Craftsman 917.377554 User manual

Owner's Manual
CRAFTSMAN+
6.0 HORSEPOWER
22" REAR DISCHARGE
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377554
•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, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 16
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/617 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 ifit 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 manufacturer.
Use of such attachments may be hazard-
ous.
• 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.
2

• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
when starting and while using your mower.
• Dross properly. Do not operate mower
when barofoot 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 coot for several minutes
before filling the gas tank. Clean offany
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 discharge
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.='lnd keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidenta_ starting.
•Do not continue to run your mower it you hit
aforeign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating your
mower.
•Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower ifit vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration end
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 STORAG E:
• 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 deterioration
and wear and replace worn begs. Use
only replacement bags that are recom-
mended 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 ignitionsource such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.
_l,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!I! YOUR
SAFETy IS INVOLVED.
ACAUTION: 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 accassories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outletsand service
centers. 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
I_ _ GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
_/! GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR FILTERS
WHEELS
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 OIL OR GASOLINE in the
engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. To ensure safe and
proper operation of your lawn mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must
be tightened securely. Use the correct
tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers,
bolts, etc., necessary to complete the
assembly have been placed in the parts
bag.
TOREMOVELAWNMOWERFROM
CARTON
•Remove loose pads included with mower.
•Cut down two end comers of carton and
lay end panel down _t.
• Remove all padldng 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.
4

HOWTOSETUPYOURLAWNMOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so as
not to pinch or damage control cables.
•Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.
•Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower handle
and tighten both handle knobs.
•Remove handle padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
•Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjustment
section of this manual.
Operator presence bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Mowing
position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATFACHMENTS
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 asafe place.
• You can now install catcher or optional
clipping deflector.
•To return 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 of various controls and adiustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourlawnmowerorinliteraturesupprmdwi_ theproduct.Learnandunderstand
thererneaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
O,R WARNING ON OFF AN,D F,,EETAWAY
Enginezone controlcable
Operator presence controlbar
Drive control lever
Starter handle
Handle knob
Mulcher plug Engine oil
cap w/
dipstick
Housing
j Drive cover
Gasoline cap Prime
IMPORTANT; This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine. 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
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.
Pdmer - pumps addrtional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
a co_dengine.
Starter handle -used for starting the engine.
Drive control lever- used to engage power-
propelled forward motion of lawn mower.
Mulcher plug - must be removed to convert to
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.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWI_i MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_b,CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
•Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be pos'ftioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
•Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut.
• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
rnents. 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. Plate Tab
t
LowerWheels for High Cutp"L,._J_,--.-,w
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
•Close the flip lid. Flip lidmust be closed
while operating lawn mower.
•Lift the rear door on the mower housing
and place the grass catcher frame onto the
formed tabs on the rear door hinge bracket.
•The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
/I, CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Hinge Rear door
Grass catcher
frame
Formed
tabs
TO EMPTYGRASS CATCHER
•To remove grass catcher, release operator
presence control bar to stop engine;
•Lift up rear door and remove the grass
catcher by the handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
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 it clicks; 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 lift front wheels off ground while
turning lawn mower.
Operator presence control bar Drive
control
• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regtJlar
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: 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 off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
To engage ddve 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
fillis clean.
•Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
•Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype 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.
ADD GASOLINE
NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove and
discard the debris plug that is inside the
tank.
Gasoline filler cap ngine oilcap
(Discard
debris plug)
TO START ENGINE
• To start a cold engine, push primer three
(3) times before trying to start. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few m'rnutas.
•Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle
quickly. Do net 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, regulady 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 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 biedegrade 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 afternoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass
blades. 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
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions may require that an area be mulched
asecond time to completeiy hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
•Change your cutting pattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week. This
will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
:_"_;_;y_'_:_,_-"-] Max 1/3
9

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...,_o__
F,LL ,N DATES __k_=j..._
,s COMPL E
Check for LooseFasteners _I_
Clean/InspectGrass Catcher
(If Equipped) I/ _ _
M I Clean Lawn Mower
Clean Under DriveCover
WE(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drive belt/pulleys I_
(Power-PropelledMowers)
IR Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _3
LubricationChart I_
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start MowersIll/ I/'4
E ICheck Engine OilLevel I_
_1,2
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter I/' 2
I_1 InspectMuffler !,'
Clean or Replace Spark Plug I_
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2
_RVICE DATES
1 * Change more often when Operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2*Servic_ more often when operating in dirty ordusty co_lditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing In sandy soil.
4*Charge 48 hours at end of season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filter element and check
blade for wear. A new spark plug and
clean/new air 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 A
djuster 2_ Engine
/oil
oraeket hmge
mounting pin
OSpraylubricant
(_ Referto Maintenance "ENGINE"
section,
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswillattract
dust and dirtthat willshorten the life ofthe serf
lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite
type lubricant sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
917.377554
1.6 QUARTS
SAE30(ABOVE32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
20 OZS.
CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .005 - .007
EXHAUST: .007 -.009
.010 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 tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
•Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the b,ade
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 _-/(_ _'
Blade I\ _ J_ _J
bolt I\ I \
I \ /\shaft
Lo_=., TraitinoBlade.
washer Hardened =a,ng ada ter
washer edge P
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 nomlal
use itwill wear. If catcher needs replacing,
replace only with a manufacturer approved
replacement catcher. Give the lawn
mower model number when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time before
you mow to be sure they move freely.
The wheels not turning freely means
trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive
wheel area and must be cleaned to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
•Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/
or drive wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.
•If after cleaning, the drive wheels do
not turn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.
GEAR CASE
•To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area
around the drive should be kept clean
and free of trash build-up. Clean under
the drive cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the
gear case.
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1Grease, 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
-2O" 0*
_0 • .20- .10" 0• _30"
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICtPATED BEFORE N_(T 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
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 oilcap; 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 oilon 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.
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 CLEAN AIR FILTER
• Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove,
• Carefully remove cartridge.
• Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
_,CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do
not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
• Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create afire 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.
Back
Slots plate
Cover
tabs
Cartridge Cover
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
_I=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
filterand 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. Aclogged 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 filterand
carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water id engine can result in shortened
engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twlee 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 CUTHNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU'I-I-ING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to
minimize the possibilitythat objects will be
thrown out the rear ofthe lawn mower intothe
operator's mowing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
•Remove drive cover. Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and 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.
•Install new belt by reversing above steps.
• Always use factory approved belt to assure
fit and long life.
Drive ILll \
Belt _
r/
TO ADJUST HANDLE
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 _, .)
i I
ti
Low position High position
14

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 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 authorized
service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
•Insert leg of tubular frame through front
opening of grass catcher and thread
frame into sewn hem of bag.
NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the
straight leg of the tubular frame.
•When frame comes out the other end of
sewn hem, immediately work the end of
frame down inside the bag as shown in
inset.
•Slide sewn hem evenly around the
tubular frame until both ends of frame
are exposed out of the front opening.
•Assemble lower frame to tubular frame
as shown. Be sure handle is outside of
bag and frames are fully seated as
shown in inset.
•Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
•Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without clipping deflector or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear
door removed or propped open.
'TO
Fli lid
Sewn hem
Lower frame
_(Frame_
- must be
fully
seated)
Tubular frame
Lowerframe handle
15

Immediately prepare your lawn mowerfor
storage at the end of the season or ifthe unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
oftime, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a dean, 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 transpo,'tation, be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you any damage the
control cables.
•When setting up your handle from the
storage pos'_on, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing position.
Lower
handle
Squeeze to_ld
Handle
bracket
Operator presence controlbar Upper
_. /handle
Fold foward M /_)%_'_
for storage ////// ./////' _)
ower ,'/t
handle _ _)_:J/ I
___,\J ;' /X --/
E, J! backward
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportant to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, ffuel filter,fuel hose
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanal) 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 untilthe 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.
cotter
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.
•Pull starter handle slowly a few 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.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start 1. Dirty air tilter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
Loss of power
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected,
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filler.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Wom, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
Poor cut- uneven
•If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover itto 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.
_I,CAUTION: 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. 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 holt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
17

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
topull
Lossofddve
Grass catcher
not filling (if,so
equipped)
Hardtopush
.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
1. Drive wheels not turning
with drive control engaged,
2. Belt not driving
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
rightfor you.
1. Replaceblade. "Sghten
bladebolt.
2. Contactan authorized
servicecenter.
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
14. 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 cutting height.
2, Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.

SERVICE NOTES
36

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.377554
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
14
17
I
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 HardenedWasher
Engagement Bracket 11 131484 ClutchYoke
Shifter 12 700343 Bushing
Seal 13 86447 Plug
Gear Case Halves Kit 14 137050 HelicalGear
(Includes Key Nos. 4, 15 750436X ClutchJaw
and 7) 16 750369 Grease
Bearing 17 12000003 E-Ring
WormShaft 18 550848 Hi-ProKey
19 B1585X004 SpdngBracket
NOTE: All component dimensions given
in U.S. inches. 1inch =25.4 mm
37