Craftsman EZ3 917.377530 User manual

Owner's Manual
CRI:IFTSMgN°
6.0 HORSEPOWER
22" REAR DISCHARGE
POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.377530
• Safety
- Assembly
• Operation
. Maintenance
• EspaSol
-Repair Parts
€
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14
Assembly 4 Storage 15
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 35
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
• 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 con-
tained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while
this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
TRAINING:
. Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower prop-
erly. Learn how to quickly stop mower.
o Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
® Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
e Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manu-
al.
• Do not operate mower ff it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
• The blade turns when the engine is run-
ning.
PREPARATION:
° Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the
blade and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
•Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
2

hot.Allowtheenginetocoolforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthegastank.Clean
offanyspilledgasolinebeforestarting
theengine.
Alwaysmakewheelheightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower.Never
attempttodothiswhiletheengine is
running.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial
iight.
_ERATION:
Keep your eyes and mind on your
mower and the area being cut. Do not let
:)ther interests distract you.
Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing -- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
;harge opening at all times.
_lways stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
3efore crossing driveways, walks, roads,
_nd any gravel--covered areas.
Never direct discharge of material toward
3ystanders nor allow anyone near the
,'nower while you are operating it.
Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
/our mower, stop the engine and make
_bsolutely sure the blade and all moving
:)arts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from
:he spark plug to prevent accidental
_tarting.
3o not continue to run your mower if you
lit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
3utlined above, then repair any damage
3efore restarting and operating you
-nower.
3o not change the governor settings or
3verspeed the engine. Engine damage
)r personal injury may result.
3o not operate your mower if it vibrates
_bnormatly. Excessive vibration is an in-
Jication of damage; stop the engine,
afely check for the cause of vibration
_nd repair as required.
3o not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
• Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you
might lose your footing. Do not mow ex_
cessively steep slopes. Use caution
when operating the mower on uneven
terrain or when changing directions --
maintain good footing.
o Never operate your mower without prop-
er guards, plates, grass catcher or other
safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
• Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts often to be sure they are tight-
ened properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at fre-
quent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure mower is in safe working condition.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive
grease and oil.
, Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are rec-
ommended by and comply with specifi-
cations of the manufacturer of your
mower.
•Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
•Allow engine to cool before storing in
any enclosure.
. Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,
space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it can-
qot contact spark plug in order to pre-
vent accidental starting when setting
up, transporting, adjusting or making
repairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarealso
availableatmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecenters.MostSearsstorescanalso
orderrepakpartsforyou,whenyouprovidethemodelnumberofyourlawnmower.Some
oftheseaccessoriesmaynotapplytoyourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR FILTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower. Your new
lawn mower has been assembled at the
factory with the exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. All
parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag. To ensure
safe and proper operation of your lawn
mower, all parts and hardware you assem-
ble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
Remove loose parts includedwith mower.
o Cut down two end corners of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower handle
and padding holding operator presence
control bar to upper handle.
= Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
, Raise handles until lower handle section
locks intoplace in mowing position.
oRemove protective padding,-raise upper
handle section into place on lower handle
and tighten both handle knobs.
.Remove handle padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
* Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
4

NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower are not
adjusted to the same position as the
front wheels. Before operating mower
adjust all wheels to the same cutting
height position.
Operator presence control bar
Oppper
Lift up
P" position
Lower handle /
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:
•Open rear door and remove mulcher
plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
,You can now install catcher or optional
clippingdeflector.
• To return to mulching operation, install
muIcher plug intodischarge opening of
mower. Be sure all tabs are seated prop-
erly.
Mulcher plu_
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without mulcher plug in place or
approved clipping deflector or grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to op-
erate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.

KNOW YOUR 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 refer-
ence.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control cable Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Starter handle
Grass catcher,
Mulcher plug
Handle knob
Engine oil cap w/dipstick
Housing
Drive cover
Gasoline cap
Wheel adjuster
(oneach wheel)
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 Commis-
sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar -must be Starter handle -used for starting the on-
held down to the handle to start the engine, gine.
Release to stop the engine. Drive control lever +used to engage
Primer +pumps additional fuel from the car- power-propelled forward motion of lawn
buretor to the cylinder for use when starting mower.
a cold engine,
6

The operation of any lawn mower can
result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye dam-
age. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend a wide vision safety mask
over the spectacles or standard safety
glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without mulcher plate in place
and door closed or without an approved
31ipping deflector or grasscatcher in
_lace. Never attempt to operate the
lawn mower with the rear door removed
3r propped open.
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
_.djustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
_n engine control to be installed on this
Fawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not un-
der any circumstances attempt to de-
Ieat the function of the operator control.
The blade turns when the engine is run-
ning.
0 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.
[0 ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
'Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
0Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns.
,To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements. Be
sure all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
Nhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
_,lso, 9-position adjusters (if so
_quipped) allow lever to be positioned
3etween the plate tabs.
Plate Tab
Lowe
,_ver
Raise Wheels for Low Cut
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
* Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
Lift the rear door on the mower housing
and place the grass catcher frame onto
the formed tabs on the rear door hinge
bracket
® The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame,
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
Rear door
Formed
tabs
the rear door removed or propped
open.
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
* To remove grass catcher, release opera-
tor presence control bar to stop engine.
* Lift up rear door and remove the grass
catcher by the handle.
, Do not drag the bag when emptying; it
will cause unnecessary wear.

_RIVECONTROL
Self-propellingiscontrolledbyholding
theoperatorpresencecontrolbardown
tothehandleandpushingthedrivecon-
trolleverforwarduntilitclicks;then
releasethelever.
Forwardmotionwillstopwhentheoper-
atorpresencecontrolbarisreleased.
Tostopforwardmotionwithoutstopping
engine,releasetheoperatorpresence
controlbarslightlyuntilthedrivecontrol
disengages.Holdoperatorpresence
controlbardowntohandletocontinue
mowingwithoutself-propelling.
Tokeepdrivecontrolengagedwhen
turningcorners,pushdownonhandle
andliftfrontwheelsoffgroundwhile
turninglawnmower.
Operatorpresencecontrolbar
•/", Drive
k_\ .._\ _ \ \ _ control
To engage drive Drive control
control desengaged
3EFORE STARTING ENGINE
)IL
_'ourlawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill
to the full line on the dipstick.
Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual
Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
To read proper level, tighten engine oil
cap each time.
°Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
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
- Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that car'_be
used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean win-
ter grade gasoline to help insure good cold
weather starting.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alco -_
ho! 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 dam-
age 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 let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank
or permanent damage may occur.
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.
Gasoline filler cap Engine oil cap
TO START ENGINE
=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.
• Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle
quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap
back.
. To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence 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.
Ifyou do flood engine, wait a few min-
utes before attempting to start and do
not repeat priming steps.
MOWING TiPS
•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.
, For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut and raise the rear of the lawn
mower housing one (1) wheel adjuster
setting higher than the front for better dis-
charge of grass.
- When using a rear discharge lawn mower
in moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut
grass may not enter the grass catcher.
Reduce ground speed (pushing speed)
and/or run the lawn mower over the area
a second time.
oIf a trail of grass clippings is left on the
right side of a rear discharge lawn mower,
mow in a clockwise direction with a small
overlap to collect the clippings on the next
pass.
•Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This wil! help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
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 catchers off
with water and let dry before using.
Max 1/3
MULCHING MOWING TiPS
iMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. See "Cleaning" in CUSTOMER
RESPONSIBILITIES 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
wilt biodegrade quickly to provide nutri-
ents 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 in-
terferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried 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. Ifthe lawn isovergrown itwill 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
- Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a second
cut, mow across or 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 grain-
ing of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped)
Clean Lawn Mower
O I Clean Under Drive Cover
_V (Power-Propelled Mowers)
E JCheck drive belt/pulleys
I (Power-Propelled Mowers)
RFCheck/SharpeniReplac e Blade i
Lubrication Chart
JClean Battery/Recharge
Electric Start Mowers
E JCheckEngine Oil Level
NIChang e Engine Oil
Gclean Air Filter .......
Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
EReplace ,A!,!Filter Paper Cartridge
v' v'
v'
I
!,,"
v'3
,,, ,,,
i,,' v'.
v'
v'
v'2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions,
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season,
ySERVICE DATES
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 man-
ual.
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
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
C) Wheel
adjuster
®
Engin
oil
(_D mount- (_) Rear door
ing pin hinge
(_ Spray lubricant
®.Refer to .CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
ENGINE section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oi! or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will at-
tract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the serf lubricating bearings. Ifyou feet they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, pow-
dered graphite _e lubricant sparingly.
10

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS
MODEL NUMBER 9t 7.377530
_ERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 6.0
DISPLACEMENT: 11.5 CU. IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION J19LM
VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .005"
EXHAUST: °007"
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .010 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
_The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space pro-
I vided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing any maintenance.
TIRES
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
o Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot come
in contact with spark plug.
o Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
= Remove blade and attaching hardware
(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 con-
dition to work properly. Replace adapt-
er if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
= Position the blade adapter on the engine
crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and
crankshaft keyway are aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter align-
ing the two (2) holes in the blade with the
raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo-
site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.
air filter and carburetor are up,
Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
o Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise. Use a 9/16" box or open-end
wrench.
=Install the blade bolt with the lockwasher
and hardened washer into blade adapter
and crankshaft.
, 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.
11

3TE: We do not recommend sharp-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
_de is balanced.
) SHARPEN BLADE
_re should be taken to keep the blade
.lanced. An unbalanced blade will
use eventual damage to lawn mower
engine.
The blade can be sharpened with afile or
on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to
sharpen while on the mower.
To check Made balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
_hestraight 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.
Blade Crank
adapter shaft key-
way
Hade
Crank
shaft
ock Blade
zasher Hardened edge adapter
washer
RASS 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 replacing,
replace only with a manufacturer ap-
proved replacement catcher. Give the
lawn mower model number when order-
ing.
RiVE WHEELS
qeck front drive wheels each time before
_umow to be sure they move freely.
le wheels not turning freely means trash,
ass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel
ea and must be cleaned to free drive
heels.
necessary to clean the drive wheels,
_eck both front wheels.
Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and
washers.
Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
* Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/or
drive wheel gear teeth.
Put wheels back in place.
If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not
turn freely, contact your nearest autho-
rized service center.
GEAR CASE
, To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area around
the drive should be kept clean and free
of trash build-up. Clean under the drive '
cover twice a season.
. The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the gear
case.
If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium I Grease, Part No.
750355. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRiCATiON
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with APIservice classification SF,SG, or
SH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
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°R Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
OSSibleengine damage from running
w on oil.
Changeafter the first25 hours ofoperation
at least oncea yearif the lawn moweris not
usedfor 25 hoursin one year.
Checkthe crankcase oil level beforestarting
the engine and after each five (5) hoursof
continuoususe. Tighten oil plug securely
eachtime you checkthe oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINEOIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fueltank by running
engine until fuel tank is empty.
Disconnectspark plug wire from spark
plug and placewire where it cannot come
in contactwith spark plug.
12

-Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
_p lawn mower on its side as shown and
drain oi! into a suitable container. Rock
lawn mower back and forth to remove
any oil trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT overfill.
• Replace engine oil cap.
° Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
AIR FILTER /
Container
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more often
if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions.
Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
• Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
• Carefully remove cartridge.
.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 cartridge. They may cause dete-
rioration of the cartridge. Do not oil car-
tridge. Do not use pressurized air to
clean or dry cartridge.
MUFFLER
Back
Cover
tabs
inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and run better. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
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.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by scrap-
ing to remove build-up of grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
•Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil,etc.
•We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in shortened
engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a
season. Scrape underside of cover with
putty knife or similar tool to remove any
build-up of trash or grass on underside of
drive cover.
Slots
Cartridge Cover
13

OAtJTmON:BEFOREPERFORMING
ANYSERVICEORADJUSTMENTS:
Releasecontrolbar.
Makesurethebladeandallmoving
partshavecompletelystopped.
Disconnectsparkplugwirefromspark
plugandplacewhereitcannotcome
incontactwithplug.
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 operatoCs mowing position. If the
rear deflector becomes damaged, it should
be replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
•Remove drive cover. Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and
roll belt off.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with carbure-
tor and fuel cap up.
•"Remove blade.
= Remove debris shield.
Remove belt from engine pulley on crank-
shaft.
Install new belt by reversing above steps.
-Always use factory approved belt to
assure fit and long life.
Drive
cover
Belt
Push
down
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered for your mowing comfort. Four (4)
positions are available: high, medium high,
medium low and low. Handles are shipped
mounted in the medium low position.
•To change from medium low to medium
high position, the upper and lower handle
sections will have to be turned over.
• Remove cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator pres-
ence control bar from the upper handle.
14
Remove the starter rope guide from the
lower handle.
,Remove hairpin cotters.
Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
Turn the handle over and reassemble the
hairpin cotters that have been removed.
= Reassemble the starter rope guide.
* Reassemble the controls and the opera-
tot presence control bar to the upper han-
dle.
CAUTION: The operator presence
control bar must pivot freely to permit
blade brake engagement when control
bar is released. Do not over tighten
the fasteners holding the controls to the
upper handle.
, To change from medium low to high posi-
tion only the upper handle section will
have to be turned over.
-To change from medium low to low posi-
tion, only the lower handle section will
Shipping position
Medium low
um high
High
\
Squeeze to
remove
Low
Lower handle
Hairpin clip Handle
bracket

immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit wil! not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a peri-
od of time, clean it thoroughly, remove a!l
dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean,
dry area.
. Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Customer Responsibilities
section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual.
•Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.
Touch up all rusted or chipped paint sur-
faces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the lower
handle clears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.
. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be fold-
ed back.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you amy 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
Handle
bracket
Operator presence control bar
\
Fold,.forward
for _torage ._
Lower
handle -
Upper
_/_ _i_bhandle
_,,71 Fold back-
%Y /
/ward
Mowing
position
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
iMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel sys-
tem parts such as carburetor, fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fue! 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.
Drain the fuel tank.
- Start the engine and let it run until the fue!
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 drain
15

IGtNEOIL
ainoil(withenginewarm)andreplace
_hcleanengineoil (See"ENGINE"in
:_CustomerResponsibilitiessectionofthis
:muaI).
ILINDER
Remove spark plug.
Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.
Replace with new spark plug.
THER
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 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
ROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Does not start CAUSE
- Dirty air filter.
, Out of fuel.
• Stale fuel.
,, Water in fuel.
e
Q
®
, Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug.
, Loose blade or broken blade ®
adapter.
, Control bar in released
position.
o Control bar defective.
CORRECTION
Clean/replace air filter.
Fill fuel tank.
Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
Connect wire to plug.
Replace spark plug.
Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
Depress control bar to
handle.
Replace control bar.
16

i
Poor cut -uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope hard
to pull
Grass catcher
not fiBing (if so
equipped) .
Hard to push
CAUSE
-Roar of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
* Cutting too much grass.
• Dirty air filter.
o Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
, Too much oil in engine.
,, Worn, bent or loose blade.
• Whee! heights uneven.
Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
•Worn, bent or loose blade.
=Bent engine crankshaft.
Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
= Bent engine crankshaft.
•Blade adapter broken.
, Blade dragging in grass,
Cutting height too low,
• Lift on blade worn off.
=Catcher not venting air.
• Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
= Grass catcher too full,
•Handle height position not
right for you.
CORRECTION
- Set to "Higher Cur
position.
Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
o Clean!replace air filter.
Clean underside of mower
housing.
• Check oil level.
bRl_B_lade, Tighten
, Set a!! wheels at same
height
- Clean underside of
mower housing,
*Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
, Contact an authorized
service center.
Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
= Contact an authorized
service center.
• Replace blade adapter.
° Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface
to start engine.
Raise cutting height.
• Replace blade.
• Clean grass catcher.
•Raise cutting height.
Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
° Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit.
17

CRAFTSMAN Modem No. 917.377530
Garantfa 18 Servicio y Adjustes 27
Reglas de Segufidad 18 Almacenamiento 28
Montaje 19 Identificaci6n de problemas 30
Operacion 22 Partes de repuesto Vea el manual
Mantenimiento 24 ingles del due_o
Programa de Mantenimiento 24 Orden de Partes Contratapa
Especificaciones dei Producto 25
GARANTiA LIMITADA DE DOS ArqOS PARA LA SEGADORA A MOTOR CRAFTSMAN
Pot dos (2) aSos, a partir de la fecha de compra, cuando esta Segadora Craftsman se mantenga,
tubrique y afine segun las instrucciones para la operacion y et mantenirniento en el manual del
duello, Sears reparara gratis todo defecto en el matedat y la mane de obra.
Si la Segadora Craftsman se usa para fines comerciales o de ardendo esta garantfa s61o se apli-
ca por noventa (90) dfas a partir de la fecha de compra.
Esta Garantia no cubre:
• Arficulos que se desgastan durante el uso normal tales como las cuchillas segadoras rotato-
rias, los adaptadores de la cuchilla, las correas, los filtros de aire y las bujfas.
Reparaciones necesarias debido al abuso o a la negligencia del operador, incluy6ndose a los
cigeeSales doblados y a la falta de mantenimiento del equipo seg0n las instrucciones que se
incluyen en el manual del dueBo.
EL SERVlCIO DE GARANT[A ESTA DISPONIBLE al devolver la segadpra a motor Craftsman al
centro/departmento de.servicio Sears mas cercano en los Estados Unidos. Esta garantfa se apli-
ca solamente mientras el producto este en uso en los Estados Unidos.
Esta Garantfa le otorga derechos legales especificos, y puede que tambien tenga otros derechos
clue varfan de estado a estado.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 USA
Los estandares de seguridad exigen la presen-
cia del operador del operador en los controles
para reducir a un minimo el riesgo de lesion-
arse. Su unidad viene equipada con dichos
controles. Por ningun motivo trate de eliminar
la funcion de los controles que exigen la pres-
encia del operador.
ENTRENAMIENTO:
,Lea este manual del operador cuidadosa-
mente. Familiarfcese con los controles y
aprenda a operar su segadora en forma
adecuada. Aprenda a parar su segadora
r&pidamente.
No permita que los niSos usen su segadora.
Nunca permita que los adultos operen la
segadora sin contar con las instrucciones
adecuadas.
® Mantenga el Area de operaci6n despejada
de gente, especialmente de niSos pequeSos
y de animales dom6sticos.
, Use la segadora solamente para los fines
propuestos pot el fabricante y segt]n las
explicaciones descritas en este manual.
No opere la segadora si se ha cafdo o daSa-
do en cualquiera forma+ Siempre repare los
da[ios antes de usarla.
No use accesorios que no hayan sido
recomendados por el fabricante. El use de
dichos accesorios puede set peligroso.
• La cuchilla gira cuando el motor estA funcio-
nando.
PREPARACI6N:
•Siempre revise cuidadosamente el _rea que
se va a segar y despejela de todas las
piedras, palos, alambres, huesos y otros
objetos extraSos. Estos objetos serAn lanza-
dos con la cuchilla y pueden producir
lesiones graves.
o Siempre use anteojos de seguddad o pro-
tectores de ojos cuando arranque y durante
el tiempo que use la segadora.
Vistase en forma adecuada. No opere la
segadora sin zapatos o con sandalias abier-
tas. Use solamente zapatos s61idos con
18

buena traccion cuando siegue.
Revise el estanque de combustible antes de
hacer arrancar el motor. No Ilene el
estanque de gasolina en recintos cerrados,
ni cuando el motor esta funcionando o cuan-
do esta caliente. Permita que el motor se
enfrie por varios minutos antes de Ilenar el
estanque de gasolina. Limpie toda la gasoli-
na derramada antes de hacer arrancar el
motor.
• Siempre haga los ajustes de altura de las
ruedas antes de hacer arrancar su segado-
ra. Nunca trate de hacer esto mientras que
el motor esta funcionando.
Siegue siempre durante el dfa o con buena
luz artificial.
OPERACl6N:
Mantenga sus ojos y su mente en la
segadora yen el Area que se est#. cortando.
No permita que otros intereses Io distraigan.
• No corte cesped mojado o resbaloso. Nunca
corra mientras este operando su segadora.
Siempre asegQrese de mantener el equilibdo
- mantenga el mango agarrado firmemente
y camine.
- No ponga las manos o los pies cerca o
debajo de las partes rotatorias. Mantengase
alejado de la abertura de descarga en todo
momento.
• Siempre pare el motor cuando se vaya o
cuando no este usando su segadora, o
antes de atravesar las entradas para autos,
los senderos, caminos y Areas cubiertas de
ripio.
, Nunca dirija la descarga del material hacia
los espectadores ni permita a nadie cerca
de la segadora mientras la est_ operando.
, Antes de limpiar, inspeccionar o de reparar
la segadora, pare el motor y est_ completa-
mente seguro de que la cuchilla y que todas
las partes que se mueven se hayan
detenido. Luego, desconecte el alambre de
la bujfa y mantengalo alejado de esta para
evitar el arranque por accidente.
• No continue haciendo funcionar su segadora
si le pega a un objeto extraSo. Siga el pro-
cedimiento descrito anteriormente, luego
repare cualquier daSo antes de volver a
arrancar y de operar su segadora.
o No cambie los ajustes del regulador o haga
que el motor ande a una velocidad excesiva.
Se pueden producir dafios en el motor y
lesiones personales.
, No opere su segadora si vibra fuera de Io
normal. La vibraci6n excesiva es una indi-
caci6n de daSo; pare el motor, revise en
forma segura la causa de ia vibracidn y
haga las reparaciones segQn sea necesario.
o No haga funcionar el motor en recintos cer-
rados. Los gases de escape son peligrosos.
o Nunca corte el c_sped tirando la segadora
hacia usted. Siegue a traves de la cara de
las pendientes, nunca hacia arriba o hacia
abajo pues puede pettier el equilibrio. No
siegue pendientes demasiado empinadas.
Tenga cuidado cuando opere la segadora en
terreno disparejo o cuando cambie de direc-
ci6n - mantenga un buen equilibrio.
Nunca opere la segadora sin las protec-
clones adecuadas, las planchas, el recoge-
dor de cesped y otros dispositivos de seguri-
dad en su iugar.
MANTENIMtENTO Y ALMACE-
NAMIENTO:
-Revise la cuchilla y los pernos de montaje
del motor a menudo, para asegurarse que
estan apretados en la forma adecuada.
oRevise todos los pernos, tuercas y tornillos a
intervalos frecuentes, para verificar si estan
apretados en forma adecuada, y asegurarse
que la segadora se encuentra en condi-
ciones de funcionamiento seguro.
, Mantenga todos los dispositivos de seguri-
dad en su lugar y listos para funcionar.
• Para reducir el peligro de incendio, manten-
ga el motor sin cesped, hojas y grasa o
aceite en exceso.
• Revise el recogedor de cesped a menudo
para verificar si hay detedoro y desgaste y
cambie las bolsas desgastadas. Use sola-
mente las bolsas de repuesto recomen-
dadas por el fabricante de su segadora o
que cumplen con las especificaciones de
_ste.
• Siempre mantenga una cuchilla afiiada en
su segadora.
• Siempre permita que el motor se enfrfe
antes de guardada en cualquier recinto cer-
rado.
• Nunca guarde la segadora con combustible
en el estanque dentro de un edificio en
donde los gases pueden alcanzar una llama
expuesta o una fuente de ignici6n, tal como
el calentador de agua, la estufa de calefac-
cion, la secadora de ropa, etc.
Busque este sfmbolo que seSala las precau-
clones de seguridad de impor-tancia. Quiere
decir - iiiATENCION!N iiiESTE ALERTO!!! SU
SEGURIDAD ESTA COMPROMETIDA.
PRECAUCl6N: Siempre desconecte el alam-
bre de la bujfa y p6ngalo donde no pueda
entrar en contacto con la bujfa, para evitar e!
arranque pot accidente, durante la
preparaci6n, el transporte, el ajuste o cuando
se hacen reparaciones.
PRECAUCl6N: Es conocido per el Estado de
California que Joe gases de escape del motor
de este productor contienen qufmicos los
cuales aciertos niveles, pueden ocasionar,
cancer, defectos de nacimiento, y otros daSos
al sistema reproductivo.
19

}tos accesorios estaban disponibles cuando se produjo la segadora. Tambien estan disponibles
_la mayoria de las tiendas de Sears yen Ios-centros de servlcio La mayoria de las tiendas
.ars Tambien pueden ordenar para usted, si les proporciona el numero del modelo de su
,gadora. AIgunos de estos accesorios tat vez no se apliquen a su segadora.
:ENDIMIENTO DE LA SEGADORA
DESVIADOR DE RECORTES
_ARA SEGADORAS CON DESCARGA TRASERA
RECOREDOR
PARA
SEGADORAS
CON DESCARGA
TRASERA
JUEGOS PARA LA ACOLCHADORA
__/ RECOREDOR
PARA
SEGADORAS
CON DESCARGA
LATERAL
ESTABILIZADORES
ENVASES
DE GASOLINA
IANTENIMIENTO DE LA SEGADORA
SILENCIADORES
CORREAS CUCHILLAS
FILTROS DE AIRE
ADAPTADORES __
DE CUCHILLA RUEDAS
BUJiAS
ACEITE
DEL MOTOR
a estastnstrucciones y este manual completa-
ente antes de tratar de montar u operar su
gadora nueva. Su segadora nueva ha sido
ontada en la fabrica con la excepcion de aquel-
!;partes que se dejaron sin montar pot razones
envio. Todas las partes como las tuercas, las
andelas, los pernos, etc., que son necesarias
_ra completar el montaje hart sido colocadas en
bolsa de partes. Para asegurarse que su
gadora funcione en forma segura y adecuada,
das las partes y los artieulos de ferreteria que
monten tienen que set apretados segurao
ente. Use las herramientas correctas, como
a necesario, para asegurar que se aprieten
Jecuadamente.
ARA REMOVER LA SEGADORA DE
A CAJA DE CARTON
Remueva las partes sueltas que se incluyen
con la segadora.
Corte las dos esquinas de los extremos de la
caja de cart6n y tienda el panel del extremo
piano.
Remueva todo el matedal de empaque,
excepto la curia entre el mango superior y 61
inferior, y la curia que sujeta la barra de los
control que exige la presencia del operador
junto con el mango superior.
Haga rodar la segadora hacia afuera de la
caja de cart6n y reviseta cuidadosamente para
verificar si todavia quedan partes sueltas adi-
cionales.
COMO PREPARAR SU SEGADORA
PARA DESDOBLAR EL MANGO
IMPORTANTE: Despliegue el mango con mucho
cuidado para no pellizear o dariar los cables de
control.
® Levante los mangos hasta que la secci6n de1
mango inferior se asegure en su lugar, en la
posici6n para segar.
Levante la secci6n del mango superior hasta
su lugar en el mango inferior, remueva la cura
protectora y apriete ambas manillas del
mango.
Remueva la cura del mango que sujeta la
barra de los control que exige la presencia del
operador junto con el mango superior.
o El mango de la segadora puede ajustarse
segQn le acomode para segar. Refi_rase a
2O