Craftsman 917.388611 User manual

Owner's Manual
ICRAFT$1VlAN°I
6.75 HORSEPOWER
21" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.388611
• 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
Visit our Craftsman website: www, sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ................................................. 2 Product Specifications .......................... 11
Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4 Service and Adjustments ...................... 14
Assembly ................................................ 5 Storage ............................................ 15-16
Operation ............................................. 6-9 Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10 Repair Parts ..................................... 34-39
Maintenance .................................... 10-13 Parts Ordering ........................ Sack 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 work-
manship.
Ifthis Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
appries for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn dudng normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, includingbent
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 isin 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
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all
instructionson the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor-
oughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the machine before
starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
• Onty allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as
recks, toys, wire, bones, sticks,etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
•Be sure the area isclear ofother
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
•Do net pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
•Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
•See manufacturer's instructionsfor
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer,

•Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drivas,walks, or roads,
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or unclogging the chute.
•Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
untilthe blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
•Do notoperate the machine while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never
run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-
nismor drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
•If the equipment should start 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
glasses with side shields when
operating mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and tall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on aslope, do
not mow it.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
•Do not trim near drep-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
•Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing oouTd cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragicaccidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence ofchildren.
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing acUvity.Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
•Keep childrenout of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small
chiJdren.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
-Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running, Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke,
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
-Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent acciden-
tal starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
•Stop and inspect the equipment ifyou
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
• Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
aUow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.
3

_,Look for this symbol to point out
importantsafety precautions. It means
CAUTION!I! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
• , CAUTION: In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
_,WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents,and certain vehicle
components contain or emit Chemicals
known tothe State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
_,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birthdefects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
ACAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.
These accessoriRswere availablewhen thislawn rnc_v_rwas produced. They are not
shipped with your mower.Theyare alsoavailableat most Searsretailoutletsand service
centers. MostSears storescanalsoo_derrepairpartsfor you, whenyou providethemodel
numberof yourlawnmower. Some of these accessodRsmaynot applytoyourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS GRASS CATCHERS
FOR FOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
4

Read these instructions and this manuar
in its entirety before you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shippedWITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in
the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete the assembly have been placed in
the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper
operation of your lawn mower, all parts
and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing matedals except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thorougryfor additional
loose pads.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as notto pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle
section locks intoplace in mowing
position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to
upper handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
control bar
Upper
Lift u
posiUon
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATrACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert mower
to bagging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER"
in the Operation section of this manual,
5

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future
reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn end understand their meaning,
I' 1
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
zone control cable
Gasoline filler cap
Airfilter
Grass
Engine oil cap with dipstick,
Primer
Muffler
Housing
Wheeladjuster
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped (oneachwheel)
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
Amedcan National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar -must be Primer -pumps additional fuel from the
held down to the handle to start the carburetor to the cylinder for use when
engine. Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the
engine. 6

Theoperationofanylawn
mowercan result in foreign
ob eels thrown into the
eyes, which can resull 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
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimumperformance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_kCAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury, Do notunder 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
requiresthe operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST cu'rrlNG HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium
positionis best for most lawns.
To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require-
ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is 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.
LowerWheelsforHighCut __
RaiseWheelstot Low C_ Lever
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mower was shippedready tobe
usedasa mulcher. Toconvertto bagging:
REAR BAGGING
• Uff rear door of the lawn mower and place
the grass catcher frame hooks ontothe
door pivotpins.
•To converttomulchingoperation, remove
grass catcherand dose rear door.
_.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.
Pivot Rear Grass
catcher
handle
Catcher frame hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift up on grass catcher using the
frame handle.
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings
from under lawn mower handle.
3. Empty clippings from bag using both
frame handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; itwill cause unnecessary wear.
/
frame
handle
Bag I

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.
For type and grade of oilto use, see
"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.
f. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.
Do not over fill.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate readir',g.To read proper leve_,
tighten engine oil cap, then remove it to
read the dipstick.
3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
•Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso-
line. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure
fuel freshness.
_.WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol b_ended fuels (called 9asohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer, Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run untilthe fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season, See Storage Instructionsfor
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
ACAUTION: Fillto bottom of gas tank
tiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe offany
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
• Gasoline
fillercap
Engine
oilcap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protectivecoatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present duringthe initial use of the
product and should be considered
normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not anow starter
rope to snap back.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat pdming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. Ifyou
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat primim:jsteps.
8

MOWINGTIPS
•Under certain conditions,such as very
tallgrass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effortand 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.
•When using arear discharge lawn
mower in moist,heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed
(pushingspeed) and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
•If a trail of clippingsis left onthe right
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small
ovedap to collect the clippings on the
next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularlyhose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
•Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippingsand chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWlNGTIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of buiIFup
grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
Maintenance section of this manual.
•The special mulchingblade 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 recutling actionof the blades.
•Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn isthe early
affemoon. At thistime the grass has
dried and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun.
•For best results,adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and
reavingclumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to southone week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.

MA,NTENANCESC.EOULE
ROGO R0RV,CB
Check for Loose Fasteners ¥/ I 1_
ClearVInspect Grass Catcher
It Equipped) i/ ll/ i/
MClean Lawn Mower ll/ _'
Clean Under Drive CoverIPower-Propelled Mowers)
Check ddve belt/pulleys
E (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_
ChecWSharpeIVReplace Blade _,/_
Lubrication Chart _' f#/
Clean Batter//Recharge
Electric Start Mowers'_ V / t,J4
E Check Engine Oil Level
N Change En_line Oil 1_.2
GClean Air Filter _2
I Inspect Muffler _'
NClean or Replace Spark Plug t/
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge i,/2
1.Chsnoe more often when operating urtdet a heavy load Or in high aml_erd lemperalure$
2-Service more o_lenwhen operating in ditty or dusly_ditionJ=,
3-Replace blades more o_en when mowingin sandy _oII,
4 - Charge 48 houm al e_ of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does
not cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negfigence. 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,
clean or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear. A new spark
plug and clean/new air filter element
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Wheeladjuster
(_) Handle bracket mounting pins
(_) Spray lubricant
(_) Brake
spdng
bracket
Rear
door hinge
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART').
_) See "ENGINE" In Maintenance section.
10
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease
plastic wheel bearings. Viscous
lubricants willattract dust and dirt that
will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-
ing bearings. If you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER:
DATEOF PURCHASE:
3ASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS UNLEADED REGULAR
S)ILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .045") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RJ19LM4
BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
The model and sedal 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 the space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil,or insect
controlchemicals 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
keptsharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air tilter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housingto prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turningcounter-
clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade
adapter. The key must be in good condi-
tion to work properly.Replace adapter if
damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated,
Bladeadapter _Crankshaft
Key..._ _=,1 "_ keyway
Lo_kwasher_1_- _"_ / )_
Blade
o C X
Blade /shaft
washer Trailingedge Bladeadapter
11

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.
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 manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
withAPI service classificationSF-SJ.
Select the oil'sSAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
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
startingthe 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.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of
engine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
5. Fill engine with oil. (See =ADD OIL" in
the Operation section of this manual.)
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
coldweather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°E Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running
low on oil.
12

AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged byusing a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year or after
every 100 hours of operation, more often
if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions.
Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
1. Remove the air filter by turning
clockwise to the stop and pull away
from collar.
2. Remove filter from inside of cover.
3. Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any did accumula-
tion.
4. Insert new filter into cover.
5. Put air filter cover and filter intocollar
aligningthe tab with the slot.
6. Push in on cover and turn counter-
clockwise to tighten.
Collar
Slot
Clip
Turn
clockwise
to
Airfilter
Air filter cover
Turn
counter-
clockwise to tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or dam-
age.
SPARK PLUGS
Rapiace spark plugs at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For bestperformance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
_I_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up
of grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
•Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
•We do not recommend using agarden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can resultin
shortened engine life.
13

•'_CAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine.
2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
contactwith plug,
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CU'I-FING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CU3-1"INGHEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibilitythat objects will
be thrownout of the rear ofthe mower
intothe operator's mowing position. If the
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.
1. Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
4. Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handte.
5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
\Lower
handle
Rotate
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
ofthe bag top.
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: Ifvinyl 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 clippingdeflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Catcher __
fram_
handle
Frame
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may resultin personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to a
Sears or other qualified service center for
repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixture control. It your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service center for repair and/or adjust-
ment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact a Sears or other
qualified service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
14

Immediatelyprepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be storedfor a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt,grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
1. Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section ofthis manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,
and pins are securelyfastened.
Inspect moving parts for damage,
breakage and wear. Replace if
necessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other untilthe
lower handle clears the handle
bracket, then move handle forward.
2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle
for storage or transportation,be sure to
foldthe 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
Hairpin cotter
Operator
control bar Fold
Lower
Fold
backward
position
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportant toprevent
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 duringstorage, Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. 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 isan acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always followthe mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drainthe 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).
15

CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distributeoil.
4. Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
startsto rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline wilt cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover itto give protectionfrom dust and
dirt.
•Cover your unitwith asuitable protec-
tive cover that does notretain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe, which anows condensation to
form and will cause your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engone and exhaust areas are stillwarm.
,_ CAUTION:Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside abuilding
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Doesnotstad 1. Dir_ airfilten
Loss of power
CORRECTION
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.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, 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. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel 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. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
Poor cut- 1. Replace blade. Tighten
uneven blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height.
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
Excessive 1. Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
16

topull 2.
3.
4.
Grasscatcher 1.
notfilling(If=o 2.
equipped) 3.
Hard to push 1,
2.
3.
4.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM I CAUSE CORRECTION
Starter rope hard! 1, Engine flywheel brake is on 1, Depress control bar to
when control bar is release€ upper handle before
pulling starter rope,
Bent engine crankshaft, 2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center,
Blade adapter broken, 3. Replace b_ade adapter.
Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower tocut
grass or to hard surface.
Cutting height too low, 1. Raise cutting height.
Lifton blade wom off. 2. Replace blade.
Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.
1. Raise cutting height.Grass istoo high or wheel
height is too low.
Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in grass.
Grass catcher too full.
Handle height position not
rightfor you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher,
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
17

Garantfa ............................................... 18
Fleglas de Seguridad ..................... 18-20
Montaje ................................................ 21
Operaci6n ....................................... 22-25
Mantenimiento ..................................... 26
Programa de Mantenimiento .......... 26-29
Especificaciones del Producto ............ 27
Servicio y Adjustes .............................. 30
Almacenamiento ............................ 31-32
Identificaci6n de problemas ........... 32-33
Partes de repuesto ........... Vea el manual
ingles deLduefio
Orden de Partes .................... Contratapa
GARANTiA LIMITADA DE DOS AhlOS PAPA LA SEGADORA A MOTOR CRAFTSMAN
Pot dos (2) afios, apartir de la fecha de compra, cuando esta Segadora Craftsman se
mantenga, lubdque y afine segt_n las instrucciones para la operaci6n y el mantenimiento en el
manual del duefio, Sears reparar_ gratis todo defecto en el material y la mano de obra.
Si la Segadora Craftsman se usa para fines comerciales o de arriendo, esta garantla s61ose
aplica por noventa (90) dlas a partir de la fecha de cornpra.
Esta Garantfa no cubre:
• Articulos qua se desgastan durante el uso normal tales como ias cuchillas segadoras
rotatodas, los adaptadores de la cuchilla, las correas, los filtros de aire y las bujlas.
•Reparaciones necesadas debido al abuse oala negligencia del operador, incluy_ndose a los
cigSefiales doblados y ala falta de mantenimiento del equipo seg_n les instrucciones que se
incluyen en el manual del duefio.
EL SERVICIO DE GARANTfA ESTA DISPONIBLE al devolver la segadora a motor Craftsman al
Centro/Departmento de Servicio Sears mas cercano en los Estades Unidos. Esta garantla se
aplica solamente mientras el producto este en use en los Estados Unidos.
Esta Garantla le otorga derechos legales especiflcos, y puede que tambidn tenga otros
derachos que var/an de estado aestado.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 USA
IMPORTANTE: Esta maquina cortadaora es capaz de amputar las manos ylos manse ylos
pies y de lanzar objetos. Si no se observan las instrucciones de seguridad siguientes se pueden
producir lesiones graves ola muerte.
I. OPERAClON
•Antes de empezar, debe familiarizarse
completamente con los controlse yel use
correcto de la maquina. Pare esto, debe leer
y comprender todas las instrucciones que
aparecen en le maquina yen los manuales
de operaci6n.
•No ponga las manos o los pies cerca o
debajo de las partes rotatorias. Mant6ngase
siempra lejos de la abedura de la descarga.
•Permita qua selamente las personas
responsables qua est6n familiadzadas con
las lnstrucciones operen la m_quina.
• Despeje et brea de objetos tales corno
piedras, juguetes, alambras, huesos, palos,
etc. que pueden ser recogidos y lanzades
pot las cuchilles.
•Aseg_rese que el drea no se hallen
personas, antes de segar. Pare la rndquina
si alguien entra en el drea.
•No opare la maquina sin zapatos o con
sandaBas abiertas. Pbngsee siempre
zapatos s61idos.
• No tire de la segadora hacia atrds a menos
que sea absolutamente necesario, Mire
siempre hacia abajo y hacia detr_s antes y
mientras qua se mueve hacia atrds,
•No opera la segadora sin los respectivos
resguardos, las places, el recogedor de
c_sped u otros aditamentos dise ados para
su pmtecci6n y seguridad.
•Refidrase ales instrucciones del fabricante
pare el funcionamiento e instalaci6n de
accesodos. Use dnicamente accesorios
aprobados par el fabricante.
•Detenga la cu_hilla o las cuchilles cuando
cruce por calzadas, calles o caminos de
grave.
•Parar el motor cada vez que se abandona
el aparato, antes de limpiar la segadora o de
remover residuos del tubo.
•Apagar el motory esperar hasta que les
cuchillas estdn completamente parades
antes de remover el receptor de hierba.
•Sager solamente con luz del die o con una
buena luz artificial.
18

• No opera la mdquina bajo la influencia del
alcohol o de las drogas.
•Nunca opera la maquina cuando la hierba
est6 mojada. Asegt_rese siempre de tener
buena trsocibn en sos pies; mantenga el
mango firrnemente y camine; nunca corra,
•Desconectar el mecanismo de propulsibn
autSnorna o el embrague de transrnisiSnen
las segadoras qua Io tienen antes de poner
en marcha el motor.
•Si et equipo empezara a vibrar de una
manera anorma], pare el motor y revise de
inmediato para averiguar la cause.
Generalmente la vibracibn suele indicar qua
exists a_guna averfa.
•Siemprs use galas de seguridad o anteojos
con protecciSn lateral cuando opera la
segadora.
II, OPERACION SOBRE LAS CUESTAS
Los accidentes ccurren con rods fmcuencia
en las cuestas. Estos accidentes osurren
debido a resbaladas o caidas, las cuales
pueden resultar en graves lesiones. Operar la
recortadora en cuestas requiere mayor
concentracibn. Si ss siente ]nseguro en una
cuesta, no la recorte.
HAClER:
•Puede recortar a travSs de la supefficie de
la cuesta, nunca hacia arrJbay haeia abajo.
Proceda con extrema precauciSn cuando
cambie de direccibn entas cuestas.
•Renueva todos los objetos extraSos, tales
como guijarros, ramas, etc.
•Dabs prestar atencibn a hoyos, baches o
protuberancias, Recuerde que la hierba alta
puede esoonder obstdculos.
NO HACER:
•No recorte cerca de pendientes, zanjas o
terraplenes. El operador puede perder la
traccibn en los pies o el equilibrio.
•No recorte cuestas demasiado inclinadas.
• No recorte en hierba mojada. La reducciSn
en la traccibn de la pisada puede causar
resbalones.
III,NII_OS
Se pueden producir accidentes trdgicos si el
operador no presta atencibn a la presencia de
los nifios.A menudo, los nii_osse sienten
atrafdos por _amdquina y por la actividad de la
siega. Nunca suponga que los ni_os van a
parmanecer en el mismo lugar donde los vio
por 01timavez.
•Mantenga a los nitros alejedos del draa de la
siega y bajo el coidado estricto de otra
persona adulta responsable.
•Est6 alerta y apague la m_tquinasi hay nihos
que entran al drea.
•Antes y cuando este retrcoediendo, mire
hacia atras y hacia abajo para verificar si
hay ni_os p6quefios.
•Nunca permits qua los aiSos operen la
mdquina.
•Tangs un cuidado extra cuando se acarque
aesquinas donde no hay visibilidad, a los
arbustos, drboles u otros objetos qua
pueden intsfferir con su lines de visi6n.
IV. SERVICIO
•Tenga cuidado extra al manejar la gasolina
y los demds combustibles. Son inflamables
y los gases son explosivos.
- Use solamente un envase aprobado.
-Nunca remueva la tapa del depbsito de
gasolina o agrague combustible con el
motor funcionando. Permits que el motor
se enfrfa antes de volvsr a pone
combustible. No fume.
- Nunca vuelva a porter combustible en la
m&quine sn recintos cerrados.
-Nunca almacene la m&quina o el envass
del combustible dentro de alg0n lugar en
donde haya una llama expuesta, tal como
la del calentador de agua.
•Nunca haga funcionar una maquina dentro
de un draa cerrada.
•Nunoa hags sjustes o reparaciones
mientras el motor est6 en marcha.
Desoonecte el cable de la bujfa, y
mant_ngalo a cierta distancia de _sta para
prevenir un arranque accidental.
•Mantenga las tuemas y los pemos,
especialmente los pemos del accesorio de
la cuchilla, apretadoS y mantenga el equipo
en buenas condiciones.
•Nunca manipule de forma inclebida los
dispositivos de seguridad. Controls
regularmente su funoionamiento correcto.
•Mantenga la mdquina libra de hierba, hojas
u otras acumulaciones de desperdicio.
Limple los derrames de soeite o combus-
tible. Permita qua la mdquina se enfrfe antes
de almacenarla.
•Pare einspeccione el equipo si Is pegs aun
objeto. Repdrelo, si es necessrio, antes de
hacerlo arrancar.
•En ning0n caso hay que regular la altura de
las ruedas mientras el motor estd en
marcha.
• Los componentos dsl receptor de la hierba
van sujetos a desgaste, dafios y detedoro,
qua pueden exporter las partes en
movimiento o permitir que objetos sean
disparados. Contmlar fracuentements y
cuando sea necesado sustituir con partes
aconsejadas por el fabdcante.
•Las cuchillas de la segadora estdn afiladas
y pueden cortar. Cubrir las hojas o Ilevar
guantes, y utilizar precauciones especiales
cuando se efectOa mantenimiento sobre las
mismas.
•No cambie el ajuste del regulador del motor
ni exceda su velocidad.
19

_,Busque este siml_lo que ser_la _asprecaucio-
nesde seg_Jrtdadde =mportancia.Quiere decir-
iiiATENCI_)N!]I [iiESTE ALERTOI!! SU
SEGURIDAD ESTA COMPROMETIDA.
enbaren contactocon ta bujia,para evitarel
arranq_ potacddente, durante la preparack_, el
transporte,el ajusteo cuandose hacen
re_araciones,
_kADVERTENCtA: [] tubode escape del motor,
de sus consauyentes y elgunos
com_ del vehlculocon_enen o
de_ productosqu[micosconocidosen el
Estadode Ca!ifomiacomo causa de _r y
defectosel nacimientou otmsde_os
reproduclJvos.
d_ADVERI_NCIA: Los homes, terrninalss y
accesonosrelatJvosde la bateda contJenenplomo
o compuestosde plorno,productos qufmicos
conocidosen el Estadode Celifomia como causa
de cdncery de[ectos al nacirnientou otros dai_os
reproductJvos.Lavar las manos despuds de
manipularlos.
_PRECAUCI6N: El silenciador y otras piezas
del motor Ilegan a ser extrernadamente
calientes durante la operacibn y siguen siendo
calientes despu_s de que el motor haya
parado. Para evitar quemaduras severas,
permanezca lejos de estas dreas.
Estcsaccesodosestaban disponiblescuando se produjola segadora. No son fadlitados Juntoal
codacesped. Est_n disponibk_sen la mayor[ade lastiendasde Sears yen toscentrosde sen,icio.La
rnayor_ade 1as_endas Sears taml_n pueden mander a pedir partesde repuestoparausted,si les
propor_ el n_ro del modelode su segadora.A]gunosde estos accesodostalvez no se apliquena
su segadora,
RENDIMIENTO DE LA SEGADORA
DESVtADOR DE RECORTES
PARA SEGADORAS CON DESCARGA TRASERA JUEGOS PARA LA ACOLCHADORA
RECOREDOR _RECOREDOR
PARA PAPA
SEGADORAS SEGADORAS
CONDESCARGA CONDESCARGA
TRASERA LATERAL
MANTENIMIENTODE LA SEGADORA
SILENCIADORES RLTROS DE AIRE BUJIAS
CORREAS CUCHILLAS DE CUCHILLA RUEDAS DEL MOTOR
ESTABILIZADORES
ENVIES
DE GASOLINA
20