Craftsman 917.377960 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRnFTXMrlN
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377960
• 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: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 34
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordedng Back Cover
0
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 _nd maintenance instructionsin the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in matedal or workmanship.
Ifthis 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 instructionscon-
tained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by retuming 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 dghts, and you may also have other rightswhich
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence controlsto 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 careful.
Become familiar with the controls and k_'=ow
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 oper'_ion 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 ifithas been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Alwayshavedamage repairedbeforeusing
yourmower.
•Do notuseaccessoryattachmentsthatare
notrecommendedbythe manufacturer.
Use of suchattachmentsmay be hazard-
OUS.
•The bladeturnswhenthe engine isrunning.
PREPARATION:
•Alwaysthoroughlycheck thearea tobe
mowedand clearitofallstones, sticks,
Wires,bones,and otherforeign objects.
These objectsWillbethrown bythe blade
and cancausesevere injury.
•Alwayswear safetyglassesor eye shields
when starting and while usingyourmower.
•Dressproperly. DOnotoperatemower
when barefootorwearingopen sandals.
Wear onlysolidshoeswith goodt_'lion
when mowing.
2

• Checkfuel tankbeforestartingengine. Do
nottillgas tankindoors,when_engineis
runningorwhen the engineis hot. Allowthe
enginetocoolfor severalminutesbefore
tillingthe gastank. Clean offanyspilled
gasolinebeforestarlingthe engine.
•Alwaysmake wheel heightadjustments
before startingyourmower. Neverattempt
todothis whilethe engine is running,
• Mowonlyin daylightorgoodartificiallight.
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 sHppery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always be
sure of your footing -keep afirm hold on the
handles and walk
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotatingparts.Keepdearofthecr_ge
opening at all times.
•Always stop the engine whanever 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, inspoctJng,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 itaway from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
•DOnot continue to run your mower ifyou hit
a foreign object. Followthe 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 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 pullingthe 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 fooling.
• Never operate your mower without propar
guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety
devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
• Checkthebladear_ltheenginemounting
boltsoftentobesuretheyaretightened
properly.
•Check all bolts, nuts and screws at frequent
intervals for proper tightness to be sure
mower is in safe woddng condrdon.
•Keepallsafetydevicesinplaceand
wor_ng_
•To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free
of grass, leaves or excessive greasa and oil.
•Check grass catcher often for deterioration
andwearandreplacewornbags.Useonly
replacement hags 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 tiame or an ignitionsource such as a
hot water heater, space heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!!
BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING: The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, bidh
defects, or other reproductive harm.
3

These accessorieswere availablewhenthislawnmowerwas produced.They are not
shipped with your mower. They are alsoava,able at mostSears retailoutletsandservice
centers. MostSearsstorescanalsoorderrepairpartsfor you,when youprovidethe model
numberofyourlawnmower. Some ofthese accessoriesmay notapplyto your lawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS |
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWNMOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR RLTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
tr
STABIUZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt td 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.
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 holdingoperator
presence control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughlyfor additional loose
parts.
4
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as .notto 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 inhandle can be inserted into
one of the three height adjustment
holes.
•Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section intoplace on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
•Remove any packing material from
around control bar.

•Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle Liftup
Lift up
TO INSTALL AI-I'ACHMENTS
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
J
Handle
pin

q_lOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
:lEAD THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
VlOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
ocation of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
I-hese symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product.
_earn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF e AND FEET AWAY
Drive control Operator presence control
Cable clip
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Engine oilcap w/dipstick
Mulcher
plug Gasoline cap
Mulcher door
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or _lasoline 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 -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

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin
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 adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over the spectacles or
standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
abk_.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require an
engine control to be installed on this lawn
rnower in order to minimize the risk o_blade
contact injunj.Do not under any circumstancas
attempt to defeat the _of the operator
control. The blads rums 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 stad and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTI1NG HEIGHT
• Allfour 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
A(_JSIBr /
Lever
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 contrel
lever
Operator presence
Drive control control bar
engaged _
Drive control
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 muicher plug.
Store muicher plug in a safe place.
•You can now install grass catcher.
•To convert to mulching or dL_charging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharc_eopeningof mower.
SIDE DiSCHARGING-
.Mulcher plugmustbe installedintorear
discharge openingof mower (see above
instructions).
• Open mulchetdoorand installdischarge
deflectorunderguardas shown.
•Mower isnow readyfordischarging
operation.
•To convertto mulchingor baggingopera-
tion,dischargedeflectormustbe removed
and muicherdoormustbe closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rearmulcherplug installed.
•Mulcherdoorclosed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Rearmulcherplug removed.
•Grasscatcherinstalled.
•Mulcherdoordosed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
•Rearmulcherplug installed.
•Sidedischargedeflectorinstalled.
CAUTION: Do notrunyourlawnmower
withoutrearmulcherplug inplaceor approved
grasscatcher inplace.
Neverattempttooperatethe lawn mowerwith
the rear doorremoved or proppedopen.
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
proppedopen.
, Rear door
slots Grass
handle
Catcher frame #
hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
•Liftupongrasscatcheruaingtheframo
har_e,
•Remove grass catcher with clippingsfrom
under lawn mower handle.
•baguang arno
handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when en\otying;
itwillcause unnecessary wear.
Mulcher plug
Mulcher door
Open
mulcher door
Discharge deflector
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
•Liftthe rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks into the
slots of the rear door.
•The grass catcher issecured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
eng .
•Be sura mower is lavel and area around oil
fiHis dean.
•Remove engine o|lcap arKlfigto the fuflline
onthedlpsSck.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
•Enginehoids 27ozs.of oil. Fortypeand
grade.of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance section ofthis manual.
•Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
• . Check oil level before each use. Add oilif
needed. Fillto fullline on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time. •
•Reinstall engine oilcap 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,
dirtyconditions.
GAS
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of87
8

octane.(Useof leadedgasolinewill
increasecarbonandleadoxidedeposits
andreducevalvelife).Donotmixoilwith
gasoline.Purchasefuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gesohol or using ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisture which leads
to separation and formation ofacids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while instorage. To avoid
engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, startthe engine and let it
run untilthe 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
filler cap
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 not usually
necessary when starting an #ngine
which has already run for afew minutes.
•Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
•To stop engine, release operator
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.
MOWING TIPS
•For most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the firstcut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine, and
to avoid leaving dumps 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
tilled with dirtand dust with use and the
catcher will collect less grass. To prevent
this, regularty 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. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
section ofthis manual.
•The special mulching blade will recut the
grass clippingsmany times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse intothe 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 recuttingaction of the blades.
•Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
•For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
offonly the top one-third ofthe grass blades.
Ifthe lawn isovergrown 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 ofcut 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 firstcut path.
•. Change your cutting pattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change toeast to west the next week. This
will help prevent matting and graining of the
lawn.
9

.A,NTENANCESC.EDULE
Check forLoose Fasteners _
Clean/InspectGrass Catcher
(If Equipped) IIi/' _ _,_
(M clean Lawn Mower
Clean Under DriveCover
(Power-PropelledMowers} _'
W Check drivebelt/pulleys
(Power-PrepenedMowers)
R Check/Sharpea/Replace Blade 3
LubricationChart li/
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric StartMowerstIf I_4
E Check EngineOil Level t##
GChange EngineOil 1_1.2
Clean Air Filter If
I InspectMuffler v'
NClean or Replace Spark Plug i/'
EReplaceAir Filter Paper Cartridge If 2
1-Changemoreoftenwhenoperatingundera heavyloadorin l_ghambienttemperatures.
2 - Sen,ice more often when opem_g in dirty or dusty condi_ns.
3 - Replace blades more often when mo_ng in sandy soil.
4-Cha_ge 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 inthis Pnanuai.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodicallyto propedy maintain your uniL
Alladjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section ofthis manual should be
checked at least once each season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filterelement and check blade for
wear. A new spark plug and dean/new air
filterelement assures proper air-fuel mixture
and helps your engine nJnbetter and last
longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oillevel.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART').
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel
adiuster
_-J l "(_ Engineoil
(_) Ddva pins
(_) Spray lubricant
(_ Refer to MAINTENANCE
•ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Db not oilor grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants w111
attract dust and dirtthat willshortenthe
life of the serf lubricating bearings, ffyou
feel they must be lubdcated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377960
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
6.75
1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°1=)
OIL CAPACITY: 27 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM or J19LM
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .004 -.008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER •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.
Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, er 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.
TO REPLACE BLADE
•Position the blade adapter on the engine
crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and
crankshaft keyway are aligned.
•Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
•Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
•engine.
•Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
•Use block of wood between blade'and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8
HEATTREATED.
11

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 Crank-
shaft
Key. keyway
Blade,
Blade
bolt
• 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.
Pinion
E-tin{
_orrect
Locknut
washer Crank-
Hardened Trailing Blade shaft
washer edge adaptor
GRASS CATCHER
•The grass catcher may be hos_d 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 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
Washer
Hubcap
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quar_ detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH.
Select the oil'sSAE viscosity grade accordng
to your expected operating temperature.
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL C='t.IINGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils(5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-visco6ity oilswill 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 oilafter every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the lawn
mower isnot used for 25 hours in one year.
wheel gear teeth. 12

Check the crankcase oillevel before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. "Rghten oilplug securely each
l_me you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower todrain 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 of
•Wipe off any spilled oilon lawn mower and
on side of engine.
•Fillengine with oil. Fillonly to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL
•Replace engine oilcap.
•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
•Loosen cover knob.
•Swing cover down and remove from
hinge.
•Pull paper filter out of air cleaner body.
•Clean air cleaner cover and body.
•Install a new paper filter.
•Reinstall cover to air cleaner body. Be
sure hinge is assembled properly.
•Swing cover up and tighten cover knob.
(Do not overtighten).
Air filtercover
Coverknob
Hinge
Paper filter
MUFFLER
Inspect and replacecorroded muffleras it
couldcreateafire hazardand/ordamage.
SPARK PLUG
Change yoursparkplugeachyear tomake
yourenginestarteasier and runbetter. Set
sparkplug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and trash.
Clean underside of mower housing after each
use.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from
spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with the spa_k 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, oU,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.
13

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
Releasecontrolbar.
Make sure theblade and allmoving
partshavecompletelystopped.
Disconnect sparkplugwire from
sparkplugandplacewhere itcannot
comeincontactwithplug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTRNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU'I-rlNG HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The reardeflector,attachedbetweenthe rear
wheelsofyourlawn mower,isprovidedto
minimizethe possibilitythatobjectswill be
thrownoutthe rearofthe lawn mowerintothe
operatorsmowingposition.Ifthe rear
deflector becomesdamaged,it shouldbe
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
t, wards each other untilthe pin in handle
c;_n be inserted into one of the three height
adjustment holes.
Med.
Low
Handle pin
/3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Yourenginespeed has beenfactoryset. Do
not attemptto increaseengine speedor it
may resultinpersonalinjury. Ifyou believe
that theengineisrunningtoofastortooslow,
take yourlawnmowertoan authorized
servicecenter/departmentforrepairand
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhasa non-adjustablefixed
main jetformixture control. Ifyourengine
doesnotoperateprope_ duetosuspected
carburetor problems, take yourlawnmowerto
an authorizedservice center/departmentfor
repairandadjustment.
IMPORTANT: Nevertamperwiththe engine
governor,which isfactory setfor properengine
speed. Overspeedingthe ehgineabovethe
factory highspeedsettingcan be dangerous.
ifyouthink the engine-governedhighspeed
needsadjusting,contactyournearest
AUTHORIZED service center, whichhas
properequipmentand experienceto make
anynecessaryadjustments.
14

Immedrately 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 storad 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 asshown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
•Be sure that all nuts, belts, scraws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
°Touch up aHrusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lighlJybefore painting.
HANDLE
•You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
•Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on s'_les of
the upper handle and allow handle to fold
down to the rear.
•Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
toward each other until pins in handle clear
the brackets and pivotentire handle
assembly forward and allow itto rest on
mower.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will
require manually Iocldng intothe mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation be sure to fold the
handle as shown oryou may damage the
control cables.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle _# ,_'_
.... /J
_'_- "'_// Mo_/ing
Lower __,,-_J' position
handle _
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportant to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
pads 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 d_ring 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: Fuelstabilizer is an acceptable
alternativein minimizingtheformaSonoffuel
gum depositsduringstorage. Add stabilizerto
gasolinein fueltankor storage container.
Alwaysfollow the mix ratiofound on stabilizer
container. Runengine at least10 minutes
afteraddingstabilizertoallowthe stabilizerto
reachthe carburetor.Do notdrainthe gas
tankand carburetor if usingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drainoil(withenginewarm) and replacewith
cleanengineoil. (See "ENGINE" inthe
Maintenancesectionofthismanual),
CYUNDER
•Removesparkplug.
•Pourone ounce (29ml) ofoilthroughspark
plugholeinto cylinder.
•Pullstarter handleslowlya few timesto
distributeoil.
•Replacewithnew spark plug.
OTHER
• Do notstore gasolinefrom oneseason to
,another.
•Replaceyourgasolinecan ifyourcanstarts
to rusL Rustand/or dirtinyourgasolinewill
cause probl_ns.
•Ifpos_'ble, storeyourunitindoorsand cover
ittogive protectionfromdustand dirt.
•Coveryourunitwitha suitableprotective
coverthat doesnot retainmoisture. Do not
useplastic. Plast'_ccannotbreathewhich
allowscondensationtoformand willcause
your unitto rust.
15

IMPORTANT:Nevercovermowerwh_
.=ngineande_aust areasarestillwarm. CAUTION: Neverstorethelawnmower withgasolinein thetankinsidea building
wherefumesmayreachanopenflameor
spark. Allowtheenginetocoolbefore
storinginanyenclosure.
tROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Viii not start
.oss of power
)oor cut
uneven
CAUSE
Dirty air filter.
Out of fuel.
Stale fuel.
Water in fuel.
Spark plug wire isdisconnected.
Bad spark plug.
Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
Control bar in released position
Control bar defective
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air tilter.
4. Buildupof grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Wom, bent o_loose blade.
2. Low engine speed.
CORRECTION
J1. Clean/replace air tilter.
2. Fillfuel tank_
3. Drain tank and refill withfresh
clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and carb_etor
and refilltank with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade boltor replace blade
adapter.
8. Depress controlbar to handle.
Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft
9. Replace controlbar.
1. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
3. Cleardraplace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower housing
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
1.
2.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves, and 3.
trash under mower.
:xcessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
,ibration 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact an authorized service
centerldepartment.
;tarter rope
=ardto pull
Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Replace blade. Tighten blade boll
Set engine speed controlin fast
position.
Clean underside of mower housing
1. Depress controlbar to upper
handle before pullingstarter rope.
2. Contact an authorized service
centerldepartment.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or
to hard surface tostart engine.
16

TROUBLESH( OTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher 1. Cuffing height too low. 1. Raise cuttingheight.
not filling 2. Lifton blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
(If so equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher,
4. Low engine speed. 4. Set engine speed controlin
fast position.
Hard to push 1. Raise cuffingheight.
Loss of drive
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 dght for you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Ddva cable worn or broken.
4. Dirtin ddve pinions.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housir_gone (1)setting higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
1. Check/replace ddve belt.
2. Check/reinstall ddve belt.
3. Replace ddve cable.
4. Clean drive pinions.
17

36

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=_- "_
8 _o 8 "=
=_ xx x _88
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_d
37

38