Craftsman 917.377911 User manual

Owner's Manual
£RI:IFTSMI:INo
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377911
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
•Maintenance
• Espahol
•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 12
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 15
Assembly 4 Storage 16
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 17
Maintenance Schedule 11 Repair Parts 38
Maintenance 11 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while
this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence 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. Le_m
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 tums 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.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
2

•Check fuel tank before starting engine. Do
not fillgas tank indoors, when be engine is
running or when the engine is hot. Allow the
engine to cool for several minutes before
tilling the gas tank. Clean off any spilled
gasoline before sta_ng 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-covereld' areas•
• Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
Do not continue to run your mower ifyou hit
aforeign object. Followthe procedure
o_ined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating your mower.
• DO not change the govemor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration and
repair as required.
• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
•Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow excessively
steep slopes. Use caution when operating
the mower on uneven terrain or when
changing directions - maintain good footin 9.
• 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 tire hazard, keep the engine free
of grass, leaves or excessive grease and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deterioration
and wear and replace wom 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 you_ 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.
A
_Look for this symbol to point out
important saraty precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
._LgCAUTION: Always dis.connect spark
wire and place wire wnere it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_IkWARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3

.=available when this lawn mower was '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 ofthese accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS
_GRASS CATCHERS _GRASS CATCHERS
FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
SPARK PLUGSAIR FILTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower 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 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.
•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 lower handle section to operating
position and squeeze the bottom ends of
lower handle towards each other until
the pin in handle can be inserted into
one of the three height adjustment holes.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
•Remove any packing material from
around control bar.
4

•Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Lift up
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging; See OPERATION section
of this manual.
Lower
handle
Mowing
position
3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
Handle
pin
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 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
Drive Operator presence control bar
Speed control lever
Starter Cable clip
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Gasoline cap
Primer
Mulcher
plug Engine oilcap w/dipstick
Mulcher door
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or gasoline in the en_line. Housing
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.
Operator presence control bar -must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Primer -pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter handle -used for starting the
engine.
Drive control bar - used to engage
power-propelled foward motion of lawn
mower.
Mulcher plug - Located at the rear
discharge opening must be removed
when converting to bagging operation.
6

The operation of any lawn mower can result in
foreign objects brown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while operalJng
your lawn mower or performing any adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
4MiCAUTION: Federal regulations r.equire
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 tums when
the engine is running.
•Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
• All four wheels are adjusted by a single
lever.
• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To raise
mower, move lever forward to desired
position. To lower mower, move the lever
toward the rear.
Lower Wheels for high cut
Raise Wheels for low cut
GROUND DRIVE SPEEDS
Your lawn mower provides multiple speeds
to let you select the speed that suits you
best.
•Lower speeds are for slow, heavy/thick
grass cutting or trimming.
•Medium speeds are for normal grass
cutting or trimming.
• High is for light cutting and for ground
transport.
NOTE: Do not move speed control lever
unless the engine is running
TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM
•With engine running, select ground
speed by moving speed control lever to
desired position.
•To start forward motion, pull drive
control bar back against handle.
•To stop forward motion, release drive
control bar.
IMPORTANT: Always keep drive control
bar fully engaged against handle when in
use.
Speed control
lever
Operator presence
Drive control control bar
2.
Drive o
disengaged
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to begging or
discharging:
REAR BAGGING-
• Open rear door and remove mulcher plug.
Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug intorear
discharge opening of mower.
SIDE DISCHARGING-
Rear door must be open.
• Open mulcher door and installdischarge
deflector under guard as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging opera-
tion, discharge deflector must be removed
and mulcher door must be closed.
7

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rear mulcher plug installed.
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
• Rear mulcher plug removed.
• Grass catcher installed.
• Mulcher door dosed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
• Rear mulcher plug installed.
• Side discharge deflector installed.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plug in place or approved
grass catcher in place.
Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Mulcher plug
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plug or approved grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open..
Rear door
slots Grass
catcher
handle
Catcher frame
hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
•Lift up on grass catcher using the frame
handle.
•Remove grass catcher with clippings from
under lawn mower handle.
•Empty clippings from bag using both frame
handle and bag handle,
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying;
it will cause unnecessary wear.
/
Mulcher door
Open
mulcher door
Discharge deflector
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
•Lift the rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks into
the slots of the rear door.
•The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower isshipped without oil in the
engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fill is 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. 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
8

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.
A0_WARNING: Expe.dence indicates that
alcohol blended nJels (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.
Gasoline
Engine oil__:_ filler cap
TO START ENGINE
•To start a cold engine, push primer three
(3) times before trying to start. Use a firm
push. This step is net usually 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 itmay be necessary
to repeat priming steps. In warmer weather
over priming may cause flooding and engine
will net start. If you do flood engine wait afew
minutes before attempting to start and do not
repeat pdming steps.
9

MOWING TIPS
•For most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the engine speed
shouldbe setinthefastposition.
• Under certainconditions,such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise, the mower
height on the first cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine, and
to avoid leaving clumps of grass clippings.
Make the second cut to the desired height.
For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become
filled with dirt and dust with use and the
catcher will collect less grass. To prevent
this, regularly hose catcher off with water
and let dry before use.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Sea "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 fail onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass
will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients
for the lawn. Always mulch with your
highest engine (blade) speed as this will
provide the best recutting action of the
blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
SLIn.
• 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 itwill be
necessary to raise the height of cut to
reduce pushing effort and to keep from
overloading the engine and leaving
dumps 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
weak. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next weak. This
will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
l-:,_t__ _t._
:ilI f_'_4! _ Max 1/3
10

F,LL,NDATES
YOUCOMPL. E
In _B N_
Check for Loose Fasteners if If
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) If iV' I,/
MClean Lawn Mower IIf v'
O Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drive belt/pu,eys
E (Power-Propelled Mowers) I'_
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade 3
LubricationChart I/
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers1 It/' I/'4
ECheck Engine Oil Level
NChange Engine Oil V'1,2
GClean Air Filter ll/
Inspect Muffler i/
NClean or Replace Spark Plug If
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge ik/2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2-Service more often when operating indirty or dusty conditions.
3- Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil,
4* Charge 48 hours at end of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and 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.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_ Wheel
(3) Brake spring
bracket
(3) Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to MAINTENANCE
"ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
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.
11

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377911
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
t_lR GAP: .0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
6.75
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
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 fTee 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 inthe blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8
HEATTREATED.
12

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
, the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Blade Crank-
adapter shaft
Key keyway
• If you remove the drive pinions, wipe
clean with dry cloth. Reassemble dry.
Do not lubricate. Do not use oil or
grease.
•The pinion gear, on both sides of the
mower, are the same, however, they
must be installed correctly. If installed
incorrectly, the drive system will not
work.
•There are arrows embossed on both
sides of the pinion gear. With the arrow
at the top of the pinion, the arrow must
point towards front of mower. If the
arrow points to the rear, turn the pinion
around and assemble to mower.
•Place wheels back on adjuster axles.
•Replace Iocknuts and hubcaps.
Correct Incorrect
Wave
Washer
Blade
bolt Pinion
E_ring
Lock
washer Hardened
washer Trailing
edge
GRASS CATCHER
adapter
Crank-
shaft
• 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 willwear. If catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check rear drive wheels each time you
mow to be sure they move freely. The
wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the
drive wheel and dust cover area and must
be cleaned out to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both rear wheels.
• Remove hubcaps and Iocknuts.
• Remove wheels from wheel adjuster
axles.
•Remove any trash or grass cuttings from
inside the dust cover, pinion and/or drive
wheel gear teeth.
Locknu
Washer
-Hubcap
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH.
Select the oil's SAlE viscosity grade according
to your expected operaUng temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES ,
0* 30* _2o 40" I_P
.30" *20* ,10" 0. 20, _0 o
"_-MPE RA_E RAN_-A NTIC_-ATE D BEFORE N_ OIL C-HA=NGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased
oil consumption when used above 32°F.
Check your engine oillevel 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 ifthe lawn
mower isnot used for 25 hours in one year,
13

Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. "Tightenoilplug securely each
time you check the oillevel.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil,
drain fuel tank by running engine untilfuel tank
is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
and place wire where itcannot come in
contact with spark plug.
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean
surface.
• Tip lawn mower on itsside 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 enginewith oil. Fill onlytothe "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.
•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 CHANGEAIR 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 tilter into cover.
• Put air filter cover and filter into colla_
aligning the tab with the slot.
• Push in on cover and turn counterclock-
wise to tighten.
Collar
,_Clip
Slot,.!
Air filter
Air filter cover
Turn
clockwise to
remove
Turn counter-
clockwise to
tighten
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.
CLEANING
IMPORTAN'E Forbestperformance, keep
mowerhousingfree of buiit-upgrassand
trash. Clean undersideof mowerhousing
aftereach use.
_,CAUTION: Disconnect spark _ug wire
from spark plug and place wire wh_re it
cannot come in contact with the spark plug.
• Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up
of grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil,etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
14

_'_,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 itcannot
come in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CU'I-rlNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGI-Fr' 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 t_e possibilitythat objects will be
thrown out the rear of the lawn mower intothe
operator's mowing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, itshould be
replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mower has three (3)
height positions -adjust to height that suits
you.
•-Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
towards each other untilthe pin in handle
can be inserted into one ofthe three height
adjustment holes.
HI
Low
Handle pin
J3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
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 the engine is running too fast or too slow,
take your lawn mower to an authorized
service center/department for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. Ifyour engine
does not operate propedy due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center/department for
repair and 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.
ifyou think the engine-govemed high speed
needs adjusting, contact your nearest
AUTHORIZED service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to make
any necessary adjustments.
15

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or ifthe unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a period
of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
•Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
in the Maintenance section of this manual).
•Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
•You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on sides of
the upper handle and allow handle to fold
down to the roar.
•Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
toward each other until pins in handle clear
the brackets and pivot entire handle
assembly forward and allow itto rest on
mower.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
require manually locking into the mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you may damage the
control cables,
Operator presence
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel tilter, 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
a]temative 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 replacewith
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole into cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
control bar""'_ • Replace with new spark plug=
S/ OTHER
_"/_'_"_-/ _1 " another.D°not store gasoline from one season to
Upper handle j,,_
,',,
Fo,dto ard
_:*'_.............. _ ._ ,i Fold
for storage ,"_/:, iiI •Replace your gasoline can if your can
t_, '',_,,,;" J backward starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
_1:7'*_ ...... :: _,%" _F I
Lower _1__,_-' ",_*;" p,A...• gasoline will cause problems.
handle ------_/_:_ position •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.
H;__. . Handle pin
'e_;'._ _ 3-position
Low F _'_// Handle
\ adjustment
_y\ \ bracket 16

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm. _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.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Will not start
Loss of power
Poor cut
- uneven
Excessive
_ibration
Starter rope
hard to pull
CAUSE
1. Dirt,/air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is disconnected,
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adaptor.
8. Control bar in released position
9. Control bar defective
1. Rear of lawn mo_ver
housing/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. Low engine speed.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves, and
trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
t,
2.
3.
4.
Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft
Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill w_th fresh
clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or replace blade
adapter.
i 8. Depress control bar to handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in "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. Tighten blade bolt.
2. Set engine speed controlin fast
position.
3. Clean underside of mower housing
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
2. Contact an authorized service
center/deparfment.
1. Depress control bar to upper
handle before pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized service
center/department.
3, Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or
to hard surface to start engine.
17

TROUBLESH( OTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher
not filling
(if so equipped)
Hard to push
Loss of drive
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lift on blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
4. Low engine speed.
1. Grass is too high or
wheel height is too low,
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position
not right for you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken.
4. Dirt in drive pinions.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
4. Set engine speed control in
fast position.
1,
2.
Raise cutting height.
Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1)setting higher,
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.
3. Replace drive cable.
4. Clean drive pinions.
18

SERVICE NOTES
37

4
10
ROTARY LAWN MOWER --MODEL NO. 917.377911
8
18
26
27J
X
22
41
24
56
"68