Craftsman 917.388380 User manual

Owner's Manual
(RAFTSMRN
6.0 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.388380
• 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
Visitour Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty
Safety Rules
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance .
2 Product Specifications 11
2 Service and Adjustments 13
4 Storage 14
6 Troubleshooting 15
10 Repair Parts 34
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. :
Ifthis Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
•Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only
while this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator
presence 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. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
•Do not allow children to use your
mower. Never allow adults to use
mower without proper instructions.
•Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
•Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this
manual.
•Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
•The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
•Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the
blade and can cause severe injury.
•Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
•Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open
2

sandals. Wear only solid shoos with
good traction when mowing.
°Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank.
Clean off any spilled gasoline before
starting the engine.
•Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
•Keep your eyes and mind on your
mower and the area being cut. Do not
let other interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass.
Never run while operating your mower.
Always be sure of your footing - keep a
firm hold on the handles and walk.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
•Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks,
roads, and any gravel-covered areas.
•Never direct discharge of material
toward bystanders nor allow anyone
near the mower while you are operating
it.
•Before cleaning, inspecting, or repair-
ing your mower, stop the engine and
make absolutely sure the blade and all
moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and
keep it away from the spark plugto
prevent accidental starting.
•Do not continue to run your mower if
you hit a foreign object. Follow the
procedure outlined above, then repair
any damage before restarting and
operating your mower.
•Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage
or personal injury may result.
•Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required.
•Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous. '
•Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you
might lose your footing. Do not mow
excessively steep slopes. Use caution
when operating the mower on uneven
terrain or when changing directions -
maintain good footing.
•Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
•Check the blade and the engine
mounting bolts often to be sure they are
tightened properly.
•Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
•Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
•To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive
grease and oil.
•Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of
your mower.
•Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
•Allow engine to cool before storing in
any enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTIONtH
BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.
p_ugCAUTION: Always disconnect spark
wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_IsWARNING: The engine exhaust from
product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3

These accessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwas produced.They are not
shipped with your mower. They are alsoavailableat mostSearsretailoutletsend service
centers. MostSears stores can alsoorderrepairpartsfor you,whenyou providethe model
numberofyourlawnmower. Some ofthese accessoriesmay notapplytoyourlawn 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 RLTERS
WHEELS
rt
tr
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
,F--
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand this manual in
itsentirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe
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 toolsas neces-
sary to ensure propertightness. 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 corners of cartonand
lay end panel down fiat.
•Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper end .lower
handle end padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughlyfor additionalloose
parts.
4

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
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.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
•Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
•Your lawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer
to "Adjust Handle" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual, manual.
Operator presence
control bar
Lift up
I position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL A'r'I'ACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see 'q'o convert
mower" in the OPERATION section of this
5

I_IOWYOURLAWNMOWB:I
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAl_AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illuslra_ns with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
_ofvarkx_ conlmle and edit. 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, I_EEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
control
bar
zone control cable
Handle knob
Grass Engine oil cap
with dipstick
,Primer
Mulcher door Lawn mower housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUTOILOR GASOLINE inthe adjuster
enQine. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn rnowers conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute end 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 - pumpsadditionalfuelfromthe
carburetorto the cylinderforuse when
starlinga coldengine.
Starter Handle -usedforstartingthe engine.
6

Theoperation of any lawn mower
can resultin foreignobjectsthrown
intothe eyes,whichcan resultin
severe eye damage Alwayswear safety
glassesor eye shieldswhile operatingyour
lawnmower or performingany adjustments
or repaim We recommenda wide vision
safetymask over spectadas or standard
safetyg assas
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The enginespeed was setat the factory for
optimumperformance Speed is notadjust-
able
ENGINEZONE CONTROl_
_CAUTION: Federal regulations
requtre 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 mowerisequippedwithan
operatorpresencecontrolbar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operatethe lawn mower
TO ADJUST CU'I-rlNG HEIGHT
•Raise wheelsfor lowcut and lowerwheels
for high cut.
•Adjustcuttingheightto suityourrequire-
ments Medium positionis bestfor most
lawns.
•To change cuttingheight,squeeze adjuster
levertoward wheel Move wheel upor
downto suityourrequirementsBe sureell
wheels are inthe same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properlypositionedwhen
plate tab insertsintoholein lever Also,9-
positionadjustem(ifso equipped) allowlever
to be positionedbetween the platetabs.
LowerWheelsforHigh Cut
PlateTab
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
Lever
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher To convert to bagging or
discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Li_trear door of 'd'te lawn mowar and placo
the grass catcher frame hooks onto the
deer pivot pins.
•To convert to mulching or discharging
operalion, remove grass catcher and clos_
rear door
Pivot pins
SIDE DISCHARGING
•Rear doormustbe dosed.
•Open mulcherdoorand installdischarge
deflectorunderguardas shown.
•Mower is now readyfordischarging
operation
•To convertto mulchingor bagging
opera,on, discharge detlector must be
removedand mulcherdoormust be
closed
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR L&WN
MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
•Rear door dosed
• Mulcher door closed
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Grass catcher installed
•Muloher door dosed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
•Rear door dosed.
•Side discharge deflector installed.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
out rear door closed or app[oved grass
catcher in place Never attempt to operate th_
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open
Mulcher
door
7

Open
Mulcher Door
Discharge.
deflector
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fill is dean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full
line on the dipstick.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into
engine for accurate dipstick reading.
•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. Addoilif
needed. Fill to 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
eperation or each season. You may nsed
to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirty conditions.
GAS
NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove and
discard the debris plugthat is inside the tank.
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with aminimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in qusntJtJasthat can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
_dAR_ Experienceindicatesthat
fuels (calledgasoholor
usingethanolor methanol)can attract
moisturewhichleadsto separationand
formstJonofacidsduringstorage. Acidicgas
candamage the fuel systemof an engine
while in storage. To avoidengineproblems,
the fuelsystemshouldbe emptiedbefore
storage of 30 daysor longer. Drainthe fuel
tank,startthe engineand letitrun untilfuel
lines and carburetorare empty. Use freshfuel
nexi season. See StorageInstructionsfor
additionalinfon_ation. Never use engineor
carburetorcleanerproductsinfuel tank or
permanentdamage may occur.
Gasoline filler _ Engine oil
cap _cap
(Discard _'._--_-----_l
debris plug "_r-_._T1]'
TO START ENGINE
•To starta coldengine,pushprimerthree
(3)Umesbeforetryingtostart.Use afirm
push.This step is not usually necessary
when starlingan enginewhichhas already
runfor a few minutas.
•Holdoperatorpresencecontrolbar down
to the handleand pullstarterhandle
quickly.Do notallowstarterropeto snap
back.
•To stop engine, release operatorpresence
controlbar.
NOTE: In coolerweatherit may be necessary
to repeat primingsteps. In warmerweather
ever primingmay causefloodingand engine
willnotstart,ffyoudoflood engine,waita few
minutesbeforeattemptingtostartanddo not
repeat priming steps.
8

MOWlNGTIPS
• Under cartein condi_ons,suches verytall
grass, itmay be necessoryto raisethe
height ofcut toreduce pushingeffortand to
keep from overloading the engine and
leavingdumps of grassclippings. It may
also be necessaryto reducegroundspeed
and/orrunthe lawnmoweroverthe area a
secondtime.
•Forextremelyheavycutting,reducethe
widthof cut by overlappingpreviouslyGut
pathand mow slowly.
• Forbettergrass baggingand mostcutting
conditions,the enginespeed shouldbe set
inthe fastposition.
• Pores inclothgrasscatcherscanbecome
filledwith dirtand dustwithuseand
catcherswillcollectlessgrass. To prevent
this, regularlyhose catcheroffwithwater
and letdrybeforeusing.
•Keep top of enginearound starterclear
and clean of grassclippingsand chaff.
This will help engineairflowand extend
engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbest performance,keep
mower housingfree of buiit-upgrassand
trash,CleanUNDERSIDE OF MOWER
HOUSING aftereach use. See "Cleaning" in
MAINTENANCE eec_Jonofthis manual.
• The specialmulchingbladewill recutthe
grass clippings manytimes and reduce
them in sizesothat as they fall ontothe
lawnthey will disperseintothe grassand
not be noticed.Also, the mulchedgrasswil
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine(blade) speed as this willprovide
the best reouttingaction of the blades.
• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when itis wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At
this timethe grass has driedand the newly
cut areawill notbe exposedtothe direct
sun.
•Forbestresults,adjustthe lawnmower
cuttingheightsothatthe lawnmowercuts
offonlythe topone-thirdofthe grass
blades. Ifthe lawnis overgrown itwillbe
necessaryto raisethe heightof cutto
reducepushingeffortand to keep from
overloading the engineand leaving
dumps ofmulchedgrass.For extremely
heavy mulching, reduce your widthofcut,
mow slowlyand raise the re_r of the lawn
mower one wheel adjuster setlJnghigher
than thefront.
•Certaintypesof grassand grasscondi'dons
may requirethat an area be mulcheda
secondtime to comrYetelyhidethe
clippings.When doinga second cut,mow
acrossor perpendicular to the firstcut path.
•Change youroutting psttemfromweek to
week. Mow northto south oneweek then
change to eastto weet the nextweek.This
will helpprevent mattingand grainingof
the lawn.
Max 1/3
9

FILL
AsYouCOMPLETE /__".__ ._. ___
(_hack for Leaea Fastanem _I_
Clean/InepectGrassCatcher
M CleanLawnMower
O Clean Under Drive Cover(Pow_-_op_I_Mowers) l/
Check drive beWpullays I1_
RE (Power-Propelled Mowers}
CheckJSharpen/ICteplace Blade _
Lubrication Chart
Clean Bat_ry/Reohar_e
ElectricStartMowers/ I/ f//4
E_heck Engine OII Level I_'
NChange Engine Oil 1_1.2
GClean Air Filter I_ 2
IInspect Muffler ipf
NClean or Replace Spark Plug v'
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge ll_=
I -Change more oftenwhen open,clingunder a heavyload orin higharnbiemtemperatures.
2-Semite more often when oper_ding_ndirty ordustycond_o_.
3 - Replace i0_des more often when mo_ng in sandys_.
4-Charge 48 hoursat end of season.
3ENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Ihe warrantyonthislawnmowerdoes not
_overitemsth_ have been subjectadto
)perat_ abuse or negligence.ToreceNefull
raluefromthe _Tanty, operatormust
naintaJnmoweras instructedin thismanual.
adjustmentswillneed to be made
_-iodically to properlymaintainyourunit.
_11adjustmentsinthe Serviceand
_j_nts sectionof thismanual shouldbe
:heckedat isast once each season.
,Once a year,replace the sparkplug,
replaceair filterelement and check blade
for wea'. A new spark plug and dean/new
airfilterelement assuresproperair-fuel
mixtureand helpsyour enginerun better
and lastlonger.
, Followthemaintenancescheduleinthis
manual.
=ZEFOREEACH USE
,Check engine oil level.
,Check for loose fasteners.
,.UBRICATION
(eep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
;HAR'r'3.
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
_) Engine eil
Rear
aoor ) Handle br,acket
hinge mountingpin
(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT
SAlE30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO
(_ ENGINE- MAINTENANCE SECTION.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
whee_ bearings. VL_couslubricants will attract
dust and dirtthat will shorten the life of the self
lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite
typelubricantsparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
917.388380
6.0
1.6 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
20 OZS.
CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .004 -.008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008
.01251N.
35-40FT. LBS.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the roar of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWNMOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
"I1RES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
conttol chemicals which can harm rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
•Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
•Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
•Position blade on the blade-adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
•Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
•Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
11

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
•To check blade balance, drive a nail
into a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nail exposed. Place
center hole of blade over the head of
the nail. If blade is balanced, it should
remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade
is balanced. Crank shaft
keyway
Blad,
Bolt Crank
Lockwasher Hardened Blade shaft
washer Trailing 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 itwill
wear. ff 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
O° 1'0" =O" _10"
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT O_LCHANGE
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 ifthe
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. "13ghtenoil 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" lineon the dipstick.DO NOT
OVER FILL.
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly 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 CLEAN AIR FILTER
• Loosen screw and tiltcover to remove.
• Carefully remove cartridge.
• Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
12

_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do
not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
•Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely. Rack
Up plato
Slots
Cover
tabs
Cover
Cartridge
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
_sing after each use,
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug
wire from spark plug and place wire
where it cannot come in contact with the
spark plug.
•Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean
the underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build--up of grass
and trash.
•Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
•We DO NOT recommend using a
garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electrical system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to
keep water out. Water in engine can
result in shortened engine life.
_CAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
•Release controlbar and stop engine.
•Make sure the blade and al_moving
parts have completely stopped.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST cu'n'ING 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 possibilitythat
objects will be thrown out the rear of the.
lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position.
Ifthe 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 13
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 aod position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
• Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handle.
Rotate
_an Lower
die

TOASSEMBLE 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: Ifvinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few 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 -_ ,_--_7-<,._
'i _s_ Frame
openi
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture contzol, ff your engine
does not operate propedy due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an au_odzed service center for repair or
adjustmart
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine
governor,wh_hmfactorysetforproper
engine speed. Overspeeding the engine
above it'le factow high speed sstting 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
makeanynecessaryadjusUnants.
ENGINE SPEED
YourengineSpeedhas beenfactory set. Do
not attemptto increaseenginespeed or it
may resultinpersonalinjury. Ifyou believe
thatthe engine isrunningtoofast or tooslow,
take yourlawn mowerto an authorized
servicecenterfor repairand adjustment.
Immediately prepare your lawnmowerfor
storageatthe end ofthe ssason or ifthe unit
_H not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWNMOWER
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.
•Cleanentirelawnmower(See"CLEAN-
ING' in the Mal_ sect_ of this
manual).
•Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
ssclton of this manual.
•Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
are securely f=la_. Inspect moving
parisfor darnage,breakageandwear.
ifnece= .
•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lighlty before painting,
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
•Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the 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 up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Lower handle Handle
bracket
Squeeze to
fold
Hairpin cotter
Operator Presence
Control Bar _,_ _
Upper _ _,;'__
Handle -'-----_/.__.,_? ,;;/A
FoOdForward ;_ _.,,;;_// I
For Storage _--_=_ '_" _7 *"!_old
_,_. _-_,_, ,,_ Backward
Mowino
_.__ Position
Lower
Handle
14

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
_luUmdeposits from forming in essential
el 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 that does not retain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
m_owCAUTION:Never store the lawn
er 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 of fuel
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water infuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
CORRECTION
1. Clean!replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
1. Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
Loea of power
Poor cut - uneven
iExcessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
topull
Grass catcher
not filling (ifso
equipped)
Hard to push
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 trashundermower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Engineflywheelbrake ison
when controlbar isreleased.
2. Bent engine crankshatt.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
1. Cutting height too low.
2. I_itton blade wom off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheal
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
rightfor you.
CORRECTION
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replaceairfilter.
4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.
5. Check oillevel.
5. Cut at slowerwalking
speed.
.
3.
Replaceblade. "lighten
blade bolt.
Set allwheels at same
height
Clean underside of
mower housing.
1. Replace blade. T_jhten
blade belt.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
1. Depresscontrolbarto
upper handlebefore
pulling starterrope.
2. Contactan authorized
servicecanter.
3. Replace Uade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard surface
to startengine.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cutting heighL
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setting
higher.
3. Emptygrasscatcher.
4. Adjusthandleheightto
suit.
16

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO.917.388380
-14 37
67
d
14
68
37
39
44 43
21
34
2s
24 19
36
2O
56
4O

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388380
KEY PART
NO. NO.
1 869O2
2 160834X479
3 160609X479
4 132001
5 63601
6 131959
7 66426
9 154132
10 165754
11 162778
12 750097
13 86899X004
14 136376
15 51793
15 147286
17 165946X479
18 17600406
19 167132X004
20 167133X004
21 165858
22 168360X004
23 166875
24 751153
25 166111X479
26 166112X479
27 851856
28 152124
29 160835)(007
30 19112222
31 165760
32 169421X004
33 87877
KEY PART
DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
ControlBar 34 165762X004 Axle Arm Assembly- LR
UpperHandle 36 160828 ShoulderBolt5/16-18
LowerHandle 37 151157 WheelAssembly
RopeGuide 39 83923 FlangedLocknut
Locknut114-20 40 77400 Hubcap
HandleBolt 41 88652 HingeScrew
Wire'Re 42 165766 Spdng(LH)
Hinge Bracket 43 165767 Spdng(RH)
MulcherDoor 44 165912 Door Bolt
EngineZone ControlCable 45 150406 Hex HeadThread RollingScrew3/8-16 x 1
HexWasher Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 46 85463 DangerDecel
UpStop Brscket 48 165761X004 Axle ArmAssembly- RR
HandleKnob 52 166878 Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 &46)
HairpinCottar '53 851084 He)<Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8
HingeRod 54 850263 HeliuslLockwasher
Support Brscket 55 851074 HardanedWasher
Screw 56 165833 21" Blade
AxleArm Assembly- LF 57 851514 BladeAdapter
AxJeArm Assembly- RF 67 166113 Grass Bag
Rear Skirt 68 165755 CatcherFrame
Selector Spring -Front 70 .Engine- (See.Breakdown)
Rear DoorAssembly Kit (Incl.Springs) Briggs&Stretton12H802-2675-E1
Locknut5/16-18 -- 1.61058 WarningDecal (NotShown)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) - - 169955 Owner'sManual
Handle BracketAssembly (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 x 3/_
HingeSpdng Availableaccessories notincludedwith lawn mower:
Wheel AdjustingBracket -Front 7133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
Spacer 7133500 FuelStabilizer
Clip onDischargeGuard 7133000 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
Selector Spring-Rear
Selector Knob

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02.2675-E1
843
621 922_
127
606
%
124
967
971
-[Z
14
M
634
130
95 7110_ 9_
110_ I
%_ 971A
_163
36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802.2675-E1
572 307
625 91
I284
383
307
306 _10
"k REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLS
TO INSTALL. SEE REPAIR
INSTRUCTION MANUAL,
37