Craftsman 917.379040 User manual

6.0 HORSEPOWER
22" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.379040
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
• Maintenance
•Espa_ol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
VLsltourCraftsmanwebs_te:www.sears.com/craltsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Assembly .............................................. 5
Operation .............................................. 6
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 10
Maintenance ....................................... 10
Product Specifications ........................ 11
Service and Adjustments .................... 14
Storage ............................................... 15
Troubleshooting ................................. 16
Repair Parts ........................................35
Pads Ordedng ..................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when thisCraftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubdcated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-
ship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commemial 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 dudng 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
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warrantyserviceis availableby returningthe Craftsmanpowermowerto the nearest
SearsServiceCenter/Departmentin the UnitedStates.Thiswarrantyappliesonly
whilethisproductis inuse intheUnitedStates.
ThisWarrantygivesyouspecificlegal rights,andyou may alsohave otherrightswhich
varyfrom statetostate.
Sears, Roebuckand Co., D/817 WA, HoffmanEstates,Illinois60179
IMPORTANT: Thiscuttingmachineiscapableofamputatinghandsand feet and
throwingobjects.Failureto observethefollowing safetyinstructions couldresultin
seriousinjuryor death.
I.GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor-
oughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the machine before
starting.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
•Only allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
•Besurethe area isclearofother
peoplebefore mowing.Stop machineif
anyoneentersthe area.
•Do not operatethe mowerwhen
barefootor wearingopen sandals.
Alwayswear substantialfoot wear.
•Do not pull mowerbackwardsunless
absolutelynecessary.Alwayslook
down and behindbefore and while
movingbackwards.
•Do notoperatethe mowerwithout
properguards,plates,grasscatcheror
othersafetyprotectivedevicesin place.
•Sea manufacturer'sinstructionsfor
properoperationand installationof
accessories.Only use accessories
approvedby the manufacturer.
2

•Stopthe blade(s)when crossinggravel
drives,walks,or roads.
•Stopthe engine (motor)wheneveryou
leavethe equipment,beforecleaning
the moweror uncloggingthe chute.
• Shutthe engine(motor)off and wait
untilthe bladecomestocompletestop
beforeremovinggrasscatcher.
•Mow onlyin daylightor good artificial
light.
•Do notoperatethe machinewhile
underthe influenceof alcoholor drugs.
•Never operatemachinein wet grass.
Alwaysbesure ofyourfooting: keepa
firm holdon the handleand walk;
never run.
•Disengagethe self-propelledmecha-
nismor ddveclutchon mowers so
equippedbeforestartingthe engine
(motor).
•Ifthe equipmentshouldstarttovibrate
abnormally,stopthe engine(motor)
and checkimmediatelyfor the cause.
Vibrationisgenerallya wamingof
trouble.
•Alwayswear safetygogglesorsafety
glasseswithside shieldswhen
operating mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedtoslip
and fall accidentswhichcan resultin
severe injury.Allslopesrequireextra
caution.If youfeel uneasyon a slope,do
notmowit.
DO:
•Mow acrosstheface of slopes:never
up and down. Exemiseextreme
cautionwhen changingdirectionon
slopes.
•Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
•Watch for holes,ruts,or bumps.Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
DONOT:
•Do nottrimnear drop-offs,ditchesor
embankments.The operatorcouldlose
footing or balance.
•Do nottdmexcessively;steepslopes.
•Do notmow on wet grass.Reduced
footing could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscan occurifthe operator
is notalertto thepresenceofchildren.
Childrenareoftenattractedto the
machineand the mowingactivity.Never
assumethatchildrenwillremainwhere
you lastsaw them.
•Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and tum machine off if children
enter the area.
•Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small
children.
•Never allow children to operate the
machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV, SERVICE
•Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
-Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
•Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
•Never make adjustments or repairs
with the engine (motor) running.
Disconnect the spark plug wire, and
keep the wire away from the plug to
prevent accidental starting.
•Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
•Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
•Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and detedoration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
•Do not change the engine governor
3 setting or overspeed the engine.

_,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTIONT!! BECOMEALERTH! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
ACAUTION: In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
ACAUTION: Muffler and otherengine
partsbecomeextremelyhot during
operationand remainhot afterengine
has stopped.Toavoidsevereburnson
contact,stay away fromtheseareas,
_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
_WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related eccessodes contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State
of Califomia to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
These acseseodeswere availablewhen this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are alsoavailableat mostSears retailoutletsand service
centers. Most Sears storescan also order repairpartsforyou, when you providethe model
number ofyour lawn mower. Some ofthese accessoriesmay not applyto your lawn n_wer.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
FOR HEAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS STABILIZER
_GRASS CATCHERS _GRASSCATCHERS {_FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR RLTERS SPARK PLUGS
SELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS ENGINE OIL
4

Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in
the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those pads left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete the assembly have been placed in
the parts bag. 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,
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thorougly for additional
loose pads.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfoldhandlecarefullyso
as notto pinchor damagecontrolcables.
1. Raise handles untillowerhandle
sectionlocksintoplace in mowing
position.
2. Remove protectivepadding,raise
upperhandle sectionintoplace on
lowerhandleand tightenboth handle
knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operatorpresencecontrol bar to
upper handle.
Yourlawn mower handlecan be adjusted
foryourmowingcomfod.Referto"Adjust
Handle"in the Serviceand Adjustments
sectionofthis manual.
Operator presence
contro!bar
Upper handle
Liftup
Mowing
5

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHIS OWNER'SMANUALAND SAFETY RULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR
LAWN MOWER. Comparethe illustrationswithyourlawnmowertofamiliarize yourself
withthe locationofvariouscontrolsand adjustments.Save thismanualfor future
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 OtL DANGER. KEEP HANOS
OR WARNING ON OFF .i AND FEE3" AWAY
I
presence controlbar
Throttle
s controllever
Handle knob
cable
Gasoline filler
Housing
cover
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine. •Wheel adjuster
(on eveP/wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk:behindpowerlawnmowersconformtothesafetystandardsofthe
AmedoanNationalStandardsInstituteand theU.S. ConsumerProductSafetyCommis-
sion. The bladeturnswhenthe engineisrunning.
Operator presence control bar - must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Primer -pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter handle- used for starting the
engine.
Drive control lever - used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of lawn
mower.
Throttle control - Used for starting the
engine and allows you to select either
fast or slow engine speed.
6

The operationof any lawn
mowercan resultin
foreign objectsthrowninto
theeyes, whichcanresult
in severeeye damage.
Alwayswearsafetyglassesor eye
shieldswhileoperatingyour lawn mower
or performinganyadjustmentsor repaim,
We recommenda widevisionsafety
maskoverspectaclesor standardsafety
glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The enginespeed is controlledby a
throttlelocatedon the sideofthe upper
handle.Fastpositionisfor starting,
normalcutting,trimmingand petter grass
bagging.Slow positionis for lightcutting,
trimmingand fuel economy.
Slow
ENGINEZONE CONTROL
A,CAUTION: Federalregulationsrequire
an enginecontrolto be installedon this
lawnmowerin ordertominimizetherisk
of bladecontactinjury.Do notunderany
cimumstancesattemptto defeatthe
functionof theoperatorcontrol.The blade
turnswhenthe engine isrunning.
•Yourlawn mowerisequippedwithan
operatorpresencecontrolbar which
requiresthe operatorto be positioned
behindthe lawn mowerhandletostart
and operatethe lawnmower.
TOADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Raisewheelsfor lowout and lower
wheelsfor highcut, adjustcuttingheight
tosuityourrequirements.Medium
positionisbestfor mostlawns.
•To changecuttingheight,squeeze
adjusterlevertowardwheel.Move
wheelup or downtosuityourrequire-
ments.Be sureall wheelsare inthe
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position edjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs. PlateTab
LowerWheelsfor HighCUtr'j_=_L_
Raise Wheels for LOWCut
TO CONVEFITTO DISCHARGING
MOWER
Your mower is shipped ready to be used
as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
•Lift discharge guard and remove
mulcher plate.
•Mower can now be used for side
discharging or optional grass catcher
can be attached.
•To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without discharge guard, ap-
proved grass catcher or mulcher plate in
place. Dischargeguard
Mulcherplate
7

_)RIVECONTROL
, Self-propelling is controlled by holding
the operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pushing the drive
control lever forward until it clicks; then
releasing the lever.
• Forward motion will stop when the
operator presence control bar is
released. To stop forward motion
without stopping engine, release the
operator presence control bar slightly
until the drive control disengages. Hold
operator presence control bar down
against handle to continue mowing
without self-propening.
•To keep drive control engaged when
turning comers, push down on handle
and liftfront wheels off ground while
turning lawn mower.
Operator presence control bar
Drive Drive
control control
Toengage Drive control
ddve control disengaged
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.
For type and grade of oil to use, see
"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.
Do not over fill.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading. To read
proper level, tighten engine oil cap, then
remove itto read the dipstick.
3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
•Check oil level before each use: Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of I
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, didy conditions.
ADD GASOUNE
NOTE: Beforefillingfueltank, remove
anddiscardthe debdsplugthatis inside
thetank.
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleadedgasolinewitha minimumof
87 octane. Do notmixoilwith gaso-
line. Purchasefuel in quantitiesthat
canbe used within30 daysto assure
fuel freshness.
_WARNING: Experienceindicatesthat
alcoholblendedfuels (called gasoholor
usingethanolor methanol)can attract
moisturewhichleads to separationand
formation ofacidsdudngstorage. Acidic
gascan damagethefuel systemofan
engine whilein storage. Toavoidengine
problems,thefuel systemshouldbe
emptiedbeforestorageof30 daysor
longer. Drainthegastank,startthe
engine and letit rununtilthefuel lines
and carburetorareempty. Usefreshfuel
nextseason. See StorageInstructionsfor
additionalinformation. Never useengine
or carburetorcleaner productsin the fuel
tankor permanentdamage mayoccur.
ACAUTION: Filltobottomofgastank
filler neck. Donotoverfill. Wipeoffany
spilledoilorfuel. Do notstore,spillor
usegasolinenear an openflame.
Gssolinefillercap
debris
inside)
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, asmall amognt of smoke may be
present dudng the initial use of the
product and should be considered
normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push pdmer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Move throttle control lever to fast
position.
3. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
8¸

MOWING'rIPS •-. :..,.: ,::
•Under cerfain condition_, _such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving Clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
laWn mower over the area asecond
time.
•For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
=For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
• should be set in the fast position.
• For side discharge lawn mowers,
cutting in acounter-clockwise direction,
starting at the outside of the area to be
cut, spreads grass clippings more
evenly and puts less load on the
engine. To keep clippings off of
walkways, flower beds, etc., make the
first cuts in a clockwise direction.
•Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regulady hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
•Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPOI_ANT:: 'For best:performance,
keep mower housing free of built*up
grass and trash. See =Cleaning" in
MAINTENANCE section of this manual.
• The special mulching' blade will recur
the grass clippings many:times 'and
reduce them in size So that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best racutting action of the blades.
•Avoid cutting your lawn when it iswet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the eady
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dded and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun.
•For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
•Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar to the first cut path.
•Change your cutting pattem from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
9

.,._..o,,','E,
.e E
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(if Equipped) IJ#
MClean Lawn Mower
O CleanUnderDriveCover
(Power-PropelledMowers) •
Checkddvebelt/ lays
RE(Power- Propell_Mowers) I1_
Check/Sharpen/ReplaceBlade 11'3
LubdcaltonChart l/
Clean Battew/Rechar
ElectdcStart Mowe_ I1' 1_4
E Check Engine 011Level
NChangeEngineOil _d_1.2
GClean Air Filter l/2
IInspect Muffler
aClean or Replace Spark Plug
EReplace Air niter PaPer Cartridge 1_2
I - Change more o_tenwhen operating unde_ a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2-Service more often when operating in dldy or dam"/con_i_,_ns.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing insandy soil.
4 - _ge 48 hours at end of W,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does
notcover items that have bean subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain mower as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
unit. ,.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean Or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear. A new spark
plug and clean/new air filter element
assures proper air-fuel mixture and
helps your engine run better and last
longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engineoil level.
2. Checkfor loosefasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
_,,_heel Adjuster
i
._1_) Engine oil
Handlebracket
mountingpin
(I) Refer to maintenance "Engine" section.
(_ Slxay lubdoant
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease
plastic wheel bearings, viSCous lubri-
cants will attract dust and dirt that will
shorten the life of the self-lubricating
bearings, if you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
lO

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIALNUMBER
DATEOF PURCHASE
3ASOLINECAPACITWTYPE:
31LTYPE (API-SF-SJ):
OIL CAPACITY:
;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
BLADE BOLTTORQUE:
1.6 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
20 OZS.
CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RC12YC
3540 FT. LBS.
The model and sedal numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm
rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stoneS, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
Forbestresults,mowerblademustbe
keptsharp. Replacebentor damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Usa a wood black between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
ctockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the kay inside hub of blade
adapter. The key must be in good condi-
tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE r '
1. Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft_ Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, tuming clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower
or engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a gdnding 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 and until the blade
is balanced.
11

Blade
adapter Crankshaft
Key,
,ockwao.ar
fl •
bolt u._^._ Tr_ling
w":%r
Y
Bladeadapter
GRASS CATCHER
(If so equipped)
• The grasscatchermay be hosedwith
water,but mustbedry whenused,
•Checkyour grass catcheroftenfor
damage or detedoretion. Through
normaluseitwillwear. If catcher
needs replacing,replaceonlywitha
manufacturerapproved replacement
catcher. Givethelawn mowermodel
numberwhen ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time;
before you mow to be sure they move
freely.
The wheels not turning freely means
trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive
wheel area and must be clsaoed to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
1. Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
3. Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/
or drive wheel gear teeth.
4. Put wheels back in place.
NOTE: if after cleaning, the drive wheels
do notturn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.
GEAR CASE
•To keepyourdrivesystemworking
pmpedy,thegear case and area
around the ddve shouldbe keptclean
and free oftrashbuild-up. Clean under
the drivecovertwicea season.
•The gear case isfilled withlubdcantto
the properlevelat thefactory. The only
timethelubricantneeds attentionis it
servicehas been performedon the
gear case. 12
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, PaRRNo.
750369. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF-SJ.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature,
_C_ 1SAEVISCOSITY GRAOE8
NOTE: Although mufti-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve staRRingIn
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°F, Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running
low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours In
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use, Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fuel tank by nJnning
engine until fuel tank is empty.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where It cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
and drain oil into asuitable container,
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of
engine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine,
5. Fill engine with oil. (See =Add Oil" in
the Operacion section of this manual.)
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.

Container
AIR FILTER
Yourenginewitlnot runproperlyand may
be damagedby usinga dirtyair filter.
Replacethe airfilter everyyearor after
every 100 hoursofoperation,moreoften
ifyou mow inverydusty,dirtyconditions.
Do notwashairfilter.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
1, Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
2. Carefufiy remove cartridge.
3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
_,CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are notto be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration of
the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not
use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
4. Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.
Cover Back
tabs
Lip
Slots
Cover
Cartridge
MUFFLER
Inspect_nd replacecorrodedmuffleras it
couldcreatea fire hazardand/ordam-
age. _
SPARK PLUG
Replacespark plugat the beginningof
each mowingseasonor afterevery100
hoursofoperation,whicheveroccurs
first. Sparkplugtype and gap settingare
shownin =PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS"
sectionofthismanual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,
keepmower housingfree of built-up
grass andtrash.Cleanthe undersideof
yourmoweraftereachuse.
_I_,CAUTION:Disconnectsparkplugwire
from sparkplugand placewire where it
cannotcomein contactwiththespark
plug.
• Cleanthe undersideof yourlawn
mowerby scrapingto removebuild-up
of grassand trash.
•Clean engineoftento keeptrashfrom
accumulating.A cloggedengine runs
hotterand shortensengine life.
• Keep finished surfacesand wheelsfree
of all gasoline,oil,etc.
•We do not recommendusinga garden
hoseto cleanlawn mowerunlessthe
electricalsystem,muffler,air filter and
carburetorare coveredto keepwater
out.Water in enginecan resultin
shortenedengine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover with
putty knife or similar tool to remove any
build-up of trash or grass on underside of
drive cover.
13

_kCAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine,
2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts hove completely stopped.
3, Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU'I-rlNG HEIGHT" in
the Operation section bf this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
roar wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
intothe operator's mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of
injury resulting from objects being thrown
out of the discharge opening into the
operator mowing position. If the discharge
guard becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
1. Remove drive cover. Remove belt
from gea_rcase pulley by pushing
down on pulley and rolling belt off it.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side with air
filter and carburetor up.
3. Remove blade.
4. Remove debds shield.
5. Remove belt from engine pulley on
crankshaft. _..... .....
6. Instal new belt by reversing above
steps,
7. Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life. P
Drive cover//_i
PushdownBelt__
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
t. Removeupper handleand all parts
attachedto lowerhandle.
2. Removehairpincottersfrom lower
handlebracketmountingpin.
3. Squeeze lowerhandlein to removeit
from mountingpins.
4. Turn lowerhandleoverto raiseor
lower handle,
5. Squeeze lowerhandle in and position
holesontomountingpinson handle
bracket.
6. Reassembleupper handleand all
parts removedfrom lowerhandle.
Lower
handle
Rotate
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Yourenginespeed hasbeenfactoryset.
Do not attempttoincreaseenginespeed
orit may resultin personalinjury.If you
believethatthe engineis runningtoo fast
ortoo slow,take yourlawnmowerto an
authorizedservicecenterfor repairand
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhas anon-adjustable
fixed mainjetfor mixturecontrolIfyour
enginedoes not operateproperlydue tO
suspectedcarburetorproblems,take your
lawnmowerto a Sears or otherqualified
servicecenterfor repairand/oradjust-
ment.
IMPORTANT:Nevertamperwiththe
enginegovernor,whichisfactory set for
properenginespeed. Overspeedingthe
engineabovethe factory highspeed
settingcanbe dangeroos.Ifyouthinkthe
engine-govemedhigh speed needs
adjusting,contactyournearestSearsor
otherqualifiedservicecenter,whichhas
properequipmentand experienceto
make any necessaryadjustments.
14

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or ifthe
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
1. Clean entire lawn imower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,
and pins are securely fastened.
Inspect moving parts for damage,
breakage and wear. Replace if
necessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the handle
bracket, then move handle forward.
2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle
for storage or transportation, be sure to
fold the handle as shown or you may
damage the control cables.
•When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Squeeze to _ Lower
fold _handle
Operator presence control bar
Upper Handle
Fold
forward for
storage backward
Mowing
le position
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important toprevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
filter,.fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gesohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids dudng storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits dudng storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always foUow the mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distdbute oil.
4. Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
•Replace your gasoline can ifyour can
starts to rust. Rust and!or dirt in 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 a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain mois-
ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
15

IMPORTANT:Nevercovermowerwhile
engoneandexhaustareas are stillwarm.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start I. Dirtyair filter.
Lossof power
Poor cut -
uneven
ACAUTION:Never storethe lawn mower
withgasolinein the tankinsideabuilding
wherefumesmay roachan openflameor
spark.Allowtheenginetocoolbefore
storingin any enclosure.
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.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5.I Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/roplaceair filter.
2. Fillfuel tank.
3. Draintankand refillwith
fresh clean fuel,
4. Drainfueltank and
carburetorand refilltank
withfresh gasoline.
5. Connectwire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
;2. Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replaceair filter.
4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. 'Cutat slowerwalking
speed.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
Excessive 1. Replace blade. Tighten
_ibration blade bolt.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
Starter rope hard
_opu|l 1. Depresscontrolbar to
upper handle before
pullingstarterrope.
2. Contacta Searsor other
qualifiedservicecenter.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mowerto cut
grassorto hardsurface.
16

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
PROBLEM CAUSE" CORRECTION
Lossofdrive 1. Drivewheelsnotturning 1. Adjustorreplacedrive
withdnvscontrolengaged, controlcable.
2. Beltnotdriving 2, Putbeltonpulleysor
replacebeltsifbroken.
Grasscatcher 1. Cuttingheighttoolow. 1. Raisecuttingheight,
notfilling(ifso 2. Liftonbladewornoff. 2. Replaceblade.
equipped) 3. Catchernotvenlingair. 3. Cleangrasscatcher.
Hardtopush 1. Raisecuttingheight,1. Grassistoohighorwheel
heightistoolow.
2. Rear of lawnmower
housingor blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grasscatchertoo full.
4. Handle heightpositionnot
right for you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
17

ROTARYLAWNMOWER--MODELNO.917.379040
GEARCASEASSEMBLYPARTNUMBER702511
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
I 17490416 Tapplng Screw 114-20 x 1-114
2 137055X004 Engagement Bracket
3 137053 Shifter
4 57072 Seal
6 48373 Gear Case Halves Kit (Includes
Key Noe. 4, 6, and 7)
777_I Bearmg
8 137_1 Worm Shaft
9 137074 Drive Shaft
10 57079 HardenedWasher
11 131484 Clutch Yoke
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
12 700343 Bushing
13 86447 Rug
14 137050 Helical Gear
15 750436)( Clutch Jaw
16 750369 Grease
17 12000003 E-Ring
18 850848 HI-Pro Key
19 81585X004 Spdng Bracket
NOTE: All component dimensions given In U.S. Inches.
1Inch = 25.4 mm
35

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.379040
6
I
4O 35
43
41
42
7g
75 52

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.379040
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 166860)(479 Upper Handle
3 148293 ZoneCo_trol Cabie
5 153638 R<_peGuide
6 146771 Conlzol Bar
7 131S59 Handte Bolt
8 66426 Wire'Re
9 51793 Helrpin Cotter
10 136376 Handle Knob
12 151590X479 Lower Handte
18 170346X479 Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
19 1_X479 Hand_ Bracket Assembly (Right)
22 140540 Rear Deflector
23 750097 Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2
24 87584X004 Deflector Bracket
25 750149 Discharge Guard
27 147286 Hinge Rod
28 87593 HousingBracket
29 87589 TorsionSpring
33 774OO Hubcap
35 750085X007 Wheel AdjusbngBracket
36 146630 S_cer
38 700331X004 SelectorSpdng
39 7O1O37 Solect_ Knob
40 145935)(004 AxleArmAssernbly
41 _Belleville Washer
42 142748 Shoulder Bolt
43 151155 Wileel & 1Ire Assembly
44 83923 Hex Nut
45 751592 LockJlut 3/18-16
46 85463 Danger Dscol
48 149741 Thread Cutting Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4
49 63601 Hex Locknut
51 134612 Debds Shield
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
52 15O406
53 851084
54 856363
55 851074
56 141114
57 851514
63 171534
63 845S6
64 87677
68
71 636O1
72 170031
73 17600406
74
75
76
77
78
79
8O
Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd. 8)
Helical ock asher
HardenedWasher
Btade22"
Blade Adaptar
Lawn Mower Housing {Incl, Ref. #46)
Engine Pulley
Hi-Pro Key #liP 505
Engine -(See Breakdown) Craftsman
Model 11A6(_-O152-E1
Locknut Keps
Front Baffle
Screw
851201X004 Engine Washer
751T/2X479 Mulch Rate
128415 Pop Rivet
166971 Throttle Contro_
144929 Screw
83816 Screw
1111gOX CabieClamp
134_7X479 Rear Baffle {No_ Shown)
161(T_8 Warning Decel (Not Shown)
1TF342 Owner s Manual (EnglLehiSpan_h)
Availa_e accessoriesnotincludedwithlawn mower:
71 33072 Grass Catcher
71 33623 Gas Can {2.5 gal.)
71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer
7133000 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)