Craftsman 944.359220 User manual

Owner's Manual
ICRIIFTSMRN°I
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
24 Volt DC Cordless Motor
Power-Propelled
21" Multi-Cut
Model No.
944.359220
CAUTION'.
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

MOWER SAFETY GUiDELiNES
• The information this manual contains will
alert you to potential hazards and prevent
possible problems.
• It may not be practical or possible to warn
about all the hazards associated with op-
erating or maintaining your lawn mower
in this manual and we would advise you
to use your own good judgment.
• Familiarize yourselfwith your lawn mower,
know all the lawn mower controls and how
to operate them.
•Know howto quicklyshutoffyour lawn
mower in case of emergency.
USER SAFETY
The symbols below may appear in this
manual and on your mower. Learn and
understand their meaning.
CAUTION
OR WARNING DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions on the machine and in the manual(s)
before starting. Be thoroughly familiarwith
the controls and the proper use of the ma-
chine 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 oper-
ate 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.
• Never direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material against
awall or obstruction. Material may ricochet
back toward the operator. Stop the blade
when crossing gravel surfaces.
• Do not operate the mower without proper
guards or other safety protective devices
in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for proper
operation and installation of accessories.
Only use accessories approved by the
manufacturer.
• Stop the engine (motor) when crossing
gravel drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the
mower or unclogging the chute. Disengage
key before cleaning.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until
the blade comes to complete stop before
removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Al-
ways be sure of your footing: keep a firm
hold on the handle and walk; never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism
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 a warning of trou-
ble.
• 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
fall accidents which can result insevere injury.
All slopes require extra caution. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, 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 drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
• Do not cut excessively steep slopes.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing
could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
not alert to the presence of children. Children
are often attracted to the machine and the
mowing activity. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
2

• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Remove and store the key out of the reach
of children when not in use.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small children.
Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
• The mower is not a toy. It can be very
dangerous; small children should not use
this mower. Only responsible adults who
have read the manual and understood all
instructions should operate this mower.
IV. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade at-
tachment 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. 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 compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's
recommended parts when necessary.
• Mower blade is sharp and can cut. Wrap
the blade or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing it.
• Do not attempt to change the engine elec-
tronic settings or over speed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction
labels, as necessary.
• Only use accessories or parts approved
by the manufacturer. Non-approved parts
or accessories can cause serious injury
or damage and will void the warranty.
• This lawnmower is not to be used for
commercial use; Use only on personal
property. It should only be used on pri-
vate lawns and should not be used to cut
public parks, playing fields, farms, forests
or a large number of lawns.
V. BATTERY & CHARGER SAFETY
,_ CAUTION: Before using batteries
or charger please read all instructions.
Serious injury, electrical shock or prop-
erty damage may occur if all warnings
and instructions are not understood and
followed. Only use batteries provided or
approved by the manufacturer.
, The batteries are sealed units and can not
be opened or taken apart. When a battery
is no longer holding a charge take it to a
local recycling center.
, Be extra cautious to reduce risk of drop-
ping a metal tool onto the battery. It might
spark or short circuit the battery or other
electrical parts and may cause an explo-
sion. Keep the area around the charger
and batteries clean.
, Remove personal metal items such as
rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches
when working with a lead-acid battery.
, Do not touch un-insulated parts of the
battery, contacts or terminals.
, Do not leave the batteries outside in the
elements. Always store the batteries in a
dry area where the temperature does not
drop below 320 F or 0° C.
, The Charger and batteries should be kept
in a dry area away from children, pets,
heat and moisture.
, Only Charge batteries with standard 110V
household current.
, Do notattemptto rewire orotherwise short
circuit the batteries.
, Use the charger only in a well ventilated
area. Do not charge batteries in a sealed
container.
• Use only manufacturer-approved charger
to charge the lawnmower batteries.
, Charge only manufacturer-approved bat-
teries with this charger. Charging other
batteries or products may cause personal
injury or property damage.
, If the cord or other parts are damaged
replace them immediately before using
the charger.
, To reduce risk of damage to electric plug
and cord, unplug the charger by the plug
and not by the cord when disconnecting
charger.
, Use the charger in a location where itwill
not be stepped on, tripped over or other-
wise subjected to damage or stress.
, Do not disassemble charger; take it to a
qualified service agent or replace charger
when service or repair is required.
, To reduce risk of electric shock, unplug
charger from outlet before attempting any
maintenance or cleaning.
Never alter the charger or cord.
e

GENERAL: Craftsman products are warranted to be free from defects in materials
or workmanship for a specific time period as set-out below (the "Warranty Period").
Warranties extend to the original purchaser of a Craftsman product only. Purchases
made through an online auction or through any website other than www.sears.ca are
excluded. The relevant Warranty Period commences on the original date of purchase.
Within this period, Sears Canada, Inc. will, at its sole option, repair or replace any products
or components which fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no
charge to the customer for parts or labor, provided that the customer shall be responsible
for any transportation cost.
EXCLUSIONS: This warranty does not cover failures due to normal wear, abuse, misuse,
neglect (including but not limited to the use of stale fuel, dirt, abrasives, moisture, rust,
corrosion, or any adverse reaction due to improper storage or use habits), improper
maintenance or failure to follow maintenance guidelines and/or instructions, failure to
operate the product in accordance with the owner's manual or any additional instructions
or information provided at the time of purchase or in subsequent communications with
the original purchaser, accident or unauthorized alterations or repairs made or attempted
by others. Also excluded from warranty coverage - except as provided below - are the
following: maintenance, adjustments, components subject to wear including but not
limited to: cosmetic components, belts, blades, blade adapters, bulbs, tires, filters, guide
bars, lubricants, seats, grips, recoil assy's, saw chains and bars, trimmer lines and spools,
spark plugs, starter ropers and tines, and discoloration resulting from ultraviolet light. Any
product missing the model and/or serial number identification label will be disqualified
from coverage under this warranty.
REPAIRS: Repairs have a 90 day warranty. If the defective product is still within the
Warranty Period, then the new warranty is 90 days from the date of repair or to the end of
the original Warranty Period, whichever period is longer.
DISCLAIMERS: THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE
EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER ORAL OR
WRITTEN (OTHER THAN AS STATED HEREIN), AND WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED
OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY. THIS WARRANTY
GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY FROM PROVINCE TO
PROVINCE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL SEARS BE LIABLE FORANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE
OR INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. THE
EXCLUSIONS IN THIS PARAGRAPH SHALL NOT APPLY IN JURISDICATIONS WHERE
APPLICABLE LAW DOES NOT ALLOW FOR THE EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. IN SUCH JURISDICTIONS, THIS PARAGRAPH SHALL
NOT APPLY, BUT THE REMAINING PROVISIONS OF THIS DOCUMENT SHALL
REMAIN VALID.
Sears retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the product or offer a full refund of
the purchase price at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES: In additional to complying with all suggested
maintenance guidelines and instructions, customers' obligations shall include but shall
not be limited to: operating the product in accordance with the owner's manual or any
additional instructions or information provided at the time of purchase or in subsequent
communications to the purchaser from time to time, exhibit reasonable care in the use,
operation, maintenance, general upkeep and storage of the product. Failure to comply
with these requirements will void any applicable warranty.
4

LIST OF APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIODS: The following list contains the applicable
Warranty Period for your Craftsman product and is based on a combination of the type of
product or component and the intended and actual use of the product or component:
.
.
.
.
90 DAYS: Craftsman products intended for use or actually used for commercial,
institutional, professional or income-producing purposes
2 YEARS: Craftsman riding lawn mowers, yard and garden tractors, walk behind
mowers, tillers, brush cutters, snow blowers, handheld blowers, backpack blowers,
hedge trimmers and electrical products for noncommercial, nonprofessional, non-
institutional, or non-income-producing use, except for those components which are
part of engine systems manufactured by third party engine manufacturers for which
the purchase has received an separate warranty with product information supplied at
the time of purchase.
1 YEAR: Craftsman power cutters, stump grinders, pole pruners, gas chain saws,
electric chain saws, trimmer attachments, baggers and pole saws for noncommercial,
nonprofessional, non-institutional, or non-income-producing use.
90 DAYS: All defective batteries, which will be replaced during this 90-day Warranty
Period.
.60 DAYS: Additional Warranty Period of 60 days will apply to adjustments and worn
products or components BUT DOES NOT INCLUDE WEAR OR ADJUSTMENTS
for products used for commercial, institutional, professional or income-producing
purposes. Wear items include but are not limited to: belts, blades, tires, spark plugs,
air filters, chains, shear bolts, skid plates, scraper bars, drift cutters, ropes, tines,
collection bags and pulleys.
As the Warranty Period runs from the date of purchase and NOT from the date that a
product is delivered, opened, assembled or first used, plea se ensure during this time
period that your product or component has been assembled and tested for correction
operation regardless of when you intend to actually use it. Claims made after the
Warranty Period has expired will not be honored.
PROOF OF PURCHASE/DOCUMENTATION: Warranty coverage is conditioned upon
the original purchaser furnishing Sears Canada or its authorized third party service
provider if applicable, with the original sales receipt or other adequate written proof of
the original purchase date and identification of the product. In the event that the original
purchaser is unable to provide a company of the original sales receipt, Sears Canada
Inc. reserves the right to determine in its sole discretion what other written proof of the
original purchase date and identification of the product is acceptable.
Safety Rules ......................................... 2-3
Warranty ............................................... 4-5
Assembly/Pre-Operation ...................... 6-7
Operation ............................................ 8-11
Maintenance ..................................... 12-14
Service and Adjustments .................. 14-15
Storage ............................................. 15-16
Troubleshooting ..................................... 17
Repair Parts ...................................... 18-21
Sears Service .......................... Back Cover
5

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete 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 MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove al! packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
Operator MOWING
presence POSITION
control bar \
!\ \
//// ////
Upper
handle
LIFT
UP
Handle
knob
NOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise lower handle section to operat-
ing position and align hole in handle
with one of three height positioning
holes.
2. Insert handle bolt through handle and
bracket and secure with knob.
3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.
4. Remove protective padding, raise up-
per handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
5. Remove any packing material from
around control bar.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual.
Handle
bracket
Knob
Lower handle
"Bolt
6

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
1. Putgrass catcherframe intograss bagwith
rigid part of bag on the bottom. Make sure
the frame handle is outside of the bag top.
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
Frame
Vinyl Frame
bindings opening
TO PREPARE BATTERY
NOTE: Your battery must be charged be-
fore you can start your lawn mower. Avoid
charging battery in extremely hot or cold
temperatures.
1. Open motor shroud. Remove and
discard battery insulator tag between
battery and motor connector.
NOTE: The battery can be charged while
in or out of the lawn mower.
2. Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet. Plug other end of charger into
the port on the battery.
3. Leave battery charger connected for
24 hours before starting your engine
for the first time. The green LED on
the charger will light when the battery
is fully charged.
IMPORTANT: Do not store charger inside
of motor or on top of battery.
_I, WARNING" Do not attempt to operate
mower while battery is charging.
_I, CAUTION: Only use battery charger
approved by the manufacturer of your
mower. Using a charger not approved by
the manufacturer of your mower is hazard-
ous, could damage your mower and void
your warranty.
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bag-
ging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT
MOWER" in the Operation section of this
manual.
Battery
insulator
tag
Battery
charger
Battery
LIGHT MODE
Solid RED
Solid GREEN
BATTERY CHARGER LED INDICATOR
BATTERY STATUS
Charging
Battery is fully charged
orcharger is plugged in
without battery attached
7

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALANDALL 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.
Operator presence control bar
Starter Drive control lever
button
Key Handle knob
Grass
catcher
Mulcher
plug Single point
height adjuster
Mulcher door Housing
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 Com-
mission. ,_WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar - must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Starter button - used for starting engine.
Key - used for starting engine. Must be
removed when not in use.
Drive control lever- used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of mower.
Single point height adjuster- used to
adjust cutting height of lawn mower.
Mulcher plug - located at the rear dis-
charge opening. Must be removed when
converting to bagging operation.
lViulcher door -allows conversion to
discharging or bagging operation.
8

The operation of any lawn
SAFETYG'ASSESmower 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 recom-
mend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
• 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.
• The mower is equipped with an LED
battery indicator. During operation
the LED battery indicator will display
the battery state of charge. Once the
mower is turned off, the LED battery
indicator will continue to display the bat-
tery state of charge for 20 seconds and
then flash all 5 LED's for one minute as
a reminder to remove the battery pack
or place the mower on charge.
• The mower will stop suddenly when
battery charge diminishes. This feature
protects the life of your battery by pre-
venting a deep discharge.
• Motor is equipped with an over current
shutoff. Aggressive cutting may shut
down motor. If the LED battery indicator
displays that an adequate charge is re-
maining in the battery, restart the mower
in area which has already been cut.
DRIVE CONTROL
. Self-propelling is controlled by hold-
ing the operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pulling the drive
control lever rearward to the handle.
The farther toward the handle the lever
is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.
• Forward motion will stop when either
the operator presence control bar or
drive control lever are released. To stop
forward motion without stopping engine,
release the drive control lever only. Hold
operator presence control bar down
against handle to continue mowing
without self-propelling.
NOTE: If after releasing the drive control
the mower will not roll backwards, push
the mower forward slightly to disengage
drive wheels.
Operator presence control bar
_" TO
ENGAGE
DRIVE
CONTROL
Drive control
lever
DRIVE
CONTROL
DISENGAGED
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
Over time, the drive control system may
become "loose", resulting in decreased
speed. There is a turnbuckle on the
underside of the drive control housing to
increase tension on the drive cable. Pro-
ceed as follows:
1. Turn unit off.
2. Turn nut on underside of drive control
to increase drive speed.
3. Operate mower to test drive speed.
Readjust as required.
4. If condition fails to improve after the
above steps (forward speed remains
the same), your drive belt is worn and
should be replaced.
Adjustment
turnbuckle
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
All fourwheels are adjusted by a single lever.
. Pul! adjuster lever toward wheel. To
raise mower, move lever forward to
desired position. To lower mower, move
the lever toward the rear.
LEVER
BACKWARD
TO LOWER
MOWER
Height
adjuster level J
\
LEVER
FORWARD
TO RAISE
MOWER
9

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower
and place the grass catcher frame side
hooks onto the door pivot pins.
2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
AI::_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without mulcher plug, clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never at-
tempt to operate the lawn mower with the
rear door removed or propped open.
Pivot Rear
door 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.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emp-
tying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
Grass
catcher
frame
handle
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe
place.
• You can now install the grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower.
Mulcher plug
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Mulcher plug must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower.
• Open mulcher door and install dis-
charge deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door closed.
/
Open mulcher door
Install
discharge
deflector
\
MOWER IS NOW READY FOR
DISCHARGING OPERATION
10

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug removed.
2. Grass catcher installed.
3. Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
2. Discharge deflector installed.
_I,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mow-
er without mulcher plug, clipping deflector
or approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
Let the blade come to a complete stop,
then remove key and battery from mower.
TO START ENGINE
* Close and secure motor shroud.
, Insert safety key into starter switch.
, Hold down operator presence control
bar to handle and press start button.
, Mower will begin to operate.
NOTE: Wait 5-10 seconds for maximum
blade speed before cutting grass.
MOWING TIPS
_i, CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such
attachments are hazardous, wil! damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
, 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.
, 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 engine clear and clean of grass
clippings and chaff. This will help engine
air flow and extend engine life. 11
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
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 recut-
ting 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 early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
• 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 grass, reduce your width of cut
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
×iMAX 1/3
1!It1111111U
s_J wal H_,
• 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 sec-
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) 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.

MAINTENANCE BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY BEFORE
EACH EACH lo 2sHouRs
SCHEDULE uSE USE HOURS OR SEASON STORAGE
Check for Loose Fasteners
Clean /Inspect Grass Catcher *
Check Tires
Check Drive Wheels **
Clean Lawn Mower ***
Clean under Drive Cover **
Check Drive Belt /Pulleys **
Check /Sharpen /Replace Blade ....
Lubrication
Recharge Battery
i/
i/
t/
i/
i/
t/i/
i/ i/
t/ i/
t/
t/
i/ i/
* (if so equipped)
** Power-PropeNed mowers
*** Use a scraper to clean under deck
**** Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to op-
erator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must main-
tain 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 Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, check blade for wear.
• Follow the Maintenance Schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check for loose fasteners.
• Leave battery charger connected for 24
hours before starting engine for the first
time. The green LED on the charger will
light when the battery is fully charged.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated
(See "LUBRICATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
Side
discharge
mower guard
hinge rod
Rear
discharge
mower rear
door hinge rod
Handle bracket mounting pins Spray
lubricant
IMPORTANT: Do not oi! or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants wil!
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.
IMPORTANT: Remove battery from mow-
er before performing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
12

DRIVE WHEELS
Check rear drive wheels each time you
mow to be sure they move freely. The
wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the
drive wheel and dust cover area and must
be cleaned out to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both rear wheels.
BLADE CARE
For best results, blade must be kept
sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.
,i:i, CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer of
your mower. Using a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of your mower is haz-
ardous, could damage your mower and
void your warranty.
IMPORTANT: Remove battery from mow-
er before performing any maintenance.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. 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.
2. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
3. Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer, 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
1. Position the blade adapter on the en-
gine 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 (op-
posite 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 heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
Blade adapter Key Crankshaft
Lockwasher
Blade
Blade J
bolt Hardened i\ "
washer Trailing edge Crankshaft
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-
ening blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced. Care should be taken
to keep the blade balanced. An unbal-
anced 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 dam-
age or deterioration. Through normal
use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-
ing, replace only with approved replace-
ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual. Give the lawn
mower model number when ordering.
GEAR CASE
• To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area around
the drive should be kept clean and free
of trash build-up. Clean under the drive
cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the gear
case.
13

CLEANING
iMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up grass
and trash. Clean the underside of your
mower after each use.
• Clean underside of mower by scraping
to remove build-up of grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating.
•Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
•We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover with
putty knife or similar tool to remove any
build-up of trash or grass on underside of
drive cover.
AWARNING" To avoid serious injury, 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. Remove battery pack and key.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your 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 REMOVE DRIVE BELT
1. Remove drive cover.
2. Remove spring and belt keeper.
3. Remove belt from gearcase pulley.
4. Turn lawn mower on its side.
5. Remove blade, engine pulley and
debris shield.
6. Remove engine pulley and belt from
debris shield.
TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT
7. Place new drive belt in engine pulley
and belt retainer of debris shield.
8. Route the other end of the new drive
belt through hole in housing.
9. Reinstall debris shield.
10. Return mower to upright position.
11. Install new belt on gearcase pulley.
12. Reinstall belt keeper and spring.
13. Reinstall drive cover.
NOTE: Always use factory approved belt
to assure proper fit and long life.
14. Turn lawn mower on its side.
15. Reinstall blade.
Gearcase pulley
\
Belt
retainer
Debris shield
14
Drive
cover
Spring
Belt
)er
Engine pulley
Drive belt

TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mower has three
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.
1. Remove knob and carriage bolt on one
side of the lower handle.
2. While holding handle assembly,
remove knob and carriage bolt from
opposite side, align hole in handle with
desired hole in handle bracket and
reassemble bolt and knob and tighten
securely.
3. Align opposite side of handle with
same positioning hole and secure with
bolt and knob.
High
Knob
Handle
bracket
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the season or
will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for 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 sec-
tion of this manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage
and wear. Replace if necessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
Operator
control bar
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
STORAGEJ
/ //
////
HANDLE
You can fold your mower handle for storage.
1. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on
sides of the upper handle and allow
handle to fold down to the rear.
2. Remove the two (2) handle knobs and
carriage bolts on sides of the lower
handle and pivot entire handle as-
sembly forward and allow it to rest on
mower.
3. Reinstall knobs and carriage bolts to
lower handle or handle brackets for
safe keeping.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
require manually locking into the mow-
ing position.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle
for storage or transportation, be sure to
fold the handle as shown or you may dam-
age the control cables. 15
Handle
bracket
Knob
if the unit
MOWING
POSITION
//
/////
_\_\\ //// X
/Upper
handle
Handle
knob
Lower handle
Bolt

OTHER
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe, which allows condensation to
form and will cause your unit to rust.
• Do not store the mower adjacent to
fertilizers or chemicals. Such storage
can cause rapid corrosion.
• Store mower indoors in a dry, secure
area - out of reach of children.
• Battery weighs approximately 30 Ibs.
(14 KG), use caution when lifting.
• To prolong the life of the battery, it is
recommended to remove it from mower
or keep on charge when not in use.
• Remove key from start switch when not
in use.
• Do not attempt to service internal com-
ponents of the battery.
MOWER STATUS /TROUBLESHOOTING
MOWER STATUS CODES
The mower is equipped with an indicator which will show a series of LEDs when the bat-
teries are connected. The following chart will identify the status of the mower based on
the appearance of these lights.
LED LIGHTS
ALL lights on
RED, YELLOW, and
two GREEN lights on
RED, YELLOW, and
one GREEN light on
RED, YELLOW lights on
RED light on
CONDITION
Battery fully charged
Battery 80% charged
Battery 60% charged
Battery 40% charged
Battery 20% charged
RED light flashing
YELLOW light flashing
LH GREEN light flashing
center GREEN light flashing
RH GREEN light flashing
Battery charge depleted
-recharge battery
Start Sequence error
-remove battery and key, try again
Motor Overheated
-wait 10 minutes, try again
Internal Motor Fault
-contact manufacturer
Start Control or Cable Fault
-contact manufacturer
16

TROUBLESHOOTING =See appropriate section in manual.
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Does not start
Loss of power
Poor cut -
uneven
Excessive
vibration
Engine runs
only briefly
Grass catcher
not filling
(if so equipped)
1. Start button not depressed.
2. Battery not properly seated.
3. Weak Battery.
4. Wiring harness is
disconnected.
5. Loose blade or broken
blade adapter.
6. Control bar in released
position.
7. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.
Cutting too much grass.
Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
Walking speed too fast.
Hard to push
Loss of drive
or slowing of
drive speed
.
3.
4.
1.
2.
3.
4.
1.
Worn, bent or loose blade.
Wheel heights uneven.
Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
Weak Battery.
Worn, bent or loose blade.
1. Weak Battery.
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lift on blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
right for you.
1. Belt wear.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken.
4. "Loose" drive control system.
1. Make sure key is fully seated.
2. Reinstall battery.
3. Remove battery and charge.
4. Connect wire to plug at back
right corner of engine.
5. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
6. Depress control bar to
handle.
7. Replace control bar.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise cutting height.
3. Clean underside of mower
housing.
4. Cut at slower walking speed.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height.
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
4. Remove battery and charge.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
1. Remove battery and charge.
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.
1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstal! drive belt.
3. Replace drive cable.
4. Adjust drive control.
17

oo
1
65
9
/
18
17
16
39
.........40

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - -MODEL NUMBER 944.359220
KEY
NO.
2
3
6
7
8
9
12
13
..._ 14
_..o15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
PART KEY PART KEY PART
NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO.
427986 Upper Handle Assembly 25 161333 Baffle, Side 59 182748
(Includes Foam Grip) 26 163409 Screw, Hi-Lo Thread 65 144929
193664X479 Handle, Lower #12 x 5/8 67 427978X615
405416 Spring, Rear Door, RH 27 408442 Skirt, Rear 68 425472
66426 Wire, Tie 28 88652 Screw, Hinge 1/4-20 x 1.25 100 427523
191574 Bolt, Handle 5116-18 x 2-518 30 189179 Blade Adapter/Pulley 101 425325
180833 Knob, Handle 31 175052 Blade, 21" 102 425326
427153X428 ControI Bar 32 851074 Washer 103 426520
51793 Cotter, Hairpin 33 850263 Washer, Lock 104 424787X428
405415 Spring, Rear Door, LH 34 851084 Bolt, Hex Head 105 422838X428
750634 Screw 35 405843 Debris Shield 106 422843
850733X004 Bracket, Upstop 36 192325 Bolt 107 423262
401815X428 Rear Door Assembly 37 73220600 Nut, Hex 108 427528
184193 Bolt, Rear Door 39 427559 Grassbag 109 426451
198170 Plug, Mulcher 40 411951 Frame, Grassbag 110 422839X428
427561 Kit, Housing 41 404763 Danger Decal 111 426521
193917X479 Handle BracketAsembly, LH 42 17060410 Screw 112 423261
193916X479 Handle Bracket Assembly, RH 45 183058X428 Mulcher Door Assembly 113 426338
17000512 Screw, Hex Washer Head 46 169699X428 Discharge Guard -- 404764
163183 Bolt, Hex Head 5t16-18 x 5t8 47 88349 Nut, Hex - - 427556
73800500 Nut, Hex, with Lockwasher 48 188839X004 Mounting Bracket, - - 427557
Insert 5116-18 Debris Shield
DESCRIPTION
Grip, Foam
Bolt
Key
Start Switch Assembly
Electric Motor Assembly
Insert, Motor Shroud
Control, Start
Screw #8-16 x 1/2
Latch, Motor Shroud
Shroud, Upper, Motor
Plate, Motor Cover
Motor, Electric, 24 Volt
Ring, Retaining 3/16
Pin, Clevis 3116 x 1
Shroud, Lower, Motor
Screw, Flathead #12-9 x 3/4
Battery Pack
Battery Charger, 24 Volt
Warning Decal (not shown)
Owner's Manual, English
Owner's Manual, French
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
IMPORTANT: Use only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OE.M) replacement parts. Failure to do so could be hazardous, damage your lawn mower and void your warranty.

_0
0!
33
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER
49 26
50
,, 14
.....11
24
19 23 22
/21 ',,
18
/
25
32
47
28
41
944.359220
33
23
24
" 31
41 29
40
33
29
\
35
7
16
44
36
37 38
,,,,"
42 15
33
\
40