Craftsman 917.387412 User manual

Owner's Manual
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.387412
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•EspaSol
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and followall
Safety Rulesand Instructions
before operatingthis equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ................................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4
Assembly ................................................ 5
Operation ............................................. 6-9
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10
Maintenance .................................... 10-13
Product Specifications .......................... 1t
Service and Adjustments ...................... 14
Storage ............................................ 15-t 6
Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17
Repair Parts ..................................... 34-39
Parts Ordering ........................ Back Cover
LIMITED TWOYEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years 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 workmanship.
Ifthis Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
ThisWarranty does notcoven
•Expendable items which become worn during normaluse, such as rotarymower
blades,blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-
shaftsand the failure to maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructionscontained
in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower tothe 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 rightswhich
vary from state to state
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 Wa, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60179
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwingobjects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructionson 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 notput hands or feet near or under
rotatingparts. 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 instructionsfor
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
•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 uncloggingthe chute.
2

• Shutthe engine (motor) off and wait
untilthe blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
•DOnot 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-
nismor drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
• If the equipment should start tovibrate
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 amaior factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. Ifyou feel uneasy on a elope, 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 c_usa slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is notalert to the presence of children,
Children are often attracted tothe
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
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICES
•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.
3

ALook forthis symbol to pointout
importantsafety precautions. It means
CAUTIONH{ 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: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birthdefects or other repro-
ductive harm.
_,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.
_. CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely hotduring
operation and remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.
These accessorieswere availablewhen this lawnmowerwas produced.They are not
shipped with your mower.They are alsoavailaUe at mostSearsretailouUelsand servk_
centers. MostSearsstorescan aJsoorderrepairpartsfor you,when youprovidethe model
numberof your lawn mower. Some of 6"_eseaccessoriesmay not app4yto your lawn_er.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS 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
STABIUZER
GAS CANS
4

Read these instructionsand this manual
in its entiretybefore you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shippedWITHOUT 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.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thorougly for additional
loose parts.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise hand]as until lower handle
section locks into place in mowing
position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to
upper handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator I
control bar
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
bar
Handle knob
Starter Gasoline filler cap
handle
Airfilter
Engineoilplug_ Primer
Muffler
Discharge
guard_
IMPORTANT: This lawn
mower is shipped WITHOUT Wheeladjuster
OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. (oneachwheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards ofthe
American National Standards Instituteand the U,S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar -must be Primer - pumps additionalfuel from the
held down to the handle to start the carburetor to the cylinderfor use when
engine. Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine,
Starter handle -used for starting the
engine. 6

Theoperationof any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend a wide vision safety
mask over spectacles or standard safety
glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
Trle engine speed was set at the factory
for optimumperformance. 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 CUTFING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for highcut, adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium
positionis 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 propedy 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,
LowerWheelsfor High Cut PlateTa_ i
RaiseWheelsforLOWCut Lever
TO CONVERTTO DISCHARGING
MOWER
Your mower is shipped ready to be used
as amulcher, To convertto bagging or
discharging:
•Liftdischarge guard and remove
mulcher plata,
•Mower can now be used for side
discharging or optional grass catcher
can be attached.
•To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown,
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without discharge guard, ap-
proved grass catcher or mulcher plate in
place.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.
For type and grade of oil to use, see
"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level end area
around oil fill is clean,
2. Remove engine oil plug and fill to the
top slot in filler hole, Pour oil slowly.
Do not over fill.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate reading.
3. Reinstall engine oil plug and tighten.
•Check oil level before each use, Add
oil if needed. Fill to the top slot in filler
hole.
•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.
7

ADDGASOLINE
• Fillfueltank.Usefresh,clean,regular
unleadedgasolinewithaminimumof
87octane.Donotmix oil with gaso-
line. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure
fuel freshness.
_WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation end
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system ofan
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 Instructionsfor
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
_, 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.
Gasoline
filler cap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protectivecoatings on the
engine, asmall amount of smoke may be
present duringthe initial use of the
product and should be considered
normal.
1. TO start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) 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.
2. 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
•To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather itmay be
necessary to repeat primingsteps. 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.
Engine
8

MOWINGTIPS
•Under certain conditions,such as very
tallgrass, itmay be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effortand to keep from ovedoading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce groundspeed and/or runthe
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
cuttingconditions,the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
•For side discharge lawn mowers,
cutting in acounter-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 clippingsoff of
walkways, flower beds, etc., make the
first cutsin 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.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
Maintenance section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass wilt biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early affemoon. At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown
it will be necessary to raise the height
of cut to reduce pushing effort and to
keep from overloading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar to the first out path.
•Change your cuttingpattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
9

..O0 'RS.RV,OE sE.v,cEDATES
Check for Loose Fasteners VIf
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
If Equipped) I,/ _ _,/
MClean Lawn Mower _ t/
Clean Under Drive Cover
Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drive belt/ ulleys
RE Power-propelle_Mowers) t_
Chec_JSharpen/Replace Blade _'3
Lubrication Chart _
Clean Battety/nechar e
E]ectdc Start Mowe_ II_/ k/4
ECheck Enqfne Oil Level
NChan,qe Engine Oil _1.2
GClean Air Filter b/' :_
Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug I_
E Reptace Air Filter Paper Carh'idge If2
1 . change rp,o_ often when operaling under aheavy load or ,_ high am_ent tempetalures,
2 - Service ,Torj o_en when OpenaUngk, dldy or _Js_/condJlk_ns.
3 - Re°lace btadel=mo_ oftenwhen mowing Insandy soil.
4. C/_rge 48 hours_1end 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 wilt 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
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheeled uster
eachwhee)
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART').
spring
bracket
Discharge
guard hinge pin
ine oil
(_ Rear
(_ Handle bracket mounting pins door hinge
(_) Spray lubricant
(_ See "ENGINE" In Maintenance section.
10
IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease
plastic wheel bearings. Viscous
lubricantswill attract dust and dirt that
willshorten the life of the self-lubricat-
ing bearings, Ifyou feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER:
DATEOF PURCHASE:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS (UNLEADED REGULAR)
OILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OUNCES
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .045") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RJ19LM4
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety ruleswhen perform-
ingany maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep IJresfree of gasoline,_1, orinsect
control chemicals which _ harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts,sharp
objects andother hazards that may cause
tiredamage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
keptsharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use awood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turningwhen removing blade bolt.
NOTE; Protectyour hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade boltby turningcounter-
clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (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 condi-
tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Positionthe blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
2. Positionblade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raisedlugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailingedge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. 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.
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 afile
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 untilthe blade
is balanced.
Crankshaft
Key-_. keyway
Blade
bolt shaft
11 washer Trailing edge 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 willwear. Ifcatcher
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 serviceclassification SF-SJ.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
c_._ ._o o 1o 2o _ ,_
lT._MPERA_R E _CiE F_mGIpATED BEFORE N'_'T CtL C_IGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
coldweather, these multi-viscosityoils
wilt result in increased 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 ptug
securely each time you check the oil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Be sure lawn mower is on level
surface.
NOTE: Oil will drain morefreely when
warm.Catch oil in asuitable container.
3. Remove bottom oil drain plug.
4. After oil has drained completely,
replace oil drain plug and tighten
securely.
5. Fillengine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in
the Operation section of this manual.)
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Drain plug
12

AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using adirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every 100 hours of
operation or every season, whichever
occurs first. Service air cleaner more
often under dusty conditions. Do not
wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
1. Remove the air filter by turning
counterclcckwise to the stop and pull
away from collar.
2. Remove filter from inside of cover.
3. Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any dirt accumula-
tion.
4, Insert new filter into cover.
5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
6. Push in on cover and turn clockwise to
tighten.
Collar Turn counter-
clockwise to
remove
Tab"
Air filter cover" to tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or dam*
age.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
in Maintenance section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
_.CAUTION: Disconnect spark plugwire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
•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 resultin
shodened engine life.
13

_.CAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine.
2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CU'PFING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU'I-rlNG 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 possibilitythat objects will
be thrown out ofthe rear of the mower
intothe 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 possibilityof
injuryresulting from objects being thrown
outof the discharge opening into the
operator mowing position. If the discharge
guard becomes damaged, it should be
rep]aced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in ahigh or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
1. Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
4. Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
hotes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
Lower
Rotate
Mowng ,-" Mowing (",
po/_ltlon _ _1I position ''_
t = S /
Highposition Lowposition
ENGINE
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 a
Sears or other qualified service center for
repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixturecontrol. Ifyour
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service center for repair and/or adjust-
ment.
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. Ifyou thinkthe
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact aSears or other
qualified service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
14

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmower for
storage at the end of the season or ifthe
unitwill not be usedfor 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, dryarea.
1. Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,
and pins are securely fastened.
Inspect movingpartsfor damage,
breakage and wear. Replace if
necessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other untilthe
lower handle clears the handle
bracket, then move handle forward.
2. 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.
Mounting
pin
Squeeze to fold
handle cotter
Operatorpresence--._ .._._..
controlbar /}l/i Fold ZK_.,
////forward !_Y _'_
Upperhandle for x7" ////
.";-i///a,o',°'°e/ ,'7,,,
Lower (_/ _/Y •
handle--...-_.._ _I/;"_,_jij I ,_
,YFo,.
pac,<ward
_,__ ¥,_. Mow!ng
ato°
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportantto prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts suchas 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. Acidicgas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. Start the engine and let it run untilthe
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuet tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizingthe formationof
fuel gum deposits duringstorage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always followthe mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizerto reach
the carburetor. Do not drainthe 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).
15

CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder,
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distributeoil,
4. Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
•Replace your gasoline can if your can
startsto rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protectit from dustand dirt.
•Cover your unitwith a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe, which allows condensation to
form and willcause your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engone and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
ACAUTION:Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start 1. Dirty air filter,
2. Out offuel,
3. Stale fuel.
4, Water in fuel,
5. Spark ptug wire is
disconnected.
6, Bad spark plug,
7, Loose blade or broken
blade adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refillwith
fresh, dean 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 controt bar.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
iLossofpower 1. Rear,lawn mower
Poorcut-
uneven
CORRECTION
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. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height.
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
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. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
Worn, bent or loose blade.
Bent engine crankshaft.
Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is
released.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
1. Cutting height too ION.
2. Lift on blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
Excessive 1. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt.
2. 2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
Starter rope 1.
hard to pull
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
Hard to push
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard surface.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cutting height.
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower 2.
housing or cutting blade
dragging in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full. 3.
4. Handle height position not 4.
right for you.
Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
Empty grass catcher.
Adjust handle height to
suit.
17

Garanffa................................................18 Especificacionesdel Producto ............. 27
Reglas de Seguridad ...................... 18-20 Servicio y Adjustes ............................... 30
Montaje ................................................. 21 Almacenamiento ............................. 31-32
Operaci6n ........................................ 22-25 Identificaci6n de problemas ............ 32-33
Mantenimiento ...................................... 26 Partes de repuesto ............ Vea el manual
Programa de Mantenimiento ........... 26-29 ingl_.sdel dueSo
Orden de Partes ..................... Contratapa
GARAN'F'IA UMITADA DE DOS AhlOS PAPA LA SEGADORA AMOTOR CRAFTSMAN
Fordos (2) a_ a parer de la fecha de compra, cuandoesta SegadoraCraftsman se mantenga,
lubriquey afine esgdn les instnJcdones para la operacibn y elmantenimiento en el manual del due_o,
Sears reparardgraf_stodo defecto en el material y ta mano de obra.
Sila Segadofa Craftsman se usa para fines comercialeso de ardendo,esta garantfas(Yose apfica_
noventa(90) dfas a parerde la fecha de compra.
Esta Garantla no cubre:
• Art{culcoc!uees dosgestan duranteel uso notTnel tales como las cuchillasesgadoras rotatodes,los
adaptadoresde la cuchina,las correas,los_ros de aim y las bujfes.
•Reparaoonosnecesarias dobido el abuso oalanegligenda del operador, incluyqY_k:_ea k_s
cig0eSales dob_dos y a la talta do rnantanimiento del equiposegdn les i_ que es induyen
enel manueldel duei')o.
EL SERVICIO DE GARANTiA ESTA DISPONIBLE al devoiverla esgadora a rr_or Crat_smanaJCentr_
Departme_tode Servido Sears mas esrcano en losEstados Unidos. Esta garantfa se aplicasotamente
mientTasel productoesta en uso en losE_tadcoUnidos.
Garantlaleotorgadomel_colegelesespecfticos,y puedeque te_'Coi6ntenga_ derechosclue
varfande estado a estado.
Sears, Roebuckand C_, D/BI7WA, HoffmanEstates, IL 60179 USA
IMPORTANTE: Esta maquina cortadaora es capaz de amputar las manes y los manes y los
pies yde lanzar objetos. Si no se observan tas instrucciones de seguridad siguientes se pueden
producir lesiones graves o la muerte.
I. OPERACION
•Antes de empezar, debe familiadzarse
completamente con los controles y el use
correcto de la maquina. Para esto, debe leer
y comprender todas las instrucelones que
aparecen en la maquina yen los manuatas
de operaci6n.
•No ponga las manos o los pies corca o
debajo de las partes rotatodas, Mantengase
siempre lejos de la abertura de la descarga.
•Permita que solamente las personas
responsables que est6n familiadzadas con
las instrucciones operen ta mdquina.
• Despeje el drea de objetos tales como
piedras, juguetas, alambres, hue.sos, palos,
etc. que pueden ser recogidos y tanzados
par las cuchillas.
•AsegOrese que el drea no so hallen
personas, antes de segar. Pare la mdquina
si alguien entra en el drea.
•NO opere la maquina sin zapatos o con
•No tire de ta segadora hacia atr&s a menos
que sea absolutamente necesado. Mire
siempre haela abajo y hacia detrds antes y
mientras que se mueve hacia atr_s.
•No opere la segadora sin los respectivos
resguardos, placas u otros aditamentos
dise5ados para su protecoi6n y segudpad.
• Refi_rase alas instrucelones del fabricante
para el funcionamiento e instalaci6n de
acoesorios. Use tlnicamente accesorios
aprobados por el fabricante.
•Detenga la cuchilla o las cuchillas cuando
cruce por co]zadas, calles o cominos de
grava.
•Parar el motor capa vez que se abandona el
aparato, antes de limpiar ta segadora o de
remover residuos del tubo.
•Apagar el motor y esperar basra que las
cuchitias estdn cornpletamente paradas
antes de remover el receptor de hierba.
•Segar solamente con luz del dfa o con una
buena luzartificial.
sandalias abiertas. Pbngase siempre •No opere la n_quina bajo ta influencia del
zapatco sblidos. 18 alcoholodelasdrogas.

• Nuncaoperela maquina cuando la hierba
est_ mojada, Aseg0rese siempre de tener
buena traccibn en sus pies; mantenga el
mango firmemente y camins; nunca corra.
•Desconectar el mecanismo de propulsibn
aut6noma oel embrague de transmisian en
IBSsegadoras que lo tienen antes de porter
en marcha el motor.
•Si el equipo empezara a vibrar de una
manera anormal, pare el motor y revise de
inmediato para avedguar la causa.
Generalmente la vibracibn susie indicar qua
existe alguna averla.
•Siempre use galas de seguridad o anteoios
con proteccibn lateral cuando opere la
segadora.
I1. OPERAClON SOBRE LAS
CUESTAS
Los acoidentes ocurren con mds frecuencia
en los cuestas. Estos accidentes ocurren
debido s resbaladas o caldas, las cualss
pueden resultar en graves lesiones. Operar la
recortadora en cuestas requiem mayor
concentraci6n. Si se siente inseguro en una
Cuesta, no la recorta.
HACER:
•Puede recortar a travds de la superficie de
la cuesfa, nunca hacia arriba y hacia abajo,
Pr_eda con extrema precauci6n cuando
cambis de direcci6n en las cuestas.
• Renueva todos los objetos sxtra_os, tales
como guijarros, rarnas, etc.
•Debe prestar atacoibn a hoyos, baches o
protuberancias. Recuerds qua la hierba alta
puede esconder obstdculos.
NO HACER:
•No recorta cerca de pendientes, zanjas o
terraplenes. El operador pueds perder la
tracci6n en los pies o el equilibrio.
•No recorte cuestas demasiado inclinadas.
•No recorte en hierba mojada. La reducci6n
an la tracci6n de la pisada puede causar
resbalones.
Ill.NIl;lOS
Se pueden producir accidentes trdgicos si el
operador no presta atencian a ta presencia de
los niSos.A menudo, los nii'_ossa sienten
atrafdos por la mdquina y por la actividad de la
siega. Nunca suponga que los nihos van a
permanecer en el mismo lugar donde los vio
por dltimavez.
•Mantenga a los ni_os alejados del drea de la
siega y bajo el cuidado sstricto de otra
persona adulta responsabls.
•Est_ alerta y apague la mt=quina si hay
niSosque entran al &rea.
•Antes y cuando este rstrcoediendo, mira
hacia atrds y hacia abajo para verificar si
hay niEos pequer3os.
•Nunca permita que los niSos operen la
mdquina.
•Tenga un cuidado extra cuando ss acsrqus
aesquinas donde no hay visibilidad, a los
arbustos, drboles u otros objstos qua
puedsn inteffedr con su IInea de visibn.
IV. SERVIClO
•Tanga cuidado extra al manejar la gasolina
y los demds combustibles. Son inflamables
y los gases son explosivos.
• Use solamente un envase aprobado.
-Nunca rernueva la tapa del dspbsito de
gasolina o agregue combustible con el
motor funclonando. Permta qua el motor
se enfrle antes de volver a pone
combustible. No fume.
-Nunca vuelva a poner combustible en la
mdquina en reclotos cerrados.
-Nunca almacene la mdquina o el envass
del combutible dentro de algdn lugar an
donde haya una llama, tal como Is dsl
calentador de agua.
•Nunca haga funcionar una mdquina dantro
de un drea cerrada.
•Nunca haga ajustes o reparacionss
mientras el motor sstd en marcha.
Desconecte el cable de la bujfa,y
mantangalo a cierta distancia de _sta para
prevenir un arranque accidental.
•Mantenga las tuercas y los psmos,
especialmente los pemos dal acoesodo de
la cuchilla, apretados y mantenga el equipo
en buenas condiciones.
•Nunca manipule de forma indebida los
dispositivos de seguridad. Controls
regularmente su funcionamisnto correcto.
•Mantsnga la mdquina libra de hierba, hojas
u otras acumulaoionss de desperdicio.
Limpie los derrames de aceits o combus-
tible. Permita qua la mdquina se enfrie antes
de almacenarla.
•Pare e inspeccione el equipo si le pega a un
objeto. Repdrelo, si es necesario, antes de
hacerlo arrancar.
•En ningdn caso hay qua regular Is altura de
las ruedas mientras el motor estd an
marcha.
•Los componentes del receptor de la hierba
van sujetos a desgaste, da_os y deterloro,
qua pueden sxponer las partes an
movimiento o permit_rqua objetos sean
disparados. Controlar frecuentemente y
cuando sea necssado sustituir con psrtes
aconsajadas por el fabdcante.
•Las cuchillas de la segadora estdn afiladas
y pueden cortar. Cubdr las hojas o Ilevar
guantes, y utilizar preosuciones especiales
cuando se efecloa mantenimiento sobre las
mismas.
•No cambis el ajusts del regulador del motor
nl exosda su velcoidad
19

_.Busque sate sfmbolo que seSala las
precauciones de seguridad de importancia.
Quiera decir- lilATENCI6NlllIliESTE
ALERTOll! SU SEGURIDAD ESTA
COMPROMETIDA.
_ADVERTENCIA: Siempre desconecte el
alambre de la bujia y pbngalo donde no pueda
entrar en contaoto con ta bujfa, para evitar eT
arranqus por accidente, durante la
preparacibn, el transporte, el ajuste o cuando
se hacen reparaciones.
_I.,_DVERTENCIA: Los bornes, terminales y
accesorios rslativos de la baterfa contienen
plomo o compuestos de plomo, productos
qufmicos conocidos en el Estado de California
como causa de cdncer y defectos al
nacimiento u otros da_os reproductivos. Lavar
las manos despu6a de msnlpularlos.
_ADVERTENCIA: Eltuba de escape del
motor, algunos de sus constituyentes y
algunos componentes del vehiculo contienen
o desprenden productos quimicos conocidos
en el Estado de California coma causa de
cdncer y defectos al nacimiento u otros da_os
reproductivos,
Estosaccesodesestaban disponibles cuando se produjola segadora, No son facilitados junto al
cortaceesped. E.C,dn disponibles en la rnayorfade las tiendasde Sears yen los cen_,osde servicio.La
mayoda de las'deridesSears tambk_npueden rnandara pedir partesde repuestoparausted, siles
proporcicoael n0rnerodel modelode su segadora.Aigunosde estosaccesoriostal vez no se apliquena
su segadora.
RENDIMIENTO DE LA SEGADORA
DESVIADOR DE RECORTES
PARA SEGADORAS CON DESCARGA TRASERA
RECOREDOR
PAPA
SEGADORAS
CON DESCARGA
TRASERA
JUEGOS PARA LA ACOLCHADORA
RECOREDOR
PARA
SEGADORAS
CON DESCARGA
LATERAL
ESTABILIZADORES
ENVASES
DE GASOLINA
MANTENIMIENTO DE LA SEGADORA
SILENCIADORES
CORREAS CUCHiLLAS
FILI_OS DE AIRE
ADAPTACORES
DE CUCHILLA RUEDAS
BUJIAS
ACEITE
DEL MOTOR
20