Craftsman 944.361170 User manual

442664 Rev. 1 07.01.11 BY Printed in U.S.A.
Model No.
944.361170
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Owner’s Manual
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
550 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine
22" Side Discharge
Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2-3
Warranty ............................................... 4-5
Product Specifi cations ........................... 5
Assembly/Pre-Operation ......................... 6
Operation............................................ 7-10
Maintenance Schedule...........................11
Maintenance..................................... 11-13
Service and Adjustments....................... 14
Storage............................................. 15-16
Troubleshooting................................ 16-17
Repair Parts...................................... 18-25
Sears Service ..........................Back Cover
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
Look for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
WARNING: In order to prevent ac-
cidental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot come in contact
with plug.
CAUTION: 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.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions on the machine and in the manual(s)
before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with
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 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 a wall or obstruction. Material
may richochet back toward the opera-
tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel
surfaces.
• 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 accessories.
Only use accessories approved by the
manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the
mower or unclogging the chute.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait 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; walk, never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism
or drive clutch on mowers so equipped
before starting the engine.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operating
mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall
accidents which can result in severe injury.
All slopes require extra caution. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. 27
SERVICE NOTES

26
SERVICE NOTES
3
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 trim 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.
• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards, look
behind and down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate ma-
chine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Allow engine to cool
before refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
• Never store the machine or fuel container
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot
light such as a water heater or on other
appliances.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the
truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
this is not possible, then refuel such equip-
ment with a portable container, rather than
from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do not
use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
and tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run 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 accidental
starting.
• 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. Clean oil or fuel spill-
age. 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 ad-
justments while the engine 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 blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap
the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor setting
or overspeed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction
labels, as necessary.
WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Service Cen-
tre (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

4
WARRANTY
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 FOR ANY 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.
25
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
529 692189 Grommet
534 691417 Screw (Air Cleaner)
535 698369 Filter-Air Cleaner Foam
536 698472 Cleaner-Air
562 691119 Bolt
(Governor Control Lever)
592 690800 Nut (Rewind Starter)
597 691696 Screw (Pawl Friction Plate)
608 499706 Starter-Rewind
612 496046s Tube-Pick Up
615 690340 Retainer-Governor Shaft
616 697405 Crank-Governor
617 270344s Seal-O Ring
(Intake Manifold)
621 692310 Switch-Stop (Brake)
633 691321 Seal-Choke / Throttle Shaft
(Throttle Shaft)
670 691633 Spacer-Fuel Tank
689 691855 Spring-Friction
718 690959 Pin-Locating
724 697478 Retainer-Seal
729 690586 Clip-Wire
741 796210 Gear-Timing
745 691146 Screw (Brake) (10-32 x .86)
745A 690859 Screw (Brake) (10-32 x .50)
842 691870 Seal-O Ring (Dipstick Tube)
847 691440 Dipstick / Tube Assembly
851 692424 Terminal-Spark Plug
868 697338 Seal-Valve
869 699641 Seat-Valve (Intake)
870 699642 Seat-Valve (Exhaust)
871 699643 Bushing-Valve Guide
(Exhaust)
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
871 63709 Bushing-Valve Guide
(Intake)
913 494409 Seat-Check Valve
921 795397 Cover-Blower Housing
922 692135 Spring-Brake
923 691487 Brake
957 497929s Cap-Fuel
969 799014 Screw
(Blower Housing Cover)
976 694394 Primer-Carburetor
1036 - - - Label-Emissions (Available
from any Briggs & Stratton
Authorized Dealer)
1058 277038 Operator’s Manual
1095 498526 Gasket Set-Valve
1210 499901 Pulley / Spring Assembly
(Pulley)
1211 499901 Pulley / Spring Assembly
(Spring)
1218 695866 Seal-O Ring (Carburetor)
1329 10T802-0015-B1
Replacement Engine
1330 270962 Repair Manual
- - 398067 Spark Arrester
(available accessory)
Engine Gasket Set, Key Number 358
Valve Gasket Set, Key Number 1095
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.
inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
Engine Power Rating Information
The gross power rating for individual gas engine models is labeled in accordance with SAE (So-
ciety of Automo-tive Engineers) code J11940 (Small Engine Power & Torque Rating Procedure),
and rating performance has been obtained and corrected in accordance with SAE J1995 (Revision
2002-5). Actual gross engine power will be lower and is affected by, among other things, ambi-
ent operating conditions and engine-to-engine variability. Given both the wide array of products
on which engines are placed and the variety of environmental issues applicable to operating the
equipment, the gas engine will not develop the rated gross power when used in a given piece of
power equipment (actual “on-site” or net horsepower). This difference is due to a variety of factors
including, but not limited to, accessories (air cleaner, exhaust, charging, cooling, carburetor, fuel
pump, etc.), application limitations, ambient operating conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude),
and engine-to-engine variability. Due to manufacturing and capacity limitations, Briggs & Stratton
may substitute an engine of higher rated power for this Series engine.

24
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 699650 Cylinder Assembly
2 399269 Kit-Bushing / Seal
(Magneto Side)
3 299819s Seal-Oil (Magneto Side)
4 798264 Sump-Engine
5 790169 Head-Cylinder
7 698747 Gasket-Cylinder Head
8 791781 Breather Assembly
9 695890 Gasket-Breather
10 691666 Screw (Breather Assembly)
11 691245 Tube-Breather
12 692218 Gasket-Crankcase
13 691640 Screw (Cylinder Head)
16 796217 Crankshaft
20 391483s Seal-Oil (PTO Side)
22 692551 Screw
(Crankcase Cover / Sump)
23 795549 Flywheel
24 222698s Key-Flywheel
25 795691 Piston Assembly (Standard)
795689 Piston Assembly
(.020” Oversize)
26 795690 Ring Set (Standard)
795688 Ring Set (.020” Oversize)
27 691588 Lock-Piston Pin
28 699659 Pin-Piston
29 699654 Rod-Connecting
32 691664 Screw (Connecting Rod)
33 296676 Valve-Exhaust
34 296677 Valve-Intake
35 690520 Spring-Valve (Intake)
36 690520 Spring-Valve (Exhaust)
37 793478 Guard-Flywheel
(Muffler Side)
37A 697403 Guard-Flywheel
(Carburetor Side)
40 692194 Retainer-Valve
43 697799 Slinger-Governor / Oil
45 690762 Tappet-Valve
46 691998 Camshaft
48 793347 Short Block
50 792388 Manifold-Intake
51 792389 Gasket-Intake
54 691111 Screw (Intake Manifold)
55 692144 Housing-Rewind Starter
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
58 697316 Rope-Starter
60 281434s Grip-Starter Rope
65 690837 Screw (Rewind Starter)
73 699850 Screen-Rotating
78 692198 Screw (Flywheel Guard)
89 692348 Plug (Cylinder)
90 798758 Carburetor
97 697414 Shaft-Throttle
106 690901 Seat-Inlet
130 691190 Valve-Throttle
163 271139s Gasket-Air Cleaner
180 494406 Tank-Fuel
188 692198 Screw (Control Bracket)
190 691640 Screw (Fuel Tank)
(5/16-18 x 2.09)
190A 691108 Screw (Fuel Tank)
(1/4-20 x .58)
202 698835 Link-Mechanical Governor
209 698719 Spring-Governor (Light Blue)
222 798686 Bracket-Control
227 697402 Lever-Governor Control
287 691002 Screw (Dipstick Tube)
300 394569s Muffler
304 697411 Housing-Blower
305 692198 Screw (Blower Housing)
332 690662 Nut (Flywheel)
333 799285 Armature-Magneto
334 691061 Screw (Magneto Armature)
337 796112s Plug-Spark
356 692390 Wire-Stop
358 794209 Gasket Set-Engine
362 793351 Shield-Spark Plug
365 790029 Screw (Carburetor)
390 691839 Spring-Choke Diaphragm
393 691837 Screen-Carburetor
394 795478 Diaphragm-Carburetor
404 690272 Washer (Governor Crank)
455 691236 Cup-Flywheel
456 692299 Plate-Pawl Friction
459 281505s Pawl-Ratchet
505 691251 Nut
(Governor Control Lever)
523 692040 Dipstick
524 691876 Seal- Dipstick Tube
525 691320 Tube-Dipstick
5
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 0,94 Litres (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Capacity: 0,58 Litres
Oil Type (API SG–SL): SAE 30 (above 0°C/32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 0°C/32°F)
Spark Plug: Champion RJ19LM (Gap: 0,76 mm)
Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. lbs.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
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:
1. 90 DAYS: Craftsman products intended for use or actually used for commercial,
institutional, professional or income-producing purposes
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 90 DAYS: All defective batteries, which will be replaced during this 90-day Warranty
Period.
5. 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.
WARRANTY

6
ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before 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 assem-
bled at the factory with the exception of
those parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. All parts such as nuts, wash-
ers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the
assembly have been placed in the parts
bag. To ensure safe and proper opera-
tion of your lawn mower, all parts and
hardware you assemble must be tightened
securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
sary 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 all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to dis-
charging, see “TO CONVERT MOWER” in
the Operation section of this manual.
MOWING
POSITION
Lower handle
LIFT
UP
Operator
presence
control bar
Upper
handle
LIFT
UP
Handle
knob
HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle sec-
tion locks into place in mowing position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise up-
per handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to “AD-
JUST HANDLE” in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual.
23
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
332
455
73
23
305
78
304
1036 EMISSIONS LABEL
37
37A
921
969
608
55 65
592
1211
1210
60
58
689
456
597
459
3
7
12
20
163
951
524
842
79
1095 VALVE GASKET SET
868
358 ENGINE GASKET SET
868

22
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
90 976
394
913
106
163 97 130
633
1218
393
390
617
724
612
365
529
957
190A
190
670
180
202 209
188
222
534
163
536
535
745
923
621
922
745A
729
R
300
356
334
851
333
362
851
7
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower
is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR
GASOLINE in the engine.
NOTE: Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol
(E10) is acceptable for use in this machine.
The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALANDALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR
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.
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 handle – used for starting engine.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
Primer – pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter
handle
Gasoline
filler cap
Spark plug
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
Handle knob
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Operator presence control bar
Primer
Muffler
Discharge guard
Air filter
Housing

8
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
in foreign objects thrown
into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye dam-
age. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend standard safety glasses
or a wide vision safety mask worn over
spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR 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 CUTTING 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 ad-
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements.
Be sure all wheels are in the same set-
ting.
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.
TO CONVERT 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 dis-
charge or optional grass catcher can be
attached.
• To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plate in place.
Hooks
Housing
opening
Mulcher plate
Hinge rod
Tab
Discharge
guard
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER
Plate tab
Lever
21
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
45
25
26 27
28
27
32
29
35
40 45
36
40
34
33
24
46
43
15
22
868
12
4
20
741
16

20
MODEL NUMBER 10T802-1585-B1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
1058 OPERATOR’S MANUAL
48 SHORT BLOCK 1329 REPLACEMENT ENGINE 1330 REPAIR MANUAL
1
718
870 871869
3
2
54
51
50
10
9
8
11
337
13
7
5
616
615
562
404
505
227
847
524
525
287
842
523
89
362
851
9
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the prod-
uct and should be considered normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a few
minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
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.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see “ENGINE” in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler
on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour the entire container
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz.
due to residual oil in engine from the
manufacturers 100% quality testing. When
changing oil you may need 20 oz.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
IMPORTANT:
• 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. See “TO
CHANGE ENGINE OIL” in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck.
Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha-
nol) 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. Empty 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.
Engine
oil cap
Gasoline
filler cap
Primer

10
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.
• 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.
MAX 1/3
MOWING TIPS
CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such
attachments are hazardous, will 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.
• For better grass bagging and most cut-
ting conditions, the engine speed should
be set in the FAST position.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come 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.
19
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 944.361170
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
27 408585 Torsion Spring 28 850977 Blade Adapter 29 406713 22" Blade 30 851074 Hardened Washer 31 850263 Helical Lockwasher 3/8 32 851084 Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1/4 Grade 8 33 73930500 Nut, Hex, Centerlock 5/16-18 34 400781X479 Support, Wheel Bracket, LH 35 400782X479 Support, Wheel Bracket, RH 36 407494X005 Adjuster, Wheel Bracket 37 160833 Hinge Rod 38 404763 Danger Decal 39 401621X004 Selector Spring 40 87877 Selector Knob 41 150406 Screw, Hex Head, Threaded, Rolled 3/8-16 x 1 43 401629 Spacer 44 401638 Bolt, Shoulder 5/16-18 x 21/64 45 194348X460 Wheel & Tire Assembly, Rear 8 x 1-3/4 46 409148 Nut, Hex, Flangelock 3/8-16 47 194345X460 Wheel & Tire Assembly, Front 7 x 1-3/4 53 197991 Clip, Cable 61 401630 Washer, Curved - - 404764 Warning Decal (not shown) - - 442664 Owner’s Manual, English - - 442665 Owner’s Manual, French
1 185360 Kit, Mower Housing (Includes Key Number 38) 2 194177X428 Control Bar 3 194788 Rope Guide 4 194179X479 Upper Handle 5 169708X479 Lower Handle 6 192301X004 Hinge Bracket 7 191574 Handle Bolt 5/16-18 8 161622 Clip, Closeout 9 160830 Mulcher Plate 10 132004 Locknut, Hex 1/4-20 11 183281 Engine Zone Control Cable 12 750634 Screw, Hex Head, Threaded, Rolled #10-24 x1/2 13 429930X004 Up-Stop Bracket 15 401174X004 Axle Arm Assembly (RH Rear / LH Front) 16 189713X428 Handle Knob 18 401175X004 Axle Arm Assembly (RH Front / LH Rear) 19 51793 Hairpin Cotter 20 750097 Screw, Tapping, Hex Washer Head #10-24 21 413160 Rear Skirt 22 66426 Wire Tie 23 160831 Discharge Guard 25 426589 Nut, Hex, Flangelock 5/16-18 26 - - - Engine, Briggs & Stratton, Model Number 10T802-1585-B1 (See Breakdown)
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
IMPORTANT: Use only Original Equipment Manufacturer (O.E.M.) replacement parts. Failure to do so could be hazardous, damage your lawn mower and void your warranty.

18
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 944.361170
28
1
2
3
45
6
7
8
10
11
12
13
15
15
16
16
18
18
19
20
21
22
23
25
27
29
30
31
32
33
33
34
35
36
36
37
38
39
39
40
40
40
40
41
43
43
43
43
44
44
44
44
47
45
47
45
46
46
46
46
53
39
39
61
61
61
61
9
26
REPAIR PARTS
11
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
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine Oil level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter
Inspect Muffler
Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
BEFORE
EACH
USE
AFTER
EACH
USE
EVERY
10
HOURS
EVERY
25 HOURS
OR SEASON
EVERY
100
HOURS
BEFORE
STORAGE
1- Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
2- Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3- Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4- Charge 48 hours at end of season.
5- And after each 5 hours of use.
(if so equipped)
Electric-Start mowers
Power-Propelled mowers
Use a scraper
to clean under deck
*
**
***
****
MAINTENANCE
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 unit as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
At least once a season, check to see if
you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
• At least once a year, replace the spark
plug, clean or replace air filter element
and check blade for wear. A new spark
plug and clean/new air filter element
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated
(See “LUBRICATION CHART”).
LUBRICATION CHART
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
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.
Spray lubricant
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
Engine oil
Rear
door hinge
Handle bracket mounting pins
Mulcher
door hinge
pin

12
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming 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
For best results, blade must be kept sharp.
Replace a bent or damaged blade.
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
hazardous, could damage your mower and
void your warranty.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with 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 turning counter-
clockwise.
5. 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 (oppo-
site sharp edge) is up toward 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. lbs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
-20 0 30 40 80 100
-30 -20 0 20 30 40
F
C
32
-10 10
60
5W-30
SAE 30
Blade adapter
Blade
bolt
Crankshaft
keyway
Hardened
washer
Lockwasher
Blade adapter
Key
Blade
Trailing edge
Crank
shaft
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 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.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SG–SL. Select the
oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
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 if the
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.
17
Loss of power 1. Rear of mower housing or 1. Raise cutting height.
blade dragging in grass.
2. Cutting too much grass. 2. Raise cutting height.
3. Dirty air filter. 3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves, 4. Clean underside of mower
and trash under mower. housing.
5. Too much oil in engine. 5. Check oil level.
6. Walking speed too fast. 6. Cut at slower walking speed.
Poor cut – 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
uneven blade bolt.
2. Wheel heights uneven. 2. Set all wheels at same
height.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves 3. Clean underside of
and trash under mower. mower housing.
Excessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt.
2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service centre.
Starter rope 1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to
hard to pull when control bar is released. upper handle before
pulling the starter rope.
2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service centre.
3. Blade adapter broken. 3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
not filling 2. Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
(If so equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push 1. Grass is too high or wheel 1. Raise cutting height.
height is too low.
2. Rear of mower housing or 2. Raise rear of mower housing
blade dragging in grass. one (1) setting higher.
3. Grass catcher too full. 3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Handle height position not 4. Adjust handle height to suit.
right for you.
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
to a Sears Service Centre.

16
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 29 ml of oil through spark plug
hole into cylinder.
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distribute oil.
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 and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protect it 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 unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
CAUTION: 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.
Does not start 1. Dirty air filter. 1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Out of fuel. 2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Stale fuel. 3. Empty fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
4. Water in fuel. 4. Empty fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
5. Spark plug wire is 5. Connect wire to plug.
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug. 6. Replace spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken 7. Tighten blade bolt or
blade adapter. replace blade adapter.
8. Control bar in released 8. Depress control bar to
position. handle.
9. Control bar defective. 9. Replace control bar.
10.Fuel valve lever (if so 10.Turn fuel valve lever
equipped) in OFF position. to the ON position.
11. Weak battery (if equipped). 11. Charge battery.
12.Disconnected battery 12. Connect battery to engine.
connector (if equipped).
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
to a Sears Service Centre.
13
Container
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 re-
move any oil trapped inside of engine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn
mower or side of engine.
5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout,
stopping every few ounces to check
the oil level with the dipstick.
6. Stop adding oil when you reach the
FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a
minute to allow oil to settle.
7. Continue adding small amounts of oil,
rechecking the dipstick until oil level
settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or
engine will smoke heavily from the
muffler on startup.
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick
before starting engine.
9. Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may be
damaged by using a dirty air filter. Clean the
element after every 25 hours of operation or
every season. Replace the air filter every
100 hours of operation or every season,
whichever occurs first. Service air cleaner
more often under dusty conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT
1. Remove screw.
2. Remove air cleaner carefully to prevent
dirt from entering carburetor.
3. Take air cleaner apart and clean air
filter element.
4. Wash filter element in liquid detergent
and water.
5. Wrap filter element in cloth and
squeeze dry.
6. Lightly coat filter element with clean
engine oil. Squeeze in towel to remove
excess oil. Do not saturate.
7. Reassemble parts and put back on
carburetor.
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting
are shown in the “PRODUCT SPECIFIC-
ATIONS” section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up 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 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 clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in short-
ened engine life.
ASSEMBLE ONE OF THESE LOW POINTS
TOWARDS NARROW EDGE OF ELEMENT
Body
Screw
CupElement
ASSEMBLE SO LIP
EXTENDS OVER
EDGE OF
AIR CLEANER
BODY
LIP WILL FORM
PROTECTIVE
SEAL WHEN
COVER IS ASSEMBLED
Lip

14
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: 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. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
Mowing
position
Mowing
position
HIGH POSITIONLOW POSITION
Handle
bracket
Hairpin
cotter
Mounting
pin
Lower handle
Handle
bracket Hairpin cotter
SQUEEZE
TO ADJUST
Mounting pin
Lower
handle
ROTATE
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.
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 a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
1. Remove upper handle and all wire
tie(s) securing cable(s) to lower handle.
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
4. Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
5. Squeezelowerhandleinandpositionholes
onto mounting pins on handle bracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
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 the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to a
Sears or other qualified service centre for
repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service centre for repair or adjustment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think
the engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact a Sears or other
qualified service centre, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments. 15
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the season or if the unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.
Lower handle
SQUEEZE
TO FOLD
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
STORAGE
MOWING
POSITION
Lower handle
Operator
presence
control bar
Upper
handle
Handle
knob
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.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the
lower handle clears the handle bracket,
then move handle forward.
2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
the handle as shown or you may damage
the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing posi-
tion.
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.
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.
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en-
gine and letting it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation
of fuel gum deposits during storage.
Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always follow the mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not empty the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.