Craftsman 917.377971 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRRFTXMRNo
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377971
•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
Safety Rules
Assembly
Operation i
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance
2 Product Specifications 12
2 Service and Adjustments 15
4 Storage 16
6 Troubleshooting 17
11 Repair Parts 37
11 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO.YEAR WARR/_NTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned Up _ccot_ing 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 commercialor rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty doesnot 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 ot_el"atorabuse or negligence, includingbent crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscon-
tained inthe 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 onlywhile
this productis in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights,and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/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 ofthe
operator presence controls under any
circumstances.
TRAINING:
•Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become farrullarwith the controls and know
how to operate your mower pmpedy. Leam
how to quickly stop mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
•KesptJ_ _ of _ c_of aln
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.
Alwayshave damage repairedbeforeusing
yourmower.
•Do not useaccassery_t_chments thatare
notrecommendedbythe manufacturer.
Useof suchattachmontsmay be hazard-
ous,
•The bladetumswhenthe engine,isrunning.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and dear itof 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

• Checkfueltank beforestarlingangine. Do
notfll gestankindoors, when the engine is
runningorwhenthe engineishot. Allowthe
engineto coolforseveralminutes before
tillingthe gas tank. Clean offany spilled
gasolinebeforestartingthe engine.
•Alwaysmake whealheigl_ adjustments
beforestartingyourmower, Neverattempt
todothis whilethe engineis running.
•Mow onlyindayfightorgoodert_cial light.
OPERATION:
• Keepyoureyesand mindon yourmower
andthe area beingcut. Do notletother
interestsdistractyou.
•Do notmowwet orslipperygrass. Never
runwhileoperatingyour mower. Alwaysbe
sureofyourfooting- keep a firmholdonthe
handlesand walk.
• DOnotputhandsor feet near or under
rotatingparts. Keep clearof the discharge
openingat all times.
•Alwaysstopthe enginewhenever you leave
or ere notusing yourmower, or before
crossingdriveways,walks, roads,and any
gravel-coveredareas.
•Never directdischargeofmaterialtoward
bystandersnorallow anyone neerthe
mower while you are operatingit.
•Beforecleaning,inspecting,or repairing
yourmower,stopthe engineand make
absolutelysurethe bladeand all moving
partshave stopped. Then disconnectthe
sparkplugwire and keep itawayfrom the
sparkplugto preventaccidentalstarting.
•Do notcontinue torunyourmowerifyouhit
aforeign object. Followthe procedure
outlinedabove,then repairany damage
beforerestartingand operatingyour mower.
•Do notchange thegovemorsettingsor
overspeedthe engine. Enginedamage or
personalinjury'mayresult.
• DOnotoperateyour mower ifitvibrates
abnormally.Excessivevibrationis an
indicationof damage; stopthe engine,
sefeiy checkforthecause ofvibrationand
repairas required.
•Do not runthe engineindoors.Exhaust
fumesam dangerous.
•Nevercutgrassbypullingthe mower
towardsyou. Mow acrossthefaceof
slopes, neverupand downoryou might
Iceeyour footing.DOnotmow excessively
steepslopes, Use cautionwhen operating
the mower on uneventerrainor when
changingdirections- maintaingoodfoot;ng.
•Neveroperateyour mowerwithoutproper
guards,plates,grasscatcher or othersafety
devicesin 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.
• Keepall 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 worn begs. Use only
replacement bags that are recommended
by and comply with specifications of the
manufacturer of your mower.
•Al,._yskeep a sharpbladeon yourmower.
• Allow engine to cool before storingin any
enclosure.
•Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an
open _larne or an ign_on source such as a
hot water heater, space heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
3J_Look for t.h!ssymbol to point out
imponan[ safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
pI_CAUTION.: ,Always dis.connect spark
ug wire ano place wire wnere it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING: The engine e.xha.ustfrom
this proauct contains cnemicals Known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3

'ere not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutlets and service
centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model
number ofyour lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS STABILIZER
G SCATC,E.S O DATCNE.S
FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE '_SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS iLAWN MOWERS
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BUSES
AIR RLTERS
BLADE AD_RS I
SPARK PLUGS
WHEELS ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand this manual in
itsentirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped
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 unassemblad 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 fiat.
•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.

• Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section ofthis manual.
Operator presence
controlbar
Upper handle \
lift up
Li_ up
Lower
handle
Mowing
posRion
3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
Handle
pin
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.
TO PREPARE BATTERY
NOTE: Your battery must be charged
before you can start your lawn mower.
• Disconnect engine battery connector
(male) from battery connector (female)
•Connect battery charger connector
(male) to battery connector (female).
• Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet.
•Leave battery charger connected for 24
hours before starting your engine for
the firsttime.
•After charging, connect engine connec-
tor (male) to battery connector (female).
Your engine has an integral alternator for
partial charging. Connect your battery
charger to charge battery as required.
IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will
not charge a discharged battery.
At the end of the mowing season the
battery should be charged for 48 hours to
protect the battery during winter storage.
e_ncCnAeUTInOnN:Always disconnect the
eg" co ector (male) from the battery
connector (female) to prevent accidantal
startingwhen transporting or storing your
lawn mower after the season.
Engine
connector
(Male) \. "
_Battery
charger
_'_ Battery
•charger
_/_'/_-'_ \ _:_nector
connector
(Fettle)
5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith 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 Iitersture 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
Key start switch Speed controllever
Auxiliary Starter Cable clip
handle
Grass catcher
Wheel adjuster
lever
Engine oil cap w/dipstick
Mulcher
plug Gasoline cap
Mulcher door
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or _asoline 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.
Auxiliary 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.
Key start switch- used to start engine
6

Theoper_onofanylawn mowercan resultin
foreignobjectsthrownintotheeyes, whichcan
resultinsevere eye damage. Alwayswear
safe,_yglassesor eye shieldswhile operating
yourlawnmower or performingany adjust-
meritsor repairs. We recommenda wide
visionsafetymaskover spectaclesor standard
safetyglasses.
HOWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
A
_CAUTION: Federal regulaUensr_luire
an enginecontrolto be insr_isdonthis lawn
mower inorderto minimizethe riskof blade
contactinjury.Do notunderany
circumstancesattempttodefeatthe function
ofthe operatorcontrol.The bbde turnswhen
the engineis running.
• Your lawn mower is equippedw_ an
operatorpresence centralbar which
requiresthe operatorto be pos'dioned
behindthelawnmower handletostartand
operate the lawnmower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
•Allfourwheelsareadjustedby a single
lever.
• Pulladjusterlevertowardwheel.To raise
mower,move leverforwardtodesired
position.To lowermower,move thelever
towardtherear.
Lower Wheels for high cut
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 isfor 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 stopforward 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 controlbar
engaged _ \_,_/_
':_:)::"Drive CO_ i_:"
disengaged
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawnmowerwas shippedreadytobe
usedas a mulcher.To converttobaggingor
discharging:
REAR BAGGING-
. Open rear doorand remove mulcherplug.
Storemulcherplugin a safeplace.
•To convertto mulching ordischarging
operation,instaJlmulcherplugintorear
dischargeopeningofmower.
SIDE DISCHARGING-
•Rear door must be open.
•Open mulcherdoor and installdischarge
detlector underguard as shown.
• Mower isnow 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
WHENCONVERTINGYOURLAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rear muleher plug installed.
• Mulcher door dosed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Rear mulcherplug removed.
•Grass catcherinstalled.
•Mulchardoorclosed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
•Rear muld'_r plug instalk_.
•Side di_ deflectorinstalled.
_CAUTION: Do not.run.y_.r lawnmower
withoutrear mulcherp=ug=np_aceor
approvedgrasscatcherin place.
Never attemptto operatethe lawnmowerwith
the rear doorremovedor proppedopen.
_CAUTION: Do not.runyour lawn .mower
without rear mulcherplug or approvea grass
catcherinplace. Neverattemptto operatethe
lawn mowerwith the rear door removedor
propped open. •door
slots Grass
handle
Catcher frame
hook
•Liftupon grasscatcher usingthe frame
handle.
•Remove grasscatcherwith clippingsfrom
under lawn mower handle.
•Emptyclippingsfrom bag usingbothframe
handleand bag handle.
NOTE: Do notdragthe bagwhen emptying;
itwill cause unnecessarywear.
Mulcher
Mulcher door
Open
mulcher door
Discharge deflector
TO AI"rACH 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
towered onto the grass catcher 'frame.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower isshippedwithoutoil inthe
engine.
•Be sure mowerisleveland area aroundoil
fillis dean.
•Remove engineoilcap and fillto the _11
lineonthe dil_Ck.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
•Engineholds 27 ozs.of oil. Fortypeand
grade ofoilto use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenancesectionofthis rnadual.
•Pouroil slowly. Do notover fill.
•Check oillevelbeforeeach use. Adcloilif
needed. Filltofulllineon dipstick.
• To read properlevel, 'dghtenengineoil cap
each time.
•Reinstallengineoil cap and tighten,
•Change the oilafterovery 25 hoursof
operationor each season. You may need
to change the oil more often underdusty,
dirty conditions.
8

GAS
•RIIfuel tank. Usefresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasolinewith a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasolinewill
increasecarbonand lead oxide deposits
and raduce valvelife). Do notmix oilwith
gasoline. Purchasefuel in quantitiesthat
can be usedwithin30 daysto assurefuel
frashnees.
_WARNING: Ex_'.ence indicatesthat
alcoholblendedfu_;is(calledgasoholor
usingethanolor methanol)can attract
moisture whichleads to seperationand
formation ofacidsduringstorage. Acidicgas
can damage the fuel systemof an engine
while in storage. To avoid engine problems,
the fuel systemshould be emptied before
storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas
tank, startthe engineand let it run until the
fu_ lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season. See StorageInstructionsfor
additionalinforma_on. Neveruse engine or
carburetorcleaner productsinthe fuel tankor
permanentdamage may occur.
Gasoline
filler cap
oilcap
TO START ENGINE
• Tostarta coldengine,pushprimerthree(3)
timesbefore tryingtostart. Usea _rm push.
Thisstep isnotusuallynecessarywhen
startingan enginewhichhasaJreadyrunfor
a few minutes.
• Move engine speedcontrol lever to fast
positJen.
•Hoid operatorpresenoe controlbar down to
the handle.
• Turn electdcstartkey olockwiseto crank
engine.
IMPORTANT: Donot crankenginemorethan
fivecontinous secondsbetween each timeyou
tryto start. Wait 5 to 10secondsbetween
each attempt.
• To startengine usingthe auxiliarystarter
handle,followthe steps above. Exchange
the use ofthe startkeyfor starterhandle.
Pullstarterhandlequickly. Do notallow
starterropeto snapbask.
•To stopengine,releaseoperator presence
control bar.
NOTE: In coolerweatherit may be necessa_
to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather
over priming may cause flooding end engine
will notstart. If you dotk_edengine waita few
minutes before attempting tostart and do not
repeat priming steps.
9

MOWING TIPS
• Formostcuttingconditionsand better
baggingperformance,the engine speed
shouldbe setinthe fast position.
•Undar certaincenditJorts,such as when
mowingverytallgrass,raisethe mower
heighton the firstcutto reducepushing
effort,to avoid overheatingthe engine, and
to avoidleavingdumps of grassclippings.
Make the secondcuttothe desiredheight.
•Forexb'emelyheavy cutting,reducethe
w_h of cut.
•Pores inclothgrasscatcherscan become
filledwithdirtand dustwithuseand the
catcherwillcollectlessgrass. To prevent
this, regularlyhosecatcheroffwithwater
and letdrybeforeuse.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfree of built-upgrassand
bash.See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
sectionof thismanual.
•The specialmulchingblade will recutthe
grass clippingsmany timesand reduce
them insize sothat astheyfallontothe
lawnthey will disperseintothe grassand
notbe noticed,Also,the mulchedgrass
willbiodegradequicklyto providenubients
for the lawn. Alwaysmulchwithyour
highestengine (blade)speed as this will
providethe bestrecuttingactionof the
blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet
grass tends to form dumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At
this time the grass has driedand the newly
cutarea willnotbe exposedtothe direct
SUn.
•Forbestresults,adjustthe lawn mower
cuttingheight so thatthe lawnmower cuts
offonlythe topone-thirdof the grass
blades. If the lawn isovergrownitwillbe
necessaryto raisethe heightofcutto
reducepushingeffortand to keepfrom
overloadingthe engine and leaving
clumpsof mulchedgrass.Forextremely
heavy mulching,reduceyour width of cut
by overlappingpreviouslycut pa_ _md
moo slowly.
•Certaintypesof grassand grass cond_ons
may requirethatan area be mulcheda
secondtime to completelyhidethe
clippings. When doingasecond cut,mow
acrossor perpendicularto the tirstcutpath.
•Change yourcuttingpattemfmmweekto
week. Mow northto southone weak than
change toeast to westthe nextweak. This
willhelp prevent matting and grainingof
the lawn.
Max 1/3
10

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Checkfor LooseFasteners "ll_ " " "
=Clean/Inspeot Grass Catcher Me
(if Equipped)
MiClean Lawn Mower v
Clean under DriveCover
(Power-PropelledMowers!
E_f Check drivebelt/pulleys
R Power-PropelledMowers) If#
3ERVICE DATE6
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _3
Lubrication Chart I_
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers/ _ _4
I E Check Engine OilLevel
Change EngineOil Met.,'z
!N Clean AirFilter
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
EiReplace Air FilterPaper Cartridge i_=
1-Change mine often when opemitng under aheavy _or in high ambient temperatures,
2 - Service more olten when operating Indirty or dusty conditions,
3-RepFace blades more often when mowing Insandy soil
4 * Charge 48 hours at end of season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover itexnsthat have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
va/ue from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this rnanuai.
Some adjustments w_lneed to pe rr_u:le
pedodicelly to properly rnaJntainyour unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments sec_on of this manual should be
checked atleestonce e,ad_ season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filter element and check blade for
wear. A new spark plug and dean/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 oillevel.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_ Wheel
uster
,======i_
_adj(_ Engine oil
(_ Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to MAINTENANCE
"ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oilor grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirtthat will shorten the
life of the self lubric_ng bearings. If you
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
11

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.377971
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.75
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OlLTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
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 BOLTTORQUE: 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
Alwaysobserve safety ruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts,sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tiredamage.
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 hubof blade adapter.
The key must be in good conditionto work
properly. Replace adapter ifdamaged.
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. tbs.
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 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
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
Blade
Blade
bolt Pinion
E-ring
Lock
washer Crank-
Hardened
washer Trailing shaft
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/or drive
wheel gear teeth.
Locknut
_Hubcap
Washer
ENGINE '
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classificatien SF, SG or SH.
Select the oil's SAlE viscosity grade according
to your expected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
"C _0. .20" 10" 20"
TEMPERATURE RANGE/_ITICIPATEO BEFORE NEXT O4L CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oils will resultin increased
oilconsump'donwhen 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
operalion or at least once a year ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
13

Check _crankcase oil level before starling
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
cor_dnuoususe, T_jhten oil plug securely each
ti_ _ d-N_ckII_ oil_.
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 oil cap; lay as'de on a clean
surface.
• "lip lawn mower on itsside as shown and
drain oil into a suitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to rernove any oil
trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oilon lawn mower and
on side of engine.
•Fill engine with oil. RU only to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL
•Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty,dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
•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 overUghten).
Airfilter cover
__j Coverknob
Hinge
Paper filter
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace conoded 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.
CI.EAlelG
IMPOR'IiM_T: Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfTeeofbuilt-upgrassand
trash. Clean undersideof mowerhousing
aftereachuse.
_i, CAUTION: Disconnect_plugwire
fromspark plugand place wirewhere it
cannotcome incontact withthesparkplug.
•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 controlbarand stopengine.
• Make surethe bladeandallmoving
partshave completelystopped.
• Disconnectsparkplugwirefrom
sparkplugand placewhere it cannot
comeincontact withplug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST Cut-rING HEIGHT
See 'q'OADJUST CUTRNG HEIGHT" inthe
O_ sectionofthismanual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The reardeflector,attachedbetweenthe rear
wheelsof yourlawnmower,is providedto
minimizethepeseiblitythatobjectsw_ibe
thrown outthe rear ofthe lawnmowerintothe
operatorsmowingp_ition. If the rear
deflectorbecomesd_naged, itshouldbe
replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handleon yourlawnmowerhasthree(3)
heightpositions- adjustto heightthatsuits
you.
•Squeezethe bottomendsoflowerhandle
towardseach otheruntilthe pininhandle
can be insertedintoone ofthe three height
adjustmentholes.
Med.
Low
Handlepin
J3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Yourenginespeed hasbeenfactory set. Do
not attemptto increase enginespeedor it
may resultinpersonalinjury.Ifyoubelieve
thatthe engineis runningtoofast ortooslow,
take yourlawn mowerto an authorized
servicecenter/departmentforrepairand
adjustmer_
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhasa non-adjustablefixed
mainjetfor mixturecontrol. Ifyourengine
doesnotoperatepropedydueto suspected
carburetorproblems,take yourlawn mowerto
an authorizedservice canter/departmbntfor
repairandadjustment.
IMPORTANT,"Never tamperwiththeengine
governor,which isfactory setfor properengine
speed. Overspeedingthe engineabove the
factory highspeed settingcanbe dangerous.
Ifyouthinkthe engine-governedhighspeed
needs adju_ng, contactyournearest
AUTHORIZED servicecenter, which has
properequipmentand exbedancetomake
necessaryadjustments.
15

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storageatthe end ofthe seasonorifthe unit
willnotbe usedfor 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto 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 fastaned. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace ifnecessary.
•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 rear.
•Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle
toward each other untilpins in handle clear
the brackets and pivot e_re 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 intothe mowing
position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation be sure tofold the
handle as shown or you may damage the
control cabk_s.
Operator presence
controlbar"_i
Upper handle _-_
Fold forward __=._,_
for storage #-_-_:_"_:
Lower _:;_
handle _
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itisimportanttoprevent gum
deposits fromformingin essentialfuelsystem
partssuchas carburetor,fuel filter,fuel hose,
or tankduringstorage.Also,experience
indicatesthatalcoholblendedfuels(called
gasoholorusingethanolor methanol)can
attractmoisture whichleadsto separation and
formationofacidsduringstorage.Acidic gas
candamagethe fuel systemofan engine
while instorage.
•Drainthefuel tank.
•Startthe engineand letitrununtilthe fuel
linesand carburetorare empty.
•Never useengineor carburetorcleaner
productsinthe fuel tankor permanent
damage may occur.
•Usefresh fuel nextseason.
NOTE: Fuelstabilizerisan acceptable
altemative inminimizingthe formationoffuel
gumdepositsduringstorage. Addstabilizerto
gasolineinfueltankorstoragecontainer.
Always follow the mixratiofound on stabilizer
container. Runengineat least 10minutes
atter addingstabilizerto allow the stabilizerto
reachthe carburetor.Do notdrainthe gas
tankand carburetorif usingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drainoil (withenginewarm) and replace with
clean engineoil. (See"ENGINE" inthe
Maintenance sectionof this manual).
CYUNDER
•Remove spark plug.
•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole intocylinder.
•Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
/;_._ •Replace with new spark plug,
BA'n'ERY
_i ,;/_ Disconnect the battery from the engine
_:' }connector and charge battery 48 hours.
,:f l"*"Fold OTHER
.;/ backward.
/" I Do not store gasokne from one season to
Mowing another.
position •Replace your gasoline can ifyour can starts
Med.
Low
Handle pin
3-position
Handle
adjustment
bracket
to rust. Rust and/or dirtin your gasoline will
cause problems.
if possible, store your unit indoors and cover
itto give protection from dust and dirt.
16

•Cover your unitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do not
use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and willcause
your unitto rust.
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 ope
flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool
before storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Will not start
!Loss of power
Poor cut
- uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope
hard to pull
1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out offuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released position
9. Control bar defective
10. Weak battery.
11. Disconnected Battery connector
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing/blade dragging
In heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirtyair filter.
4. Buildupof grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oilin engine.
6. Walking speed too fast,
1. Worn, bent or looseblade.
2. Low engine speed.
3. Buildupof grass, leaves, and
trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Engine flywheel brake is
on when controlbar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft
Blade adapter broken.
Blade draggingin grass.
1. Clean/raplace air filter.
2. Fillfuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refillwith fresh
clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor
and refilltank with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade boltor replace blad,
adapter.
8. Depress controlbar to handle.
!9. Replace controlbar.
10. Charge battery
1. Connect battery to engine
1. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
2. Set in "Higher Cut" position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside ofmower housin_
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
1. Replace bl,=_le.Tighten b_adebolt
2. Set engine speed control in fast
position.
3. Clean underside of mower housin(
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.
2. Contact an authodzed service
center/department.
1. Depress controlbar to upper
handle before pullingstarter rope.
2. Contact an authorized service
center/department.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cutgrass or
to hard surface to start engine.
17

TROUBLESHC OTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Grass catcher
not filling
(If so equipped)
Hard topush
Loss ofdr_e
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
4. Low engine speed,
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 rightfor you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken.
4. Dirt in drive pinions,
1. Raise cuttingheight.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
4. Set engine speed controlin
fast position.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1)setting higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height tosuit.
1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drivebelt.
3. Replace drive cable.
4. Clean drive pinions.
18

BA'I-I'ERY ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO.917.377971
4\
II
I
I
t,,
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
PART
NO.
161334
750909
17411312
86353
111549X
DESCRIPTION
Battery box
Batte_
Screw
Clip Connector
Battery Charger
37

ROTARY LAWN MOWER --MODEL NO. 917.377971
42
10