Craftsman 917.379680 User manual

Owner's Manual
JCRRFTSMRN'I
6.5 HORSEPOWER
22" REAR DISCHARGE
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No
917.379680
• 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: wwwsears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 1t
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 16
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 17
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 37
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTYON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
Fortwoyearsfrom dateofpurchase,whenthisCraftsmanLawnMowerismaintained,
lubricated,andtunedup accordingtothe operatingandmaintenanceinstructionsinthe
owner'smanual,Searswillrepairfree ofchargeanydefectinmaterialorworkmanship.
IfthisCraftsmanLawnMowerisusedfor commemialor rentalpurposes,thiswarranty
appliesforonly90 daysfrom the dateofpumhase.
ThisWarrantydoesnotcover:
• Expendableitemswhichbecomeworndudngnormaluse,suchas rotarymower
blades,bladeadapters, belts,air cleanersand sparkplug.
•Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatorabuseor negligence,includingbentcrank-
shaftsandthefailure to maintaintheequipmentaccordingtotheinstructionscon-
tainedin the owner'smanual.
Warrantyservice isavailablebyreturningtheCraftsmanpowermowertothenearest
SearsServiceCenterlDepartmentintheUnitedStates.Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhile
thisproductisin useinthe UnitedStates.
ThisWarrantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyou may alsohaveotherrightswhich
varyfrom statetostate.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA,HOFFMAN ESTATES,ILLINOIS 60179
Safetystandardsrequireoperator
presencecontrolstominimizethe
risk of injury.Yourunitis equipped
withsuchcontrols.Do notattemptto
defeatthefunctionoftheoperator
presencecontrolsunderany
circumstances.
TRAINING:
•Read thisoperator'smanualcarefully.
Becomefamiliar withthecontrolsand
knowhowtooperateyourmower
properly.Leamhow to quicklystop
mower.
•Do notallowchildrento useyourmower.
Neverallowadultsto usemowerwithout
properinstructions.
•Keepthearea ofoperationclearofall
persons,especiallysmallchildrenand
pets.
•Usemoweronlyas the manufacturer
intendedand as dsscdbedinthis
manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
•Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use ofsuch attachments may be
hazardous.
•The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects,
These objects will be thrown by the
blade and can cause severe injury,
•Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
•Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
2when mowing.

•Checkfue!tankbefore startingengine.
Do notfillgastankindoom,whenthe
engineis runningor whentheengineis
hot.Allowtheengineto.coolfor saveml
minutesbeforefilling thegastank.Clean
offany spilledgasolinebeforestarting
theengine.
•Alwaysmake wheelheightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower.Never
attempt todothiswhiletheengineis
running.
•Mowonlyindaylightor goodartificial
light.
OPERATION:
•Keepyoureyesand mindon your
mowerand theareabeingcut.Do notlet
otherinterestsdistractyou.
•Do notmowwet orslipperygrass.Never
run while operatingyourmower.Always
be sureofyourfooting -- keepa firm
holdon thehandlesand walk.
•Do notputhandsor feet nearor under
rotatingpads.Keepclearofthedis-
chargeopeningat alltimes.
•"Alwaysstoptheenginewhenever you
leaveorare notusing yourmower,or
beforecrossingdriveways,walks,reads,
end any gravel--coveredareas.
• Neverdirectdischargeof matedal
towardbystandersnorallowanyone
nearthe mowerwhileyouare operating
it.
•Beforecleaning,inspecting,or repairing
yourmower,stoptheengineand make
absolutelysure thebladeand allmoving
partshavestopped.Thendisconnectthe
sparkplugwireandkeepitawayfrom
thesparkplugto preventacoidental
starting.
• Donotcontinuetorun yourmowerifyou
hit a foreign object.Followthe procedure
outlinedabove,thenrepairanydamage
beforerestartingand operatingyou
mower.
• Do notchangethegovernorsettingsor
overspeedthe engine.Enginedamage
orpersonal injurymay result.
•Do notoperateyourmowerifitvibrates
abnormally.Excessivevibrationisan
indicationofdamage; stopthe engine,
safelycheckforthecauseofvibration
and repairas required.
•Do not run theengineindoors.Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
•Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up end down or you
might lose your footing. Do not mow
excessively steep slopes. Usa caution
when operating the mower on uneven
terrain or when changing directions --
maintain good footing.
, Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
° Check the blade and the engine
mountingbolts oftento be sure they are
tightened properly.
•Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightnessto
be sure mower is in safe working
condition,
•Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
•To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive
grease and oil.
•Check grass catcher often for detedora-
tion and wear and replace wom bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of
your mower.
•Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower,
•Allow engine to cool before stodng in
any enclosure.
•Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
_kLook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!f! BECOMEALERTI!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_iLCAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_kWARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.
3

These accessorieswere availablewhen this lawn mower was produced.They am not
shipped with your mower. They are also availableat most Sears retailout_ts and service
centers. Most Sears storescan also order repairpartsforyou, whenyou providefile model
number of yourlawn mower. Some of these accessoriesmay notapplyto your lawnmower,
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASSCATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS
GRASEDATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLER8
BELI_ BLADES
AIR FILTERS
©
BLADE AOAPTERS WHEELS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these inane and thismanual in its
entiretybeforeyou attempt toassembleor
operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: Thislawn mower isshipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.
Your new lawnmower has been assembled
at the factory withthe exceptionof those parts
leftunassemblad for shippingpurposes, All
pads suchas nuts,washers, bolls,etc.,
necessa_ to completethe assembly have
been placed in the parts bag. To ensure safe
and proper operationofyour lawn mower,all
pads and hardware you assemble must be
tightenedsecurely. Use the correcttooisas
necessaryto ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts includedwith mower.
• Cut downtwo end comers of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
•Remove all pacldngmeterialsexcept
padding between upper and lower handle
and padding holdingoperator presence
controlbar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out ofcartonand check
cartonthoroughly for additionalloose
pads.
4

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfoldhandles carefullyso as
not topinch ordamage controlcables.
• Raise handles until lower handle section
locksinto place in mowingposition.
• Remove protactivepadding, _upper
handle sectionintoplace on lower handle
and tightenbeth handle knobs.
•Remove handle padding holding operator
presence cont_ bar to upper handle.
•Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for yourmowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle"in the Service and Adjustment
,sec_onof this manual.
bar
Upper handle _
Liftup
Mowing
position
Lower handle
TOINSTALLAI"rACHMENTS
Yourlawnmowerwasshippedreadytobe
usedasa mulchar.Toconverttobeggingor
discharging:
•Openreardoorandremovemulcharplug.
Storemulcherplugin a safeplace.
•Youcannowinstallcatcheroroptional
clippingdeflector.
•To returnto mulchingoperation,install
mulcherplug intodischargeopeningof
mower.Besurealltabsareseated
properly.
Muleher plu_
_CAUTION: Do notrunyourlawn
mower withoutmulcherplug in placeor
approvedclippingdeflectoror grass
catcherin place. Neverattemptto
operatethe lawnmowerwiththe rear
doorremovedor proppedopen.
5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Comparethe illustrationswithyour lawnmowertofamiliarize yourselfwiththe
locationofvariousoontrolsand adiustmonls. Save thismanualfor futurereference.
_symbolsmayappearonyourlewnmowerorInIlta'akmSUlpfll_withtheproduct._ _ _
thmmean(n_
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Enginezonecontrolcable
Operatorpresencecontrolbar
Drivecontrol lever
Starter handle
Grasscatcher
Muicherplug Gasoline cap
Housing
Engine oil
capw/
dipstick Primer
IMPORTANT: This lawnmower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in theengine. Wheel adjuster
(oneachwheel)
MI=ET8 CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears r_tarywalk-behindpowerlawn mowersconformtothe safetystandardsofO'teAmerican
NationalStandardsInstituteand the U.S. Consumer ProductSafetyCommiss_n. "Theblade
fume 'Mienthe engineis running.
Operator pre_n_ecofltrolber -must be
helddownto the handletostartthe engine.
Release to stopthe engine.
Palmer- pumps additionalfuel from the
cad0urstorto the cylinderfor use when
startinga cold engine.
Starter handle -usedfor startingthe engine,
Drive control laver - usedto engage power-
propelledforward motionof lawn mower.
Mulcher plug - must be removedtoconvertto
begging or dischargingoperation.
6

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
while operating your lawn mower or
performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend a wide vision safety mask
over spectacles or standard safety
glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed is controlled by a
throttle located on the side of the upper
handle. Fast position isfor starting,
normal cutting, tdmming and batter grass
bagging. Slow position is for light cutting,
trimming and fuel economy.
ENGINEZONECONTROL
_I_CAUTION: Federalregulationsrequire
an enginecontrolto be installedon this
lawn mowerin orderto minimizethe dsk
ofbladecontactinjury.Do notunderany
circumstancesattemptto defeatthe
functionof theoperatorcontrol.The blade
turnswhenthe engineis running.
• Yourlawnmowerisequippedwithan
operatorpresencecontrolbarwh_h
requirestheoperatortobepositioned
behindthelawn mowerhandletostartand
operatethelawnmower.
TO ADJUST Ct.rl'nNG HEIGHT
• Raise wheelsfor lowsut and lowerwheels
for highcut.
•Adjustcuttingheightto suityour require.
merits. Medium positionisbestfor most
lawr_.
• To changecuttingheight,squeezeadjuster
levertowardwheel. Move wheel upor
downto suityourrequirements. Be sure all
wheelsare inthesame setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs. PlateTab
/
LowerWheelsfor HighCut _,,w
ver
RaiseWheelsforLowCut
TOA'I'FACH GRASSCATCHER
•Liftthe reardoorofthe lawn mower
and place thegrasscatcherframe
hooksontothe doorpivotpins.
•The grasscatcherissecuredto the
lawnmower housingwhen the rear
doorisloweredontothegrasscatcher
frame.
ACAUTION: Do not runyourlawn
mowerwithoutclippingdeflectoror
approved grasscatcher inplace. Never
attempttooperatethe lawn mowerwith
the rear doorremovedor open.
Grass
catcher
handle
Pivot
pins frame hook
7

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.
(Grass
frame
handle
DRIVE CONTROL
•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
release 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 to
handle to continue mowing without self-
propelling.
•To keep drive control engaged when
turning comers, push down on handle
and liftfront wheels off ground while
turning lawn mower.
Operatorpresencecontrolbar Ddve
Toengagedrive Odvecontrol
control disengaged
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
(I,
Your lawn mower isshippedwithoutoil inthe
engine.
•Be sure moweris level and area aroundoil
fillisclean.
•Remove engineoil cap end filltothe full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate dipstick reading.
•Engineholds 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype and
grade ofoil to use, see "ENGINE" in
Maintenance sectionofthis manual.
•Pouroil slowly. Do not overfill.
•Check oil levelbefore each use. Add oil if
needed. Fillto full lineon dipstick.
•To read proper level,tighten engineoilcap
each time.
•Reinstallengine oil cap and _ghten,
•Change the oil after evely 25 hoursof
operation or each season. You may need
to change the oil more oftenunder dusty,
dirty conditions.
ADD GASOUNE
• Fill fuel tank, Use fresh,clean, regular
unleaded gasolinewith a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oilwith gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantitiesthatcan be
used within30 days to assurefuel
freshness.
AI_WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic .
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
_kCAUTION: F to bottom ofgas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline
filler cap
Engine oil cap
TO START ENGINE
• To starta coldengine, push pdmerthree
(3) timesbeforetryingtostart. Use a firm
push. This stop isnot usuallynecessary
when startingan engine whichhas
already runfor afew minutes.
•Move throttle control lever to fast
position.
• Hold operatorpresence controlbar down
tothe handle and pullstarterhandle
quickly. Do not allowstarterropeto snap
back.
•To stop engine, release operator presence
cantrolbar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start end do not
repeat priming steps.
MOWlNGTIPS
•Under Gertain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloedthg the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed end/or run the
lawn mower over the area a second
time.
•For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly,
•For better grass bagging end most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed
(pushing speed) and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
•If a trail of clippings is left on the right
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect the clippings on the
next pass.
•Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less g_
To prevent this, regularly hose catchd
off with water and let dry before usinc.
•Keep top of engine around starter cl(
and clean of grass clippings and cha
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life,
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbest performance,keep
mowerhousingfree ofbuilt-upgrassand
trash. See"Cleaning"in Maintenancesestiq
ofthismanual.
•The specialmulchingblade willrecurthe
grass clippingsmany timesand reduce
them insize so that as they fail ontothe
lawn _ willdisperseintothe grassenc
not be noticed. Also,the mulchedgrass
biodegradequicklytoprovidenutrientsfi
the isN_n.Alwaysmulch withyour higha
engine (blade)speed as this willprovide
bestrecuttingactionoftheblades.
•Avoidcuttingyour lawn when Itiswet.
grass tendsto formdumps and interfer(
withthe mulching action. The besttime
mow yourlawn isthe earlyafternoon. A
this lima the gress hasdried endthe ne_
cutarea willnot be exposedtothedirect
sun.
•For best results,adjustthe lawnmower
cutting hek3htso _t the lawnmower cu_
offonlythe top one-thirdof the grassbla,
Ifthe lawnisovergrownitwill be necess_
to raisethe heightof cuttoreduce pushin
effortand tokeep fromoverloadingthe
engine and leavingdumps ofmulched
grass.For extremelyheavymulching,
reduceyourwidth ofcutby overlapping
previouslycutpathand mowslowly,
•Certain typesofgrassand grass condltic
may requirethaten area be mulcheda
second_ne tocompletely hidethe
clippings. When doingasecond cot, rr_
acrossor perpendicularto thefirstcut p_
•Change yourcuttingpettem from week 1
week. Mow north tosouthoneweek th_
change toeast to westthe next week. "1
will helppreventmalting and grainingof
lawn.
Max 1/3

.A,NTE.A.CESC.EOULE
Check for Loose Fasteners i_' i_/
Clean/inspect Grass Catcher
(IfEquipped) I/ I/ 11/
M CleanLawnMower I_ I1_
O CleanUnderDriveCover
IPower-PropetledMowers)
CheckdrivebeW Ileys
RE(Power*Prepelk_:_Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade If $
LubricationChart I_ If
Clean Batte_y/Rechar le
IElectricStadMowen I_ 1_4
E Check Engine OilLevel it/
N Change EngineOil 1_1.2
GCleanAirFilter ll/=
IInspectMuffler
NClean or Replace Spark Plug
E ReplaceNrF_erPeperCaRr;dge fl/=
I - C_angernoreoft=_whenot_ undera heawloadorInt_ ambienttemper_res.
2-Ser/;cemoreoRenwhenogerltlng_dkl,jordustyo0_Io_$.
3-Rep&toebladesmornohn whenmowlngInsandy_.
4 °C;_=ge48 hoursater_ o_season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warrantyonthislawnmowerdoesnot
coveritemsthathavebeen subjectedto
operatorabuseor negligence.To receive
fullvaluefromthe warranty,operatormust
maintainmoweras instructedinthis
manual.
Someadjustmentswillneedto bemade
periodicallytopropedymaintain yourunit.
AlladjustmentsintheServiceand
Adjustmentssectionofthismanualshould
becheckedat leastonceeachseason.
• Onceayear, raplacethesparkplug,
replaceairfilter elementand check
blade for wear. A newsparkplugand
clean/newairfilter elementassures
properair-fuelmixtureandhelpsyour
enginerunbetterand lastlonger.
•Followthemaintenanceschedulein this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Checkengineoillevel.
•Checkfor loosefastenem.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwelllubricated(See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART').
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheeladjuster
Rear doorhinge
(_ Handlebracketmountingpin
Spraylubr_u_t
(_) Referm Mair_.enance"ENGINE" section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oilor grease plastic
wheel bearings,Viscouslubricantswillattract
dustand dirtthatwillshortenthe lifeofthe serf
lubricatingbearings, Ifyou feelthey must be
lubricated,use only a dry,powdered graphite
type lubricantspadngly.
lO

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIALNUMBER I
DATE OF PURCHASE I
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG IGAP: .030" ICHAMPION RC12YC
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 tound on adecal attached to the rear ol the
lawn mower housing.Record both sedal number and date of pumhase in space
provided above.
LAWNMOWER
Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhenperforming
any maintenance.
"fiRES
• Keeptiresfreeofgasoline,oil,orinsect
controlchemicalswhichcanharmrubber.
• Avoidstumps,stones,deepruts,sharp
objectsandotherhazardsthatmay cause
tiredamage.
BLADECARE
Forbestresults,mowerblademustbe
keptsharp. Replacebentor damaged
blades.
TO REMOVEBLADE
•Disconnectsparkplugwire from spark
plugand place wirewhere it cannot
comeincontactwithsparkplug.
•Turnlawn moweron itsside. Make
sure airfilter and carburetorare up.
•Use a woodblockbetween bladeand
mower housingto preventbladefrom
tumingwhen removingblade bolt.
•Protectyourhandswithglovesand/or
wrap bladewith heavy cloth.
•Remove bladeboltby turningcounter-
clockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt,lockwasher and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter,
The key must be in good condition to work
properly, Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
•Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned,
•Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes 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.
11

IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8heat
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 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 hodzontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade
is balanced. Crankshaft
Blade keyway
Blade
bolt shaft
Lock Blade
washer Hardened edge adapter
washer
GRASS CATCHER
•Thegrasscatchermaybehosedwith
water,butmustbe drywhenused.
•Checkyourgrasscatcheroftenfor
damageor deterioration.Throughnormal
useitwillwear. Ifcatcherneedsreplacing,
replaceonlywitha manufacturerapproved
replacementcatcher.Givethelawn
mowermodelnumberwhenordering.
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 cleaned to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both front wheels.
•Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
•Remove wheels from wheel adjusters. 12
•Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/
or drive wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.
•If after cleaning, the drive wheels do
not turn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.
GEAR CASE
•To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area
around the ddve should be kept clean
and free of trash build-up. Clean under
the drive cover twice a season.
•The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the
gear case.
•If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium I Grease, Part No.
750369. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF, SG or
SH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
SAE VISCOSITy GRADES
TEMPEI_TURE RANGE AN1]CIpATED BEFORE NEXT C_LCk:ANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°R 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 running
engine until fuel tank is empty.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug,
•Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
•Tip lawn mower on itsside as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of
engine.
•Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the
=FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
overfill.
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run propedy and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in vary dusty, dirty
conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
•Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
•Carefully remove cartddge,
•Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. Ifvery dirty, replace cartridge.
A,CABTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartddge. They may cause deterioration
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartddge. Do
not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
•Install cadddge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.
Up Back
Cartridge
Slots
Cover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as
it could create a fire hazard and/or
damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to
make your engine start easier and run
better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
_,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
•Tum lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
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.
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

/LCAUTION: Before performingany
serviceand adjustments',
• Release controlbar and stopengine.
• Make surethebladeand all moving
partshavecompletelystopped.
•Disconnectsparkplugwirefromspark
plugandplacewhere itcannotcome
in contactwithplug.
LAWNMOWER
TOADJUSTCUTT1NGHEIGHT
See"TOADJUSTCUTTINGHEIGHT'inthe
Opera'Jonsectionofthismanual.
REARDEFLECTOR
The reardeflector,attachedbetweentherear
wheelsofyourlawnmower,isprovidedto
minimizethepossibilitythatobjectswillbe
thrownouttherearofthelawnmowerintothe
operetofsmowingpos_on.Ifthe rear
deflectorbecomesdamaged,itshouldbe
replaced,
TOREMOVE/REPLACEDRWEBElT
•Removedrivecover.Removebeltby
pushingdownon gearcasepulleyandroll
beitoff.
•Turnlawnmoweronitssidewithcarbure-
torandfuelcapup.
•Removeblade.
•Removedebrisshield.
•Removebeltfromenginepulleyon
crankshaft.
• Installnewbeltby reversingabovesteps.
•Alwaysussfactoryapprovedbelttoassure
fitandlonglife.
o,',,e._m k \
cover
TOADJUSTHANDLE
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.
•Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
•Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
* Squeeze _ower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
•Tum lower handle over"to raise or Iowe
handle.
•Squeeze lower handle inand position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
•Reassemble upper handle and all part
removed from lower handle.
Mowing ,., Mowing .,,
,_'-,' position ;(,_.position
Low position Highposition
&
¥ __ Lower
handle
Rotate _--_
14

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of beg on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for afew minutes. If
bag gets wet, let It dry before using.
4_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without clipping deflector or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear
door removed or propped open.
Catcher
frame
handle
Frame
opening
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has e non-adjustable
fixed maJnjet for mixture control. If your
engine does not operate propedy due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and/or adjustment.
IMPORTANT: never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous, if you think the
engine.governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorzed
service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
15

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storageat the end ofthe season or ifthe unit
willnotbe used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is tobe storedfor a period
oftime, dean ifthoreughly, removeall dirt,
grease, leaves,etc. Store ina dean, dryarea.
•Clean entire lawn mower (See 'CLEAN-
ING" in the Maintenance sectionofthis
manual).
•Lubricateas shown in the Maintenance
section ofthismanuel.
•Be sure that ell nuts, bolts,screws, and pins
are securelyfastened. Inspect moving
partsfor damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
•Touch up all rusted orchipped paint
surfaces;sand lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
Youcan fold you_lawn mower handlefor
storage.
•Squeeze the bottomends ofthe lower
handletoward each other untilthe lower
handle dears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.
•Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to he folded
back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor
storage or transportation,be sureto fold the
handle as shown or you any damage the
control cables.
•When setting Lq0your handlefrom the
storage position,the lower handle will
automaticallylock intothe mowing position.
Lower
handle
Squeeze tofold bracket
Hairpin
cotter
Operatorpresencecontrolbar Upper
/_;_handle
Foldtoward ,;;, _;_
for storage _ _.,/ .;,/"
. ri".'.;, i_::;;"I Fold
': '_+,"_:_ Y /backwar
Lower _Mo_ng
handle -position
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itisimportant to preventgu
depositsfrom forminginessentialfuel sys
parts suchas caif0uretor,f fuelrilter,fuelh_
ortank duriagstorage.Also,experience
indicatesthat alcoholblendedfuels (calk
gasoholor using ethanol or methanol)ca
attract moisture whichleads to separation
formation ofacids duringstorage.Acidicc
can damage the fuel systemof an engine
while in storage.
•Drainthe fuel tank.
•Start the engineand letitrununtilthe fu
lines and carburetorare empty.
•Never use engine or carburetorclser_
productsin the fueltankor permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuelstabilizeris an acceptable
alternativein minimizingthe formation of fi
gum depositsduringstorage. Add stabil_
to gasolineinfuel tankorstorage contain_
Always follow the mix ratiofoundon stabi!l
container. Runengine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizerto allowthe stabiliz_
reach the carburetor. Do not drainthe gas
tank and carburetor if usingfuel stabilizer.
16

ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (withenginewarm) and replace with
clean engineoil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance sectionof thismanual).
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce(29 ml) of oilthroughspark
plug hole intocylinder.
•Pullstarterhandle slowlya few timesto
distributeoil.
•Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do notstore gasolinefromone seasonto
another.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Doesnotstart 1. Dirtyairfilter.
g,
Loss of power 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Poor cut- uneven 1.
2.
3.
•Replace your gasoline can ifyour can
startsto rust. Rustand/or didin your
gasolinewill cause problems.
•If possible,storeyour unitindeom and
cover itto giveprotactioofrom dustand dirt.
•Coveryour unitwith a suitableprotective
oover thatdoes not retainmo'_ture. Do
notuse plastic. Plasticcannotbreathe
whichallows condensationto form and will
causeyour unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mowerwhile
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
ACAUTION: 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.
2. Outof fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water infuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or brokenblade
adapter,
8. Cantrol bar in released
position.
Control bar defective.
Rear of lawn mower housin
or cuttingblade dragging
in heavy grass.
Cuttingtoomuch grass.
Dirty airfiifer.
Buildupof grass, leaves,
and trashunder mower.
Too much oil in engine.
Walkingspeed too fast.
Wom, bent or loose blade.
Wheel heights uneven.
Buildupof grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
CORREC_ON
1. Clean/replace air iflter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
'5. Cooneotwire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade boltor
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress controlbarto
handle.
9. Replace controlbar.
1. Setto"HigherCut"
position.
2. Setto"HigherCut"
position.
3. Clean/replaceair filter.
4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.
5. Checkoillevel.
6. Cutat slowerwelldng
speed.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wbaela at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
17

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive 1. Replaceblade.Tighten
vibral_n bladebolt.
2. Contactanauthorized
servicecenter.
Starterropehard 1.
topull
2,
3.
4.
1. Worn, bentorlooseblade.
2. Bentenginecrankshaft.
1. Engineflywheelbrakeison
whencontrolbarisreleased,
2. Benten_necrankshaft.
3. Bladeadapterbroken.
4. Bladedraggingingrass.
1. Drivewheelsnotturning
withdrivecontrolengaged.
2. Beltnotdriving
1. Cuttingheighttoolow.
2. I-iftonbladewomoff.
3. Catchernotventingair.
1. Grassistoohighorwheel
heightistoolow.
2. Rearoflawnrno,_r
housingor bladedragging
ingrass.
3. Grasscatchertoofull.
4. Handleheightpea_ionnot
rightforyou.
Depre,_sconbol bar to
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
Contact an au6_ifzed
servicecenter.
Replace blade adapter,
Move lawn mowertocut
grassorto herd surface.
Loss of drive 1. Adjustor replacedrive contr
cable.
2. Put belt on pulleys or
replace beltsif broken.
Grass catcher 1. Raise cuttingheight.
notfllling(ifso 2. Replace blade.
equipped) 3. Clean grasscatcher.
Hard topush 1. Raise cuttingheight.
2.
3.
4.
Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setifng
higher.
Emptygrass catcher.
Adjust handle heightto
suit.
18

i
ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.379660
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511
1
I
KEY
NO,
2
3
4
6
PART
NO. KEY PART DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
17490416 Tapping Screw 1/4-20 x 9 137074 Ddve Shaft
1-1/4 10 57079 Hardened Washer
137055X004 Engagement Bracket 11 131484 Clutch yoke
137053 Shifter 12 700_43 Bushing
57072 Seal 13 86447 Plug
48373 Gear Case Halves Kit 14 137(_0 HellcaIGear
(Includes Key NOS. 4, 15 750436X Clutch Jaw
and 7) 16 750369 Grease
77881 Seadng 17 120(_0003 E-P_ng
137051 Worm Shaft 18 850848 Hi-Pro Key
19 81585XOGI Spring BraCket
NOTE: All component dimensions given
in U.S, inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
37

ROTARYLAWNMOWERMODELNUMBER917.379680
27
31-
14
41
13