline with a minimum 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.
_{:_WARNING: 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. •
_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas, tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe orr any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
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 7
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.
For side discharge lawn mowers,
cutting in a counter-clockwise direction,
starting at the outside of the aree to be
cut, spreads grass clippings more
evenly and puts less load on the
engine. To keep clippings off of
walkways, flower beds, etc., make the
first cuts in a clockwise direction.
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-up grass and
trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
section of this manual.
• The spedai 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 g_ass
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 iswet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn isthe early af{emoon. 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 ofthe grass
blades. Ifthe lawn is overgrown itwill 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
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass conditions
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 pattem from week to
week. Mow north to couth one weak then
change to east to west the next week. This
will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
Max. 1/3
8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners "If
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) V#_I_
MClean Lawn Mower I/
O Clean Under Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers) I_
ICheck drive belUpulleys
Ei(Power-Propellsd Mowers) I1_
Check!Sharpen/Replace Blade i_s
Lubrication Chart _1
Clean Battery/Recharge
EleCtric Start Mowers I ll_ 1_4
ECheck Engine Oil Level
NChange Engine Oil 1_1.2
GClean Air Filter II/=
| Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
EReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge 1_12
t-Change more oftenwhar_operating under a heavy loador in highambienttemperatures.
2- Sewice more oftenwhen operatingin dirty or dusty conditions,
3 - Replace bladesmore often when mowingin s_.ndysoil.
4 - Charge 48 hours _ 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 instTuctedin this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to pmpedy 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, clean
or 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.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART%
LUBRICATION CHART
_Mulcher
_Wheel door
adjuster
_)Engine
oil
bracket
mountingpin
_)Brake
spring
bracket
d)Spray lubricante
•)Refer to MAINTINANCE "ENGINE"
SECTION.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plasti(
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.
9

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER
SERIALNUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
)ILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
)IL CAPACITY:
_PARK PLUG/GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
917.377423
6.5
1.25 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
.01251N.
35-40FT. 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.
BLADECARE
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 ha_rdened
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 cranksha_.
• 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.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
10

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 anail
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
Key adapter Crankshaft
._ keyway
Blade
Lockwasher
\
Blade shaft
bolt Hardened Trailing
washer edge Blade adapter
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
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.
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 Grease, part no.
750369. Do not substitute.
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.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF,SG orSI--J.Select
the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
NOTE: Although muiti-visc0sity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32°1=. 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 orat least once a year ifthe 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. l]ghten oil plug securely
each time you check the oil level
11

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.
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 clock-
wise 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 counterclock-
wise to tighten.
Slot
Air filter
Clip
Turn
clockwise
to
Tab
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, kiip
mower housing free of built-grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
z't
4_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 build-up of grass and trash.
•Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A dogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
•Keep finished surfaces and wheels flea 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.
12

A0_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 cu'n'ING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU-I-I-ING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided 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.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower into
the operator mowing position. If the .
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/awn 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.
TOADJUTHANDLE
Drive
cover
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
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 it
from mounting pins.
• Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
• Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
• Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
Mowing Mowing
position ;,-', position ,_"
Low position High position
L_h°wer
andle
Rotate
Push
down
13

ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that engine is running too fast or
too slow, take your mower to an autho-
rized 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
the proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
scan be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest
authorized service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to
make any necessary adjustments.
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 itthoroughly, remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean, 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 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.
Squeeze to
fold
j-
Lower handle
Hairpin
cotter
Operator presence control
bar
Upper handle
Fold forward for
storage
Lowe_ handle
g
pin
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
14

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.
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYUNDER
•Remove spark plug.
•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
•Pull starter handle slowly afew times to
distribute oil.
•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 protective
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.
m_owCAUTION: Never store the lawn
er 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.
15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
CAUSEPROBLEM
Does not start
Lossof power
Poor cut - uneven
1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Waterinfuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
posilJon.
9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower housinc
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fil! 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 belt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
1. Replace blade. 13ghten
blade belt.
2, Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive
vlbratlon
Starter rope hard
to pull
Loss of drive
Grass catcher
not filling Ofso
equlp_3d)
Hard to push
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crenkshatt.
1. Enginef_neel brake ison
when controlbar is released.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass,
1. Drive wheels not turning
with drive control engaged.
2. Belt not driving
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lift on blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass istoo high or wheel
height istoo low.
2. Rear oflawn mower
housingor blade dragging
ingrass.
3. Grasscatchertoofull.
4. Handle height positionnot
• rightforyou.
1. Replace blade. "l'_jhten
blade belt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depresscontrol barto
upper handle before
pullingstarterrope.
2. Contactan authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawnmowertocut
grassorto hardsurface.
1. Adjust or replace drive control
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.
31 Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
17

SERVICENOTES
34

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.377423
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
15
14
7
KEY PART
NO. NO.
1 17480416
2 137055X004
3 137053
4 57072
648373
7 77881
8137051
9137074
10 57079
11 131484
12 7(X_43
13 86447
14 137050
15 750436X
16 750369
17 12000003
18 850848
19 81585X004
DESCRIPTION
Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 1-1/4
Engagement Bracket
Shifter
Seal
Gear Case Halves Kit (Includes Key Nos. 4, 6, and 7)
Bearing
Worm Shaft
Drive Shaft
Hardened Washer
Clutch Yoke
Bushing
Plug
Helical Gear
Clutch Jaw
Grease
E-Ring
Hi-Pro Key
Spring Bracket
NOTE: All component dimensions given
in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
35

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - MODEL NO. 917.377423
10
39
4O
48 36 ! 1
18 33
_41
38
42
72
72
25
42
4O 35 30
49
I
i
I
52 52