Craftsman 917.380221 User manual

OWNER'S
Caution:
Readand Follow
alaSafetyRules
andInstructions
BeforeOperating
ThisEquipment
CRAFrSMIZN
3.5 RESERVEPOWER
20" SIDEDISCHARGE
ROTARYLAWNMOWER
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
ServiceandAdjustment
RepairParts
iml_l ill
/l_JlMm_lll .................................... II i II i _ II
SEARS,ROEBUCKANDCo., Chicago,IL. 60684 U.S.A.

SAFETYRULES
CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG 'WIRE AND PLACE WiRE
WHERE 11'CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STAR-
TING WHEN SETTING-UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING OR MAKING
REPAIRS TO YOUR MOWER_
IMPORTANT
FEDERAL REGULATIONS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE BLADE STOP CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE
RISK OF BLADE CONTACT INJURY. YOUR MOWER IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS. DO NOT
ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES°
• BE CAREFUL-WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUN-
NING, THE BLADE IS TURNING.
• Please read your' owner's manual_ Only allow
persons who know the safety rules to use your
mower,
• DO NOT tie the operator presence control bar
to the handle. Control must be lye° to permit
broke engagement when handles and control
are reteased_
° DO NOT allow children to use your' mower_
• Check your mower over' before each use_
Tighten any loose bolts, nuts, etc_
• Remove all sticks, stones, wires, cans, boards,
etc_from area to be mowed_ These objects can
be thrown by the blade.
•DO NOT allow children, bystanders or pets in
the area while mowing°
• Always ",,,,earshoes when mowing° DO NOT
operate mower when barefoot or wearing
open sandals.
• Always wear safety glasses or' eye shields
before starting your lawn mower and while
mowing.
• Always shut off engine before trying to adjust
wheetheightso
• When engine is running, DO NOT put hands
or' feet under mower or in the discharge chute,
nor make any adjustments.
• Stay clear' of discharge opening at all times°
• Do not fill gas tank when engine is running,
when indoors or when engine is hot. Allow
engine to cool for several minutes before fill-
ing gas tank Clean off any spilled gasoline
before starting engine.
• Mow only in goodllght.
• Always stop blade when not cutting grass or
when crossing gravel drive, sidewalk, or
roadway_
" DO NOT continue to run your mower' if you
hit a foreign objecL Stop the engine, discon_
nect the spark plug wire from the spark plug,
inspect the mower for damage and make
repairs as required_
• DO NOT use a damaged mower. Always have
damage repaired before mowing.
• DO NOT run your mower if it vibrates too
much. Stop engine and make repairs. Vibra-
tion is an indication of damage_
• Never use your mower without proper guards
or' deflectors in place. - -
• Always mow across a slope or inclined area.
DO NOT mow up or down a slope or inclined
area.
• DO NOT mow in wet grass. Be careful of
footing when mowing in wet grass, use shoes
with good traction.
• DO NOT run with the mower_
•DO NOT run your mower indoors. Exhaust
gases are deadly poison.
° Always disconnect the spark plug wire from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting when
transporting or' storing your mower after the
mowing season.
•DO NOT attempt to raise engine speed above
factory settings_ Engine damage or personal
injury may result.
° If a grass catcher is used on your' mower', check
the catcher often for' damage or deterioration.
It will wear through normal use. Use only a
recommended replacement catcher.
• Always stop blade to remove or instaJt catcher_
" DO NOT store your mower' or gasoline where
fumes may reach an open flame and cause a
fire.
• DRAIN THE GASOLINE from your mower
before transporting your mower inside your car
or other vehicle.
ill ii illll,llllllll JllllllJllll illl i lll ill iiiii
LOOKFORTHISSYMBOLTOPOINTOUTIMPOR-
TANTSAFETYPRECAUTIONS.ITMEANS--ATTEN-
TION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.

CONGRATULATIONSonyourpurchaseofaSearsCrafts-
manLawnMower.Ithasbeendesigned,engineered
and manufacturedtogive you the bestpossible
dependabilityandperformance.
Shouldyouexpermnceanyproblemyoucannot easi-
ly remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Ser-
vice Center/Department. We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to service
or repair this unit.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions
will enable you to assemble and maintain your
mower properly° Always Observe the "SAFETY
RULES".
MODEL
NUMBER 917.380221
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF
PURCHASE
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE
FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR
OF THE MOWER HOUSING_
YOU SHOULD RECORDBOTHSERIALNUMBER
AND DATEOFPURCHASEAND KEEPIN A SAFE
PLACEFOR FUTUREREFERENCE.
i ,i
MAINTn:NANCEAGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement isavailable on this
producL Contact your nearest Sears store for
details.
CUSTOMERRESPONSgBILITIES
O
PRODUCTSPEaFICATHOHS
' ' i,, ,11
RESERVE POWER: 3.5
.............. ,,,ml , i
DISPLACEMENT: 9.06 cu. in.
I I1'1 i,, i],, ]11]!,11,11 ,,i,,,i,,i,1,,,, ,i ...........
GASOLINE CAPACITY: 1.0 quart,
................. (unleaded)
OIL (21 oz, capacity): SAE 30W
(SAElow 30)
, ,ijlj jl,lll
SPARK PLUG (GAP ,030 in.) Champion
RJ19-LL or
(Sears 7133312 or
STD361458)
VALVE CLEARANCE: Intake: _008 in_
Exhaust: .008 ino
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
I II [II I I I I ,i i,ii1,1,1,1_1111111111,11,,
BLADE NUT TORQUE:
.0125 in.
70-75 ft0-1bs_
Read and observe the safety rules.
Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your mower.
Follow the instructions under "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this Owner's Manual_
............... _,,,,,,_,,,,,,,,,,,_ ,_Ll_,, iill uiili,uu
ONEYEARLIMITEDWARRANTYON CRAFTSMANPOWERMOWER
Forone year fromthe date of purchase, when thisCraftsmanLawn Mower ismaintained, lubricated and tuned-up.
according to the instructionsin the owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defect in material
and worEmanship_
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90
days from the date of purchaser
Thiswarranty does not cover:
Expendable itemswhich become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters,
belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessarybecause of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to
maintain the equipment according to the instructionscontained in the owner's manual°
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER TO THE
NEAREST SEARS SF:RVlCECENTERIDEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES. THIS WARRANTY APPLIES
ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE IN THE UNITED STATES°
Thiswarranty gives you specificlegal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state
to state_
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO, Department 698/731A Sears Tower, Chicago, Ill. 60684
3

TABLEOFCONTENTS
SAFETY RULE ......................
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...........
CUSTOMER RESPONSiBiLITIES .......
WARRANTY ...............
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INDEX ...................
MOWER ACCESSORIES ......
ASSEMBt.Y .....
OPERATION ................
2
3
3
4
,4
5
_5
6,7,8
MAINTENANCE .................... 8,9,10
STORAGE .......................... 12
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT .......... 10,1 t
TROUBLE SHOOTING .................... t 9
REPAIR PARTS-MOWER ............. 14,15
REPAIR PARTS-ENGINE .......... t 6,17,18 ,,
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS .......... 13
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ....... 20
INDEX
Adjustments:
Carburetor
Engine Speed
Handle Height
Height of Cut
Wheel Adjusters
Air Filter:
Cleaning _.
Paper Cartridge
Replacement
Assembly:
Handle
Accessories
B
Blade:
Replacement
Sharpening
Controls:
Engine Control
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Speed Selector ....
Customer Responsibilities
Cutting Levels
Engine:
Control
Oil Cap
Oil Change
Oil Level
Oil Type
Starting
Storage
F
Filter, Air
Fuel:
Type
Storage
Gasoline
10
.7
11
7
7Handle:
Adjustment
g,10 Assembly
10 Bracket
10 Knob
Height, Cu|ting
5
5
8
9
5.6.7
7
3
8.9
6,7
6,9
9
7
7
,7
12
9,t0
.7
t2
t
index
11
.5
11
.6
7,t 1
L
Lubrication:
Engine 13
Front Wheel Adjuster 7
M
Maintenance:
Agreement .... 3
Air Filter _ g, 10
Air Filter Paper Cartrldge 10
Blade Care/Replacement 8.9
Engine g
Grass Catcher' .9
Lubrication 13
Spark Plugs 3,10
Mowing Tips 8
3 Parts t4,15
Primer 7
Oil:
Cold Weather Conditions 7
Engine ,9
Storage 12
Operation:
Operating Mower 6,7 8
Speed:
Starting the Engine 7
Stopping Your Lawn Mower 7
Operator PresenceControl
Options:
Attachments 5
R
RepairtReplacement Parts 14 15
Responsibilities,Customer 3
Safety Rules 2
Service and Adjustments:
Blade .... 8,9
Carburetor 10
Cutting Level 7
Engine . ,7
Handle 11
Service Recommendation 13
Spark Plugs 3,10
Specifications 3
Speed Control:
Engine = 7
Starling the Engine:
Starter Rope 6
Stopping the Mower .7
Storage t 2
T
Table of Contents . _4
Trouble Shooting Chart !9
W
Warranty
Wheels:
Wheel Adjuster's
3
7
4

MOWER
These accessories were available when the mower was purchased° They are also available at most Sears retail
outlets, catalog and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you, when you provide the
model number of your mower.
ENGINE
SPARKPLUG MUFFLER
©AIR FILTER GASCAN EHGIHEOIL STABILIZER
MOWERMAiNTENANcE........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
BELT BLADE BLADEADAPTER WHEELS MOWERCOVER
ASSEMBLY
Your lawn mower has been completely assembled
at the factory°
TO REMOVEMOWERFROMCARTON
• Remove loose parts if included with mower, (i.e.
grass catcher, catcher frame, hardware pack,
etc,)_
o Cut down corners on one end of carton and lay
end down flat.
o Remove packing material,
o Roll mower out of carton and check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
HOWTOSET-UPYOURLAWNMOWER
TO UNFOLDHANDLE
OPERATOR PRESENCE -
7.€, "t'
UPPER HANDLE---_ _."/ •
LIFT UP .//'// _// •._/
• Wt
/,-%.,,,.y.:},....J
{Wi":-",:_.,-r.._--:,_\,_,75), r,,oW_N_resmo.
LOWER HANOLE
............ ::; _,,,_ _'_'"/'" ,i,'.:;,_ ........... H±
FIG. I
Remove tape and paper holding operator presence
control bar to upper handle°
•Hold down operator presence control bar to up-
per handle to allow handle to move to mowing
position.
,Raise handles until lower handle section locks in-
to place in the mowing position (See Fig. I).
Raise upper handle section intoplace on lower
handle and tighten one (1) handle knob°
Release operator presence control bar and
tighten remaining handle knob°
•Your mower handle can be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to "ADJUST HANDLE"
in the Service and Adjustment section of this
manual.

OPERATION
KNOWYOURMOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR ROTARY MOWER°
Compare the illustrations with your Rotary Mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls
and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
)PERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR
ZONE/ENGINE
CONTROL.
HANDLE KNOB - CABLE CLIP
STARTER ROPE ENGINE OIL CAP WITH DIPSTICK
ENGINE SPEED
SELECTOR LEVER FILLER CAP
MUFFLER
PRIMER WHEEL ADJUSTER
DISCHARGE
AIR FILTER
MEETSCPSCSAFETYREQUIREMENTS
HOUSING
Sears Rotary Walk-Behind Power Mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Stan-
dards Institute and The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, The blade turns when the engine is running,
IIIIII1'1 I I ' '
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR - must be
held down to the handle to start the engine, Release
to stop the engine,
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER - located on the
right side of the engine which allows you to select
either "HIGH" or "LOW" engine speed_
PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor
to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.
STARTER ROPE - used for starting the engine.

HOWTOUSEYOURMOWER
ENGINESPEEOSELEaOR
The en_line speed is controlled by a lever (red knob)
tocatedon the right side of theengine. "HIGH" posi-
tion is for starting engine, normal cutting and better
grass bagging. "LOW" position isfor light cutting,
trimming, and fuel economy (See Fig. 3).
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
=Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for
high cut.
° Wheels are set in low cut for shipping. Adjust cut-
ting height to suit your requirements. Medium
position is best for most lawns.
o To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever
toward wheel Move wheel up or down to suit
your requirements° Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting (See Fig. 4).
SELECTOR LEVER
1ER
.....................................-: IG.3.......................................................................
BEFORESTARTINGENGINE
OIL:
• Remove engine oil cap with dipstick or oil fill plugo
Fill to "FULL" line on dipstick or to top of slot
clown in filler hole. Use about I pint or 1!2 liter
of Sears 30W oil or equivalent. SAE 10W 30 oil
can also be used. DO NOT use SAE 10W 40 oil.
The total oil capacity of your engine is 21 oz. or
0.62 liters. Fill only to "FULL" line on dipstick or
to top of slot down in oil filler holeo
DO NOT over fill. The first fill on a new engine
uses about 1 pint. Check oil level and add oil as
needed to bring to proper level.
• Pour oil slowly, DO NOT over fill.
GAS:
* Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded
gasoline. DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE.
BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVER FILL TANK (SEE
FIG. 2)_
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blend-
ed fuels (called gasohol or usingethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage_ Acidic gas can
damage the fuel systemof an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system shouldbe
emptied before storage for 30 days or longer. Drain
the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the
fuel/ines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
FIG, 4
next season. See Storage Instructions for additional
informatiom
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
TO STARTENGINE
= To start a cold engine, push primer five (5) times
before trying to start. Use a firm push. This step
isnot usually necessary when starting an engine
which has already run for a few minutes.
* Push engine speed selector lever forward to
"HIGH" position.
* Hold operator presence control bar down to the
handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not
allow starter rope to snap back.
* To "STOP" engine, release operator presence
control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to
repeat priming steps. In warmer weather over prim-
ing may cause flooding and engine wilt not start° If
you do flood engine wait a few minutes before at-
tempting to start and DO NOT repeat priming steps.

MOWINGTIPS OPERATION
IPIIII '1
,' Under certain conditions, suchas 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_
* For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of
cut and raise the rear of the mower housing one
(I) wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for
better discharge of grass_
oWhen using a rear bagging mower in moist,
heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter
the grass catcher. Reduce groundspeed (pushing
speed) andlor run the mower over the area a seo
cond time.
* For better' grass bagging and most cutting con-
ditions, the engine speed should be set in the
"HIGH" (fast) position.
•If a trail of grass clippings is left on the right side
of a rear bagging mower, mow in a clockwise
direction with a small overlap to collect the clip-
pings on the next pass. -
', For' side discharge mowers, cutting in a counter-
clockwise direction, starting at the outside of the
area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more even-
ly and puts lessload on the engine. To keep clip-
pings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make
the first cuts in aclockwise direction.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled
with dirt and dust with use and catchers will col-
lect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose cat-
cher off with water and let dry before using.
MAINTENANCE J[ll][I IJ
...........I, I,I II .....
MOWER
GENERALRECOMMENDATIONS
•Once a year you should replace the spark plug,
air filter, and check blade for wear. A new spark
plug and air' filter assures proper' air-fuel mixture
andhelps your engine run better and last lon_er_
• You should check all fasteners and be sure they
are tight°
• Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on
page 13_
BLADE/BLADEFLANGECARE
Your mower will work better with a sharp blade.
_ CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIREFROM
SPARKPLUGANDPLACEWIREWHEREIT CANNOT
COMEIN CONTACTWITH THESPARKPLUG.
1"O REMOVE BLADE:
"Turn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and
carburetor are up.
•Use block of wood between blade and mower
housing to prevent blade from turning when nut
isremoved. Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove nut by turning counter-clockwise. Use a
15116" box or open-end wrench.
I'IIIII'I'I'IM IIII" '1" .............................
'11'11'111IIII III'1'11i IIIII
CRANKSHAFT & _/" \\
BLADE FLANGE I// / \\
DETAIL _/\\_
/iL-LtSLtD
BLA°EwAs"ERs E
,LADEF.AHO,
,,nilI.................
FIG. 5
NOTE: Check tab in blade flange after removing_ If
tab is damaged, replace it. It must be in good con-
dition for' the blade to work properly. We recom_
mend that a new blade nut be used each time blade
is removed.
TO REPLACE BLADE:
• Put blade flange on engine crankshaft with tab
in slot (See Fig_ 5).
•Fit blade on crankshaft in the blade flange. Be
sure the word "TOP" (stamped on blade) is
toward engine.
•Place flat washer, two (2) formed washers and
nut on crankshaft (See Fig. 5).
•Use block of wood to hold blade and tighten nut
clockwise. The recommended torque is 70-75 ft..
Ibs. Torque wrenches are available at most Sears
stores and through the catalog.

MOWER
BLADE/BLADEFLANGE CARE (CONT'D)
CAUTION:ALOOSEBLADECANBEDANGEROUS
bANDMAY NGINE,A D START.
Use only a Sears authorized replacement blade to
get the best cutting results.
NOTE: We do not recommend Sharpening blade - but"
if you do, be sure the blade is balanced°
CONTAINER
TO SHARPEN BLADE:
oThe blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while
on the mower.
• Care should be taken to keep the blade balanc-
ed. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when running and eventual damage to
mower or engine.
o To check blade balance, drive a nai! into a beam
or wall. Leave about one inchof the straight nail
expose& 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, blade is not balanced.
Sharpen the heavy end until the blade is
balance&
GRASSCATCHER
(If Purchased As An Accessory)
Check your grass catcher often for damage or
deterioration° Through normal use it will wear, tf cat-
cher needs replacing, replace only with a maufac-
turer approved replacement catcher from Sears.
Give the mower model number when ordering.
NOTE: The catcher may be hosed with water, but must
be dry when used.
ENGINE
TO CHANGEOIL
CAUTION: DISCONNECT SPARK PiU'; w"i
d_ FROMSPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIRE WHEREIT
CANNOTCOMEIN CONTACTWITH SPARKPLUG. •
_U_.L JLLJJ L...........4L ............................................. ,,,,,,,,.... ,, ...................... ________: ..............
FIG. 6
o TiE)mower on its side as shown in Fig. 6 and drain
oi/into suitable container. Rock mower back and
forth to remove any oi! trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on mower and on side
of engine°
•Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL" line
on the dipstick. DO NOT over fill.
• Replace engine oil cap. "
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
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:
o Remove the air filter cover by turning
counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar (See Fig. 7).
• Remove filter from inside of cover (See Fig, 7),
• Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to
remove any dirt accumulation.
• insert new filter into cover.
o Remove engine oil cap with dipstick; lay aside on
a clean surface. Warm oil drains better.

i,ll i, i1!11ii ..............
MAINrENANCE
AIR FILTER(CONT'D)
•Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning
the tab with the slot.
• Pushin on cover and turn clockwise to tighten (See
Fig. 7).
SPARKPLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make your
engine start easier and run better. Set spark plug
gap at _030 inch.
COLLAR
I IIIlllllllllllII
CLEANING
d_CAUTION: DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIRE FROM
SPARKPLUGAND PLACEWIREWHEREIT CANNOT
COMEIN CONTACTWITH THESPARKPLUG.
=Turn mower on its side with carburetor upo
=Clean the underside of your mower by scraping
to remove build-up of grass and trash.
NOTE: We recommend that you clean the underside
of your mower after each use.
Illll IIIII
SLOT
COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE
TO REMOVE
AIR FILTER
TURN CLOCKWISE
TO TIGHTEN
A_RF1LTERCOVER
FIG. 7
Clean your mower' and engine often to keep build-
up of trash from accumulating around engine. A
clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine.
lifeo
NOTE: We DO NOT recommend using a garden hose
to clean mower unlessthe electrical system, muffler,
air filter, and carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in shortening engine
life.
iI
CARBURETOR
,_, "I'L'IIL'_.................................. III 'l
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENTS
I'll '11........................... I I I ..................................................
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed main jet
for mixture controi_ If your engine does not operate
properly due to suspected carburetor problems, take
your mower to an authorized Sears Service Center
for repair and adjustment_
possibility of injury resulting from objects being
thrown out of the discharge opening into theoperator
mowing position.
if the discharge guard becomes damaged, it should
be replaced.
ENGINESPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not at-
tempt to increase engine speed or it may result in per-
sonal injury. If you believe that the engine is runn-
ing too fast or too slow, take your mower to an
authorized Sears Service Center for repair and
adjustment.
DISCHARGEGUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the discharge
opening of your mower, ts provided to prevent the
REARDEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear wheels
of your mower, isprovided to minimize the possibility
that objects will be thrown out the rear of the mower
into the operator mowing position.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
10

CEANDADJUSTMEFIrS
TO ADJUSTHANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be mounted in a high
or low position for your mowing comfort. Handles
are shipped mounted in the high position.
oTo change from high to low position, only the
lower handle section will have to be turned aver
(See Fig_ 8)°
. Remove the upper handle section and all of the
parts that are attached to the lower handle sec-
tion. Remove all of the parts that hold the lower
handle to the handle brackets (See Fig, 9).
oTurn the lower handle over and re-assemble all
of the parts that were taken off, Re-assemble the
upper handle section to the lower handle (See Fig.
9).,"
HANDLE
LOWER
ROTATE
FIG. 8
LC HANDLE
I I CLIP I IAt'41DLE BRACKET
FIG. 9
11

STORAGE
'111'1I1'11 Ilrll '1'1 I II iij
Your mower and engine should be prepared for off-
season storage as follows:
MOWER
•Clean underside of mower housing. (See "Clean-
ing" in Maintenance section of manual).
• Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required
(see "Blade/Blade Flange Care" in Maintenance
section of manual).
•Hose grass catcher off with water and let dry
before staring. •"
• Lubricate as shown in Service Recommendation
Chart on page 13 of manual.
OPERATOR PRESENCE
CONTROL BAR
UPPER
FOLD FORWARD
FOR STORAGE
rrllllll i1'1 JrlJJl ii1!11
HANDLE
LOWER
............ LIIll i HI I
FIG. lO
• You can fold your mower handle for storage as
shown in Fig_ 10.
• To fold, squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other' until the lower handle
clears the handle bracket, then move handle foF
ward (See Fig. 11).
IMPORTANT:WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE FOR
STORAGE OR TRANSPORTATION,
BE SURE TO FOLD THE HANDLE AS
SHOWN IN FIG. 10. IF YOU FOLD
THE UPPER HANDLE SECTION THE
WRONG WAY, YOU MAY DAMAGE
THE CONTROL CABLES.
ENGINE
•Change oil (see "TO CHANGE OIL" in
maintenance section of manual).
•Drain fuel and run engine until fuel system is
empty.
IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM
DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN
ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS
SUCH AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL
FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DUR-
ING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE
INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLEND-
ED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR
USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL)
CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH
LEADS TO SEPARATION AND FOR-
MATION OF ACIDS DURING
STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN
DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM OF AN
ENGINE WHILE IN STORAGE.
FIG. 11
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to anotF
•Replace your gasoline can if your can starts
rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline can caq
problems.
• Do not store your mower' under' any plastic co,,
Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensat
to form and can cause your mower to rust.
•When setting up your handle from the storc
position, the|ower handle will automatically It
into the mowing position.
12

SERVICERECORD
Fill in dates as you complete regular
service
Blades Sharpened
Blades Replaced
Engine Oil Change
EngineOil Check
Air Cleaner Replaced
Spark P!ug Replaced
Lubricate Mower
Cleaning
Grass Catcher (if applicable)
Muffler
- CHECK
LUBRtCATI(3NCHART
SCHEDULE
First
2
Hours
Every Every
10 25
Hours Hours
Every
50
Hours
SERVICEDATES
Every
Use
v"
,,,,,
v"
C___ SAE 30W MOTOR OiL (10W 30)
OSPRAY LUBRICANT
HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTING PIN (_
BRAKE SPRING BRACKET
(_ WHEEL ADJUSTER
ENGINE OIL
13

CRAFTSMAN 20" SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER 917.380221 REPAIR PARTS
11 t4
i 6
I
t
i8
5_ "t3
/
!
j
//
35
32
34
33
39
3O
41
\
3:
37 36
37 23
43

CRAFTSMAN 20"" SIDE DISCHARGE ROTARY LAWN MOWER 917.380221
REPAIR PARTS
oi
Ref.
No,
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
PART
No.
84046
84049
86874
85483
85768
84683
58714
63688
51793
34372A
85436
63601
85827
85424
85529
85825
87586
87585
81276
85663
85664
83813
55187
87605
87593
87590
87589
STD581025
53490
Part Name Ref.
No.
Upper Handle
Control Bar
Zone Control Actuator
Cable Assembly
Hex Thread Rolling Screw
10-24 x 314
Lower Handle
Handle Bolt
Handle Knob
Hairpin Cotter
Rope Guide (See Engine Parts
List) (Source 143)
Hex Washer Head Machine Screw
114-20 x 1 112
Locknut 1/4-20
Cable Clip
Trim Plate
Nylon Bushing
Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x1
Rear Skirt
Rear Skirt Bracket
Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x 1/2
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left}
Hex Head Screw 10-32 x 5/16
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
PART
No.
85022
84888
87877
88348
84920
69478
62335
84921
87695
51260
85179
77400
74400
62333
88374
88375
51433
54867
69385
69229
87712
68205
85463
48109
Part Name
Axle Arm Assembly
Selector Spring
Selector Knob
Washer
Spacer
Wheel Adjusting Bracket
Spring Washer
Shoulder Bolt
Wheel & Tire Assembly 7 112"
Washer
Retainer Clip
Hubcap
Locknut 3/8-16
Washer
Baffle-Front
Baffle-Rear
Locknut 5/8-18
Spring Washer
Washer
Blade
Blade Flange
Hex Head Screw 5/16-18 x7t8
Danger Decal
Mower Housing Assembly (Incl.
Ref #44 & 45)
Thread Cutting Screw
5/16 - 18 x 3/4
Discharge Guard
Housing Bracket
Hinge Rod
Torsion Spring
E-Ring
Locknut 114-20
54
55
56
57
58
88394
88393
85425
86875
700040
700042
Support Bracket (Right)
Support Bracket (Left)
Trim Plate Decal
Housing Decal
Engine Assembly 143.394032
(See pages 16 thru 18)
Owners Manual
Grass Catcher Complete (Not In-
cluded with Mower) 7_1 33072

CRAFTSMAN4"CYCLEENGINE MODELNUMBER:143,394032
Ii!111I UlII'IIIIIIIIWI' IIII IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII rll I1_1 II ' r]/_]i IplI r 1lip111111'll
•t
_151 _ 127
/
86/.-_
J
,/
f
82 87
51
f
1
f
8O
84 _
47
81
16

(_t_'S_ 4=_(L_ __ MODEL NUMBER: 143.394032
Ref. Part
No. No.
1
2
4
6
5
6
6
9
10
11
12
14
14
14
14A
t4A
14A
15
15
15
16
17
18
21
22
23
24
25
26
28
30
31
34
35
37
4O
41
42
46
47
48
51
52
54
59
60
61
6.3
64
65
66
67
68
68A
34975
26727
32600
293t4B
29315C
293t3C
2:9315C
31672
31673
35588
32223
34514
34515
34516
32538B
32548B
32549B
28986
28987
28988
20381
309638
32610A
27241
33!48A
29914
"35261
34311B
27897
27244
35479
30574
650488
30591
29193
30588A
30589
28277
31383A
650548
31335
611004
"29953C
3&335
602tA
35395
"27234A
32755
650128
"34690A
31384A
650451
35578
3.54,99
35577
34265
650562
33802
31342
650549
Part Name
Cylinder Assy. (Inc} Nos 2, 4, 94 8,
96)
Pin, Dowel
Seal, Oil
Valve, Intake (StdJ (It_c! No, 10}
Valve, intake (i/32" oversize) (IncI
No, 10)
Valve, Exhaust (Std) Hncl. No 10)
Valve, Exhaust (1/32" oversize)
(IncL No 10)
Spring, Valve
Cap, Lower valve spring
Crankshaft
Washer, Thrust
Piston, Pin 8. Ring Assy. (Incl Nos,
14A, 15 _ 16) (Std.)
Piston, Pin 8- Ring Assy. (Inel Nos.
14A, 15 Et 16) (.010 oversize)
Piston, Pin 8. Ring Assy, (Inc!. Nos
t4A, 15 8. 16) ( 020 oversize)
Piston 8. Pin Assy. (Std-) (Incl. No 16)
Piston 8. Pin Assy (.0t0 oversize}
(Inc! No. 16)
Piston 8- Pin Assy (.020 oversize)
{IncL No. t6)
Ring Set, Piston (Std,)
Ring Set, Piston (.010 oversize)
Ring Set, Piston 1,020 oversize)
Ring, Piston pin retaining
Rod Assy,, Connecting (Inct No, 181
Bolt, Connecting rod
Lifter, Valve
Camshaft (Compression Release)
Pump Assy, Oil
Gasket, Mounting flange
Flange Assy., Mounting (lnc] Nos 26,
288. 31)
Seal, Oil
Plug, Oil drain
Washer_ Flat
Shaft, Mechanical governor
Screw, Hex hd Sems0 I/4-20 x t-1/4
Gear Assy, Governor (Incl No 30)
Ring, Retaining
Spool, Governor
Rod, Governor (Incl No. 38)
Washer, Flat
Lever, Governor
Screw, Hex washer hd,, 8-32 x5/t6
Clamp, Governor lever
Key, FIywheet (Solid State)
Gasket, Cylinder head
Head, Cylinder
Screw, Hex flange hd,. 5/!6-18 x 1-1/2
Resistor Spark Plug lChampion RJ-
19LM or equivalent)
Gasket, Breather
Cover, Valve spring
Screw, Hex hd. Seres, 10-24 x 1/2
Gasket, Intake
Pipe, Intake (Incl. No.. 59)
Screw, Hex hd Sems, 114-20 x 1
Dipstick, Oil
"O" Ring
Tube, Oil fill
Gasket, Oil fill tube
Screw, Hex washer hd shakeproof0
10-32 x I/2
Spring, Compression
Spring, Compression
Screw, Fit. hd. 5-40 x 7/16
ReL Part
No. No.
69A 650777
73 31361
74 34337
75 34336
76 32410
77 30200
78 33205A
35167
3331
35065
35067
"26756
34961
620t
29752
35066
35068
35391
34443A
6508 t4
92 342t4A
93 33734
94 "33735
95 33886
95A 34695
96 30200
97 30200
98 35478
99 650831
t0t 35586
t02 35355
103 2646O
105 34357
t06 650815
t07 650816
108 35000
12t 27181B
122 650795
123 611112
127 34985
._128 35168
t29 34080
t30 35392
!31 650884
139 650839
141 350!5A
t42 34965
143 34966
144 32309
145 34968
146 610973
150 632387
151 590621
I52 33238D
79
8O
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
Part Name
Screw. Fil hd., 6-32 x 21132
Spring, Governor
Link, Governor spring
Link, Governor-to4hrottle
Knob, Speed control
Screw, Hex washer hd. self-tap,
Seres. 10-24 x 9/16
Control Assy, Speed (Inct Nos 68,
68A, 69, 69A)
Decal, Instruction
Air Cleaner Kit (Inc! Nos 81,82.87 8.
88)
Cover. Air cleaner
Collar, Air cleaner
Gasket, Carburetor
Wire. Ground
Screw, Hex hd, t_4-28 x 7"8
Nut 8: Lockwasher, 1'4_28
Filter, Air cleaner
Clamp, Air cleaner
Decat, Instruction
Solid State Assy
Screw, Torx hex washer hd Seres,
10_24 x 1
Breather Assy (Incl Nos 93 thru 96)
Element, Breather
Gasket, Breather
Tube, Breather
Elbow, Breather tube
Screw, Hex washer hd self4ap Serns,
10-24 x 9/16
Screw, Hex washer hd self-tap Seres.
10-24 x 9"16
Housing. Blower
Screw, Hex washer hd, Powerlok
thread, 1 s4-20 x 15"32
Tank Assy , Fuel {Inc! Nos t02 8 !03}
Cap, Fuel tank
Clamp, Fuel line
Line. Fuel
Washer. Belleville
Nut, Flywheel
Hub, Starter
Muffler (fncl No, 122)
Screw, Hex hd ,1 4-20 x 2..1 4
Flywheel
Rope Stop 8. Staple Assy
Bracket Assy., Rope guide
Spacer, Rywheel key
Plug, Starter
Screw, Hex washer hd., 8-32 x t 2
Screw. Hex washer hd Powerlok.
1/4_20 x 3/8
Bracket Assy, Brake
Spring, Extension
Link, Control
Ring, Retaining
Lever, Brake
Terminal Assy
Carburetor (Incl No. 83)
Starter, Rewind
Gasket Set (incl iteit_s:rnarke,d')
RPM Speed Settings:
Low, 2050; High. 3000
"Indicates Parts Included in
Gasket Set, Ref No 152.
17

CARBURETOR NO. 632387
5
[ I
I I
{.
26
t \!
t
I
1
14
t
I
15
Refo
No>
1
3
4
5
6
7
9
!1
12
13
14
t5
16
25
26
Part
No.
632387
631615
631616
650506
631767
631971
631184
632047
631027
631021
631022
632019
631024
631700
631334
631937
631028
631775
Part Name
Carburetor
Shaft 6` Lever Assy ,Throttle
Shutter, Throttle
Screw. Throttle shutter
Spring. Throttle return
Seal, Dust
Washer, Flat
Primer Assy
Plug, Welch
Inlet Needle, Seat 8, C{ip Assy
(Incl No. t3)
Clip, In{et needle
Float, Carburetor
Shaft, Float
Bowl, Float
Gasket, Bowl-to-body
Nut, Float bowl
Gasket, Bowl-to-body
Fitting, Fuel inlet
REWIND STARTER NO. 590621
Ref, Part
No, No. Part Name
....... 590621 Starter, Rewind
1590599A Pin, Spring (Inc{, No, 4)
2 590600 Washer
3 590615 Retainer
4 590601 Washer
5 590598 Spring, Brake
6 590616 Dog, Starter
7 590617 Spring, Dog
8 590618 Pulley
9 590619 Spring, Rewind
10 590620 Cover, Spring
11 590622 Housing Assy,, Starter
12 590535 Rope, Starter (Length 98" _9/64"
dia,)
13 590452 Ha ndle_ 'Starter
t8

T T$
PROBLEM
Doesnot
Start
Lossof
Power
Poorcut-
Uneven
Toomuch
Vibration
StarterRope
Hardto Pull
CatcherNot
FillingCompMely
HARDTO PUSH
CAUSE
I. Dirty Air Filter
2. Out of gasoline.
3. Stale Gasoline
4 Spark plug wire is disconnected
from the spark plug
5 Bad spark plug.
6. Water in gasoline.
7 Loose blade or broken blade
flange..
8 Operator Presence Control Bar in re-
leased position,
9, Operator Presence Control Bar defec-
tive
t Rear of mower houslng/btade
Dragging in heavy grass.
2. Culling too much grass..
3 Dirty air filter
4. Build-up of grass, leaves, and
trash under mower housing.
.Walking speed too fast
., Too much oil in engine,
'i Warn, bent or loose blade..
2 Wheel heights uneven.
3 Low engine speed.
4Build-up of grass, leaves and trash
under mower housing
1, Worn or bent blade.
2 Loose blade,
3 Bent engine crankshaft,
CORRECTION
Replace Air Filter
Fill gasoline tank
3 Drain gas tank and refill with fresh
gasoline.
4 Connect wire to spark plug
5Replace spark plug
6 Drain tank and refill with fresh, clean
gasoffne
7 Tighten blade nut and/ar replace
bIade flange
8 Depress Operator Presence Control
9 Replace Operator Presence Control
Bar
1Raise rear of mower housing one (1)
setting higher than front
2 Set in "Higher Cut" position
3 Clean or replace air filter
4 Disconnect spark plug wire and
clean underside of mower housing
5 Cut at slower walking speed
Flywheel brake is on when Operator
PresenceControl Bar is released.
6 Check engine oil level
tReplace blade Tighlen blade nut.
2 Set all wheels at same height
3 Set engine speed selector on
2. Bent engine crankshaft,
3. Blade flange sheared
4Blade draging in grass.
1Cutting height too low,
2 Lift on bladeworn off
3 Catcher bag dirty, poor air
venting
4 Low engine speed
High Gross or cutting height too low
Rear of mower housing/blade
dragging in heavy grass
3. Grass catcher too full
4. Handle height position not right for you
19
"HIGH" or "FAST"
4 Disconnect spark plug wire & clean
underside of mower housing
1 Replace blade
2 Tighten blade nut
3 Contact Sears Service Department
t Depress Operator Presence Control
Bar to upper handle before pulling
on starter rope.
2 Contact Sears Service Department
3 Replace blade flange
4 Get over low grass andlor hard surface
to start engine.
1 Raise cutting height
2 Replace blade
3 Clean/replace catcher bag
(If Optional gra,_s catcher is beihg
used)
4 Set engine speed selector on
"HIGH" or "FAST"
1 Raise cutting height
2Raise rear of mower housing one (1)
setting higher than front.
3 Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit

OWNER'S
MODELNO.
917.380221
HOWTOORDER
REPAIRPARTS
ERRFTSMRN
3.5 RESERVEPOWER
20" SIDEDISCHARGE
ROTARYLAWNMOWER
Each Lawn Mower has its own model number+ Each
engine has its own model number.
The model number' for your lawn mower will be found
on a decal attached to the rear of the mower housing+
The model number for the engine will be found on the
Blower' Housing of the engine adjacent to the spark plug+
All parts listed herein may be ordered through Sears,
Roebuck and Co. Service Centers and most Retail Stores.
WHENORDERINGREPAIRPARTS,ALWAYSGIVETHEFOLLOWING
INFORMATION:
* PRODUCT- "ROTARY LAWNMOWER"
* MODELNUMBER- 917.380221
* ENGINEMODELNO. - 143.394032
* PARTNUMBER
* PARTDESCRIPTION
Your Sears merchandise has added value when you con-
sider that Sears has service units nationwide staffed with
Sears trained technicians+.+professional technicians
specifically trained on Sears products, having the parts,
tools and the equipment to ins6re that we meet our+pledge
to you, we service what we sell.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., Chicago, IL.
700042 Rev.1 02/28/89
60684 U+S.A.
Printedin U.S.A.