Craftsman 944.364371 User manual

Model No.
944.364371
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Owner’s Manual
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
6.75 Horsepower
21" Multi-Cut
Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

2
Warranty.................................................. 2
Safety Rules.........................................2-3
Product Specifi cations ........................... 4
Assembly/Pre-Operation ......................... 5
Operation.............................................. 6-9
Maintenance Schedule.......................... 10
Maintenance.....................................10-12
Service and Adjustments....................... 13
Storage.............................................14-15
Troubleshooting................................ 15-16
Repair Parts...................................... 18-23
Sears Service..........................Back Cover
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIMITED TWOYEAR 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 negligence, including bent crank-
shafts 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 prod-
uct is used 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. Fur-
thermore, 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
WARRANTY
SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT:Thiscuttingmachineiscapableofamputatinghandsandfeetandthrowingob-
jects.Failuretoobservethefollowingsafetyinstructionscouldresultinseriousinjuryordeath.
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
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting.Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls and the proper
use of the machine before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts.Keep clear of the dis-
charge 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 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 bare-
foot or wearing open sandals.Always
wear substantial foot wear.

3
• 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 operator.
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 ap-
proved 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.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle;walk, never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mech-
anism 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.Vibra-
tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when oper-
ating 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.
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 ma-
chine and the mowing activity.
Never as-
sume 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. 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 contain-
er 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 equipment 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.

4
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1,5 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 RJ19HX (Gap: 0,76 mm)
Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. lbs. (47-54 N-m)
• 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
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
theengine(motor)running.Disconnectthe
spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
fromtheplugtopreventaccidentalstarting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.Check
their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill-
age.Allowmachinetocoolbeforestoring.
• 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 is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion 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 Centre
(See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

5
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.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR 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.
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 a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bag-
ging, see “TO CONVERT MOWER” in the
Operation section of this manual.
Frame
handle
Frame
opening
Vinyl
bindings
MOWING
POSITION
Lower handle
LIFT
UP
Operator
presence
control bar
Upper
handle
LIFT
UP
Handle
knob

6
OPERATION
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDALLSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR
LAWNMOWER. Comparetheillustrationswithyourlawnmowertofamiliarizeyourselfwith
the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Starter
handle
Gasoline
filler cap
Spark plug
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
Handle knob
Grass
catcher
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Operator presence control bar
Primer
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. 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.
Mulcher door – allows conversion to
discharging or bagging operation.
Thesesymbolsmayappear onyourlawnmower orinliteraturesupplied withtheproduct.
Learn and understand their meaning.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
Starter handle – used for starting engine.
Primer – pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Muffler
Mulcher door
Air filter
Housing

7
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 recom-
mend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control.The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST 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.
REAR BAGGING
• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks
onto the door pivot pins.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and
close rear door.
Pivot pins Grass
catcher
handle
Catcher frame hook
Rear
door
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER
Plate tab
Lever
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Rear door must be closed.
• 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 must be
closed.
Open mulcher door
Discharge
deflector
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:

8
Discharge
deflector
SIMPLE STEPSTO REMEMBERWHEN
CONVERTINGYOUR LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
1. Rear door closed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
1. Grass catcher installed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1. Rear door closed.
2. Discharge deflector installed.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear door closed, clipping deflector
or approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift up on catcher using frame handle.
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings
from under lawn mower handle.
3. Empty clippings from bag using both
frame handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-
ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.
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.
Engine
oil cap
Gasoline
filler cap
Primer
ATTACH FUEL CAP CARTRIDGE
Your mower is equipped with a special
FRESH STARTTM fuel cap and continuous
fuel preserver cartridge. See the infor-
mation and instructions packed with the
FRESH STARTTM
cartridge.
1. Snap cartridge into bottom of fuel cap.
NOTE: Do not remove the silver foil seal on
thesideofcartridgethatsnapsintofuelcap.
2. Grasp the white peel tab and pull to
remove the entire seal.
3. Screw fuel cap onto fuel tank after fill-
ing tank with gasoline.
Replace cartridge when empty (about once
a season). Check preserver level visually.
DANGER: Cartridge fluid is HARMFUL
OR FATAL IF SWALLOWED.Avoid contact
to eyes, skin, or clothing. Do not take
internally. Do not inhale fluid vapor. Keep
out of reach of children. If swallowed, call
a physician immediately.
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. Donot mixoilwith gasoline. Pur-
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.
Grass
catcher
frame
handle
Bag
handle

9
• 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.
• Keeptopofenginearoundstarterclearand
cleanofgrassclippingsandchaff.Thiswill
helpengineairflowandextendenginelife.
MULCHING MOWINGTIPS
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
notbenoticed.Also,themulchedgrasswill
biodegradequicklytoprovidenutrientsfor
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide
the best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhenitiswet. Wet
grasstendstoformclumpsandinterferes
withthe mulchingaction. The besttimeto
mowyourlawnistheearlyafternoon.Atthis
timethegrasshasdried,yetthenewlycut
areawillnotbeexposedtodirectsunlight.
• 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.
• Certaintypesofgrassandgrassconditions
mayrequirethatanareabemulchedasec-
ond time to completely hide the clippings.
When doing a second 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
chase fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
CAUTION: Alcohol blendedfuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation
andformationofacidsduringstorage. Acidic
gascandamagethefuelsystemofanengine
while in storage. To avoid engine problems,
the fuel system should be emptied before
storageof 30days or longer. Emptythe gas
tank, start the engine and let it run until the
fuellinesandcarburetorareempty.Usefresh
fuel next season. See Storage Instructions
foradditionalinformation. Neveruseengine
orcarburetorcleanerproductsinthefueltank
or permanent damage may occur.
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 product
and should be considered normal.
1. To start a cold engine,pushprimer three
(3)timesbeforetryingtostart.Useafirm
push.This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has al-
ready run for a few minutes.
2. Holdoperatorpresencecontrolbardown
tothehandleandpullstarterhandlequick-
ly.Donotallowstarterropetosnapback.
NOTE:Incoolerweatheritmaybenecessary
to repeat priming steps.In warmer weather
over priming maycauseflooding and engine
will not start. If you do flood engine, wait a
few minutes before attempting to start and
do not repeat priming steps.
MOWINGTIPS
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.

10
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
➀Spray lubricant
➁See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attractdustanddirtthatwillshortenthelifeof
theself-lubricatingbearings. Ifyoufeelthey
mustbelubricated,useonlyadry,powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
➀Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
➁Engine oil
➀Rear door
hinge
➀Handle bracket mounting pins
➀Mulcher
door hinge pin

11
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
controlchemicalswhichcanharmrubber.
• 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. / 47-54 N-m.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade-butifyoudo,besurethebladeisbal-
anced.Careshouldbetakentokeeptheblade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive 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.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Useonlyhighqualitydetergentoilratedwith
APIserviceclassificationSG–SL. Selectthe
oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
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
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.
Blade
bolt
Crankshaft
keyway
Hardened
washer
Lockwasher
Blade adapter Key
Blade
Trailing edge Crankshaft

12
Container
Slots
Lip
Cover
tabs
Back plate
Cartridge Cover
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.
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.
Replace the air filter cartridge every 100
hours of operation or every season, which-
ever 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 sur-
face.If very dirty, replace cartridge.
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-
tridge.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.
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.
• Wedonotrecommendusingagardenhose
to clean lawn mower unless the electrical
system,muffler,airfilterandcarburetorare
coveredtokeepwaterout.Waterinengine
can result in shortened engine life.

13
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: To avoid serious injury,
before performing any service or adjust-
ments:
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.
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 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. Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
6. Reassemble upper handle and all
parts removed from lower handle.
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
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 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 center 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 center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.

14
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.
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.
NOTE: The upper handle has an “anti-fold”
bracket located on the right side of the
handle. This bracket prevents the upper
handle from folding forward, which helps
protect control cable(s) from damage.
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.
Lower handle
SQUEEZE
TO FOLD
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.
NOTE:
FRESH START
TM fuel cap and
cartridge system automatically drips con-
centrated fuel preserver into your fuel tank
and is an acceptable alternative to adding
fuel stabilizer.
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
STORAGE
MOWING
POSITION
Lower handle
Operator
presence
control bar
Upper
handle
Handle
knob

15
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.

16
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.

17
SERVICE NOTES

18
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 944.364371
REPAIR PARTS

19
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 944.364371
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
34 186576X004 Axle Arm Assembly, LR 36 160828 Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 37 150339 Wheel Assembly 39 83923 Flanged Locknut 40 188813 Frame, Grassbag 41 88652 Hinge Screw 42 165766 Spring, LH 43 165767 Spring, RH 44 184193 Bolt, Rear Door 45 150406 Screw, Hex Head, Threaded, Rolled 3/8-16 x 1 46 107339X Danger Decal 47 180637 Hubcap 48 186575X004 Axle Arm Assembly, RR 50 188812 Grassbag 51 147286 Hinge Rod 52 186616 Kit, Lawn Mower Housing Assembly (Includes Key Numbers 17, 18 and 46) 53 851084 Screw, Hex Head, Grade 8 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 54 850263 Helical Lockwasher 55 851074 Hardened Washer 56 189028 21" Blade 57 184590 Blade Adapter 59 - - - Engine, Briggs & Stratton, Model Number 125K02-0303-E1 (See Breakdown) 62 73800400 Locknut, Hex 1/4-20 - - 162300 Warning Decal (not shown) - - 195444 Owner’s Manual, English - - 195445 Owner’s Manual, French NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
1 86902 Control Bar 2 169709X479 Upper Handle 3 169708X479 Lower Handle 4 186079 Rope Guide / Anti-Fold Bracket 5 132004 Nut, Hex 6 131959 Handle Bolt 7 66426 Wire Tie 9 154132 Hinge Bracket 10 165754 Mulcher Door 11 176556 Engine Zone Control Cable 12 750634 Hex Washer Head Screw 13 86899X004 Up-Stop Bracket 14 189713X428 Handle Knob 15 51793 Hairpin Cotter 17 165946X479 Support Bracket 18 17600406 Screw 19 186577X004 Axle Arm Assembly, LF 20 186578X004 Axle Arm Assembly, RF 21 188987 Rear Skirt 22 168360X004 Selector Spring, Front 23 186612 Kit, Rear Door (Includes Springs) 24 73930500 Locknut, Hex 5/16-18 25 166111X479 Handle Bracket Assembly, LH 26 166112X479 Handle Bracket Assembly, RH 27 851856 Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8 28 152124 Hinge Spring 29 160835X007 Wheel Adjusting Bracket, Front 30 183901 Spacer 31 165760 Discharge Deflector 32 169421X004 Selector Spring, Rear 33 701037 Selector Knob
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
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.

20
MODEL NUMBER 125K02-0303-E1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
307
13
337
635
383
3
306
11
910
54
50
51
7
5
584
585
684 287
525
524
842
1019 LABEL KIT
1
8
847
523
27
27
32
26 28
25 29
40
40
35
36
33
45
34
45
24
741
16
146
20
12
22
46
43
15
4
32A
718
868
2
871
870
869
48