Craftsman C459-36310 User manual

CAUTION: Before using this
product, read this manual
and follow all safety rules
and operating instructions.
Operator’s Manual
• SAFETY
• ASSEMBLY
• OPERATION
• MAINTENANCE
• PARTS LIST
®
Sears Canada Inc., 290 Yonge Street, Toronto, On M5B 2C3
Visit our web: sears.ca 4/1/14
769-09339
21” LAWN MOWER
Model Nos. C459-36310

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MODEL NUMBER
Model Number ________________________________
Serial Number _________________________________
Date of Purchase _______________________________
Record the model number, serial number,
and date of purchase above.
Safety Instructions ....................................3
Safety Symbols .......................................6
Slope Guide ..........................................7
Assembly .............................................8
Operation ...........................................11
Service and Maintenance.............................14
Off-Season Storage...................................19
Troubleshooting .....................................20
Warranty ............................................21
Emission Control Warranty Statement.................22
Parts List - Lawn Mower ..............................24
Parts List - Engine ....................................26
1-800-4-MY-HOME ...................................36

3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL OPERATION
• Readthisoperator’smanualcarefullyinitsentiretybeforeattemptingto
assemblethismachine.Read,understand,andfollowallinstructionsonthe
machineandinthemanualsbeforeoperation.Keepthismanualinasafe
placeforfutureandregularreferenceandfororderingreplacementparts
• Becompletelyfamiliarwiththecontrolsandtheproperuseofthismachine
beforeoperatingit.
• Thismachineisaprecisionpieceofpowerequipment,notaplaything.
Therefore,exerciseextremecautionatalltimes.Thismachinehasbeen
designedtoperformonejob:tomowgrass.Donotuseitforanyother
purpose.
• Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsofagetooperatethismachine.Children
14andovershouldreadandunderstandtheinstructionsandsafeoperation
practicesinthismanualandonthemachineandshouldbetrainedand
supervisedbyanadult.
• Onlyresponsibleindividualswhoarefamiliarwiththeserulesofsafe
operationshouldbeallowedtousethismachine.
• Thoroughlyinspecttheareawheretheequipmentistobeused.Removeall
stones,sticks,wire,bones,toysandotherforeignobjects,whichcouldbe
trippedoverorpickedupandthrownbytheblade.Thrownobjectscancause
seriouspersonalinjury.
• Planyourmowingpatterntoavoiddischargeofmaterialtowardroads,
sidewalks,bystandersandthelike.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainst
awallorobstruction,whichmaycausedischargedmaterialtoricochetback
towardtheoperator.
• Tohelpavoidbladecontactorathrownobjectinjury,stayinoperatorzone
behindhandlesandkeepchildren,bystanders,helpersandpetsatleast75
feetfrommowerwhileitisinoperation.Stopmachineifanyoneentersarea.
• Alwayswearsafetyglassesorsafetygogglesduringoperationandwhile
performinganadjustmentorrepairtoprotectyoureyes.Thrownobjects
whichricochetcancauseseriousinjurytotheeyes.
• Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesandclose-fittingslacksandshirts.
Shirtsandpantsthatcoverthearmsandlegsandsteel-toedshoesare
recommended.Neveroperatethismachineinbarefeet,sandals,slipperyor
light-weight(e.g.canvas)shoes.
• Donotputhandsorfeetnearrotatingpartsorunderthecuttingdeck.
Contactwithbladecanamputatefingers,hands,toesandfeet.
• Amissingordamageddischargecovercancausebladecontactorthrown
objectinjuries.
• Manyinjuriesoccurasaresultofthemowerbeingpulledoverthefoot
duringafallcausedbyslippingortripping.Donotholdontothemowerif
youarefalling:releasethehandleimmediately.
• Neverpullthemowerbacktowardyouwhileyouarewalking.Ifyoumust
backthemowerawayfromawallorobstructionfirstlookdownandbehind
toavoidtrippingandthenfollowthesesteps:
a. Stepbackfrommowertofullyextendyourarmsforward.
b. Besureyouarewellbalancedwithsurefooting.
c. Pullthemowerbackslowly,nomorethanhalfwaytowardyou.
d. Repeatthesestepsasneeded.
• Donotoperatethemowerwhileundertheinfluenceofalcoholordrugs.
• Donotengagetheself-propelledmechanismonmachinessoequipped
whilestartingengine.
• Thebladecontrolhandleisasafetydevice.Neverattempttobypassits
operation.Doingsomakesthesafetydeviceinoperativeandmayresultin
personalinjurythroughcontactwiththerotatingblade.Thebladecontrol
handlemustoperateeasilyinbothdirectionsandautomaticallyreturntothe
disengagedpositionwhenreleased.
• Neveroperatethemowerinwetgrass.Alwaysbesureofyourfooting.A
slipandfallcancauseseriouspersonalinjury.Ifyoufeelyouarelosingyour
footing,releasethebladecontrolhandleimmediatelyandthebladewill
stoprotatingwithinthreeseconds.
• Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificiallight.Walk,neverrun.
• Stopthebladewhencrossinggraveldrives,walksorroads.
WARNING
This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not
followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of
yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these
instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol, HEED
ITS WARNING!
WARNING
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER
This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation
practices in this manual. As with any type of power equipment,
carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury.
This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands, toes and feet and
throwing debris. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to
persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in
this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Iftheequipmentshouldstarttovibrateabnormally,stoptheengineand
checkimmediatelyforthecause.Vibrationisgenerallyawarningoftrouble.
• Shuttheengineoffandwaituntilthebladecomestoacompletestopbefore
removingthegrasscatcheroruncloggingthechute.Thecuttingblade
continuestorotateforafewsecondsafterthebladecontrolisreleased.
Neverplaceanypartofthebodyinthebladeareauntilyouaresurethe
bladehasstoppedrotating.
• Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield,dischargecover,grass
catcher,bladecontrolhandleorothersafetyprotectivedevicesinplaceand
working.Neveroperatemowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failuretodo
socanresultinpersonalinjury.
• Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Donottouch.
• Neverattempttomakeawheelorcuttingheightadjustmentwhilethe
engineisrunning.
• Onlyusepartsandaccessoriesmadeforthismachinebythemanufactureras
listedinthePartspagesofthisOperator’sManual.Failuretodosocanresult
inpersonalinjury.
• Whenstartingengine,pullcordslowlyuntilresistanceisfelt,thenpull
rapidly.Rapidretractionofstartercord(kickback)willpullhandandarm
towardenginefasterthanyoucanletgo.Brokenbones,fractures,bruisesor
sprainscouldresult.
• Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthismanual,usecareandgood
judgement.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopesareamajorfactorrelatedtoslipandfallaccidents,whichcanresultinsevere
injury.Operationonslopesrequiresextracaution.Ifyoufeeluneasyonaslope,do
notmowit.Foryoursafety,usetheSlopeGuideincludedaspartofthismanualto
measureslopesbeforeoperatingthismachineonaslopedorhillyarea.Iftheslope
isgreaterthan15degrees,donotmowit.
Do:
• Mowacrossthefaceofslopes;neverupanddown.Exerciseextremecaution
whenchangingdirectiononslopes.
• Watchforholes,ruts,rocks,hiddenobjects,orbumpswhichcancauseyou
tosliportrip.Tallgrasscanhideobstacles.
• Alwaysbesureofyourfooting.Aslipandfallcancauseseriouspersonal
injury.Ifyoufeelyouarelosingyourbalance,releasethebladecontrol
handleimmediatelyandthebladewillstoprotatingwithinthree(3)
seconds.
Do Not:
• Donotmowneardrop-offs,ditchesorembankments,becauseyoucould
loseyourfootingorbalance.
• Donotmowslopesgreaterthan15degreesasshownontheslopeguide.
• Donotmowonwetgrass.Unstablefootingcouldcauseslipping.
CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscanoccuriftheoperatorisnotalerttothepresenceofchildren.
Childrenareoftenattractedtothemowerandthemowingactivity.Theydonot
understandthedangers.Neverassumethatchildrenwillremainwhereyoulastsaw
them.
• Keepchildrenoutofthemowingareaandunderwatchfulcareofa
responsibleadultotherthantheoperator.
• Bealertandturnmoweroffifachildentersthearea.
• Beforeandwhilemovingbackwards,lookbehindanddownforsmall
children.
• Useextremecarewhenapproachingblindcorners,doorways,shrubs,trees,
orotherobjectsthatmayobscureyourvisionofachildwhomayrunintothe
mower.
• Keepchildrenawayfromhotorrunningengines.Theycansufferburnsfrom
ahotmuffler.
• Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsofagetooperatethismachine.Children
14andovershouldreadandunderstandtheinstructionsandsafeoperation
practicesinthismanualandonthemachineandbetrainedandsupervised
byanadult.
SERVICE
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your
clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
• Useonlyanapprovedgasolinecontainer.
• Neverfillcontainersinsideavehicleor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onatrailer
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.
• Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipesandothersources
ofignition.
• Neverfuelmachineindoorsbecauseflammablevaporswillaccumulatein
thearea.
• Neverremovegascaporaddfuelwhileengineishotorrunning.Allow
enginetocoolatleasttwominutesbeforerefueling.
• Neverover-fillfueltank.Toallowforexpansionofthefuel,donotfillabove
thebottomofthefueltankneck.
• Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
• Ifgasolineisspilled,wipeitofftheengineandequipment.Movemachineto
anotherarea.Wait5minutesbeforestartingengine.
• Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainernearanopenflame,sparkorpilot
lightasonawaterheater,spaceheater,furnace,clothesdryerorothergas
appliances.
• Toreducefirehazard,keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,orotherdebris
build-up.Cleanupoilorfuelspillageandremoveanyfuel-soakeddebris.
• Allowmachinetocoolatleast5minutesbeforestoring.

5
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
General Service:
• Neverrunanengineindoorsorinapoorlyventilatedarea.Engineexhaust
containscarbonmonoxide,anodorlessanddeadlygas.
• Beforecleaning,repairing,orinspecting,makecertainthebladeandall
movingpartshavestopped.Disconnectthesparkplugwireandground
againsttheenginetopreventunintendedstarting.
• Checkthebladeandenginemountingboltsatfrequentintervalsforproper
tightness.Also,visuallyinspectbladefordamage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn).
Replacebladewiththeoriginalequipmentmanufacture’s(O.E.M.)blade
only,listedinthePartspagesofthismanual.Useofpartswhichdonotmeet
theoriginalequipmentspecificationsmayleadtoimproperperformance
andcompromisesafety!
• Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthebladeorweargloves,anduse
extracautionwhenservicingthem.
• Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesuretheequipmentisinsafe
workingcondition.
• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperationregularly.
• Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine,disconnectthesparkplug
wireandgroundagainsttheengine.Thoroughlyinspectthemowerforany
damage.Repairthedamagebeforestartingandoperatingthemower.
• Neverattempttomakeawheelorcuttingheightadjustmentwhilethe
engineisrunning.
• Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrailshieldaresubjectto
wearanddamagewhichcouldexposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobe
thrown.Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponentsandreplace
immediatelywithoriginalequipmentmanufacturer’s(O.E.M.)partsonly,
listedinthePartspagesofthismanual.Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadtoimproperperformanceand
compromisesafety!
• Donotchangetheengine’sgovernorsettingorover-speedtheengine.The
governorcontrolsthemaximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.
• Checkfuelline,tank,cap,andfittingsfrequentlyforcracksorleaks.Replace
ifnecessary.
• Donotcrankenginewithsparkplugremoved.
• Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,asnecessary.
• Observeproperdisposallawsandregulations.Improperdisposaloffluids
andmaterialscanharmtheenvironment.
• AccordingtotheConsumerProductsSafetyCommission(CPSC)andtheU.S.
EnvironmentalProtectionAgency(EPA),thisproducthasanAverageUseful
Lifeofseven(7)years,or140hoursofoperation.AttheendoftheAverage
UsefulLifehavethemachineinspectedannuallybyaSearsorotherqualified
servicedealertoensurethatallmechanicalandsafetysystemsareworking
properlyandnotwornexcessively.Failuretodosocanresultinaccidents,
injuriesordeath.
DO NOT MODIFY ENGINE
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering
with the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to
operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine
governor.
NOTICE REGARDING EMISSIONS
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal EPA
emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified
to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following
emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC),
Secondary Air Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.
SPARK ARRESTOR
WARNING
This machine is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should
not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrestor 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 engine
authorized service dealer.

6
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY SYMBOLS
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before
attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol Description
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and
operate
DANGER — ROTATING BLADES
To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover or grass
catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.
DANGER — BYSTANDERS
Do not mow when children or others are around.
DANGER — HAND/ FOOT CUT
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
DANGER — THROWN DEBRIS
Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses.
DANGER — SLOPES
Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°.
WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE
Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING— HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine and
muffler to cool before touching.
WARNING: Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow
the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

7
SLOPE GAUGE
(OK) (TOO STEEP)
USE THIS SLOPE GAUGE TO DETERMINE
IF A SLOPE IS TOO STEEP FOR SAFE OPERATION!
To check the slope, proceed as follows: 1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed line. 2. Locate a vertical object on or behind the slope (e.g. a pole, building, fence, tree, etc.) 3. Align either side of the slope gauge with the object (See Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). 4. Adjust gauge up or down until the left corner touches the slope (See Figure 1 and Figure 2). 5. If there is a gap below the gauge, the slope is too steep for safe operation (See Figure 2 above).
15° dashed line
Figure 2Figure 1
15° Slope
15° Slope
WARNING
Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death. Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution. Always mow across the face of slopes, never mow up and down slopes.

8
ASSEMBLY
IMPORTANT: Thisunitisshippedwithoutgasolineoroilintheengine.Becertainto
serviceenginewithgasolineandoilasinstructedintheOperationsectionbefore
startingorrunningyourmachine.
NOTE: ReferencetorightandlefthandsideoftheLawnMowerisobservedfromthe
operatingposition.
OPENING CARTON
1. Cuteachcornerofthecartonverticallyfromtoptobottom.
2. Removealllooseparts.
3. Removeloosepackingmaterial.
REMOVING UNIT FROM CARTON
1. Liftunitfromthereartodetachitfromunderlyingcartonmaterialandroll
unitoutofcarton.
2. Checkcartonthoroughlyforanyotherlooseparts.
Loose Parts In Carton
• GrassCatcher
• SideDischargeCover
• EngineOil
Assembly
Attaching The Handle
1. Removeanypackingmaterialwhichmaybebetweenupperandlower
handles.
a. RemovewingnutsandcarriageboltshandleasshowninFigure1.
Donotloosenorremoveadjacenthexheadscrews.
b. Whilestabilizingmowersoitdoesn’tmove,pivotupperhandleupas
showninFigure2.Donotcrimpcablewhileliftingthehandleup.
2. RemoveT-boltsfromthehandlebracketsasshowninFigure3.
A
A
Figure 1
B
Figure 2
Figure 3

9
ASSEMBLY
3. Followthestepsbelowtocompletehandleassembly:
4. Pullupwardonthehandleuntilholesinlowerhandle(showninFigure3
deckcutaway)lineupwithholesinhandlebracket.SeeFigure4.
A
B
B
Figure 4
NOTE: Whenpullingupwardonhandle,makesuretonotpullhandleallthe
wayout.
a. InserttheT-boltsremovedinstepearlierthroughthehandle
bracketsandlowerhandleandtightensecurelytosecurethehandle
inplace.SeeFigure4.
b. Reattachwingnutsandcarriageboltsremovedearlierintolower
holesofhandleasshowninFigure5.
C
C
Figure 5
4. Theropeguideisattachedtotherightsideoftheupperhandle.Loosenthe
wingknobwhichsecurestheropeguide.RefertoFigure6.
a. Holdbladecontrolagainstupperhandle.
b. Slowlypullstarterropehandlefromengineandslipstarterropeinto
theropeguide.SeeFigure6.
c. Tightenropeguidewingknob.
d. Usecabletiestosecurebladecontrolcabletolowerhandle.
A
B
C
D
Figure 6
Attaching the Grass Catcher
1. Followstepsbelowtoassemblethegrasscatcher.Makecertainbagisturned
rightsideoutbeforeassembling(warninglabelwillbeontheoutside).
a. Placebagoverframesothatitsblackplasticsideisatthebottom.
b. Slipplasticchannelofgrassbagoverhooksontheframe.SeeFigure7.
b
a
Figure 7

10
ASSEMBLY
2. Followstepsbelowtoattachgrasscatcher:
a. Liftreardischargedoor.
b. Placegrasscatcherintotheslotsinthehandlebracketsasshownin
Figure8.Letgoofdischargedoorsothatitrestsonthegrasscatcher.
Toremovegrasscatcher,liftreardischargedooronthemower.Liftgrasscatcherup
andofftheslotsinthehandlebrackets.Releasereardischargedoortoallowitto
closerearopeningofmower.
a
b
b
Figure 8
Attaching Side Discharge Cover
Yourmowerisshippedasamulcher.Toconverttosidedischarge,makesuregrass
catcherisoffoftheunitandreardischargedoorisclosed.
1. Onthesideofthemower,liftthemulchingcover.SeeFigure9.
2. Slidetwohooksofsidedischargecoverunderhingepinonmulchingcover
assembly.Lowermulchingcover.Donotremovesidemulchingcoveratany
time,evenwhenyouarenotmulching.
2
1
Side Mulching
Cover
Side Discharge
Cover
Figure 9
Adjustments
Cutting Height
Thereisacuttingheightadjustmentleverlocatedabovethefrontandrearrightwheel.
1. Pulltheheightadjustmentleveroutwardtowardswheel(unitwilltendto
fallwhenleverismovedoutward).SeeFigure10.
2. Movelevertodesiredpositionforachangeincuttingheight.SeeFigure10.
3. Releaselevertowardsdeck.
3
2
2
1
3
1
Lower
Lower
Higher
Higher
2
1
Figure 10
IMPORTANT: Allwheelsmustbeplacedinthesameposition.Forroughoruneven
lawns,moveeachheightadjustmentlevertoahigherposition.Thiswillpreventyou
fromcuttingthegrasstooclosetotheground.
Handle Pitch
Forconvenienceofoperation,youmayadjustthepitchofthehandleasfollows:
1. Removewingnutsandcarriageboltsfromhandle.SeeFigure11.
2. Positionthehandleinoneofthethreepositionsthatismostcomfortable.
SeeFigure11inset.
3. Secureintopositionwithwingnutsandcarriageboltsremovedearlier.
2
1
Figure 11

11
OPERATION
Figure 12
Blade Control
Thebladecontrolisattachedtotheupperhandleofthemower.Depressand
squeezeitagainsttheupperhandletooperatetheunit.Releaseittostopengine
andblade.
WARNING
This blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
Oneadjustmentleverislocatedontherightrearwheelandoneislocatedonthe
rightfrontwheel.Bothlevershavetobeatthesamepositiontoensureauniform
cut.Toadjustthecuttingheight,refertotheAssemblySection.
Deck Wash
Yourmower’sdeckisequippedwithawaterportonitssurfaceaspartofitsdeck
washsystem.Usethedeckwashtorinsegrassclippingsfromthedeck’sunderside.
Mulch Cover
Themulchcoverisusedtorecirculategrassclippingsbacktothelawn.Attachitas
instructedintheAssemblysectionofthismanual.
Side Discharge Cover
Yourmowerisshippedasamulcher.Todischargethegrassclippingstotheside
instead,followtheinstructionsintheAssemblysectiontoattachthesidedischarge
cover.
WARNING
Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to
warning label on the unit.
Trail Shield
Thetrailshieldisattachedtotherearofthemowerandistheretoprotectthe
operatorfromflyingdebris.Donotusethemowerunlesstheshieldisfully
functionalandinplace.
Recoil Starter
Therecoilstarterisattachedtotherightupperhandle.Standbehindtheunitand
pulltherecoilstarterropetostarttheunit.
Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick
RefertotheMaintenancesectionforinstructionsoncheckingtheoil.
Blade Control
Recoil Starter
Cutting Height
Adjustment
Lever
Cutting Height
Adjustment
Lever
Grass Catcher
Gas Cap
Air Cleaner
Deck Wash
Oil Fill Cap
Oil Drain
Side Discharge
Cover
Mulch Cover

12
OPERATION
Gas & Oil
NOTE: Theengineisshippedwithoutgasolineoroilintheengine.Runningthe
enginewithinsufficientoilcancauseseriousenginedamageandvoidtheengine
warranty.
WARNING
Always keep hands and feet clear of equipment moving parts. Do not use a
pressurized starting fluid. Vapors are flammable.
Oil Recommendations
Beforestartingengine,fillwithmotoroil,capacityis600ml/20oz.Referto
viscositychartinFigure13foroilrecommendations.Donotover-fill.Useasynthetic
ornon-synthetic4-stroke,oranequivalenthighdetergent,premiumqualitymotor
oilcertifiedtomeetorexceedU.S.automobilemanufacturer’srequirementsfor
serviceclassificationSG,SF.MotoroilsclassifiedSG,SFwillshowthisdesignation
onthecontainer.
SAE10W-30isrecommendedforgeneral,alltemperatureuse.Ifsingleviscosityoil
isused,selecttheappropriateviscosityfortheaveragetemperatureinyourarea
fromthechartbelow.
-30º -20º
10w
20w
20
30
40
20w40, 20w50
15w40, 15w50
10w40
10w30
-10º 0º
0º 20º 40º 60º 80º 100º
10º 20º 30º 40º
-20º
(ºC)
(ºF)
1
2
Figure 13
1. SingleViscosity
2. MultiViscosity
CAUTION: Donotusenon-detergentoilor2-strokeengineoil.Itcouldshortenthe
engine’sservicelife.
NOTE: A5w30syntheticoilmaybeusedtoimprovestartabilityforcoldweather
(temperaturesbelow400F).
Checking Oil Level
NOTE: Besuretochecktheoilwhileonalevelsurfacewiththeenginestopped.
1. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstickandwipethedipstickclean.
2. Insertthedipstickintotheoilfillerneck.Turnthedipsticka1/4turnintothe
lockedpositiontofullyseat.
3. Removedipstick.Ifthelevelislow,slowlyaddoiltotheupperlimitonthe
dipstick.SeeFigure14inset.
Oil Filler
Cap/Dipstick
Upper
Limit
Figure 14
4. Reinsertthedipstickintothelockedpositionbeforestartingtheengine.
NOTE: Donotoverfill.Overfillingwithoilmaycausesmoking,hardstarting,
sparkplugfouling,oroilsaturationofaircleaner.
Fuel Requirements
CAUTION
Operating the engine with E15 or E85 fuel, an oil/gasoline mixture, dirty
gasoline, or gasoline over 30 days old without fuel stabilizing additive
may result in damage to your engine’s carburetor. Subsequent damage
would not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Useautomotivegasoline(unleadedorlowleadedtominimizecombustionchamber
deposits)withaminimumof87octane.Gasolinewithupto10%ethanol(E10)
or15%MTBE(MethylTertiaryButylEther)canbeused.Neveruseanoil/gasoline
mixtureordirtygasoline.Avoidgettingdirt,dust,orwaterinthefueltank.DO
NOT use E15 or E85 gasoline.
WARNING
Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive under certain conditions.
Refuelinawell-ventilatedareawiththeenginestopped.Donotsmokeorallow
flamesorsparksintheareawheretheengineisrefueledorwheregasolineis
stored.
• Donotoverfillthefueltank.Afterrefueling,makesurethetankcapisclosed
properlyandsecurely.
• Becarefulnottospillfuelwhenrefueling.Spilledfuelorfuelvapormay
ignite.Ifanyfuelisspilled,makesuretheareaisdrybeforestartingthe
engine.
• Avoidrepeatedorprolongedcontactwithskinorbreathingofvapor.

13
OPERATION
Adding Fuel
CAUTION
An adult should fuel this engine. NEVER allow children to refuel the engine.
Gasoline (fuel) vapors are highly flammable and can explode. Fuel vapors
can spread and be ignited by a spark or flame many feet away from engine.
To prevent injury or death from fuel fires, follow these instructions:
NOTE: Someenginesmaynothavethefuelcapinstalledforshippingpurposes.To
install,removeanddiscardthefueltankdustcaplabeled“Discard”.Removethe
bubblewrappackagingfromaroundthefuelcapandtightensecurely.
• DONOTuseleadedfuel.
• Fuelmustbefreshandclean.NEVERusefuelleftoverfromlast
seasonorstoredforlongperiods.
• NEVERmixoilwithfuel.
• DONOTusefuelcontainingMethanol(WoodAlcohol)
NOTE: Beforerefueling,allowenginetocooltwominutes.
1. Cleanaroundfuelfillbeforeremovingcaptofuel.
2. Filltankuntilfuelreaches1⁄2inchbelowthebottomofthefillernecktoallow
spaceforfuelexpansion.Becarefulnottooverfill.
3. Replacethegasolinecapandtightensecurely.Wipeupspilledfuelbefore
startingengine.IffuelisspilledDONOTstartengine.Movemachineaway
fromareaofspillage.Avoidcreatinganysourceofignitionuntilfuelvapors
aregone.
WARNING
Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower
while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or
in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose
clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.
To Start Engine
1. Standingbehindthemower,squeezethebladecontrolhandleagainstupper
handle.SeeFigure15
2. Holdingthesetwohandlestogetherfirmly,grasprecoilstarterhandleand
pullropeslowlyuntilresistanceisfelt,thenpullwitharapid,continuous,full
armstroke.SeeFigure15.Keepingafirmgriponthestartercordhandle,let
theroperewindslowly.Repeatuntilenginecranks.
WARNING
Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward
engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or
sprains could result.
To Stop Engine
1. Releasebladecontroltostoptheengineandblade.
WARNING
Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the
mower or to remove the grass catcher.
Using Your Lawn Mower
Besurelawnisclearofstones,sticks,wire,orotherobjectswhichcoulddamage
lawnmowerorengine.Suchobjectscouldbeaccidentlythrownbythemowerin
anydirectionandcauseseriouspersonalinjurytotheoperatorandothers.
WARNING
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always
wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any
adjustments or repairs on it.
2
1
Figure 15
Using as Mulcher
Formulchinggrass,removethegrasscatcherandsidedischargechutefromthe
mower.Foreffectivemulching,donotcutwetgrass.Ifthegrasshasbeenallowed
togrowinexcessoffourinches,mulchingisnotrecommended.Usethegrass
catchertobagclippingsinstead.
Using Grass Catcher
Youcanusethegrasscatchertocollectclippingswhileyouareoperatingthemower.
1. Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionsinthe“Assembly”section.Grass
clippingswillautomaticallycollectinbagasyourunmower.Operatemower
untilgrassbagisfull.
2. Stopenginecompletelybyreleasingthebladecontrol.Makesurethatthe
unithascometoacompletestop.
3. Liftdischargedoorandpullgrassbagupandawayfromthemowerto
removethebag.Disposeofthegrassclippingsandreinstallthebagwhen
complete.
WARNING
If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Disconnect the spark plug
wire, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage
before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during
operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.

14
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
WARNING
Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls
and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete
stop. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.
Followthemaintenanceschedulegivenbelow.Thischartdescribesservice
guidelinesonly.UsetheServiceLogcolumntokeeptrackofcompleted
maintenancetasks.TolocatethenearestSearsServiceCenterortoscheduleservice,
simplycontactSearsat1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
Interval Item Service Service Log
EachUse 1. Engineoillevel
2. Looseormissinghardware
3. Aircleaner
4. Unitandengine
1. Check
2. Tightenorreplace
3. Check
4. Clean
1stMonthor5hours 1. Engineoil 1. Change
Annuallyor25hours 1. Aircleaner†
2. Controllinkages/pivotsandwheels
3. Undersideofmowerdeck
1. Clean
2. Lubewithlightoil
3. Clean
Annuallyor50hours 1. Engineoil†† 1. Change
Annually 1. Sparkplug
2. AirCleaner
1. Replace
2. Replace
BeforeStorage 1. Fuelsystem 1. Runengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel,or
addstabilizertoafulltankoffreshfuelprior
tostorage.
†Cleanmoreoftenunderdustyconditionsorwhenairbornedebrisispresent.Replaceaircleanerifverydirty.
††Changeoilevery25hourswhenoperatingtheengineunderheavyloadorinhightemperatures.

15
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug wire, and ground against engine
before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.
Oil Service
• Checkoillevelregularly.
• Besurecorrectoillevelismaintained.Checkeveryfivehoursordailybefore
startingengine.SeeoilcheckingprocedureintheOperationsection.
Oil Change
IMPORTANT: Besuretocheckengineonalevelsurfacewiththeenginestopped.
Draintheoilwhiletheengineisstillwarmtoassurerapidandcompletedraining.
1. Removeallfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel.
2. Removedrainplugandallowoiltodrainintoasuitablecontainer.SeeFigure
16.
Oil Fill Cap
Drain
Plug
Figure 16
WARNING
Before tipping engine or equipment to drain oil, drain fuel from tank by
running engine until fuel tank is empty.
3. Reinstallthedrainplugandtightenitsecurely.
4. Refillwiththerecommendedoilandchecktheoillevel.RefertotheSet-Up
section.
5. Reinstalltheoilfillcapsecurely.
IMPORTANT: Usedmotoroilmaycauseskincancerifrepeatedlyleftincontactwith
theskinforprolongedperiods.Althoughthisisunlikelyunlessyouhandleusedoil
onadailybasis,itisstilladvisabletothoroughlywashyourhandswithsoapand
waterassoonaspossibleafterhandlingusedoil.
NOTE: Pleasedisposeofusedmotoroilinamannerthatiscompatiblewiththe
environment.Wesuggestyoutakeitinasealedcontainertoyourlocalservice
stationforreclamation.Donotthrowitinthetrashorpouritontheground.
Air Filter Service
Paperfilterscannotbecleanedandmustbereplacedonceayearorevery100
operatinghours;moreoftenifusedinextremelydustyconditions.
WARNING
Never use gasoline or low flash point solvents for cleaning the air filter
element. A fire or explosion could result.
IMPORTANT: Neverruntheenginewithouttheairfilter.Rapidenginewearwill
result.
1. Pressdownonthetabssecuringtheairfiltercover.Pullbackandremovethe
cover.SeeFigure17.
Paper Element
Tab
Figure 17
2. Removethepaperelement.Toloosendebris,gentlytapthefilteronahard
surface.Ifthefilterisexcessivelydirtyordamaged,replacewithanewfilter.
3. Insertthecover’sbottomtabsintoslotsinbottomofbase.
4. Tiltthecoverupintoplaceandsecurewithtabs.
Carbon Canister Filter Service
Thefoamcarboncanisterfiltermustbecleanedorreplacedonceayearorevery100
operatinghours.
1. RemoveouterengineshroudandrecoilstarterhousingasshowninFigure18.
2. Liftupinnerengineshroudandcarefullypulloutcarboncanisterfilter
assemblyfromundershroudasshowninFigure18.
3. Removecapfromendofcanisterandpulloutroundfoamfilterfrominside
theassembly.SeeFigure19.Cleanelementorreplacewhendamaged.
4. Tocleanfoamelement,washinmildliquiddetergentandwater.Squeezeor
pressthefoamelementtorinseoutdirtandwater.Donottwist,thiscould
damageortearthefoamelement.Allowtodrythoroughlybeforeusing.Oil
thefoamelementwithalightengineoil.
5. Carefullyplacefoamfilterbackintocanisterassemblyandreattachthe
rubbercapremovedearlier.

16
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Outer Engine
Shroud
Recoil Starter
Housing
Figure 18
Inner Shroud
Foam Filter
Cap
Figure 19
6. Snapthecarboncanisterfilterassemblybackintoplaceundertheinner
engineshroud.SeeFigure20inset.
IMPORTANT: Besuretheanglednipplepointsupwardsintotheshroudto
avoidinterferencewiththeautochokelinkage.
Angled Nipple
Figure 20
7. Placetheinnerengineshroudbackontotheengine.Fastentherecoilstarter
housingbackdownandreattachtheouterengineshroud.
Spark Plug Service
WARNING
DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed. DO NOT crank engine
with spark plug removed.
1. Removethesparkplugbootanduseasparkplugwrenchtoremovethe
plug.SeeFigure21.
Spark Plug
Spark Plug Boot
Figure 21
WARNING
If the engine has been running, the muffler will be very hot. Be careful not
to touch the muffler.

17
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
2. Visuallyinspectthesparkplug.Discardthesparkplugifthereisapparent
wear,oriftheinsulatoriscrackedorchipped.Cleanthesparkplugwitha
wirebrushifitistobereused.
3. Measurethepluggapwithafeelergauge.Correctasnecessarybybending
sideelectrode.SeeFigure22.Thegapshouldbesetto0.030in.
Electrode
0.030 in.
Figure 22
4. Checkthatthesparkplugwasherisingoodconditionandthreadthespark
pluginbyhandtopreventcross-threading.
5. Afterthesparkplugisseated,tightenwithasparkplugwrenchtocompress
thewasher.
NOTE: Wheninstallinganewsparkplug,tighten1/2turnafterthespark
plugseatstocompressthewasher.Whenreinstallingausedsparkplug,
tighten1/8-1/4turnafterthesparkplugseatstocompressthewasher.
IMPORTANT: Thesparkplugmustbesecurelytightened.Animproperly
tightenedsparkplugcanbecomeveryhotandmaydamagetheengine.
Fuel Filter Service
Thefuelfiltercannotbecleanedandmustbereplacedonceayearorevery100
operatinghours;moreoftenifrunwitholdgasoline.
1. Removeallfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel.
2. Removehoseclampfromfuellineandremovefuellinefromtankoutlet.See
Figure23.
3. Pulloutoldfuelfilterfromtankoutlet.Replacewhendirtyordamaged.
4. Graspnewfuelfilterfromshoulderedendandinsertitcompletelytothe
shoulderintothetankoutlet.SeeFigure23inset.
5. Replacefuellineandc-clamp.
Fuel Filter
Figure 23
Clean Engine
Iftheenginehasbeenrunning,allowittocoolforatleasthalfanhourbefore
cleaning.Periodicallyremovedirtbuild-upfromengine.Cleanfingerguardand
aroundmuffler.Cleanwithabrushorcompressedair.
IMPORTANT: Donotsprayenginewithwatertocleanbecausewatercould
contaminatefuel.Usingagardenhoseorpressurewashingequipmentcanalso
forcewaterintotheaircleanerormuffleropening.Waterintheaircleanerwillsoak
thepaperelement,andwaterthatpassesthroughtheelementormufflercanenter
thecylinder,causingdamage.
WARNING
Accumulation of debris around muffler could cause a fire. Inspect and clean
before every use.
LUBRICATION
Blade Control
Lubricatepivotpointsonthebladecontrolatleastonceaseasonwithlightoil.This
controlmustoperatefreelyinbothdirections.SeeFigure12.
Deck Wash
Yourmower’sdeckisequippedwithawaterportonitssurfaceaspartofitsdeck
washsystem.
Usethedeckwashtorinsegrassclippingsfromthedeck’sundersideandprevent
thebuildupofcorrosivechemicals.CompletethefollowingstepsAFTEREACH
MOWING:
1. Pushthemowertoalevel,clearspotonyourlawn,nearenoughforyour
gardenhosetoreach.Removethegrassbagifattached.
CAUTION
Make certain the mower’s discharge chute is directed AWAY from your
house, garage, parked cars, etc.

18
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
2. Threadthehosecoupler(packagedwithyourmower’sOperator’sManual)
ontotheendofyourgardenhose.
3. Attachthehosecouplertothewaterportonyourdeck’ssurface.SeeFigure
24.
4. Turnthewateron.
5. StarttheengineasdescribedintheOperationsection.
6. Runtheengineforaminimumoftwominutes,allowingtheundersideof
thecuttingdecktothoroughlyrinse.
7. Releasebladecontroltostoptheengineandblade.
8. Turnthewateroffanddetachthehosecouplerfromthewaterportonyour
deck’ssurface.
Aftercleaningyourdeck,restartthemower.Keeptheengineandbladerunning
foraminimumoftwominutes,allowingtheundersideofthecuttingdeckto
thoroughlydry.
Blade Care
WARNING
When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect
your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.
Periodicallyinspectthebladeadapterforcracks,especiallyifyoustrikeaforeign
object.Replacewhennecessary.Followthestepsbelowforbladeservice.
1. Disconnectsparkplugbootfromsparkplug.Turnmoweronitssidemaking
surethattheairfilterandthecarburetorarefacingup.
2. Removetheboltandthebladebellsupportwhichholdthebladeandthe
bladeadaptertotheenginecrankshaft.SeeFigure25.
3. Removebladeandadapterfromthecrankshaft.
4. Removebladefromtheadapterfortestingbalance.Balancethebladeona
roundshaftscrewdrivertocheck.Removemetalfromtheheavysideuntil
itbalancesevenly.Whensharpeningtheblade,followtheoriginalangleof
grind.Grindeachcuttingedgeequallytokeepthebladebalanced.
WARNING
An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high
speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal
injury.
5. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftandtheinnersurfaceofthebladeadapter
withlightoil.Slidethebladeadapterontotheenginecrankshaft.Placethe
bladeontheadaptersuchthatthesideoftheblademarked“Bottom”(or
withpartnumber)facesthegroundwhenthemowerisintheoperating
position.Makesurethatthebladeisalignedandseatedontheblade
adapterflanges.SeeFigure25inset.
6. Placebladebellsupportontheblade.Alignnotchesonthebladebell
supportwithsmallholesinblade.
7. Replacehexboltandtightenhexbolttotorque:450in.lbs.min.,600in.lbs.
max.
Toensuresafeoperationofyourmower,periodicallycheckthebladeboltforcorrect
torque.
Figure 24
Blade
Blade
Adapter
Bolt
Blade Bell Support
Figure 25

19
OFF-SEASON STORAGE
Preparing The Lawn Mower
• CleanandlubricatemowerthoroughlyasdescribedintheService&
MaiintenanceSection.
• Coatmower’scuttingbladewithchassisgreasetopreventrusting.
• RefertoPREPARINGTHEENGINEforcorrectenginestorageinstructions.
• Storeinaclean,dryandwellventilatedareaawayfromanyappliancethat
operateswithaflameorpilotlight,suchasafurnace,waterheater,or
clothesdryer.Alsoavoidanyareawithasparkproducingelectricmotor,or
wherepowertoolsareoperated.
• Ifpossible,alsoavoidstorageareaswithhighhumidity,becausethat
promotesrustandcorrosion.
Removing From Storage
• Checkengineoilbeforestartingengine.SeetheOperationsectionofthis
manual.
• Ifthefuelwasdrainedduringstoragepreparation,fillthetankwithfresh
gasoline.Ifyoukeepacontainerofgasolineforrefueling,makecertain
itcontainsonlyfreshfuel.Gasolineoxidizesanddeterioratesovertime,
causinghardstarting.
• Ifthecylinderwascoatedwithoilduringstoragepreparation,theengine
willsmokebrieflyatstartup.Thisisnormal.
Preparing The Engine
CAUTION
Failure to use a fuel stabilizing additive such as STA-BIL® or completely
run the engine until it’s out of fuel before off-season storage may result
in damage to your engine’s carburetor. Subsequent damage would not be
covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Gasolinethatwillbestoredlongerthan30daysneedstobepre-treatedupon
purchasewithfuelstabilizersuchasSTA-BIL®topreventgumandvarnishfrom
formingintheenginesfuelandintakesystem.Improperfuelstoragecanresultin
hardstarting,nostarting,stallingandpoorperformance.Ifthegasolineinyour
enginedeterioratesduringstorage,youmayneedtohavethecarburetor,andother
fuelsystemcomponents,servicedorreplaced.
• Removeallfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel.
• Changeoil.
• Removesparkplugandpourabout1/2anounceofengineoilintocylinder.
Replacesparkplugandcrankslowlytodistributeoil.
• Cleandebrisfromaroundengine,underfingerguard,andunder,aroundand
behindmuffler.Touchupanydamagedpaint,andcoatotherareasthatmay
rustwithalightfilmofoil.
• Keeptheenginelevelinstorage.Tiltingcancausefueloroilleakage.
WARNING
Never store lawn mower with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly ventilated
areas where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or pilot light as on
a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, or gas appliance.

20
TROUBLESHOOTING
WARNING
Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent
unintended starting. Before performing any type of maintenance/service,
disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts
have come to a complete stop. Always wear safety glasses during operation
or while performing any adjustments or repairs.
For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed here, contact Sears at 1-800-4-MY-HOME.
Problem Cause Remedy
EngineFailstostart 1. Bladecontroldisengaged.
2. Sparkplugbootdisconnected.
3. Fueltankemptyorstalefuel.
4. Enginenotprimed(Ifequippedwithprimer).
5. Faultysparkplug.
6. Engineflooded.
7. Blockedfuelline.
1. Engagebladecontrol.
2. Connectwiretosparkboot.
3. Filltankwithclean,freshgasoline.
4. PrimeengineasinstructedintheOperationsection.
5. Clean,adjustgap,orreplace.
6. Waitafewminutestorestart.
7. ContactyourSearsParts&RepairCentertohavefuelline
cleaned.
Enginerunserratic 1. Sparkplugbootloose.
2. Stalefuel.
3. Ventingascapplugged.
4. Waterordirtinfuelsystem.
5. Dirtyaircleaner.
6. Blockedfuelline.
1. Connectandtightensparkplugboot.
2. Filltankwithclean,freshgasoline.
3. Clearvent.
4. Runengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel.Refillwithfreshfuel.
5. RefertoAirCleanerinEngineMaintenancesection.
6. ContactyourSearsParts&RepairCentertohavefuelline
cleaned.
Engineoverheats 1. Engineoillevellow.
2. Airflowrestricted.
1. Fillcrankcasewithproperoil.
2. Cleanareaaroundandontopofengine.
Occasionalskips(hesitates) 1. Sparkpluggaptooclose. 1. Adjustgap.RefertoSparkPluginEngineMaintenancesection.
Idlespoorly 1. Sparkplugfouled,faulty,orgaptoowide.
2. Dirtyaircleaner.
1. Resetgaporreplacesparkplug.
2. RefertoAirCleanerinEngineMaintenancesection.
Excessivevibration 1. Cuttingbladelooseorunbalanced.
2. Bentcuttingblade.
1. Tightenbladeandadapter.Balanceblade.
2. Replaceblade.
Mowerwillnotmulchgrass 1. Wetgrass.
2. Excessivelyhighgrass.
3. Dullblade.
1. Donotmowwhengrassiswet;waituntil
latertocut.
2. Mowonceatahighcuttingheight,thenmowagainatdesired
heightormakeanarrowercuttingpath.
3. Sharpenorreplaceblade.
Unevencut 1. Wheelsnotpositionedcorrectly.
2. Dullblade.
1. Adjustcuttingheightleveronrightfrontandrightrearwheelto
sameposition.
2. Sharpenorreplaceblade.