Craftsman 944.36153 User manual

Owner's Manual
6.0 HORSEPOWER
21" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
944.361530
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Repair Parts
The D.O.M. decal includes engine life specifications for the emissions-related useful life period of
your engine, This period relates to the emission compliance life as certified by EPNCARB. To
find the life pedod specification for your engine, please match one of the following letters with the
letter printed on your D.O.M. decal: (C) 125 hours, (B) 250 hours, (A) 500 hours.
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
•Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ..................................... 2-4
Assembly .......................................... 4-5
Operation .......................................... 6-8
Maintenance Schedule ...... _................. 9
Maintenance ................................... 9-12
Product Specifications ........................ 10
Service and Adjustments .................... 12
Storage ......................................... 13-14
Troubleshooting ........................... 14-15
Repair Parts ............. _.................... 16-23
Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover"
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For Two years from date of purchase Sears Canada, Inc. will repair or replace at Sears
option free of charge parts which are defective as a result of material or workmanship.
COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL USE:
Warranty on Power Mower (Gas) will be ninety (90) days from date of purchase if used
for commercial or rental purposes.
This Warranty does NOT cover:
•Pre-delivery set-up.
•Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negrigence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman Power Mower to the nearest
Sears Service Centre/Department in Canada. This warranty applies only while this
product is in use in Canada.
This warranty is in addition to any statutory warranty and does not exclude or limit
legal rights you may have but shall run concurrently with applicable provincial
legislation. Furthermore, some provinces do NOT allow limitation on how long an
implied warranty will last so the above limitations may not apply to you.
SEARS CANADA, iNC., TORONTO, ONTARIO M5B 2B8
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
senous injury or death.
I.GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor-
oughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the machine before
starting,
•Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating pads. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or weadng open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessodes
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.
2

•Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
until the blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
• I_low 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.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never
run.
•Disengage the self-propelled mecha-
nism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally 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
and fall accidents which can result in
severe 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 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 the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICES
•Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow engine
to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
•Never run a machine inside aclosed
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
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
•Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deteriorat)on,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.
3

_,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
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.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
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 as-
sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as
nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to
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 LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing 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.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle
section locks into place in mowing
position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to
upper handle. .
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
foryour mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjusti'nents
section of this manual.
control bar
Lift u
Mowing
position
Lower handle
4

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for afew minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using,
_i_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Catcher
frame
handle
opening
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-
VERT MOWER" in the OPERATION
section of this manual.
5

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
ThesesymboL_rn_yappearonyourlawnmowerorinliteraturesullied with_e pmducL_ _
understandtheirmeaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
Starter handle_ '_
Handle knob
Grass catcher Engine oil cap w/dipstick
Gasoline cap
Primer
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped Wheel adjuster
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk-behindpower lawnmowers conformto the safety standards of the Amedcan
NationalStandardsInstituteand the U.S. Consumer ProductSafety Commission. The blade
tums when the engine is running,
Operator presence control bar -must be
held downto the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additionalfuel from the
carburetortothe cylinderfor use when
startingacold engine.
Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye
damage, Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields while operating your lawn
mower or performing any adjustments or
repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_qLCAUTION: 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
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require-
ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is propedy positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs. Plate Tab
Lower Wheelsfor High Cut r_,. '_ I
Raise Wheels for LowCut
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mower was shippedready to be
usedas a mulcher. Toconvertto bagging:
REAR BAGGING
• Liftrear doorofthe lawn mower and place
the grasscatcher frame hooksonto the
door pivotpins.
• To convert to mulching operation,remove
grass catcher and close rear door.
Pivot Grass catcher
pins handle
Catcher frame hook
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.
For type and grade of oil to use, see
"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this
manual.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oir fill is clean.
2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the
full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.
Do not over fill.
NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate reading. To read proper level,
tighten engine oil cap, then remove it to
read the dipstick.
3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
• Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove
and discard the debris plug that is inside
the tank.
•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso-
line. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure
fuel freshness.
_WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and ret it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional )nformation. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
7tank or permanent damage may occur.

CAUTION:Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
Spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
filler cap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, asmall amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the
product and should be considered
normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handre quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
TO STOP ENGINE
•To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat 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.
MOWlNGTIPS
•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 asecond
time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
•For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
•Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
•Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWINGIIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See =Cleaning" in
Maintenance section of this manual.
•The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early attemoon. At this time the grass
has dded and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown
it will be necessary to raise the height
of cut to reduce pushing effort and to
keep from ovedoading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
•Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This wilt help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
Max 1/3
8

FILL IN DATES ,_v..j _j %_ _.'_,_x._ ._,
AsoucOMPLETE .....
Chec,k for Loose Fasteners ]
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher I
(If Equipped) t/ I_ I It#'
Clean Lawn Mower _#* I I/
Ow C_ean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers) v'
Check ddve beW ulleys
RE p_pgwer.PropelleclPMowers) I_'
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade I_ 3
Lubrication Chart It,/I_
Clean Battery/ReChar(
fElectdc Start Mowers' i/ 11/4
ECheck Engine Oil Level I@€
N Change Engine Oil ti'1,2
Clean Air Filter I1_ 2
NI Inspect Muffler if
Clean or Replace Spark Plug i_/
EReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge 1_2
1-Change mote oftenwhen operating ur_dera heaw load or in high ambient temperatures,
2Se_ice more o_en when ope raling in dirly or dus_, COnditions
3-Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil•
4-Charge 48 hours at end of season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does
not cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain mower as
instructed in this manual,
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
•Once a year, replace the spark plug,
replace air filter element and check
blade for wear. A new spark plug and
clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
•Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual•
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
(_) Whee adjuster
(oneach wheel)
(_) Handle
bracket
mounting pins
(_ Rear door hinge
(_) Spray lubricant
(_) Referto Maintenance "ENGINE" section.
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.
9

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RJ19LM
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LI3S.
•The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn
mower housing. Record serial number & date of purchase in space provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observesafety rules when pedorm-
ing any maintenance.
TIRES
•Keep tiresfree of gasoline,oil,or insect
controlchemicalswhichcan harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps,stones,deep ruts, sharp
objectsand other hazards thatmay cause
tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For beet results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air 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 hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade
adapter. The key must be in good condi-
tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
2, Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade 10
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
•The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated. Crank shaft
Blade adapter _--_eyway
k Hardened Trairmo \Blade
Lock washer ailing _
washer edge aaapter
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower
or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, ddve a nail
into a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nai! exposed. Place
center hole of blade over the head of
the nail. If blade is balanced, it should

remaininahorizontalposition.If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade
"fs balanced.
GRASS CATCHER
•The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
.°Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through
normal use itwill wear. If catcher
needs replacing, replace only with a
manufacturer approved replacement
catcher. Give the lawn mower model
number when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF-BJ,
Select the oil's BAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
__SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
OF .2O. o- ,_0. _,* 40. _*_= eo_. tou* -
_¢ :..0. 2O. .I0. m 10" _0, :m- 4O"
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 ayear 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.
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
4, Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
5, Fill engine with oil. (See "Add Oil" in
the Operacion section of this manual.)
6, Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
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
1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
2. Carefully remove cartridge.
3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration of
the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not
use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
4. Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely. Sack plate
Slots
Cover
tabs
Cover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or dam-
age.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, which ever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
remove any oil trapped inside engine. 11 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 the spark
plug.
•Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up
of grass and trash.
•Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. Aclogged 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
shortened engine life.
_CAUTION: Before performing any
service and adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine.
2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST 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 lawn mower, is
provided to minimize the possibility that
objects will be thrown out the rear of the
lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position. If the rear deflector becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
1. Remove upper handle and all parts
attached to lower handle.
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
4. Turn lower handle over to raise or
lower handle.
5. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
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 center for
repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable
fixed main jet for mixture control. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service center for repair and/or adjust-
ment.
IMPORTANT= Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact a Sears or other
qualified service center, which has
proper equipment and experience to
make any necessary adjustments.
12

Immediatelyprepareyour lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be 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
section of this manual).
2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance 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.
t. 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
position. Lower handle
Handle
Sueeze to fold bracket
Hairpin cotter
pin
Operator presence
contrc
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, f fuel
filter,fuel hose or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels ( called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits 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 t0 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do notdrain the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
13

CYLINDER
t, Remove spark plug,
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
"spark plug hole into cylinder.
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distribute oil.
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 give protection from dust and
dirt.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain mois-
ture. 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.
£LCAUTION: Never store the lawn
mower with gasoline in the tank inside a
building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool
before storing in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start 1. Dirty air filter.
Lossofpower
CORRECTION
2. Out of fuel.
3. Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken
blade adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
1. Rear of lawn mower
housingor cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Fill fuel tank.
3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar.
1. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
2. Set to "Higher Cut" position.
3. Clea_replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking
speed.
Poor cut- 1. Replace blade. Tighten
uneven blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
Excessive 1. Replace blade. Tighten"
vibration blade bolt.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
14

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Starter rope hard 1. Engineflywheel brake is on
topull whencontrolbar isreleased.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
CORRECTION
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
notfilling(ifso 2. Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push 1. Raise cutting height.1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
right for you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to
suit.
15

67
40,
68
37
ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 944.361530
_14
33
34
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4O
21
20 27 _,•
33

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 944.361530
KEY PART
NO_ NO.
1 869(_
2169709X479
3 169708X479
4132001
5 636O1
6131959
766426
11 176595
12 75_397
13 86899XO04
14 136376
15 51793
17 165946X479
18 176004_6
19 167132X004
20 167133X004
21 165858
22 168360X004
23 166875
24 751153
25 166111X479
26 166112.X479
27 851856
29 160635X007
30 19112222
3_ 1694-21X004
33 87877
DESCRIPTION
Control Bar
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
RopeGuk:le
Locknut 1/4-20
Handle Bblt
Wire Tie
Engine Zone Control Cable
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2
Up-Stop Bracket
Handle Knob
Hairpin Cotter
Support Bracket
Scmw
AxJe Arm Assembly - LF
Axle Ann Assembly - RF
Rear S_lrt
Selector Spdng -Front
P,sar Door Assembly Kit {tnsi. Spnngs)
Locknut 5/16-18
Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)
Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8
Wheel Adjus_ng Bracket - Front
Spacer
Selector Spdng -Rear
Selector Kno_
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
34 165762X004 AxJe Ann Assembly - LR
36 160828 Shoulder Bblt 5/16-18
37 151157 Wheel Assembly
39 83923 Flanged Locknut
40 77400 Hubcap
41 88652 HingeSorew
42 165766 Spdng (LH)
43 165767 Spnng(RH)
44 165912 Door Bblt
45 150406 Hex Head Thread Roiling Screw 3/8-16 x 1
46 lO7339X Danger Oecsi
48 165761X004 Axle Ann Assembly - RR
52 173319 Housing Assembly (Incl. Rel. #17, 18 & 46)
53 851084 Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8
54 85(_63 HelicafLockwasher
55 851074 Hardened Washer
56 165833 21" Blade
57 851514 BadeAdapter
67 167710 Grass Bag
68 165755 Catcher Frame
70 ...... Engine - (See Breakdown)
Bdggs & Stratton 12HS02*2639-B1
--162300 Warning Decal (Not Shown)
--177510 Owner's M_,nual (Engtish)
--177511 Owners Manual(French)
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches
1inch = 25.4 mm

BRIGGS & STRATrON ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-B1
383
842,
525
524 _£
11
"k REQUIRES SPECIALTOOLS
TO INSTALL. SEE REPAIR
INSTRUCTION MANUAL.
[1058 OWNER'S MANUAL]
15_
201_
I
1095 VALVE
GASKET SET
oii
46 _'_-,
22_
18

BRIGGS & STRATi'ON ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639_B1
188+__
___ ,_
_ _'_'-- 668
443_
977 CARBURETOR
GASKET SET 365 %_,:_,_--
I
61T -)J 276;_21
121CARBURETOR OVERHAUL KIT
708 _
,7 163_:_
"_ 104
_ _: .... ,,, _j 127 _
97o_
19

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802, TYPE NUMBER 2639-BI
921
304
305 _p
[ 1030 EMISSIONS LABEL I
332 Ii=-_i
455_i' 'it
55
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1211 _,
....
05_
592 i_
....
689 _}_
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