Craftsman 917.389040 User manual

Owner's Manual
5.0 HORSEPOWER
22" ECONOMY
SIDE DISHCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.389040
•Safety
• Assembly
•Operation
• Maintenance
•Espafiol
• Repair Parts
NOTE: Engines which are certified to comply wi_ California and U.S. EPA en_ssion regulations
for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment), are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and
include the following emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM), and Three-way
Catalyst (TWC) (If so equipped).
AVlSO: Los motores homologedos pare cumplir con la reglamantacibn sot)re emisiones de
Ceifiomle y de la Agencia de Pmtecol6n Ambiental estadounidenso (EPA) pera equtpos
pequenos no circulantes (SORE) funoionan con gasoline normal sin plomo, e Incluyon los
siguientes sistemss de control de emisiones: modificacibn del motor (EM) y catalizador de triple
accibn (TWC) (en caso de tenerlo).
The D.O.M. decal includes engine life specifications for the emissions-related useful life pedod of
your engine. This pedod relates to the emission compliance life as certified by EPA/CARB. To
find the life period specification for your engine please match one of the following lettem with the
letter pdnted on your D.O.M. decal: (C) 125 hours, (B) 250 hours, (A) 500 hours.
La calcomanfa D.O.M. inclaye especificaciones sobre la duraci6n del motor para el perfodo de
vide dtil de su motor relaccionedo con emisiones. Este perfodo se relaciona con la duracibn en
conformidad con les emisiones segdn Io cartificado por EPNCARB. Para haner la especificack_n
del perfodo de vide de su motor, mire cudl de las slgulantes letras viene impreca en su
cstcomanfa D.O.M.: (C) 125 horns (B) 250 horas, (A) 500 horas.
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Seam, Roebuck and Co,, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit ourCraftsman website: www.sears.conYcraftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Assembly .............................................. 5
Operation .............................................. 6
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 10
Maintenance ....................................... 10
Product Specifications ........................ 11
Service and Adjustments .................... 14
Storage ............................................... 15
Troubleshooting ................................. 16
Repair Parts ........................................ 35
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 work-
manship.
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 notcover:
• 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, 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 dghts, and you may also have other dghts
which vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
IMPORTANT: Thiscuttingmachineiscapableof amputatinghandsandfeet and
throwingobjects.Failureto observethefollowing safety instructionscouldresultin
sedousinjuryor death.
I.GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on 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.
•Only allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessodss. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.

•Stop the blade(s)when crossinggravel
ddves,walks,or roads.
•Stopthe engine (motor)wheneveryou
leave the equipment,beforecleaning
the moweror uncloggingthe chute.
•Shutthe engine(motor)offandwait
untilthebladecomestocompletestop
before removinggrasscatcher.
• Mow onlyin daylightor goodartificial
light.
•Do notoperatethe machinewhile
underthe influenceofalcoholor drugs.
•Never operatemachinein wet gross.
Alwaysbe sure ofyourfooting: keepa
firm holdon the handleand walk;never
run.
•Disengagethe self-propelledmecha-
nismor ddveclutchon mowersso
equippedbeforestartingthe engine
(motor).
•Ifthe equipmentshouldstarttovibrate
abnormally, stopthe engine (motor)
and checkimmediatelyfor thecause.
Vibrationisgenerallya warningof
trouble.
•Alwayswear safetygogglesor safety
glasseswithside shieldswhen
operatingmower.
I1.SLOPE OPERATION
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip
and fall accidentswhichcan resultin
severeinjury.Allslopesrequireextra
caution.Ifyoufeel uneasyon a slope,do
notmowit.
DO:
•Mowacrosstheface ofslopes:never
upand down.Exemiseextremecaution
whenchangingdirectionon slopes.
•Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
•Watchfor holes,ruts,or bumps.Tall
grasscan hideobstacles.
DONOT:
•Do nottdmnear drop-offs,ditchesor
embankments.The operatorcouldlose
footing or balance.
•Do nottrimexcessivelysteepslopes.
•Do notmowonwet grass.Reduced
footing couldcauseslipping.
II1.CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscanoccurif the operator
is notalerttothepresenceofchildren.
Childrenare oftenattractedto the
machineand the mowingactivity.Never
assumethatchildrenwillremainwhere
you lastsaw them.
•Keepchildrenoutofthe tdmmingarea
and underthe watchfulcare ofanother
responsibleadult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
•Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small
children.
•Never allow children to operate the
machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. 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, espec:ially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly,
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
•Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
•Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them,
•Do not change the engine governor
setting or overepeed the engine.
3

ALook for thissymboltopointout
importantsafetyprecautions.Itmeans
CAUTION!tt BECOMEALERT!!t YOUR
SAFETYIS INVOLVED.
WARNING: In ordertoprevent
accidentalstartingwhen settingup,
transporting,adjustingor makingrepairs,
alwaysdisconnectspark plugwire and
placewire where itcannotcontactspark
plug.
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. '
AWARNING: Engineexhaust,someof its
constituents,and certainvehiclecompo-
nentscontainor emitchemicalsknownto
the State ofCaliforniato causecancer
and birthdefectsor other reproductive
harm.
AWARNING: Batteryposts,terminalsand
relatedaccessoriescontainlead and
lead compounds,chemicalsknownto the
State ofCaliforniato causecancerand
birthdefectsor otherreproductiveharm.
Wash handsafter handling.
Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyare not
shippedwithyourmower.TheyarealsoavailableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservice
centers.MostSearsstorescanalsoorderrepairportsforyou,whenyouprovidethemodel
numberofyourlawnmower.Someoftheseaccessoriesmaynotapplytoyourlawnmover.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASSCATCRERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER _TS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
4

Readtheseinstructionsandthismanual
initsentiretybeforeyouattemptto
assembleoroperateyournewlawn
mower.
IMPORTANT:Thislawnmoweris
shippedWITHOUTOIL ORGASOLINE in
the engine.
Yournew lawnmowerhas been as-
sembledat the factorywiththeexception
ofthose partsleftunassembledfor
shippingpurposes.Allpartssuchas nuts,
washers,bolts,etc., necessarytocom-
pletethe assemblyhavebeen placedin
the partsbag.Toensuresafe andproper
operationofyourlawn mower,all parts
and hardwareyou assemblemustbe
tightenedsecurely.Use thecorrecttools
as necessaryto ensurepropertightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove looseparts includedwith
mower.
2. Cut downtwoend comersof carton
and lay end paneldownflat.
3. Removeall packingmaterialsexcept
paddingbetween upper and lower
handle and paddingholdingoperator
presencecontrolbar to upper handle.
4. Rolllawn moweroutofcartonand
checkcartonthorouglyfor additional
looseparts.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle
section looks into place in mowing
position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
kndos.
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 'Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
Operator
control bar
Upper
Lift up
Mowing
Lower handle
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 youmelf
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 FA_T SLOW CHOKE FUEL C_L DANGER, KEEp PIANOS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
Stader handle
Engine zone control cable
Handle knob
Engineoil capwithdipstick Gasolinefillercap
Wheael adjuster
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is (on each wheel)
shipped 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
American 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.

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in
foreign objects thrown into
the eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend a wide vision safety
mask over spectacles or standard safety
glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CU'I'FING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium
position is 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.
PlateTab
LowerWheels forHighCutt...._L__
RaiseWheels forLowCut
TO CONVERTTO DISCHARGING
MOWER
Your mower is shipped ready to be used
as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
•Lift discharge guard and remove
mutcher plate.
• Mower can now be used for side
discharge or optional grass catcher can
be attached,
• To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
•kCAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without discharge guard, ap-
proved grass catcher or mulcher plate in
place.
Housing
opening
Mulchplate Hinge
,ab
7

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.
For type and grade of oil to use, see
"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level 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 reading. To read proper level,
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 aminimum 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 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 gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the 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 the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
_1,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.
Engineoilcap Gasolinefiller
cap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due toprotectivecoatingson the
engine,asmallamountof smokemay be
presentduringthe initialuseofthe
product and shouldbe considered
normal.
I. To starta coldengine,pushpdmsr
three (3) timesbefore tryingtostart.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when startingan
engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Hold operator presencecontrolbar
down to the handleand pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine,release operator
presencecontrolbar.
NOTE: Incoolerweatheritmay be
necessarytorepeat pdmingsteps.In
warmerweather over pdmingmay cause
flooding and enginewillnotstart. Ifyou
do flood engine,wait a few minutes
beforeattemptingtostartand do not
repeatpdmingsteps.
_i=¸ \,

MOWINGTIP$
• 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.
•For side discharge lawn mowers,
cutting in a counter-clockwise direction,
starting at the outside of the area to be
cut, spreads grass clippings more
evenly and puts less load on the
engine. To keep clippings off of
walkways, flower beds, etc., make the
first cuts in a clockwise direction.
•Pores in cloth grass catcherS can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
•Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWINGTIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. 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 recutting action of the blades.
•Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the eerly
attemoon. At this time the grass has
dried and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun.
•For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previousF/
cut path and mow slowly. ,
•Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched asecond 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 south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
9

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE ERVICE DATES
Checkfor Loose Fssteners _I_
Cksan/mspectGrass Catcher
(if Equipped) I_ ll/ I1_
MClean Lawn Mower li/ ll_
O Clean Under Ddve Cover
Power- Propelled Mowers) tl_
Check ddve belt/pulleys
E Power-Plooelled Mowers) I_
ChecWSharpen/Replace Blade _ =p
Lubdcatlon Chart _I1_
Cle._nSette_//Recha •
Electdc Start Mow_'_ fl_ I/4
ECheck Sn_ne Oil Levet
N ChangeEngineOII 1/t_
GClean Air Filter I_' =
I Inspect Muffler ,t/'
NClean or Rel_ace Spark Plug t/
E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge 1/2
1. Changemore oftenwhenoperatJr_ u_de:a himW_or mh_ghambienl Dmperslures.
2-Se_ce mornoitonwhenoperating indirtycr duslycondJ_ons,
3-Repk=cebladesmo_eoftenwhen mowingIn sandysoil,
4. Charge48 bournat end ol season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does
not cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the Warranty,
operator must maintain mower as
instructed in this manual
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to propedy 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
assures proper air-fuel mixture and
helps your engine run batter and last
longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engineoil level.
2. Checkfor loosefasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
_Nheel adjuster
\
dl _Brak'e spring
bracket
(_Handle bracket
mounting pin
(_ Refer to maintenance "Engine" section.
Spray lubricant
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease
plastic wheel beadngs, viscous lubri-
cants will attract dust and dirt that will
shorten the life of the self-lubdcating
bearings, if you feel they must be
lubdcated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
3ASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
DILTYPE (API-SF - SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RN4C
]LADE BOLT TORQUE: 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 eedal number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules 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.
BLADE CARE
Forbestresults,mowerblademustbe
kept sharp, Replace bentor damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to 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 tuming counter-
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 blockof wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, tuming clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but ifyou 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 gdnding 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.
11

Blade
adapter Crankshaft
Key_..F_ f _ keyway
Lockwasher__
/BladeLUl_F_'_"_ _ _ ra\C nk
Blade \ i ,, / _ '_/
bolt \__..
Hardened tra.mg Bladeadapter
washer 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-SJ.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
8AE VISCC_ITY GRADES
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. 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 Opsracion section of this manual.)
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Containe_
AIR RLTER
Yourenginewillnot runproperlyand may
be damagedbyusingadirtyairfilter.
Replacethe airfilter everyyearor after
every 100 hoursofoperaiton,moreoften
ifyou mowinverydusty,dirtyconditions.
Do notwashair 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 dirt accumula-
tion.
4. Insert new filter intocover.
5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
6. Push in on cover and turn counter-
clockwise to tighten.

"_uTn
Clip clockwiseto
Collar remove
Airfilter
Air filter cover Turncounter-
ctockwiseto
tighten
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or dam-
age.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, which ever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,
keep mower housingfree of built-up
grassand trash.Cleanthe undersideof
']ourmoweraftereachuse.
_,CAUTION: Disconnectsparkplugwire
from sparkplugand placewire whereit
cannotcome incontactwiththespark
plug.
• Clean the undersideofyourlawn
mower byscrapingto removebuild-up
ofgrassand trash.
•Clean engineoften tokeeptrashfrom
accumulating.A cloggedengine runs
hotterand shortensenginelife.
•Keepfinished surfacesand wheelsfree
of all gasoline,oil,etc.
• We do not recommend usinga garden
hoseto clean lawn mowerunlessthe
electricalsystem,muffler,airfilter and
carburetorare coveredto keepwater
out. Water inenginecan resultin
shortened engine life.
13

ACAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine.
2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHT
Sea "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator's mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of
injury resulting from objects being thrown
out of the discharge opening into the
operator mowing position. If the discharge
guard becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in ahigh or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
1. Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
4. Tum lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket. L
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
ENGINE
ENGINESPEED
Yourenginespeed hasbeenfactoryset.
Do not attempttoincreaseenginespeed
orit may resultin personalinjury.Ifyou
believethatthe engineis runningtoo fast
ortoo slow,takeyourlawnmowerto an
authorizedservicecenterfor repairand
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhas a non-adjustable
fixed mainjetfor mixturecontrol.Ifyour
enginedoes not operateproperlydue to
suspectedcarburetorproblems,take your
lawn mowerto an authorizedservice
centerfor repairand/oradjustment.
IMPORTANT: Nevertamperwiththe
enginegovernor,whichisfactory setfor
properengine speed. Overspeedingthe
engine abovethe factory highspeed
settingcan be dangerous.Ifyou thinkthe
engine-governedhigh speed needs
adjusting,contactyournearestautho-
rizedservicecenter,whichhas proper
equipmentand experienceto make any
necessaryadjustments.
14

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storageattheendoftheseasonorifthe
unitwillnotbeusedfor 30 daysor more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawnmoweristobe storedfor a
periodoftime, cleanitthoroughly,remove
alldirt,grease,leaves,etc. Storeina
clean,dryarea.
1. Clean entirelawn mower(See
"CLEANING"in the Maintenance
sectionofthismanual).
2. Lubricateas shownin the Mainte-
nancesectionof thismanual.
3. Besurethatall nuts,bolts,screws,
and pinsare securelyfastened.
Inspect movingpartsfor damage,
breakageand wear. Replaceif
necessary.
4, Touchup all rustedor chippedpaint
surfaces;sand lightlybeforepainting.
HANDLE
Youcanfold yourlawn mowerhandlefor
storage.
f. Squeezethe bottomends ofthe lower
handletowardeachotheruntilthe
lowerhandle clearsthe handle
bracket,then movehandleforward.
2. Loosenupperhandle mountingbolts
enoughto allowupper handleto be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: Whenfolding the handle
for storageor transportation,be sureto
fold the handleas shownor youmay
damage thecontrolcables.
• When settingup yourhandlefrom the
storageposition,the lowerhandlewill
automaticallylookintothe mowing
position.
Sueezetofi Handle
bracket
Hairpin cotter
Operator presence
controlbar
Upper handle
Foldforwardfor
stroage
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
handle
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.
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 is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits dudng 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
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 distribute oil.
15 4. 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 ann/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 mois-
ture. Do not usa plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engona and exhaust areas are still warm.
ACAUTION:Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start I. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
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.
Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragginglin 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.
CORRECTION
1, Clean/replaceair filter.
2. Fillfueltank.
3. Draintankand refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
4. Drainfuel tankand
carburetorand refilltank
withfresh gasoline.
5. Connectwire 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=HigherCut"
position.
2. Set to=HigherCut"position.
3. Clean/replaceair filter.
4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.
5. Check oil level:
6. Cut at slowerwalkingspeed.
16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Poorcut- 1. Worn,bentor looseblade.
ineven 2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildupof grass,leaves
and trashunder mower.
Excessive 1. Worn,bent or looseblade.
vibration 2. Bent enginecrankshaft.
CORRECTION
1. Replaceblade.Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheelsat same
height
3. Clean undersideof
mower housing.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Contact aSears or other
qualified service center.
Starter rope hare 1. Engine flywheel brake is or
topull when control bar is release,
2. Bentenginecrankshaft.
3. Bladeadapterbroken.
4, Bladedraggingin grass.
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lifton blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grassistoo highor wheel
height istoo low.
2. Rear oflawn mower
housingor bladedragging
in grass.
3. Grasscatchertoofull.
4. Handle heightpositionnot
rightfor you.
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
equipped)
Hardto push
1. Depress controlbarto
upper handle before
pullingstarterrope.
2. Contacta Searsor other
qualifiedservicecenter.
3. Replaceblade adapter.
4. Move lawnmowerto cut
grassor tohardsurface.
1. Raise cutting height.
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.
17

ROTARYLAWNMOWER-MODEL NO. 917.389040
77
21
4O
50
45
40 44
44
51
43
44
45
55

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - MODEL NO. 917.389040
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
7
11
12
13
16
19
21
22
23
27
3O
33
34
35
36
39
40
43
44
45
46
PART
NO
636O1
86_2
13_001
13O709X479
169708X479
131g_9
168552
750097
85073OX004
136376
51793
165858
66426
160831
160B3_
160833
751153
168164X479
168165X479
16_63Ox007
1683OQX004
87877
16O828
146248
83_3
mlFlqON
Lockrl_ 1/4-20
Con_olBar
RopeGuide
Upp_Han_
Low_
Hande Bolt5/16.18
En_neZoneCon_o_CaU,e
Hex Threacl Rol_ Soew #10-24 xl/2
Brac_t
Pl_d_Kn_
HaJrpinCo_"
RearDe_k_or
V,/,mTle
[_ha_eGuad
ToP,onSpf¢_
H_n_Rod
NUt Hex Flange Lock5/16.18
_rn_ Brac_ Supp_ _._)
Whe_ Brac_ Suppo_ (F_
Whe_Bracket_i_r
selec_rspr_
,Sek_Knob
Washer
Shoul0er Bo_t
wn_._ssen-_Cy
_Ut 1/16-18
KEY PART
NO. NO DEscRn_IION
5O 77400 H,J0cap
51 17600406 Soew Hexs_Tabd 1/4X20 ti
52 150406 HexHead_n_d RcS_gScrew3/6.16x1
56 85463 DangerDec_
59 161345 LawnIVlo_r Ho_ ( Ind.KeyNO.55)
61 851514 B_Ada_
62 141114 22"Blade
63 851074 HardenedWasher
64 850263 HelicalLockwasher3_8
65 851084 Hex HeadScrew3A_24x1/4Grd.8
67 ...... Ertg_e- ( SeeBreakdo/m)Cndlsman
ModelNo.143.016712
72 16-/13_X3O4 A_ ArmAsm.(RR/LF)
73 1_/13OX£04 .a0deAnnAsm(RF,,LR)
76 161622 CUp.CIo_mut
77 750097 Soew
78 87584X004 HingeBracket
80 16_630 MulcherPla_
-. 1773_ O,,..ner'sM_nuaJ(_)
-- 161o58 war,t_g Dec=(NotSho_)
Avail_le accessodes not included wilh lawn rnowe_
Z133O00 FuelStab_zer
713,3ooo SA£3OWO_(2o_z.)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016712
135
130
120 119
1
125
103,
195
36