Craftsman 917.377961 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRAFTSMAN°
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21 MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377961
• 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 1
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 15
Assembly 4 Storage 1E
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 1?
Maintenance Schedule 11 Repair Parts 3E
Maintenance 11 Parts Ordering Back Covel
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 instructionsin 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, includingbent crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscon-
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 rightswhich
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 manualcarefully.
Become familiar with the controls and know
how to operate yourmower properly. Learn
how to quickly stop mower.
•Do notallowchildrentouseyourmower.
Never allowadultstouse mowerwithout
properinstructions.
• Keep the area of operationclearofall
persons,especiallysmallchildrenand pets.
• Use moweronlyasthe manufacturer
intendedand as describedinthis manual.
• Do notoperatemowerifithas been
droppedor damaged inany manner.
Alwayshave damage repairedbeforeusing
yourmower.
• Do notuseaccessorysttachments that are
notrecommendedbythe manufacturer.
Use of suchattachmentsmay be hazard-
OU6.
•The bladeturnswhen the engineis running.
PREPARATION:
•Alwaysthoroughlycheck the areato be
mowedand dear itofall stones,sticks,
wires,bones,andotherforeignobjects.
These ot_cts wiltbe thrown by the bisde
and can cause severe injury.
•A_vayswear safetyglassesor eye shields
when startingand whileusingyourmower.
•Dressproperly. Donotoperatemower
when barefoot orwearingopen sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
2

•_ fuel tank beforestartingengine. Do
notfillgas tankindoors,whenthe engineis
runningor whenthe engine ishot. Allowthe
engine to coolfor severalminutesbefore
fillingthe gas tank. Clean offanyspilled
gasolinebeforestartingthe engine.
•Alwaysmakewheel heightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower. Never attempt
to dothis while the engine isrunning.
•Mow onlyindaylightorgoodartificiallight.
OPERATION:
• Keepyoureyesand mindonyourmower
and the area beingcut. Do not letother
interestsdistractyou.
•Do notmowwet or slipperygrass. Never
runwhile operatingyourmower. Alwaysbe
sureofyourfooting- keep a firmholdonthe
handlesandwalk.
•Do notputhandsor feet near or under
rotatingparts. Keepdear ofthe discharge
openingat alltimes.
•Alwaysstopthe engine whenever you leave
or are notusing yourmower,or before
crossingdriveways,walks,roads,and any
gravel-coveredareas.
• Never directdischargeofmaterial 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
absolutelysurethe blade andall moving
partshave stopped. Then disconnectthe
sparkplug wireend keep itaway from the
sparkplugtopreventaccidentalstarting.
• Do notcontinueto runyourmowerifyou hit
a foreignobject. Followthe procedure
outlinedabove,thenrepairanydamage
beforerestartingand opera_ngyourmower.
• Do not changethe governorsettingsor
overspeedthe engine. Enginedamage or
personalinjurymay result.
• Do not operateyourmower ifitvibrates
abnormally. Excessivevibrationis an
indicationofdamage; stopthe engine,
safelycheck for the causeof vibration and
repairas required.
• Do notrun the engineindoors.Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
• Never cutgrassbypullingthe mower
towardsyou. Mow acrosstheface of
slopes, never up and downor youmight
loseyourfooting. Do notmow excessively
steep slopes. Use cautionwhenoperating
the mower on uneventerrainorwhen
changing directions- maintaingoodfooting.
•Never operateyourmowerwithoutproper
guards,plates,grasscatcheror othersafety
devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
•Checkthe bladeand the enginemounting
bolts oftento be surethey are tightened
properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts end screws at frequent
intervalsforproper tightness tobe sure
mower isin safewo_ng condition.
• Keep allsafetydevicesin placeand
working,
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine fTee
of grass, leaves or excessive grease and oil.
• Check grasscatcheroftenfor deterioration
and wearand replacewere bags. Useonly
replacementbagsthat are recommended
byand complywithspecificationsof the
manufacturerof yourmower.
• Always keep a sharpbladeon yourmower.
• Allow enginetocoolbeforestoringin any
enclosure.
•Neverstore mowerwithfuel inthe tank
insidea building where fumes may reach an
openflame or an ignition source such as a
hotwaterheater,space heater,clothes
dryer, etc.
_Look for this symbol to point out
importantsafety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
p_ugCAUTION: .Alwaysdisconnect spark.
wire ana pace 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 criemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birthdefects, or other reproductive harm.
3

'are not
shipped with your mower. They are alsoavailableat mostSears retailoutletsand service
centers. Most Searsstorescan alsoorderrepairpartsforyou,whenyou providethe model
numberofyourlawn mower. Some ofthese accessoriesmay notapplyto yourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MULCHER KITS
! eRASSCATCHERS
FOR
_( SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
C_S CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand 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.
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.
4
HOW TO SET UP YOUR 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.

• Yourhandlesmaybeadjustedfor your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator presence
control bar Liftup
Uft up
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as amulcher. To convertto bagging
or discharging; See OPERATION section
ofthis manual.
Lower
handle
Mowing
position
3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
Handle
pin
5

K_IOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAl_AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWt
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswithyourlawnmowerto familiarize yourself withthe
tocatJonofvariouscontrolsand adjustments.Save this manualforfuture reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control
controllever
Cable clip
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Engine oil cap w/dipstick
Mulcher
plug Gasoline cap
Mulcherdoor
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped Pr/mer
without oil or _asoline in the engine. 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

operationofanylawnmowercan resultin
foreignobjectsthrownintothe eyes, whichcan
resultinsevereeye damage. Alwayswear
safetyglassesor eye shieldswhile operating
yourlawnmoweror performinganyadjust-
ments or repairs. We recommenda wide
visionsafetymaskoverspectaclesorstandard
safety glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
a_)!e.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_kCAUTION: F.ede.ralr..agulations ,r_luire an
engine control to De install_<_on mis __wn
mower in order to minimize the risk of blade
contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the func_on
of the operator control. The blade turns when
the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST cUTnNG 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.
LowerWheels for high cut
A(_Llster J
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 control
lever _ _i
Drive control
engaged
Operator presence
controlbar
Drive control
disengaged
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as amulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
REAR BAGGING-
•Open rear doorand remove mulcher plug.
Storemulcherplugina safe place.
•To converttomulching or discharging
operation,installmulcher plug !nto rear
dischargeopeningofmower.
SIDE DISCHARGING-
,Rear cloormust be open.
• Open mulcher door and install discharge
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 dosed.
7

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rear mulcher plug installed.
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Rear mulch_ plug removed.
•Grass catcher installed.
•Mulcher door dosed,
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
•Rear mulcher plug installed.
•Side discharge de_k_ctor installed.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plug in ptace or
approved grass catcher in place.
Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Mulcher plug
Mulcher door
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Uft the rear door of l_e lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks into
the slots ofthe re_ door.
• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
Rear door
Grass
handle
hook
_CAUTION: Do not .runyour lawn _r
without rear mulcher ptug or approvea grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to operate
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open.
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.
Open
mulcher door
Discharge deflector
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oilin the
engine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fill is dean.
•Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
•Engine holds 27 ozs. of oil, For type and
grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance sedion of this manual.
•Pour oilslowly. DO not over fill.
8

•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
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon end 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.
al_lbcolW_olWAl_lNelr_l__ndiasC_ohe_lthorat
using sthanol or msthanol) 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 itrun until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next seeson. See Storage Instructions for
add'_donalinformation. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
•To startacoldengine, pushprimerthree
(3)times beforeWing to start. Use a firm
push. This stepis notusuallynecessary
when startingan enginewhich has already
runforafew minutes.
•Holdoperatorpresencecontrolbar down
to the handle.
•To step engine, releaseoperatorpresence
control bar.
NOTE: in cooler weather it may be necessary
to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather
over priming may cause flooding end engine
will notstart, ifyoudoflood engine wait afew
minutes before attempting to start end do not
repeat priming steps.
Gasoline
filler cap oil cap
_9

MOWINGTIPS
• Formostcuttingconditionsand bettor
beggingperformance,the engine speed
shouldbe set inthe fast position.
• Under certainconditions,suchas when
mowingvery tallgrass,raisethe mower
heighton the firstcutto reducepushing
effort,to avoid overheatingthe engine,end
to avoidleaving clumpsof grassclippings.
Make the secondcutto the desiredheight.
• Forextremelyheavycutting,reducethe
width ofcut.
•Pores inclothgrass catcherscan become
filledwithdirtend dustwithuseend the
catchorwillcollectlessgrass. To prevent
this,regularlyhosecatcheroff withwater
and letdrybeforeuse.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,keep
moworhousingfree of built-upgrassand
trash.See "Cleaning"in MAINTENANCE
seclionof this manuel.
•The specielmulchingblade will recutthe
grassclippingsmany timesand reduce
them insize sothat asthey fallontothe
lawntheywill disperseintothe grassand
net be noticed.Also,the mulchedgrass
willbiodegradequicklyto providenutrients
for the lawn. Alwaysmulchwithyour
highestengine (blade)speed as this will
provide the best recutting actionof the
blades.
•Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhen itiswet. Wet
grasstendstoform dumps end interferes
withthe mulchingaction. The besttimeto
mow yourlawnisthe earlyaRemoon. At
this time the grasshasddedand the newiy
cutarea willnot be exposedtothe direct
sun.
•For bestresults,adjustthe lawn mower
cuttingheightso thatthe lawnmoworcuts
offonlythe top one-thirdofthe grass
blades, ffthe lawn is overgrownitwill be
necessaryto raisethe heightof cutto
reducepushingeffortand tokeep from
overloading the engine and leaving
dumps of mulchedgrass.Forextremely
heavymulching,reduceyourwidthof cut
by overlappingpreviouslycut path and
mow slowly.
•Certaintypes ofgrassand gr-'_._sconditions
may requirethat an area be mulcheda
secondlime to completelyhidethe
dippings. When doinga secondcut,mow
acrossor perpendicularto thefirstcutpath.
•Change yourcuttingpattemfromweekto
week. Mow northto south one wsek then
changetoeast towestthe next week. This
will help preventmattingand grainingof
the lawn.
Max 1/3
10

MA,NTENANCESC.EDULE
F,LL,.
AS YOU COMPLETE O_"_L _ _'_ _',_ O_
REGULAR SERVICE
Check forLoo6e Fasteners I_ I_
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) I_ _1 _/
MClean Lawn Mower
Clean Under Drive Cover
_(Power-Propelled Mowers) I_
Check drive belt/pulleys =.
(Power-PropelledMowers)
RCheck/Sharpen/Replace Blade
LubricationChart ll_
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers) _1_4
NE Check Engine Oil Level
GChange EngineOil 1_1'1.2
Clean Air Filter t/
I Inspect Muffler
NClean or Replace Spark Plug I_
E ! ReplaceAir Filter Paper Cartridge ¥12
1- Change more often when operating under a heavy k_d or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operaitng in dirty 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 willneed to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the So_ce and Adjust-
ments section of this 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 clean/new air
filterelement assures proper ai.'r-fuelmixture
and helps your engine run better end last
longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oil level.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHARm').
LUBRICATION CHART
0Wheel
uster
(_ Engine oil
0Spray lubricant
_) Refer to MAINTENANCE
"ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oilor grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the
life of the self lubricating bearings. Ifyou
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant
sr ngly.
11

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377961
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.75
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°I=)
•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
AJwaysobserve safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals wh'_h can harm rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep_Jts, sharp
dojects 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 awood 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 _dapter
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
HEAT TREATED.
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 afile
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
Blade
Blade
bolt
or drive wheel gear teeth.
•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
Pinion
E-ring
Lock
washer Crank-
Hardened Trailing Blade shaft
washer edge adapter
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
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/
Washer
"Hubcap
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classificationSF, SG or SH.
Select the oil's SAE viscositygrade according
toyour expected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSRY GRADES"
_EMPERATU RE RANGE ANTICIPAll_D BEFORE NEXT C_L CHANGE
NOTE: Although mu_-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased
oilconsumption 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 ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
13

Checkthecrankcaseoil level before starting
the engine and alter each five (5) hours of
continuous use. "13ghtenoil plug securely each
time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil,
drain fuel tank by running engine untilfuel tank
isempty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
and place wire where itcannot come in
contact with spark plug.
•Remove engine oilcap; lay aside on a dean
surface.
•"13plawn mower on itsside as shown and
drain oilinto asuitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forthto remove any oil
trapped inside ofengine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and
on side of engine.
•Fill engine with oil. FiHonly to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FiLL
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirtyair filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow invery 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
Cover knob
Hinge
Paper filter
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
plug gap at .0_0 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTAN'E For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing
_ter each use.
_6UTION: Disconnect spark.plug wire
from spark plug and pBce _re wnere it
cannotcomeincontactwiththesparkplug.
•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 ORADJUSTMENTS:
• Release control bar and stop engine.
Make surethe blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
Disconnect sparkplugwire from
spark plug and place where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TOADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" inthe
Operation sectionof this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector,attachedbetweenthe rear
wheels ofyourlawn mower,isprovidedto
minimizethe possibilitythat objectswillbe
thrown outthe rear ofthe lawnmowerintothe
operator'smowing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, 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
towards each other untilthe pin in handle
can be inserted intoone of the three height
adjustment holes.
Med.
Low
Handle pin
/3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Yourenginespeed hasbeen factoryset. Do
not attemptto increaseenginespeed orit
may resultinpersonalinjury.If youbelieve
that the engineis runningtoofastor teeslow,
take yourlawn mowerto an authorized
servicecenterldepadmentforrepairand
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhasa non-adjustable_ad
rnainjetfor mixturecontrol.Ifyourengine
doesnot operateproperlydue to suspected
carburetorproblems,take yourlawnmowerto
anauthorized servicecenter/department for
repair and adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamperwiththe engine
governor,which isfactory setfor properengine
speed. Overspeedingthe engineabove the
factory highspeed settingcan be dangerous.
ifyou think the engine-govemedhigh.speed
needsadjusting,contactyour nearest
AUTHORIZED servicecenter,which has
properequiPmentand experiencetomake
any necessaryadjustments.
15

Immediately prepareyour lawnmowerfor
storageat the end ofthe seasonor ifthe unit
willnotbe usedfor30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawnmoweristo be storedfor a period
oftime,cleanitthoroughly,removealldirt,
grease,leaves,etc. Store ina clean,dryarea.
• Cleanentirelawnmower(See "CLEANING"
inthe Maintenancesectionof thismanual).
•Lubricateas showninthe Maintenance
section ofthis manual.
• Be sure that all nuts,bolts, screws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace ifnecessary.
• Touch up all rustedor chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightiybeforepainting.
HANDLE
• You can fold yourlawnmower handle for
storage.
• Loosen the two (2)handle knobs on sides of
the upperhandleand allow handleto fold
downtothe rear.
•Squeeze the bottomends oflowerhandle
towardeachother untilpinsinhandleclear
the brackets and pivot entirehandle
assemblyforward and allow itto reston
mower.
•When setlJngupyourhandlefrom the
storage position,the lowerhandlewill
requiremanuallylockingintothe mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor
storageor transportationbesure tofoldthe
handleas shownor youmay damagethe
controlcables.
Operator presence
control bar_
Upper handle _---_,
Fold forward "_\\.j
for storage _%_:_
,_ ,...,_'._
Lower _1:_:_
hand,e __
/, J/
r, Mowing
_position
Handle pin
Med. 3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportantto preventgum
deposits from forming inessentialfuel system
partssuchas carburetor,foal filter,fuelhose,
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture whichleads to separation an_
formation of acidsduring storage.Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
• Drainthe fuel tank.
•Startthe 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.
•Usefreshfuel nextseason.
NOTE: Fuelstabilizerisan acceptable
altemativein minimizingthe formation of fuel
gum depositsduringstorage. Addstabilizer
to gasolineinfuel tankor storage container.
Always follow the mixratiofound on stabilizer
container, Runengineat least10 minutes
after addingstabilizerto allow the stabilizerto
reachthe carburetor. Do notdrainthe gas
tank and carburetorifusingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
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
startsto rust. Rust and/or dirtin your
gasoline will cause problems.
• if possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and dirt.
•Cover your unit with asuitable 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.
16

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm. _]bCAUTION: 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 CORRECTION
Will not start
CAUSE
1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
Loss of power
Poor cut
- uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope
hard to pull
4. Water infuel.
5.
6.
7.
,
9.
1.
2,
3.
4.
5.
6.
1.
2.
1.
2.
1,
2.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
1.
2.
3.
4,
Spark plug wire is disconnected 5.
Bad spark plug. 6.
Loose blade or broken blade 7.
adapter.
Control bar in released position 8.
Control bar defective
Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
in heavy grass.
Cutting too much grass.
Dirty air filter.
Buildupof grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
Too much oil in engine.
Walking speed too fast.
Worn, bent or loose blade.
Buildup of grass, leaves, and
trash under mower.
Worn, bent or loose blade.
Bent engine crankshaft. 2.
Engine flywheel brake is 1.
on when control bar is released
Bent engine cradkshaft 2.
3.
4.
Clean/replace air filter.
Fill fuel tank.
Drain tank and refill with fresh
clean fuel.
Drain fuel tank and carburetor
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
Connect wire to plug.
Replace spark plug.
Tighten blade boltor replace blade
adapter.
Depress control bar to handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in =Higher Cut" position.
3. Cleaniraplace air filter,
4. Clean underside of mower housin
5: Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
2. Clean underside of mower housin
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
Contact an authorized service
center/department.
Depress control bar to upper
handle before pullingstarter rope,
Contact an authorized service
center/department.
Replace blade adapter.
Move lawn mower to cut grass or
to hard surface to start engine.
17

TROUBLESH( OTING CHART
!PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
not filling 2, Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
(If so equippe_ 3, Catcher not venting air, 3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push
Loss ofdr_e
1. Grass is too high or
wheel height istoo 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 offof pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken.
4. Dirt in drive pinions.
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.
t. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.
3. Replace ddve cable.
4. Clean drive pinions.
18

SERVICE NOTES
37

42.
4
10
40,
12
ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.377961
28
1.j
18
25 5 7 _22
1
I
24
56
34