Craftsman 917.386082 User manual

Owner's Manual
ICRIIFTSMIIN° _OWE R
ROTARYLAWN
4.0 Horsepower
20" Side Discharge
Model No.
917.386082
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman U.S.A.

Warranty ................................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4
Assembly /Pre-Operation ................... 4-8
Operation ........................................... 9-11
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 12
Maintenance .................................... 12-15
Product Specifications .......................... 13
Service and Adjustments ...................... 15
Storage ............................................ 16-17
Troubleshooting .............................. 17-18
Repair Parts ..................................... 36-41
SearsmService ......................... Back Cover
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, 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 commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
•Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only
while this product is used in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
&Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERTH[ YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
AWARNING: 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.
_,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle _J._' .
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm. 2
_, CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.

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.
•Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
•Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
•Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
•See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. DO NOT use accessories
that are not recommended by the
manufacturer of your mower, such as
de-thatcher blade attachments, which
can be hazardous and damage the
mower.
•Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
•Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or unclogging the chute.
•Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
until the blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
•Do not operate the machine while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never
run.
•Disengage the self-propelled mecha-
nism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
•If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of
trouble.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operat-
ing mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
•Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
•Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing could cause slipping.
II1.CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn 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
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
3

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 deterioration,
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
setting or overspeed the engine.
(1)
\
(1
Lower
Handle
Parts packed separately in carton
f/ ControlLI
Bar
(1) Engine Zone
Control Cable
(1) Discharge
Guard
(4) Wheels
4

Parts Bag contents not shown full size
(4) Wheel
Height
Adjusters
(1) Upstop
Bracket
(_e(1) Rope
(2) Wing Nuts
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 T
Upstop Bracket
(1) Hex Washer Head
Self-tapping Screw
#10-24 x 1/2
Discharge Guard
(2) Washers 3/4" Dia. © (2) Locknuts 1/4-20
Rope Guide
(1) Locknut
1/4-20
Wheels
(4) Flange Locknuts 3/8-16
\\
"_J J
(2) Washers 1-1/4" Dia.
Wheel Adjusters
(4) Locknuts
3/8-16 (4) Wheel Adjuster Knobs
(2) Handle Bolts (2) Hairpin Cotters
Handles
5

_I,CAUTION: Do not operate this mower
without the discharge guard or an entire
approved grass catcher in place. These
guards are for your protection and are
required by the American National
Standards Institute and Consumer
Products Safety Commission.
_CAUTION" Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
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 parts 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.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) 5/16" Wrench (1) Adjustable Wrench
(1) 7/16" Wrench (1) 9/16" Wrench
(1) 1/2" Wrench (1) 3/4" Wrench
When right hand or left hand is men-
tioned in this manual, it means when you
are standing in the operating position,
behind the handle.
UNPACK CARTON
1. Remove all loose parts from carton.
2. Examine all items. Compare with list
of unassembled parts and hardware.
3. Remove lawn mower housing with
care. Avoid touching blade under
housing. Always wear gloves or other
protection when working under or
lifting mower.
ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE
NOTE: The holes in lower handle are off
center to allow different height positions.
1. To install lower handle onto the
handle brackets squeeze the bottom
ends of lower handle towards each
other until the lower handle will slip
onto the mounting pins.
2. Position the lower handle in the
mowing position.
3. Install the two hairpin cotters onto
mounting pins.
Mowing
position
Hairpin
Mounting-
pin LOW POSITION
C""_ Mowing F_
', position ;
,/
I
HIGH POSITION
SQUEEZE
TO INSTALL "_
handle_
Mountingpin -_
Hairpin cotter
ASSEMBLE UPPER HANDLE
1. Position upper handle over lower
handle with small hole for mounting
up-stop bracket to left side and
assemble handle bolts and wing nuts.
Tighten securely.
ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET
2. Position upstop bracket on the left
inside of upper handle as shown.
3. Install the hex washer head screw into
the hole in up-stop bracket and upper
handle. Tighten securely.
6

AS VIEWED FROM FRONT OF MOWER ASSEMBLE WHEELS
1. Install wheels on threaded adjuster
axle arms.
2. Secure each wheel with flanged
Iocknut, Tighten securely,
3. Assemble adjustment knobs to
adjuster levers by pressing on or
tapping lightly.
Hex
washer
head
screw
Flanged
Iocknut
Axle arm
\
Adjustment
knob
Wheel
ASSEMBLE ADJUSTERS TO MOWER
DECK
Look carefully at the four (4) adjuster
assemblies. Notice that there are two (2)
different types. Type I is for the right rear
and left front. Type II is for the right front
and left rear.
1. Place each adjuster in the middle
.
3.
adjustment position.
Position appropriate adjuster at each
corner of mower.
Install each adjuster with adjuster bolt
and tab in deck holes as shown and
secure with 1-1/4" washer (rear
adjusters only) and 3/8-16 Iocknut.
Tighten all adjusters securely.
Type II
1-1/4" Washer (Rear Adjusters Only)
Tab hole
Type I height_ter _._ )
(right rear/left front) _'_/_--_ _ I
Type II height adjuster _'_°-- _"
(right front]left rear)_J _, Tab hole 7
ASSEMBLE DISCHARGE GUARD
1. Place discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.
2. Install two (2) 1/4-20 x 3/4 hex bolts
through housing and discharge guard.
3. Install two (2) 3/4" diameter washers
and two (2) 1/4-20 Iocknuts. Tighten
securely.
Washers
Discharge guard
Hex

INSTALL CONTROL BAR
1. Position control bar so flattened
section with hole is on opposite side
of handle as up-stop bracket.
2. Insert one end of control bar into
handle hole on inside of handle.
Carefully push in on opposite end of
control bar and insert into hole on
opposite side of handle.
Control bar
Up-stop bracket
ASSEMBLEENGINEZONECONTROL
CABLE TO UPPER HANDLE
Assemble cable to opposite side of up-
stop bracket.
1. Route cable below crossbar of lower
handle and up to control bar.
2. Hook "Z" bend fitting on inner wire into
hole in control bar.
3. Attach cable fitting to upper handle as
shown.
4. Secure cable to lower handle with
wire tie.
Control Upper
Upstop
zone
control
cable
ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CABLE TO ENGINE
1. Straighten cable and find the end with
the small plastic fitting.
2. Hook the "Z" bend fitting on inner wire
of cable into hole in brake arm of
engine.
3. Align the tapered end of the small
plastic fitting with the hole in the
mounting bracket and push in until
fitting snaps into place.
INSTALL STARTER ROPE
1. Put threaded end of rope guide
through hole in side of upper handle
above lower handle crossbar. Secure
with 1/4-20 Iocknut.
2. Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull engine starter rope out
until rope will slip into loop of rope
guide.
Mounting
bracket
PUSH IN_
Rope
guide
plastic fitting arm
Engine
starter rope
8

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with
the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
"Operator presence control bar
Engine zone control cable
nut
Starter
handle Gasoline filler cap
Primer
Air filter
Engine oil cap
with Muffler
Discharge
guard
Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar - must be
held down to the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Starter handle -used for starting the engine.
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
9

Theoperation 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 standard safety
glasses or wide vision safety mask worn
over spectacles.
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
ACAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
tums when the engine is running.
•Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium
position is best for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require-
ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same 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.
LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT
Plate tal
RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT Lever
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
ACAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
Make sure that rim of spout is clean.
3. You receive acontainer of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour 3/4 (15 oz.) of the oil
from the container down the oil fill
spout into the engine.
4. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.
Insert and tighten dipstick, then
remove it to check oil level.
5. Continue adding small amounts of oil
and rechecking the dipstick until it
reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine
will smoke on startup.
6. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick
before starting engine.
•Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline with a
minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
_1,CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
_, CAUTION: 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.
10