Craftsman 917.387010 User manual

Owner's Manual
rRAFTSMAN°
3.5 HORSEPOWER
20" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWBR
Model No.
917.387010
• Safety
• Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Espahol
•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 9
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 11
Assembly 4 Storage 12
Operation .5 Troubleshooting 14
Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30
Maintenance 8 Parts Ordering 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 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator
presence 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 a_l
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 slippery 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 dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
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
excessively 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 ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
_,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
ACAUTION: 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.
_,WARNING
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 accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower.They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service
centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model
number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS STABILIZER
<Y
GAS CANS
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS __ GRASS CATCHERS
FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
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
complete the assembly have been
placed in the parts bag. To ensure safe
and proper operation of your lawn
mower, all parts and hardware you
assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to
ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully
so as not to pinch or damage control
cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle
section locks into place in mowing
position.
4

• Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort.
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustment section of this manual.
Operator presence control bar
Lift up
Lift up
Mowing
position
Lower handle
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND 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
Engine zone
control cable presence control bar
Handle knob
Gasoline filler cap
Primer Lawn mower housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped without OIL OR GASOLINE in
the engine.
Wheel ajduster
(on each wheel)
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 Commission. 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.
Primer -pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.
5

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
_asses.
OWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINESPEEDCONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_,CAUTION: 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
turns 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
.... I
Raise wheels for low
Le_ver
Plate tab
cut
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 fill to the
top of slot in filler hole.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate reading.
• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type
and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE"
in maintenance section of this manual.
• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil
plug each time.
• 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.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline
will increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
_I,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.
_I,CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
6

Gasoline filler .Engine oil
cap
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 priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine wilt not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
MOWlNGTIPS
• 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 overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• For side discharge lawn mowers,
cutting in 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, regularly 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.
7

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners -I_
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) I/' i_
MClean Lawn MowerClean Under Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers) !#/
_ Check drive belt/pulleys
(Power-Propelled Mowers) If
RCheck!Sharpen/ReplaceBlade 1#/3
Lubrication Chart If V'
Clean Battery/Recharge
(Electric Start Mowers) I/' 11_4
RE Check Engine Oil Level V'
Change Engine Oil 1_'1,2
Clean Air Filter _2
Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge _2
1 Change more often when operating under aheavy load or in high ambient lemperatures.
2-Service more often when operating in dirtyor dusty conditions,
3- Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy sot1
4-Charge 48 hours at end of season.
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 Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
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
adjuster
(_) Rear (_) Engine oil
door
hinge
andle bracket
(_ Spray lubricant
(_) SAE 30 Motor oil. Refer to ENGINE
MAINTENANCE Section.
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, powdered graphite type lubricant
8 sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.0 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
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 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 removing 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.
9

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a 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
adapter Crankshaft
Lock- Hardened
washer washer Trailing
edge
shaft
Blade
adapter
GRASS CATCHER
( If purchased as an accessory)
• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through normal
use it wiUwear. If catcher needs replacing,
replace only with a manufacturer approved
replacement catcher. Give the lawn
mower model number when ordering.
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.
10
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
30. 2o, 10= o, I o, 3o_ 3o =
T_MPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEF_ORE N_T OIL C_ANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosity oils will result in in-
creased oil consumption when used above
32°F. Check your engine oil level more
frequently to avoid possible engine damage
from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely
each time you check the oil level,
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• Remove bottom oil drain plug.
• After oil has drained completely,
replace oil drain plug and tighten
securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not over fill.
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
S
J
i
Drain plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine wit! not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air 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 screw.
• Remove air cleaner carefully to prevent
dirt from entering carburetor.

• Takeair cleanerapartandcleanair
filterelement.
• Washfilterelementin liquiddetergent
andwater.
• Wrapfilterelementincloth and
squeezedry.
• Lightlycoatfilterelementwithclean
engineoil. Squeezein towelto remove
excessoil. Donot saturate.
• Reassemblepartsandputbackon
carburetor. Assemble one of these low
points towards narrow edge of
Element element
Srew__ _
Body
Assemble so lip
extends over
edge of air
cleaner body
Lipwill form
protectLve seal
when cover is
assembled
MUFFLER
Inspectand replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARKPLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and runbetter. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up grass
and trash. Clean underside of mower
housing after each use.
_,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• Turn 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.
_CAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments
• Release control bar and stop engine.
• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU]-I'ING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower into
the operator's mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of injury
resulting from objects being thrown out of
the discharge opening into the operator
mowing position. If the discharge guard
becomes damaged, it should be replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
• Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
• Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
• Turn lower handle over to raise or lower
handle.
11

• Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
• Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handle.
Mowing Mowing
position ,,..,, position ,,(-i_
...._/_ ,, , ,i,,'
Low position
¥':- Lower
•' handle
Rotate _ /
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. Ifyour engine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair 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 authorized
service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
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.
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance of this
manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage
and wear. Replace if necessary.
•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage
•Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the handte bracket,
then move handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle
for storage or transportation, be sure to
fold the handle as shown or you may
damage the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Operator presence control bar
Upper handle _%.
// /
/ /)"
Fold forward __.. ,,/, /'_
for storage _\ _?,.,.."/ "_ "/
_¢-=:'k:_±_-_::'i_;"_ ! ,','; Fold
_,'_L "_'"'.'-'-'_/' '.// backward
___ pos,t,on
Lower handle
12

Lower handle
Squeeze to fold
//"
Mounting pin
Hairpin cotter
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis 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 it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.
•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer
to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole into cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do not
use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and will cause
your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
_CAUTION: 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.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and
dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
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.
13

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
CAUSE CORRECTION
PROBLEM
Doesn_s_
Loss of power
Poor cut- uneven
1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Wom, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
1. Replace blade. "lighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
14

TROUBLESHOOTiNGCHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive
vibra6on
Starter rope hard
topull
!. Wom, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
,
,
3.
4.
Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft.
Blade adapter broken.
Blade dragging in grass.
!. Replace blade. 13ghten
blade bolt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
notfilling (if so 2. Lifton blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push 1. Raise cutting height.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
right for you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
15

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387010
KEY PART
NO. NO.
1 869O2
2 153638
3 851201X004
4165452X479
5157081 X479
7 131959
886899X004
9 750097
10 156569
12 66426
13 51793
14 136376
15 752052
16 128415
17 63601
19 851855
21 88602
22 150215
23 140543
24 750085X007
25 87584X004
26 170345X479
27 170346X479
28 61537
29 146630
31 700331 X004
32 87877
33 145935X479
34 62335
35 142748
KEY PART
DESCRIPTION NO. NO.
Control Bar 36 700263
RopeGuide 37 83923
EngineWasher 39 800090
UpperHandle 41 149741
LowerHandle 42 85463
Handle Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-3/4 43 751592
Up-Stop Bracket 44 150406
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x1/2 46 171778
Engine Zone Control Cable 49 851084
WireTie 50 850263
HairPin Cotter 51 851074
STD. Knobs 52 850972
Discharge Guard 53 850977
Rivet 55 700839)(479
Locknut1/4-20 56
Torsion Spring
Hinge Deflector - - 173680
Hinge Rod - - 161058
Rear Deflector
Wheel Adjusting Bracket
Deflector Bracket
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
Washer
Spacer
SelectorSpdng
SelectorKnob
AxleArm Assembly
BellevUleWasher
ShoulderBolt
DESCRIPTION
Wheel and Tire Assembly
Nut
Hubcap
Thread Cutting Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4
Danger Decal
Locknut 3/8-16
Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8
Lawn Mower Housing
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd.8)
Helical Lock washer 3/8
Hardened Washer
Blade 20
Blade Adapter
Front Baffle
Engine (See Breakdown) Bdggs and Stratton
ModelgD902-2085-E1
Owner's Manual
Waming Decal (Not Shown)
Available accessories not included with lawn mower:
71.133077 Grass Catcher
71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer
7133300 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
71 33417 Dust Shield
71 33316 MowerCover

BRIGGS & STRATTON MODEL NUMBER
4-CYCLE ENGINE 9D902-2085-E1
482
941
383
337
5
13
11036 LABEL KIT - EMISSIONS I
620
305
dr REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLS
TO INSTALL, SEE REPAIR
INSTRUCTION MANUAL.
305
I
_200
32

BRIGGS & STRATI'ON MODEL NUMBER
4-CYCLE ENGINE 9D902-2085-E1
_332
455
635 _j 643 _535
lO_
_363 1630
23 300
334
33

BRIGGS & STRATTON MODEL NUMBER
4-CYCLE ENGINE 9Dg02-2085-E1
43 670
305
73
s51 8_
373 _5
369
456
461 _
:34

BRIGGS & STRATTON MODEL NUMBER
4-CYCLE ENGINE 9D902-2085-E1
KEY PART KEY PART
NO, NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1399164 Cylinder Assembly 200 281024 Blade, Governor
2 293708 Bushing 201 262753 Link, Governor
3 299819 * Seal, Oil 209 263114 Spring, Governor
4 395384 Sump, Engine 209A263109 Spring, Governor
5 214277 Head, Cylinder 258 95120 Screw, Sems
7 272694 * Gasket, Cylinder Head 304 499165 Housing, Blower
8 495785 Breather Assembly 305 94786 Screw, Hex Head
9 272602 * Gasket, Breather 332 94877 Nut, Flywheel
10 94719 Screw, Sems 333 496914 Armature, Magneto
11 231774 Tube, Breather 334 94731 Screw, Sems
12 270833 * Gasket, Crankcase 335 94732 Screw, Shoulder
13 93111 Screw, Cylinder Head 337 802592 Plug, Spark
(Fuel Tank to Cylinder) 356 497833 Wire, Stop
15 94720 Plug, Oil Drain 363 19069 Flywheel Puller
16 499014 Crankshaft 369 263073 Spring, Friction
19 293709 Bushing 373 92987 Nut, Hex
20 391483 * Seal, Oil 383 89838 Wrench, Spark Plug
22 94682 Screw, Hex Head 387 494408 Primer, Carburetor
23 495046 Flywheel 390 262764 Spring, Diaphragm
24 222698 Key, Flywheel 393 262734 Screen, Carburetor
25 498668 Piston Assembly, StandarD 394 495770 Diaphragm, Carb.
498669 Piston Assembly, .010" 455 225502 Cup, Flywheel
Oversize 456 281503 Retainer Spring
498670 Piston Assembly, .020" 459 281505 Ratchet
Oversize 461 94943 Screw, Shoulder
498671 Piston Assembly, .030" 482 94851 Screw, Hex
Oversize 523 281081 Cap, Oil Fill
26 498680 Ring Set, Standard Size 529 67838 Grommet, Breather
498681 Ring Set, .010" Oversize 534 93865 Screw
498682 Ring Set, .020" Oversize 535 272235 Filter, Air
498683 Ring Set, .030" Oversize 536 493492 Cleaner, Air
27 26026 Lock, Piston Pin 608 499706 Starter, Rewind
28 298909 Pin, Piston, Standard Size 612 496046 Tube, Pickup
298908 Pin, Piston, .005" Oversize 617 270344 Seal, Intake Elbow
29 294201 Rod, Connecting, Std. 620 498207 Bracket, Control
296079 Rod, Connecting (.020" 0.5.) 625 298775 Manifold, Intake
32 94699 Screw, Hex 634 280566 Washer, Shaft
33 296676 Valve, Exhaust 635 66538 Boot, Spark Plug
34 296677 Valve, Intake 643 280972 Retainer, Air Filter
35 260552 Spring, Valve 670 94047 Spacer
37 225013 Guard, Flywheel 718 231993 Pin, Dowel
40 93312 Retainer, Valve 729 280470 Clip, Wire
45 230173 Tappet, Valve 741 261533 Gear, Timing
46 493747 Gear, Cam 851 493880 Terminal, Cable
47 491688 Slinger, Oil 869 211172 Seat, Valve, Intake
52 270345 * Gasket, Intake Manifold 870 211291 Seat, Valve, Exhaust
54 93485 Screw, Self-Tapping 87t 231348 Bushing, Guide, Exhaust
55 499441 Housing, Rewind Starter Valve
56 499901 Pulley, Starter 63709 Bushing, Guide, Intake Valve
58 280406 Rope, Starter (81", Cut to 941 281715 Cover, Linkage
Suit) 942 499260 Bracket, Brake
59 396892 Insert, Grip 973 281661 Ring, Trim, (Primer Bulb)
60 393152 Grip, Starter Rope 1036 499332 Label Kit, Emissions
66 94904 Screw, Hex Head 2500 98902-1516 Replacement Engine
73 225381 Screen, Rotating ---- 398211 Replacement Shortblock
96 224412 Valve, Throttle
105 494409 Valve, Needle Included in Gasket Set, Part Number
116 271485 * Ring, Oil Retainer 298989
125 498809 Carburetor
131 281437 Shaft, Throttle NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.
163 271139 *Gasket, Air Cleaner inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm
180 494406 Tank, Fuel
181 497929 Cap, Fuel Tank
190 93440 Screw, Sems
300 394569 Muffler, Exhaust
35