Craftsman 917.386101 User manual

Owner's Manual
[IIIIF'I'|MIIN+
3.8 HORSEPOWER
20" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.386101
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•EspaSol
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

;Warranty: ""-2 Product Specifications 13
Safety Rules -_ .2 Service and Adjustments 15
AssemblY 7 Storage 16
Operation 9 Troubleshooting 17
Maintenance Schedule 12 Repair Parts 36
Maintenance 12 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two (2) years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is main-
tained, lubdcated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instruc-
tions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or
workmanship.
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 dudng normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained 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 in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO. D/817 WA ESTATES ILLINOIS
Safety standards require operator pres-
ence controls to minimize the risk of injury.
Your unit is equipped with such controls.
Do not attempt to defeat the function of the
operator presence controls under any
circumstances.
TRAINING:
•Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
•Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
•Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this 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 of such 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.
2

•Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
•Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean
off any spilled gasoline before starting the
engine.
•Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
•Do not mow wet or slippe_ grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing -- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
•Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, reads,
and any gravel-covered areas.
•Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
•Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
•Do not continue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating you
mower.
•Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
•Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required.
•Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
•Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow exces-
sively steep slopes. Use 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 mounting
bolts often to be sure they are tightened
properly.
•Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
•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 deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn 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 storing in any
enclosure.
•Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach
an open flame or an ignitionsource such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.
&Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!If BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED
ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire a_ndplace wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
AWARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects, or
other reproductive harm.
3

_ccessones nthislawnmower was produced. ,arealso
availableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters.MostSearsstorescanalsoorder
repairpartsforyou,when youprovide_ modelnumberofyourlawnmower.Some ofbese
accessories may not applyto yourlawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS
GRASSCATCHERS
FOR
SIDEDISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
.AWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLAOES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR RLTERS
WHEELS
STABIUZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
4

i
Parts Bag contents shown fullsize
(4) Hex Bolts (4) Flange (4) Locknuts
3/8-16 x 1 Locknuts 3/8-16
3/8-16 (4) Washers 7/8"
(4) Shoulder Bolts
(2) Washers 1-1/4"
(2) Hex Bolts
1/4-20 x 1-1/2
(2) Washer 3/4"
@
(5) Locknuts
1/4-20 (2) Hex Bolts1/4-20 x 3/4
(1) Hex Washer Head Self-tapping Screw #10-24 x 1/2
5

Parts packed separately in carton
(1) Discharge Guard
(4) Wheels
(1) Lower Handle (1) Upper Handle
(1) Control Bar (1) Engine Zone Control Cable
Parts Bag contents not shown fullsize
(1) Rope Guide
(1) Wire Tie
(4) Spacers
(1) Upstop Bracket
6

ACAUTION:Donotoperatethisrnowerwithout
thedischargeguardoranentre approysdgrass
catcherinplace. Theseguardsarefo_your
protec_onandarereq_rsdbythe/_
NationalStandardsInstituteand Consumer
ProductsSafetyCommission.
_,CAUTION: Disconnectsparkplugwirefrom
sparkplugandplacewire whersitcannotceme in
p g.
Read these instrud_ns and this manual inits
entiretybefore you attemptto assemble or
operate your new lawn mows. Yournew lawn
mower has bean assembled at the factoq/with
the exception of those parts leftunassembled
for shippingpuq0o.ses.Allparts such as nuts,
washers, bolts,etc., necessary to completethe
assembly have bean placed in theparts bag.
To ensure safe and proper o_ d your
lawn mower, all parts and hardware you
assemble must be t_:j_ened securely. Use the
correct toolsas necessary toensure proper
_jhthess.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assemb,_
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) 5/16" Wrench (1) AdjustableWrench
(1)3/4"Wrench (2)7/16"Wm_P--s
(2) 9/16" Wrenches
When righthand or left hand ismentioned in
this manual, itmeans when you are standing
in the operating position,behind the handle.
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all loose parts from carton
(See pagas 5 and 6).
• Examine all items. Compare with r_ of
unassembled parts and ham_are
(See pages 5 and 6).
•Remove lawn mower housingwith care.
Avoid touching blade under housing.
Always wear gloves or other protection
when working under or liftingmower.
ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE
•For ease oflower handle assembly, raise
rear of deck and blocksecurely.
• Position lower handle on deck so cot-off flat
isforward as shown.
•Alignholes in handle with holes in deck as
shown and assemble 3/8-16 x 3/4 hex bolts,
fiatwashers, and Iocknuts. Tighten
securely.
•Repeat for opposite side of _er.
Lowerhandle=Range
locknuts
Hex
bolts
washers
Cut-off fiat |onNard
ASSEMBLE UPPER HANDLE
• Position upper handle over lower handle
with small hole for mounting up-stop
bracket to left side and assemble 114-20
x 1-1/2 hex bolts and 1/4-20 Iocknuts.
Tighten securely.
ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET
•Position upstop bracket on the |eft inside
of upper handle as shown.
•Install the hex washer head screw into
the hole in up-stop bracket and upper
handle. Tighten securely.
AS VIEWED FROM FRONT OF MOWER
Locknuts
ASSEMBLE WHEELS
Cuttingheight isdetermined byassembling
the wheels inone offourpossible positionson
the mower housing. All wheels must be in the
same heightpositionfor even cutting.
•For each wheel, assemble shoulderbolt
and spacer as shown
• Assemble 1-1/4" dia. washer (rear wheels
only) and 3/8-16 Iocknut on inside of mower
housing and tighten securely. 3/8 - 16
Mower housing
Shoulder bolt
7
Wheel
1-114"DIA.
Washer(Rear
wheelsonly)

ASSEMBLE DISCHARGE GUARD
•Race discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.
• Installtwo (2) 1/4-20 x 3/4 hex boltsthmugll.
housing and discharge guard.
•Installtwo (2) 3/4" die. washers and two (2)
1/4-20 Iocknuts. Tighten securely.
Washers
Hex bolts
.Locknuts
tP
Housing
/
ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CABLE TO UPPER HANDLE
Assemble cable to opposite side of up-stop
bracket.
•Route cable below crossbar of lower handle
and up to control bar.
• Hook "Z"bend titlingon inner wire into hole
incontrolbar.
•Attach cable fittingto uoper handle as
shown.
•Secure cable to lower handle with cable dip.
Upper handle ,bar
INSTALL CONTROL BAR
• Position control bar soflattened section
hole isto oppositeside of up-stopbracket.
•Insertone end ofcontrolbar intohandle
hole on inside of handle. Carefully push in
on opposite end ofcontrolbar and insert
intohole on opposite side of handle.
Controlbar
Up-stop
ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE
CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE
•Straighten cable and find the end with
the small plastic fitting.
•Hook the "Z" bend fitting on inner wire of
cable into hole in brake arm of engine.
•Align the tapered end of the small plastic
fitting with the hole in the mounting
bracket and push in until fitting snaps
into place.
Brake arm
Zone control
cable
INSTALL STARTER ROPE
•Put threaded end of rope guide through
hole in side of upper handle above lower
handle crossbar. Secure with 1/4-20
Iocknut.
•Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull engine starter rope out
until rope will slip into loop of rope guide
Upper handle
Locknut
Engine
starter Lower
rope
Push in
\
Small Mounting
plastic bracket
fitting
8

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULESBEFORE OPERATINGYOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswithyour lawn mower tofamiliarize yourself withthe
locationofvarious controlsand adiustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literaturesuppliedwith the product.
Leam and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP H/_NOS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Enginezone control
cable peratorpresencecontrol bar
Gasolinefillercap
Starter handle
Airfilter
Engine oil
fi!lerplug Primer
Dischargeguard
Housing
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-
sion. The blade tums when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar - must be
held down tothe handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additionalfuel from the
carburetor to the cylinderfor use when starting
acoldengine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.
9

Theoperationofanylawnmowercan result in
foreignobjects thrown intothe eyes. whichcan
resultin severe eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shieldswhile operating
your lawn mower or performingany adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed isnotadjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
ACAUTION: Federal regulationsrequirean
engine controlto be installedon this lawn
mower in order tominimize the riskof blade
contact injury.Do not under any circumstances
attempt to defeat the function ofthe operator
control.The blade turnswhen the engine is
running.
•Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence controlbar which
requiresthe operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to startand
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Adjust cuttingheight tosuityour requirements.
Medium positionisbest for most lawns. Raise
wheels for low cut and lowerwheels for high
cut.
• Remove wheel bolt, and hardware and
reassemble in desired adjustment hole,
•Reinstallwheel components inthe same
order as they were before removal. T_hten
securely.
3/8-16 Locknut
Wheel
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
•Remove engine oil plug and fillto the
top of slot in filler hole.
•Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade
of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
•Pour oil slowly, Do not over fill,
•Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed.
•Reinstall engine oil plug and tighten.
•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;
GAS
•I=illfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasolinewith a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasolinewill
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oilwith
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
WARNING: Experience indicatesthat alcohol
blended fuels (celled gesohol orusing ethanot
or methanol) can attract moisturewhich leads
to separation and formation ofacids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To avoi
engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, startthe engine and let it
rununtilthe fuel linesand carburetor are
empty. Uselmsh fuel next season. See
Storage Instruc_onsfor additionalinformation
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
productsinthe fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
Bolt Gasoline fillercap
Oil filler
10

TO START ENGINE
•To start a cold engine, push primer five
(5) times before trying to start. Use a
firm push. This step is not usually
necessary when starting an engine
which has already run for a few minutes.
•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 pdming 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 and DO NOT repeat
priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
•Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing effort
and to keep from overloading the engine
and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It
may also be necessary to reduce
ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by ovedapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
•For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
° For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting
in a counter-clockwise direction, starting
at the outside of the area to be cut,
spreads grass clippings more evenly.
and puts less load on the engine. To:
keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a
clockwise direction.
° Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with use
and catchers will collect less grass. To
prevent this, regulady hose catcher off
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
11

CheckforLooseFasteners t/ ivI
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
{If Equipped) ll/
M CleanLawnMower _
_ lean Under Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drivebelt/pulleys
ER (Power-Propeiled Mowers) li/
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade t/=
Lub_llan _ _
Clean Batterj/Recharge
IElectricStart Mowers) l/ _4
ECheck En_linsOil Level I_
NChange Engine Oil t/1,2
GClean AirFilter II/
| Inspect Muffler v'
Nclaan or Replace Spark Plug I
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge t/=
I -Changemore oRenwhenopeca_ngund•r •heavy_orin high_bient temperatures.
2. Sewine rno_ olten_operatingindidyor duslycondition.
3. ReFace 10bd*sa_q_ oftenwhenmow_g insandysol
4. Charge 48 hoursid ond of =ea_.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oil level.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART').
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheel (_) Engineoil
/
i_ II (_) Brake
spdng
I_ Discharge bracket
guard
hinge pin
(_) Handle bracket
mountingpin
(_) Spray lubricant
Refer to MAINTENANCE "ENGINE"
vsection.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
12

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.386101
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 3.8
DISPLACEMENT: 9.05CU. IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 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(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVECLEARANCE: 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 found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm
rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
•Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when remov'lng blade bolt.
•Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
•Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside 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.
13

IMPORTANT:BLADEBOLT IS GRADE 8
HEAT TREATED.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
•To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of.blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Blade Crankshaft
adapter'_',_ keyway
Key
Change the oilafter every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oillevel before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hoursof
continuoususe. "13ghtenoilplug securely each
time you check the oillevel.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
•Disconnectspark plugwire from spark plug
and place wire where itcannot come in
contactwith spark plug.
•Be sure lawn mower ison level surface.
• Oil will drain more freelywhen warm.
•Catch oilin asuitablecontainer.
•Remove bottom oildrain plug.
•After oil has drained completely, replace oil
drain plug and tighten securely.
•Refillengine withoil. Pour slowly. Do not
overfill.
•Filltotop ofslot insideof fillerhole.
• Reconnect spark plugwire to spark plug.
Crank-
shaft
Blade
bolt Lock Blade
washer edge adapter
Hardened
washer
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Useonly high qualitydetergentoilratedwith
API servicecla_'_cationSF,SG orSH.
Selectthe oirs SAEviscositygradeaccording
to yourexpectedoperatingtemperature.
NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils(5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve startingin coldweather,
these multi-viscosity oilswifl resultin increased
oilcensumption when used above 32°F.
Check your engine oillevel more frequently to
avoid possibleengine damage from running
Iowon oil.
Drain plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine willnot runproperlyand may be
damaged by using a dirtyair filter. Clean the
element after every 25 hours of operation,
more often if mower is used in very dusty,dirty
conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT
•Remove the air filter cover by liftingon edge
ofcover.
•Remove filter element carefullyto prevent
dirtfrom antering carburetor.
•Clean the inside of the cover and the body
to remove any dirt accumulation.
•Wash filterelement in liquiddetergent and
water.
•Wrap filterelement in clothand squeeze
dry.
• Ughtly coat flfler element with clean engine
oil. Squeeze in towel to remove excess oil.
Do notsaturate.
•Installfilterelement intotilterbody.
• Install filter cover and press down tosnap
14 intoplace.

Cover
Element AirFilter Body
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffleras it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
yourengine start easier and run better. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of buiit-upgrass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
ACAUTION: Disconnectspark plugwire 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
filterand carburetor are up. Clean the
underside ofyour lawn mower by scraping
to remove build-up ofgrass and trash.
•Clean engine oftento keep trash from
accumulating. Adogged engine runs hotter
and shortens engine life.
•Keep finishedsurfaces and wheels free of
all gasoline, oil,etc.
•We de not recommend usinga garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electricai system, muffler, air fitterand
carburetor are covered tokeep water out.
Water in engine can resultin shortened
engine life.
&CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
•Release controlbar and stopengine.
•Make sure the blade and all moving parts
have completely stopped.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
and place where itcannot come incontact
with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CLFR'ING HEIGHT" in the
Operation sectionof this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector,attached between the rear
wheals of your mower, isprovided tominimize
the possibilitythat objectswillbe thrown out of
the rear of the mower intothe operator
mowing position. Ifthe deflector becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard attached tothe
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of injury
resulting from objects being thrown out of the
discharge opening into the operator mowing
pesitien. Ifthe discharge guard becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixturecontrol. If yourengine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair and
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
AUTHORIZED service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to make
any necessary adjustments,
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed has been factory set. Do
not attempt to increase engine speed as it
may resultin personal injury. Ifyou believe the
engine is runningtoo fast or too slow,take
your lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and adjustment.
15

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storage at the end ofthe season or ifthe unit
willnot be used for 30 days or more
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
of time, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc Store ina dean, dry area
•Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN
ING" in the Maintenance sectionofthis
manual).
•Lubricateas shown in the Maintenance
sectionof this manual.
•Be sure that all nots,belts, screws, and pins
are securelyfastened Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear
Replace if necessary
•Touch up all rustedor chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as carburetor, fuel filter,
fuel hose or tank during storage Also,
experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called 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
•Drain the fuel tank
• Start the engine and let itrun untilthe fuel
linesand carburetor are empty.
•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
productsin the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer isan acceptable
aitemative in minimizing the formationoffuel
gum deposits duringstorage. Add stabilizerto
gasoline infuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratiofound on stabilizer
container Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizerto allowthe stabilizer to
reach the carburetor Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor ifusing fuel stabilizer
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replacewith
clean engine oiL (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYUNDER
• Remove spark plug.
•Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole into cylinder
•Pullstarterhandle slowlya few times to
distribote oil.
•Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasolinefrom one season to
another
•Replace your gasoline can if yourcan starts
to rust Rust end/or dirtinyour gasolinewill
cause problems
•ifpossible, store your unitindoors and cover
ifto give protectionfrom dust and dirt
•Cover your unitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Donot
use plastic Plast_ cannot breathe Which
allowscondensation toform and willcause
your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm
ACAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasolinein the tank insole a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Does not start CAUSE
Dirtyair filter.
Out offuel.
Stale fuel.
Water in fuel.
•Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
•Bad spark plug.
•Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
•Control bar in released
position.
• Control bar defective.
CORRECTION
• Clean/raplace air filter.
• Fillfuel tank.
• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
•Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.
• Replace spark plug.
•Tv:jhtenblade boltor
replace blade adapter.
•Depress controlbar to
handle.
•Replace controlbar.
17

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Loss of power
Poor cut- uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
ito pull
Grass catcher
not filling (ff so
equipped)
_topu_
CAUSE
• Rear oflawn mower housing
or cuttingblade dragging
inheavy grass.
•Cuttingtoo much grass.
•Dirtyair filter.
•Buildupofgrass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
•Toomuch oilin engine.
•Walking speed too fast.
•Wom, bent or looseblade.
•Wheel heights uneven.
• Buildup ofgrass, leaves
and trash under mower.
• Worn, bent or loose blade.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
•Engine flywheel brake is on
when controlbar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
•Blade adapter broken.
•Blade draggingin grass.
• Cutting height too low.
•Liftoo blade wom off.
• Catcher notventing air,
•Grass istoo highor wheel
heightis too low.
•Rear oflawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
•Grass catcher too full.
•Handle height position not
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
•Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Clean underside ofmower
housing.
•Check oillevel.
•Cut at slower walking
speed.
•Replace blade.'l]ghten
blade bolt.
• Set all wheels at same
height
• Clean underside of
mower housing.
• Replace blade. 1]ghten
blade bolt.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
•Depress controlbar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
•Replace blade adapter.
•Move lawn mower tocut
grass orto hard surface
to startengine.
• Raise cuttingheight.
•Replace blade.
• Clean grass catcher.
•Raise cutting height.
•Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
• Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit.
18

SERVICE NOTES
43

SERVIC.E NOTES
42