Craftsman 917.388020 User manual

Owner's Manual
JCRRFTSMRWI
6.0 HORSEPOWER
21 "REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No
917.388020
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Espa_ol
•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.......................... 11
Safety Rules ........................................... 2 Service and Adjustments ...................... 13
Assembly ................................................ 4 Storage ................................................. 15
Operation ................................................ 6 Troubleshooting ................................... 16
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10 Repair Parts .......................................... 34
Maintenance ......................................... 10 Parts Ordering ...................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR 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 workman-
ship.
If this Craftsmen 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 normaluse, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshaftsand the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty serviceis 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, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
IMPORTANT: This cuttingmachine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injuryor death.
I.GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand,and follow all
instructionsonthe machine and in the
manual(s) before starting.Be thor-
oughlyfamiliar withthe controlsand the
proper use of the machine before
starting.
• Do not put handsor feet near or under
rotatingparts. Keep clear ofthe
dischargeopening at all times.
•Only allow responsibleindividuals,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
barefootor wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
• Do net pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
movir_g,backwards.
• DO not operate the mower with proper
guards, plates, grass catcher or other
safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives,wa[ks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or uncloggingthe chute.

• Shut the engine (motor)off and wait
unfitthe blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylightor good adificial
light.
•Do not operate the machine while
under the influenceof alcoholor drugs.
•Never operate machine in wet grass.
Alwaysbe sure ofyour footing: keep a
firm holdon the handle and walk;.never
run,
•Oisengage the se_f-propeUedmecha-
nismor drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
• tf the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally awarning of
trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
_llasses with side shieldswhen operat-
ing mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents whichcan resultin
severe injury.All slopes require extra
caution.If you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it,
DO:
•Mow across the face of slopes:never
up and down. Exerciseextreme caution
when changing directionon slopes.
•Remove obstacles suchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
• Do not trim near drop-offs,ditchesor
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing could cause slipping.
II1.CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occurif the operator
isnot alert to the presence ofchildren.
Children are often attractedto the
machine and the mowing activity.Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
•Keep childrenoutof the tdmmingarea
and under the watchfulcare ofanother
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turnmachine off ifchildren
enter the area.
•Before and whitewalking backwards,
look behind and down for small
children.
•Never allow children to operate the
machine.
•Use extra care when approachingblind
corners,shrubs,trees, or otherobjects
that may obscure vision.
IV.SERVICE
•Use extra care in handlinggasoline
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
engineto cool before refueling.Do
not smoke.
- Never refuel the machineindoors.
-Never storethe machine or fuel
containerinside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
•Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
•Never make adjustmentsor repairswith
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to preventacciden-
tal starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attaohement bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machinetree of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspectthe equipment it you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attemptto make wheel height
adjustmentswhile the engine (motor) is
running.
•Grass (;atcher componentsare subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects tobe thrown.Frequently
check componentsand replace with
maeutacturar's recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicingthem.
• Do not change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.
3

_Look for this symbolto point out
impodant safety precautions.It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: In order to prevent
accidental starling when setting up,
transporting,adjustingor making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire end
place wire where itcannot contact spark
plug.
_LWARNING: Engineexhaust, some of its
constituents,and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of Californiato cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
_WARNING: Batteryposts,terminalsand
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicalsknown to the
State ofCalifornia to cause cancer and
birthdefects or other reproductiveharm.
Wash hands after handling.
These accessorieswereavailab4ewhenthislawnmowerwas produced,Theyare not
shippedwithyour mower.TheyarealsoavailableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservice
centers.MostSearsstorescanalsoorderrepairpartsfor you,whenyou providethemodel
number ofyourlawnmower.Someoftheseaccessoriesmaynotapplytoyourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS STABILIZER
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
AIR RLTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instructionsand thismanual in
itsentiretybeforeyouattemptto assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This tawn mower is shipped
withoutoil or gasoline in the engine.
Yournew lawn mowerhas been assembled
at thefactory withthe exceptionofthose
partsleft unassembledfor shipping
purposes. To ensuresafe and proper
operationof yourlawn mower,all partsand
hardwareyou assemblemust be tightened
securely. Usethe correcttoolsas neces-
saryto ensure propertightness.All parts
suchas nuts,washers,bolts,etc., neces-
sary tocompletethe assembly have been
placedin the partsbag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove looseparts includedwith
mower.
•Cut down two end cornersof cartonand
lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence controlbar to upperhandle.
• Roll lawnmoweroutof cartonand check
cartonthoroughlyfor additionalloose
parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefullyso
as not to pinchor damage controlcables.
•Raise lower handle sectionto operating
positionand squeeze the bottomends
of lower handle towardseach other
untilthe pin in handle can be inserted
intoone ofthe three heightadjustment
holes.
•Remove protectivepadding, raise
upper handle sectioninto place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
• Remove any packing materialfrom
around cantrei bar.
•Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowingcomfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustmentssectionof this manual.
Handle 3-position
Handle
pin __ adjustment
ii bracket
presence
control bar
handle
Liftup
Mowing
LoweSt position
handle
TO INSTALL ATACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shippedready to
be used as a mulchenToconvertto
bagging, see "To convert mower"in the
OPERATION sectionof this manual.
5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHIS OWNER'SMANUALAND SAFETY RULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR LAWN
MOWER. Comparethe illustrationswithyour lawn mower to familiarizeyourselfwith the
locationof variouscontrolsand adjustments.Savethismanualforfuture 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 WARNfNG ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control
bar
Starter handle t zone control cable
Handle
Grass catche
Engine oilcap
with dipstick Lawn mower housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn moweris shipped
without oil or gasoline in the engine. •Wheeladjuster
•(oneachwheel)
MEETSCPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Searsrotarywalk-behindpowerlawnmowersconform tothesafetystandardsoftheAmencan
NationalStandardsInstituteandtheU,S. ConsumerProductSafetyCommission,The blade
turnswhenthe engineisrunning.
Operator PresenceControlBar- must be Primer -pumps additionalfuelfromthe
helddowntothe handleto startthe engine, carburetorto thecylinderforusewhen
Releasetostopthe engine, startinga coldengine.
StarterHandle -usedforstartingtheengine.
6

The operation of any lawn
mower can resultin foreign
objectsthrownintothe eyes,
whichcan resultin severe
eye damage. Alwayswear
safety glasses or eye shields while
operating your lawn mower or performing
any adjustments or repairs. We recom-
mend a wide visionsafety mask over
spectaclesor standard safety glasse.s.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINESPEEDCONTROL
Theenginespeedwas setat thefactoryfor
optimumperformance.Speed isnotadjust-
able.
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mowerwas shippedreadytobe
usedas amulcher. Toconverttobagging:
REARBAGGING
•Liftreardoorofthe lawnmowerandplace
thegrasscatcherframe hooksontothe
doorpivotpins.
•Toconverttomulchingoperation,remove
grasscatcherandclosereardoor.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_,CAUTION: Federal regulationsrequire
an engine controlto be installedon this _ _
lawn mower in order to minimizethe risk _. _ _
of bladecontact injury.Do not under any Pivotpins -_ _ _
circumstancesattempt todefeat the
function ofthe operatorcontrol.The blade
turnswhen the engine is running.
•Your lawnmowerisequippedwithan
operatorpresencecontrolbar which
requirestheoperatorto be positioned
behindthe lawnmowerhandleto startand
operatethe lawnmower.
TO ADJUSTCUTFING HEIGHT
•Raisewheelsfor lowcutand lower wheels
forhighcut.
• Adjustcuttingheight to suityourrequire-
ments.Mediumpositionisbast for most
lawns. /
•Tochangecuttingheight,squeezeadjuster
lavertowardwheel,Movewheel upor
downtosuityourrequirements.Be sureaH
wheelsare in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is propedypositioned
when plate tab insertsintohole in lever.
Also, 9-positionadjusters (if so equipped) handle
allow leverto be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Plate Tab
LowerWheelsforHighCu \ j_l
-@
RaiseWheelsfor LowCut
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
•Liftup ongrass catcher usingthe frame
handle.
• Remove grass catcher withclippings
from under lawn mower handle.
•Emptyclippingsfrom bag usingboth
frame handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; itwill cause unnecessarywear.
catcher
handle

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Yourlawnmower isshippedwithoutoilinthe
engine.
•Be sure mower isleve] and area
around oil fill is clean.
•Remove engine oilcap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oilto settledown into
engine for accurate dipstickreading.
• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type
and grade of oilto 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. Fill tofull line on dipstick.
•To read proper level, tighten engine oil
cap each time.
• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
•Change the oil after every 25 hoursof
operationor each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantitiesthatcan be
used within30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
_.WARNING: Experience indicatesthat
alcohol blended fuels (called gasehol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisturewhich leads to separation and
formationofacids duringstorage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel systemofan
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel systemshoutdbe
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gastank, start the
engine and let it run untilthe fuel lines
and carburetorare empty. Use fresh fuel
nextseason. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetorcleaner productsin the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
ACAUTION: Filltobottomofgas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store,spillor use
gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatingson the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present duringthe initialuse of the
product and should be considered
normal.
•To start acoldengine, push primer
three (3) times before fryingtostart.Use
a firm push. This step isnotusually
necessary when starting an engine
whichhas already runfor afew
minutes.
•Hold operatorpresence controlbar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope tosnap back.
•To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In coolerweather it may be
necessary to repeat primingsteps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine willnot start. Ifyou do
flood engine, wait a few minutesbefore
attemptingto stad and do not repeat
primingsteps. Gasolinefiller
Engineoil
cap
NOTE: Due to protectivecoatingson the
engine, a small amountof smoke may be
present duringthe initialuseof the
productand should be considered
normal.
8

MOWINGTIPS
•Under certain conditions,such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height ofcut to reduce pushing
effortand to keep from ovedoading the
engine and leavingclumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
lawn mower over the area a second
time.
•Forextremely heavy cutting,reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
•For better grass baggingand most
cuttingconditions,the engine speed
shouldbe set in the fast position.
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enterthe grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed
(pushingspeed) and/or run the lawn
mowerover the area a secondtime.
•If a trailof clippingsisleft on the right
side ofa rear dischargemower, mow in
a clockwisedirectionwith a small
ovedap to collect the clippingson the
next pass.
•Pores in cloth grass catcherscan
become filled with dirtand dust with use
and catchers witlcollactless grass. To
prevent this, regularlyhose catcher off
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of enginearound starterclear
and clean of grass clippingsand chaff.
This will helpengine air flow and
extend engine lite.
MULCHINGMOWINGTtPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep
mower housingfree of built-upgrass and
trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER
HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning"
in Maintenance section of this manual.
•The specialmulchingbladewillrecur the
grassclippingsmanytimesand reduce
themin sizesothatas theyfall ontothe
lawntheywilldisperseintothegrassand
notbe noticed.Also,themulched grasswill
biodegradequicklyto providenutrientsfor
thelawn.Alwaysmulchwithyourhighest
engine(blade) speedasthiswillprovide
thebest recuttingaction oftheblades.
•Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhenit iswet.Wet
grasstendstoform clumpsandinterferes
withthemulchingaction.Thebest timeto
mowyourlawnistheeaityafternoon.At
thistimethegrasshasdriedandthe newly
cutarea willnotbe exposedto thed_rect
sun.
•Forbest results,adjustthelawnmower
cuttingheightsothatthelawnmowercuts
offonlythe topone-thirdof thegrass
blades. Ifthelawnis overgrownitwillbe
necessa_Jto raisethe heightofcutto
reduce pushingeffort and to keep from
overloading the engine and leaving
clumpsof mulched grasS.Forextremely
heavy mulching, reduceyourwk_ of cut,
mow slowly and raisethe rear ofthe lawn
mower one wheeladjustersettinghigher
thanthe front.
•Certaintypesofgrassandgrassconditions
may _._re that an area be mulched a
secondtime to completelyhide the
clippings.When doing asecondcut, mow
ecreseorpeq)endiculartothefiretoutpsth.
•Changeyourcuttingpatternfrom weekto
week.Mownorthtosouthoneweekthan
chargetoeasttowestthenextweek.This
willhelp prevantmattingand grainingof
thelatwn.
Max 1/3
9

MA,NTENANCESCH OULE
FILL IN DATES _._ _ _ _ _._
CheCkforLoose Fasteners _
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) (P/ It/ I/
MClean Lawn Mower I_ (I/
O Clean Under Orive Cover(Power-Prepeged Mowers) ql/
Check drive ben/pulleys
E (Power-Pr_oelled Mowers) {i/
CheeWSharpen/Replace Blade f//3
Lubricati_ Chart _,/
Clean Baden//Recha e
(Electric Slart Mowers_ _ 11_4
ECheck Ermine Oil Level
NChangeEngineOil I_;._
G Clean A_rFilter if# =
I Inspect Muffler ¥1
NClean or Replace Spark PLug
EReplace/u_ Filter Paper Cadridge I/2
I . Ch,_nge mote o_en w_=,_ operating under a heavy toad o_ in h_gh amb_nt temperatures
2. Serv_=_ more otlan whAn _a_ng in diny Ordusty conditions
3. R_olace L_de_ more olten wh=*r]mow_g in _mJy SC_I
4 - Charge 48 hours at e_iol season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warrantyonthislawnmoverdoesnot
coveritemsthathavebeensubjectedto
operatorabuseornegligence.Torec_w full
valuefromthewarranty,operatormust
maintainmoweras instructedinthismanual.
Someadjustmentswillneedto be made
periodicallyto properlymaintainyourunit.
Alladjustmentsin theServiceand
Adjustmentssectionofthismanualshouldbe
checkedat leastonceeach season,
• Once a year,replacethesparkplug,
replaceairititerelementandcheckblade
for v,_ar.A newsparkplugand clean/new
airfilterelementassuresproperair-fuel
mixtureand helpsyourenginerunhatter
and lastlonger,
•Followthe maintenancescheduleinthis
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engineoil level.
•Checkforloosefasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwelllubricated(See"LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
spnng
bracket
Handle bracket
•hinge mountingpin
_(_ SPRAYLUBRICANT
SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO
ENGINE -MAINTENANCESECTION.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscouslubricantswill
attract dust and did that witlshortenthe
lifeofthe selflubricating bearings.If you
feel they mustbe lubricated,use onlya
dry,powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (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
Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keeptiresfree ofgasoline,oil,orinsect
control chemicalswhich can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps,stones, deep ruts,sharp
objectsand otherhazardsthat may cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For bestresults, mowerblade mustbe
kept sharp. Replace bentor damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plugwire 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
turningwhen removingblade bolt.
•Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turningcounter-
clockwise.
•Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt,lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub ofblade adapter.
The key mustbe in good conditionto work
prepedy. Replace adapter if damaged. 11
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.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated_ .

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend
sharpeningblade - but if you do, be sure
the blade isbalanced.
Care shouldbe 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 grindingwheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
•To check blade balance, ddve anail
intoa beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nailexposed. Place
center hole of blade over the headof
the nail. Ifblade isbalanced, it should
remain in a horizontalposition. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end untilthe blade
is balanced.
Crank shaft
keyway
Bolt Crank
LockwasherHardened Blade shaft
washer Trailing adapter
edge
GRASS CATCHER
•The grasscatchermaybe hosedwith
water,butmustbe drywhenused.
•Checkyourgrasscatcher oftenfor damage
ordeterioration.Throughnormaluseitwill
wear.if catcher needs replacing,replace
onlywitha manufacturerapproved
replacementcatcher. Givethe lawnmower
modelnumberwhenordeitng.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only highquality detergentoil rated
withAPI service classificationSF, SH or
SG. Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
NOTE: Although multi--viscosityoils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improvestartingin
cold weather,these multi--viscosityoils
will resultin increased oil consumption
when usedabove 32°F. Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running
tow on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hoursof
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower isnot used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hoursof continuoususe. Tightenoil plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Beforetippinglawn mowerto
drain oil, drainfuel tank by running
engine untilfuel tank isempty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contactwith spark plug.
•Remove engine oil cap;lay aside on a
clean surface.
•Tip lawn mower on its side and drainoil
into a suitablecontainer. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil
trapped inside of engine.
•Wipe off any spilledoil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
•Fillengine with oil.Fillonlyto the
"FULL" line onthe dipstick.DO NOT
OVER FILL.
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plugwire to spark
plug.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by usinga dirty air filten
Replace the air filter every year, more
oftenif you mow in very dusty,dirty
conditions.Do notwash airfilter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
•Remove the air filtercover by turning
counterclockwiseto the stop and pull
away from collar.
•Remove filter from insideof cover.
12

• Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any did accumulation.
•Insertnew filter intocover.
•Put air filter cover and filterinto collar
aligningthe tab with the slot.
•Push in on cover and turnclockwiseto
tighten.
Collar Clip ' _ Turn
.counter-
"e,%%,eto
Slot __rn kwi
o'oc
Air filter cover totighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corrodedmuffler as it
could create afire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to
make your engine start easier and run
better. Set spark pluggap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
iMPORTANT: For best performance,keep
mower housingfree of built--up grass
and trash. Clean underside of mower
housingafter each use.
r_oCAUTION: Disconnectspark plugwire
mspark plug and place wire where it
cannot come incontactwith the spark
plug.
•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetorare up. Clean
the underside of your lawn mower by
scrapingto remove build--up of grass
and trash.
•Clean engine oftentokeep trash from
accumulating.A cloggedengine runs
hotterand shortensengine life.
,, Keep finished surfacesand wheels free
of al| gasotine,oil, etc.
• We DO NOT recommend using a
garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electricalsystem, muffler, air
filter and carburetorare coveredto
keep water out. Water in enginecan
result in shortenedengine life.
_CAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
•Release controlbar and stopengine.
•Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
•Disconnectspark plugwire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contactwith plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTrlNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operationsection of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector,attached between the
rear wheels of your lawn mower, is
providedto minimizethe possibilitythat
objectswill be thrownout the rear of the
lawn mower intothe operator'smowing
position.
If the rear deflectorbecomesdamaged, it
should be replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mowerhas
three (3) height positions- adjust toheight
thatsuitsyou.
•Squeeze the bottomends of lower
handle towardseach other untilthe pin
in handle can be insertedintoone of
the three height adjustment holes.
High
Low
3-position
\a_ustment
, bracket
13

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
•Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
withrigidpart of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
ofthe bag top.
•Slipvinyl bindingsover frame.
NOTE: Ifvinyl bindingsare too stiff,hold
them inwarm water forafew minutes, if
bag gets wet, let itdry before using.
_I_CAUTION: Do not runyour lawnmower
withoutclippingdeflectoror approved
grass catcher in place. Never attemptto
operate the lawn mower with the rear
doorremoved orpropped open.
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Yourcarbu_or hasanon-adjustablefixed
mainjet formixtaracontrol.Ifyourengine
doesnotoperateproperlydue to suspected
carburetorproblems,takeyourlawnmowerto
an authorizedservicecenterforrepairor
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 equip-
ment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
ENGINE SPEED
Yourengine speedhasbeen factoryset. Do
not attemptto increase enginespeedor it
may result in personalinjury. If you believe
thatthe engineis runningtoo fast ortoo slow,
take your lawn mowerto an authorized
servicecenter for repairand adjustment.
14

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor .
storageattheandof theseasonor tftheun=t
willnotbe usedfor30 daysor more.
LAWN MOWER
Whenlawnmoweristo be stored for aperiod
oftime cleanitthoroughly_removealldirt,
grease,leaves,etc.Store=na clean,dryarea.
•Cleanentirelawn mower(See CLEAN-
ING_in theMaintenancesection oftlY,s
manual).
• Lubricateas shown inthe Maintenance
sectionoftt_s manual.
• Be surethatall nuts,belts, screws,and pins
are securelyfastened.Inspect moving
partsfor damage, breakageand wear.
Replaceif necessary.
• Touch up all rustedor chippedpaint
surfaces;sand lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
• You can foldyour lawn mower handle
for storage.
•Loosenthe two (2) handle knobson
sidesof the upper handle and allow
handle to fold down to the rear.
• Squeeze the botfom ends of lower
handle toward each other until pins in
handleclear the brackets and pivot
entire handle assembly forward and
allowit to reston mower.
•When settingup your handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will
require manually lockinginto the
mowing position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor
storageor transportation,be sure to fold
the handle as shown or you may damage
the controlcables.
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Upper
Handle
Fold Forward
For Storage
Lower
Handle
Mowing
Position
Backward
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis importantto prevent
gum depositsfrom 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 gasohof or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids duringstorage. Acidicgas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
•Start the engineand let it run untilthe
fuel lines and carburetorere empty.
•Never use engine or carburetorcleaner
productsin the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel nextseason.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizeris an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizerto gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Alwaysfollow the mix
ratiofound on stabilizercontainer. Run
ep_jineat least 1(} minutes after adding
stabilizerto aflow the stabilizerto reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank
and carburetorif using fuel stabilizer.
15

ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (withengine warm) and replace
withclean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance sectionof this manual).
CYLINDER
•Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole intocylinder.
•Pullstarter handle slowlya few times to
distributeoil.
•Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
•Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
•Replace your gasoline can ifyour can
stads to rust. Rustand/or dirtin your
gasoline will cause problems.
•If possible,store your unitindoorsand
cover itto give protectionfrom dustand
dirt,
•Cover your unit with a suitableprotec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.
Do not useplastic. Plasticcannot
breathe whichallows condensationto
form and will cause your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
_I_CAUTION: Never storethe lawnmower
with gasoline in the tank insidea building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storingin any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start 1. Dirty airfilter,
2. Out offuel,
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plugwire is
disconnected,
6. Bad spark plug.
7, Loose b_adeor broken blad(
adapter,
8, Controlbar in released
position.
9. Controlbar defective.
Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower housinc
or cuttingblade dragging
in heavy grass,
2, Cuttingtoo much grass.
3. Didy airfilter,
4, Buildupof grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5, Too much oil in engine,
6. Walking speed too fast,
CORRECTION
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refillwith
fresh cleanfuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6.
7.
8.
9.
1.
Replace spark plug.
Tighten blade boltor
replace blade adapter.
Depresscontrolbar to
handle.
Replace control bar.
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.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Poor cut- uneven 1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt,
2. Set all wheels at same
height
Clean underside of
mower housing.
Excessive Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt,
Contact an authorized
servicecenter.
Starter rope hard
topull
Grass catcher
inotfilling (ifso
equipped)
Hard to push
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildupof grass,leaves
and trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Engineflywheel brake is on
when controlbar is released
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
,3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
1. Cuttingheight too low.
2. Lift on blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass istoo highor wheel
heightis too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catchertoofull
4. Handle height position not
3.
1.
2.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
Contact an authorized
servicecenter.
Replace blade adapter.
Move lawn mowerto cut
grass or to hard surface
to start engine
1. Raise cuttingheight.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cuttingheight.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle heightto
rightfor you.suit.
17

67
68
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388020
1o
37
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27
39

CRAFTSMAN ROTARYLAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388020
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 131696 ControlBar
2 166860X479 Upper Handle
3 161105X479 Lower Handle
4 132001 RopeGuide
5 63601 Locknut 1/4-20
6 131959 Handle Bolt
7 66426 WireTie
874780512 Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4
9 166785 LOcknut3/16-18
10 164362 ShordderBo_t
11 156577 EngineZone ContrblCable
12 750G97 Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x1/2
13 8S0733X004 Up-Stop Bracket
14 136376 HandleKnob
15 51793 HairpinCotter
17 165946X479 Support Bracket
18 176(7_406 Screw
19 167132X004
20 167133X004
21 165858
22 168360X004
23 166875
24 751153
25 164_36X479
26 166243X479
27 851856
28 63124
29 160835X007
30 19112222
31 151161
Axle Arm Assembly - LF
Axle ArmAssembly - RF
Rear Skid
Selector,_pdng
Rear DoorAssembly Kit(Incl. Springs)
Locknut 5/16-18
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
Handle BracketAssembty (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 x3/8
Nut
Wheel Adjusting Bracket -Front
Spacer
Whe_
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
33 87877
34 167130X004
35 57143
36 160828
37 1511_
38 7399O5OO
39 83923
4O 774CO
41 88652
42 165766
43 165767
44 165912
45 15O406
46 85463
47 161551
48 167131X004
52 166872
53 851084
54 850263
55 851074
56 165833
57 851514
67 166113
68 165755
70 ......
- - 161058
• - 175116
Selector Knob
Axle Arm Assembly - LR
Wave washer
Shoulder Bblt 5/16-18
Wheel Assembly
Nut
Ranged Locknut
Hubcap
HingeBorew
Spnng(LH)
Spdng (RH)
Dcor BOlt
Hex Head Thread RollingScrew 3/8:16 x 1
Danger Decal
AdiuStment Bolt
Axle Arm Assembly -RR
Housing Assembly (Incl, Ref #17, 18 & 46)
Hex Head Borsw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8
HelicalLockwasher
Hardened Washer
21" Blade
Blnde Adapter
Grass Bag
Catcher Frame
Engine- (See Breakdown) Craftsman 143.006206
WarningDecal (NotShown)
Owner'sManual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 1_.0062_
4OO 135
416
@
9OO
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