Craftsman 917.388351 User manual

Owner's Manual
ICRAFTSMAN'I
6.25 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
ROTARY LAWN MOWEI_
Model No.
917.388351
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• EspaSol
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
VisitourCraftsmanwebsite:www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Assembly .............................................. 4
Operation .............................................. 6
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10
Maintenance ......................................... t 0
Product Specifications .......................... 11
Service and Adjustments ...................... 13
Storage ................................................. 14
Troubleshooting ................................... 15
Repair Parts .......................................... 34
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 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., Dept. 817 WA, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60179
Safety standards require operator
presence control to minimize the risk of
injury. Your unit is equipped with cuch
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.
Leam how to quickly stop mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that are
not recommended by the manufacturer.
Use of such attachments may be hazard-
ous.
•The blade rums when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
• Always thoroughlycheck the area to be
mowed and clear it of allstones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
2

• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
when starting and while using your mower.
•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
runningor when the engine is hot. Allow
the engine to cool for several minutes
before fillingthe gas tank. Clean off any
spilled gasoline before starting the engine.
•Always make wheel height adjustments
before startingyour mower. Never attempt
to do thiswhile the engine is running.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interestsdistractyou.
• Do not mow wet or slipperygrass. Never
runwhile 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
rotatingparts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
•Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossingdriveways, 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 plugwire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
•Do net continueto run your mower ifyou hit
a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restartingand operating your
mower.
• Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injurymay result.
•Do not operate your mower if itvibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indicationof damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration and
repair as required.
•Do not runthe engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
• Never cut grass by pullingthe 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
belts often to be sure they are tightened
properly.
•Check all belts, nutsand screws at frequent
intervalsfor proper tightnessto be sure
mower is in safe working condition.
•Keep allsafety 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 deterioration
and wear and replace wom bags. Use
only replacement bags that are recom-
mended 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 buildingwhere fumes may reach
an open flame or an ignitionsource such
as a hot water heater, space heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
=(:_CAUTION: 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.
AI:_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 acceseofies were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutlets and service
centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model
number ofyour lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not applyto your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR FILTERS
WHEELS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
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. 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 neces-
sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts
such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been
placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
•Cut down two end comers 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
pads.
4

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle Liftup
section locks into place in mowing
position. Lower
•Remove protective padding, raise handle
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 manual.
and Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator
presence
control bar
Upper.
handle
Mowing
position
TO INSTALL AI-rACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see "To convert
mower" in the OPERATION section of this
5

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER, Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control
bar
Starter Engine zone control cable
Handle
filler cap
Engine oil ca
with dipstick Mulcher door Lawn mower housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the Wheel adjuster
engine, (on each wheel)II I III I
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Instituteand 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 additionalfuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter Handle - used for startingthe engine.
6

The operation of any lawn mower
can resultin foreign objects thrown
nto 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 CONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
able.
ENGINEZONE CONTROL
_I,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 cUTrlNG HEIGHT
•Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut.
•Adjust cuttingheight to suit your require-
merits. Medium positionis best for most
lawns.
•To change cuttingheight, squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
down to suit your requirements. Be sure all
wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Lower Wheels for High Cut
Plate Tab
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
Lever
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to begging or
discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place
the grass catcher frame hooks onto the
door pivot pins.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and close
rear door.
Pivot pins
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Rear door must be closed.
• Open mulcher door and install discharge
deflector under guard as shown.
•Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
•To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door must be
closed.
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rear door dosed.
•Mulcher door dosed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Grass catcher installed.
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
• Rear door dosed.
•Side discharge deflector installed.
_I:_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without rear door closed or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Mulcher
door
7

Open
Mulcher Door
Discharge
deflector
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Yourlawn mower is shipped without oil inthe
engine.
•Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fillis clean.
•Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full
lineon the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate reading.
• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype 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. Fillto full 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 hours of
operation or each season. You may need
to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirty concr_ions.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
AWARNING: 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 fuel tank, start the
engine and let it run until 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 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.
Engine oil
cap cap filler
TO START ENGINE
•To startacold 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 will not start. If you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps.
8

MOWINGT1PS
•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.
•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. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER
HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning"
in 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 will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide
the best recurring action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. 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
cuttingheight so that the lawn mower cuts
oft only the top one-thirdof the grass
blades. Ifthe lawn isovergrown itwillbe
necessary to raise the height ofcut 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,
mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn
mower one wheel adjuster setting higher
than the front.
•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 perpendicularto the firstcut path.
•Change your cuttingpattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to weet the next weak. This
will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
'_" _ Max 1/3
9

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .., _ _._./___.._,_/_, _ _O__._G_.,__
REGUL..SERV.CE SERV'OEOATES
Check for Loose Fasteners _ _l_
Clean/Inspect GrassCatcher
(If Equipped} t#e_
a Clean Lawn Mower
!Clean Under Drive Cover
W (Power-Propelled Mowers)
!Check drive belt/pulleys
(PowepPropelled Mowers) 11_
gCheck/Sharpen/Replace Blade Ill'3
LubricationChart ¥# I_
Clean Battery/Recharge
(ElectricStart Mowers/IV4I_4
EjCheck Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil _1,2
G clean Air Filter _ =
Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
ReplaceAir FilterPaper Cartridge 11#'2
1 - Change more often when Operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures,
2-Service more often when operaling in dirty or dustyconditions.
3-Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil¸
4-Charge 48 hours at end of season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on thislawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
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 "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
_) Wheel
adjusters
3rake spring
bracket
_L Rear gine oil
door Handle bracket
hinge mounting pin
(3_) 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
sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
"_ASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
)lL 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 adecal 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 roles 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.
BLADECARE
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.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
11

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend
sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure
the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
•To check blade balance, drive a nail
into a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nail exposed. Place
center hole of blade over the head of
the nail. If blade is balanced, it should
remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade
is balanced. Crank shaft
Blade keyway
Bolt Crank
Lockwasher Hardened Blade shaft
washer Tr_ling adapter
edge
GRASS CATCHER
• 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 will
wear. 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, SH or
SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
°c -30" -20" -10" 0" 10" 20" 30"
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi--viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi--viscosity oils
will 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 plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fuel tank by running
engine until fuel tank is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
• Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil
into a suitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil
trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT
OVER FILL.
• Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run prepedy and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter cover by tuming
counterclockwise to the stop and pull
away from collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
12

•Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any dirt accumulation.
•Insert new filter into cover.
•Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
•Push in on cover and turn clockwise to
tighten.
Collar Clip Turn
Slot
to
remove
clockwise
Air filter cover to tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler 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 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.
•Tum lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air tilter 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. Aclogged 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
tilter 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 CU'I'rlNG HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your lawn mower, is
provided to minimize the possibility that
objects will be thrown out the rear of the
lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position.
If the rear deflector 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.
•Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
•Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handle.
13

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
•Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
•Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for afew minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
_,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Catcher
frame
handle
Frame
opening
ENGINE
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
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 attemptto increase engine speed or it
may resultin personal injury. If you believe
that the engine is runningtoo 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
willnotbe used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
of time, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" inthe Maintenance section of this
manual).
•Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
•Be sure that allnuts, 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 lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other untilthe lower
handle clears the handle 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 upyour handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will
automatically lock intothe mowing position.
Operator Presence
Control Bar
Upper __ //
Handle _//
Fold Forward _
For Storage _
. _'_,-i_":.-":..r
_<_::,S:-"
,//"'1"*Fold
f/--/_ Backward
Mowing
Position
Lower Handle
Squeeze
to fold
Lower handle
Handle
bracket
14 Hairpin cotter

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
•Start the engine and let 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.
ENGINE OIL
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 protec-
tive cover thal 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.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does notstart 1. Dirtyairfilter.
2. Outoffuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
CORRECTION
!1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fillfuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refillwith
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. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
15

PROBLEM
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
CAUSE
Loss of power
Poor cut - uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
Hard to push
1. Rear of lawn mower housinc
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. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. 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 low.
2. Lifton blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in g_.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
1. Setto "HigherCut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut"
pos'_ion.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
1. Replace blade. "13ghten
blade belt.
2. Set all wheels at sarne
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
1. Replace blade. "13ghten
blade bolt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
to start engine
1. Raise cuttingheight.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher,
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
16

33

67
•\
37
14
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388351
37
14
34
7
1 i :i
', _, r2,,i
21 19
33
20 27 ,,
4O
56

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388351
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
3O
PART
NO.
86902
169709X479
169708X479
132001
636O1
131959
66426
154132
165754
156577
750097
850733X004
136376
51793
147286
165946X479
17600406
167132X004
167133X004
165858
168360X004
166875
751153
16611 lX479
166112X479
851856
152124
160835X007
19112222
DESCRIPTION
Control Bar
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
Rope Guide
Locknut 1/4-20
Handle Bolt
WireTie
Hinge Bracket
Mulcher Door
Engine Zone Control Cable
Hex Washer Head Screw # 10-24 x 1/2
Up-Stop Bracket
Handle Knob
Hairpin Cotter
Hinge Rod
Support Bracket
Screw
Axle Arm Assembly - LF
Axle Arm Assembly - RF
Rear Skirt
Selector Spnng - Front
Rear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Springs)
Locknut 5/16-18
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8
Hinge Spring
Wheel Adjusting Bracket - Front
Spacer
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
31 165760 Clip on Discharge Guard
32 169421X004 Selector Spring . Rear
33 87877 Selector Knob
34 165762X004 Axle Arm Assembly - LR
36 160828 Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18
37 151157 Wheel Assembly
39 83923 Flanged Locknut
40 77400 Hubcap
41 88652 Hinge Screw
42 165766 Spdng(LH)
43 165767 Spring(RH)
44 165912 Door Bolt
45 150406 Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1
46 85463 Danger Decal
48 165761X004 Axle Arm Assembly- RR
52 166878 Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)
53 851084 Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8
54 850263 Helical Lockwasher
55 851074 Hardened Washer
56 165833 21"Blade
57 851514 Blade Adapter
67 166113 Grass Bag
68 165755 Catcher Frame
70 Engine - (See Breakdown) Craftsman 143.996004
- - 161058 Warning Decal (Not Shown)
- - 174604 Owner's Manual
Available accessories not included with lawn mower:
7133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
7133500 Fuel Stabilizer
7133000 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996004
400 135
130
119
126
125
3O
182185
178
46
298
'3O5
36