Craftsman 917.389220 User manual

Owner's Manual
£11AFTSMAN+
4.5 HORSEPOWER
22" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.389220
• Safety
•Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• EspaSol •
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Assembly .............................................. 4
Operation .............................................. 5
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 9
Maintenance ......................................... 9
Product Specifications .......................... 10
Service and Adjustments ...................... 13
Storage ................................................. 14
Troubleshooting ................................... 15
Repair Parts .......................................... 34
Parts Ordering ...................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructionsin
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-
ship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of pumhase.
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, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Safety standards require operator
presence controls to minimize the risk of
injury.Your unit is equipped with such
controls. Do not attempt to defeat the
function of the operator presence controls
under any cimumstances.
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.
2

• Dress property. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or weadng open
sandals. Wear only solid shoes with
good traction when mowing.
•Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fillgas 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
afirm 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 plug to
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 you 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. Exhaus
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 propedy.
* 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 deterio-
ration 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 stodng 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.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTIONH! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFE'P( IS INVOLVED.
_CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
A, WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.
3

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutlets end service
centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model
number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
!GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FIL'RERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructionsand this manual in
its entiretybefore you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the
engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as-
semblad 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 correcttools as neces-
saryto ensure proper tightness. Allpads
such as nuts,washers, bolts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been
placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
•Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
•Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle
section locks into place in mowing
position.
•Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
4

•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 Adjustment section of this manual.
Operator presence control
bar
Upper handle _U_/
Lift up _Mowing
position
_LOnWdre
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SL(_V CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone
control bar
Starter handle
Handle knob
Eng!neoil cap with dipstick Gasoline filler cap
primer
Housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE
in the engine. (on each wheel)
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 tums when the engine is running.
Operatorpresence control bar- must be Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
held down to the handle to start the engine, cad:)uretor to the cylinder for use when
Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine.
Starter handle -used for starting the engine.
5

The operation of any lawn mower
can result in foreignobjectsthrown
intothe eyes,whichcanresultin
severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasse6 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
safetygbsses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWNMOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
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.
• Yourlawn mower isequippedwith an
operatorpresencecontrolbar which
mcluiresthe operatorto be positioned
behindthe lawnmower handletostartand
operatethe lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for lowcut and lower wheels
forhighcut.
• Adjustcuttingheightto suityour require-
merits. Mediumpos_ionisbestformost
lawns.
•To change cuttingheight,squeeze adjuster
levertowardwheel. Move wheel up or
downtosuityour requirements.Be sure all
wheelsare inthe same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is propedy positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Lower wheels for
high cut Plate tab
Raise wheels for low
cut
NOTE: Your lawn mower has been
shipped ready for mulching operation. To
convert to discharging operation, you
must install the discharge deflector
attachment included with your mower.
TO CONVERT TO DISCHARGING
MOWER
Your mower is shipped ready to be used
as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
•Lift discharge guard and remove
mulcher 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.
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without discharge guard,
approved grass catcher or mulcher plate
in place.
Housin
opening
,-Hooks
Mulch
Hinge
rod
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
finis 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 20ozs. of oil. For type and
grade of oil to use, see fl_NGIN_' in
Maintenance section of this manual.
•Pour oilslowly. Do not over fiB.
•Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
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
operation or each season. You may need
to change the oil more often under dusty,
dirtycondtions.
6

ADD GASOUNE
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with aminimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
AWARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the
engine and let it run until fuel lines and
carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank
or permanent damage may occur.
A,CAUTION: Fillto 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.
TO START ENGINE
•To start a cold engine, push primer five
(5) times before trying to start. Use a
firm push. This step is not usually
necessary when starting an engine
which has already run for afew
minutes.
* Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
•To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
Engine oil cap Gasoline filler
cap
MOWING TIPS
• 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.
7

MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,keep
mower housingfree of built-upgrassand
trash.See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE
sectk_ of thla manual.
•The specialmulchingbladewill recurthe
grassclippingsmany times and reduce
them insize sothat as they fallontothe
lawnthey willdisperseintothe grass and
notbe noticed. Also,the mulchedgrass
will biodegradequicklyto providenutrients
forthe lawn. Alwaysmulchwithyour
highestengine(blade) speed as thiswill
providethe bestrecuttingactionofthe
blades.
•Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhen itis wat. Wet
grasstendstoformdumps and interferes
withthe mulchingaction. The besttime to
mow yourlawnisthe earlyafternoon. At
this timethe grasshasdriedand the newiy
cutarea will not be exposedto the direct
sun.
• Forbestreeults,aa_ustthe lawnmower
cuttingheightso thatthe lawn mowercuts
offonlythe topone-thirdof the grass
blades. Ifthelawnisovergrownitwilibe
necessaryto raleethe beightofcutto
reducepushingeffortand tokeep from
overloadingthe engineand leaving
dumps of mulchedgrass.For extremely
heavymulching,reduceyourwidthofcut
by overlappingpreviouslycutpathand
mowslowly.
•Certaintypesof grassandgrasscondi-
tionsmay requirethatan area be mulched
a secondtimeto completelyhidethe
clippings.When doinga secondcut,mow
acrossor peq:x.=r_liculartothe firstcutpath.
•Change yourcuttingpatternfromweek to
week. Mow northtosouthone week then
changeto easttowestthe nextweek. This
will helppreventmattingand grainingof
the lawn.
8

As_ouCOMP,_E /_-t_" O_;,_=.,,,_.=r,
REGULARSERVICE /__R,_,/_,_" SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fsstenem ! I_'
Clean/InspectGrassCatcher
(if Equipped) 11#' _
MO CleanLawnMower
CleanUnderDriveCover
WE IPower-Propelled Mowers)Check ddve belt/pulleys
(Power-propeUed Mowers) Ii/
RCheck/Sharpen/Replace Blade !/S'3
Lubdcation Chart _l_f
Clean Battery/Rechar_le
IEl_.c StertMow_ I V' V'4
E ChedK Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil 11/1.2
IG Clean Air Filter _2
Inspect Muffler
NClean or Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartddge ql_=
1 - change more oftenwhen operatingunder &heavy Ioedor in high ambient temperatures.
2 oServicemore often whe_ operatingin dinyor duStycondit_nl,
3 - RepLacebladesmore open whG,_mowingin sandysoil,
4. Charge 48 hoursat endof =*eason,
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
pedo_ to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
merits eec_on of this manual SfKX_ be
_ at least once each season.
,Oncea year,replacothesparkplug,clean
or replace air filter alement and check
blade for wear. A newsparkplugand
clean/new air filterelement assures proper
air-fueln'dx_reandhelpsyourer_ne nJn
• betterancllastlonger,
• Follow the maintenance sdledule in th'B
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oillevel.
•Check forloosefasteners,
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwelllublicated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_)Wheel adjuster (_)Mulcher door
on 3rake
spdng
bracket
(_)Handle bracket
mountingpin
)Spray
®Refer to MAINTINANCE "ENGINE"
SECTION.
IMPORTANT: Do notoilor greaseplastic
wheel bearings.V_cous lubdcardswillattract
dustand dirtthatwillshortenthelifeofthe
selflubricating bearings.If youfeeltheymist
be lubricated,use onlya dry,powdered
graphitetype lubricantsparingly.
9

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.389220
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 °.008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both sedal number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Alwaysobservesafety ruleswhen performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tiresfree of gasoline,oil,or insect
controlchemicalswhichcan harm rubber.
•Avo'_stumps,stones,deep ruts,sharp
objectsand other hazardsthat may cause
tire damage.
BLADIE CAFIE
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
w_th the raised lugs on the adapter.
•Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
•Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
•Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
10

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend
sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure
the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
•To check blade balance, drive anail
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. Blade
Crankshaft
Key keyway
Lockwasher
Crank
Blade
bolt Hardened Blade adapter
washer edge
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
•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, SG or SH. Select
the oil'sSAE viscosity grade according to your
expectedoperatingtemperature.
SN_ VlSCOSrl'YQRAOE$
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 avoiq
possible engine damage from running
low on oil.
Change the oilafter every 25 hours of
operation oret least once a year ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcaseoil levelbefore startin,
the engineand after each five(5) hoursof
continuoususe. "lightenoilplug securely
each timeyou check the oillevel.
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 spar
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
•Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on
clean surface.
•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.
•Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mowe
and on side of engine.
•Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick, DO NOT
OVER FILL.
•Replace engine oil cap.
•Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
Container

AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using adirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
•Remove the air filter by turning counter-
clockwise to the stop and pull away
from collar.
•Remove filter from inside of cover.
•Clean the inside of the cover and the
collar to remove any dirt accumulation.
•Insert new filter into cover.
•Put air filter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
•Push in on cover and turn clockwise to
tighten.
Turn
counter-
clockwise
to
remove
Stot
Airfitter Tum
Tab clOckwise
to tighten
Air filter cover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and runbetter. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For beet performance, Idip
mower housing free of built-grass and trash.
Clean the underside of your mower after
each use.
_,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 a garden
hose to dean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, mufflar, air fleer and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in shortened
engine_e,
12

CAUTION: Before performing any
service and adjustments:
•Release control bar and stop engine.
•Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
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.
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 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.
•Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
•Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
•Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
•Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
•Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
Rotate Lower
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that engine is running too fast or
too slow, take your mower to an autho-
rized service center for repair and
adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixture control. If your
engine does not operate pmpedy due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and/or adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
the proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
scan be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorized
service center, which has proper equip
ment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
13

Immediatelyprepare yourlawn mowerfor
storageatthe end ofthe seasonor ifthe unit
willnotbe usedfor 30 days or more.
LAWNMOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
of time, dean itthoroughly, remove all dirt,
grease, loaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry
area.
• Clean enlire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Malntenence section of this
manual).
•Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
•Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace ifnecessary.
•Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before p_nting.
I-IAh_LE
You can foldyour lawnmowerhandlefor
storage.
•Squeeze the bottomands ofthe lower
handletowardeach other untilthe lower
handledears the handlebracket,then
move handleforward.
•Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enoughto allow upperhandleto be folded
back.
IMPORTANT: When foldingthe handlefor
storageortranspodation,be sureto foldthe
handleas shownor you may damage the
controlcablas.
•Whan se_ng upyour handlefromthe
storage position,the lower handlewill
automaticallylock intothe mowing
position. Lower handle
fold
pin Hairpin
cotter
Operator presence control bar
Upper handle
Fold forward for
storage
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
LowelIhandle
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It isimportant to prevent gum
depositsfromformingin essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel fiRer,fuel hose,
or tank during storage. Also, ex_perience
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 fuelnext season.
NOTE: Fuel stab_er is an acceptable
altemative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer
to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratiofound 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.
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE _in the
Maintenance sec_ert of this manual).
CYUNDER
•Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
•Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distrib_e oil.
•Replace with new spark plug.
14

• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
•Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to lust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover if to give protection from dust and dirt.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do not
use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and will cause
your unitto rusL
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whik
engine and exhaust areas are still wan
ACAUTION: Never store the lawn
mower with gasoline in the tank inside
building where fumes may reach an op
flame or spark. Allow the engine to coo
before storing in any enclosure.
CORRECTION
Does not start 1. Dirty air filter.
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fueL
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spa,,k plug.
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 refilltank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
Loss of power
Poor cut- uneven
7. Looseblade or broken blade
adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Controlbar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower housing
or cuttingblade dragging
in heavygrass.
2. Cuttingtoomuchgrass.
3.
4.
,
6.
Dirty air filter.
Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
Too much oil in engine.
Walking speed too fast.
1. Wom, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
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.
€. Clean undem'_leof mower
housing.
5. Check oillevel.
8. Cut at slowerwalking
speed.
1. Replace blade. "l-_jhten
blade bell
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Excessive 1. 1. Replaceblade, "Nghten
vibration bladebolt.
2. 2. Contactan authorized
servicecenter.
Starter rope hard 1.
to pull 1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact an authorized
service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
Wom, bent or loose blade.
Bent engine crankshaft.
Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
Cutting height too low.
Lifton blade worn off.
Catcher not venting air.
Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full
4. Hencnebeightpoaitionnot
rightforyou.
Gross catcher I. I. Raise cutting height.
not fflllng ('dso 2. 2. Replace blade.
equipped) 3. 3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push 1. 1. Raise cutting height.
2: Raise rear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setting
higher.
3. Emptygrasscatcher.
4. Adjusthandleheightto
suit.
16

SERVICE NOTES
33

45
46
\
44
51
43
44
45
ROTARY LAWN MOWER -MODEL NO. 917.389220
77 78
4O
45
4O 44
5O
46

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - MODEL NO. 917.389220
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
7
11
12
13
16
19
21
22
23
27
3O
33
34
35
36
39
4O
43
44
45
46
PART
NO
63601
1320O1
169709X479
169708X479
131_59
168552
750O97
850733X004
136376
5179_
165858
66426
16(_31
160832
16(_33
751153
168164X479
168165X479
160835)d_07 .
168360X004
87877
19112222
160828
146248
83923
DES_
Locknut1/4-20
ControlBar
RopeP_._de
Upp_Hardo
LowerHandle
HandteBolt5/16-18
EngineZoneControlCabla
HexThreadRollingScrew ff10-24xl/2
Up-StopBracket
HandeKnob
HairpinCotter
RearDeflaetor
WireTla
DischargeGuard
TorsionSpdng
NngeRod
NutHexFlangeLock5/16-18
WheelBracketSupport(Left)
whee_BracketSuppo_(P,_t)
WheelBracketAdjuster
SelectorSpnng
SetectorKnob
Waster
ShoeldorBolt
WheelAsseml_y
Locknut1/16-18
KEY PART
NO. NO DESCRIPTION
50 77400 Hubcap
51 17600406 ScrewHexserrated1/4 x 20 tt
52 150406 HexHeadThreadRollingScrew3/8-16x 1
55 85463 DangerDecal
5_ 161345 LawnMowerHousing( Incl.KeyNo.55)
61 851514 BladeAclapter
62 141114 22"Blade
63 851074 HardenedWasher
64 850263 HelicalLockw r3/8
65 851084 Hex Head Screw 3/8-24x 1/4Grd. 8
67 ...... Engine-( See Breakdown)Craftsman
ModelNo.143.994508
72 167132X004 AxleArmAsm.(RPJLF)
73 167133X004 AxleArmAsm(RF/LR)
76 161622 Clip.Ctoseout
77 750097 Screw
78 87584X004 HingeBracket
80 166830 MulcherPlate
-- 172537 OwnefsManual(EngJist,,/Spanlsh)
-- 161058 WarningDecal(NotShown)
Availableaccessoriesnotincludedwithlawn mower.
71 33623 GasCan (2.5gal.)
71 33500 FuelStabilizer
71 33000 SAE30W Oil(20 oz.)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.994508
_-- 370K
9OO ,300
4GO 135
120 11g
182 19
185
178
126
125
101 7
46
36