Craftsman EZ3 917.387221 User manual

Owner's Manual
®
4.5 HORSEPOWER
20" SmDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.387221
,, Safety
oAssembBy
,, Operation
o Maintenance
o Espafiol
o Repair Parts
CAUTRON:
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 13
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 15
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 32
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
properly. Leam how to quickly stop
mower.
= 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.
o Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
° Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
o Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
o The blade turns when the engine is
running,
PREPARATION:
o 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,
o 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

hot.Allowtheenginetocoolforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthegastank,Clean
offanyspilledgasolinebeforestartingthe
engine.
° Alwaysmakewheelheightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower.Never
attempttodothiswhiletheengineis
running_
• Mowon_y in daylight or good artificial
lighL
OPERATION:
o Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
o 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.
o De not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts_ Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
o Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
and any gravel--covered area&
o Never direct discharge of materia! toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating iL
o Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped, Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
Do not continue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object° Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating you
mower.
• Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may resulL
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as require&
°Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
o 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 exces-
sively steep slopes. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when changing directions -- maintain
good footing.
• Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
o Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts often to be sure they are
tightened properly°
o Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent 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 oilo
• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
mower.
o 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, etco
CAUTION: Always disconnect spad_ plug
wire and place wire where it cannot contact
spark plug in order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs.
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
orderrepairpartsforyou,whenyouprovidethemodelnumberofyourlawnmower.
Someoftheseaccessoriesmaynotapplytoyourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR _ _
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS STABIUZER
GRASS CATCNERS GRASS CATCHERS
FOR tFOR
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
UFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS 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, etco, 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 hard-
ware you assemble must be tightened
securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
sary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
oRemove loose parts included with
mower.
= 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 contol cables.
oRaise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.
°Remove 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 fawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort.
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual

Operator presence control bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Mowing position
Lower handle
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER, Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of vadous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
............... ,,,,,,iH,i,,,,,i _ .... ii ................ ........
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product, Learn and understand their meaning,
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OiL DANGER, KEEP H._,.NDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Engine zone control :_erator presence
cable control bar
Upstop bracket
Starter handle
CabLe clip knob
cap
Engine oil cap with
dipstick Primer
Mulcher
Housing
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAF_ 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 Commission, The blade
turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar- must be
held down to the handle to start the engine,
Release to stop the engine.
Primer- pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
a cold engine,
,Starter handle- used for starting the engine,
Mulcher plate - Located at the discharge
opening must be removed when converting to
bagging or discharging operation,
5

The operation of any lawn mower can result in
foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while operating
your lawn mower or performing any adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over the spectacles or
standard safety glasses°
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Speed is not adjust-
able,
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulationsrequirean
engine controlto be installedon this lawn
mower in orderto minimizethe riskofblade
contact injury.Do not under any circumstances
attemptto defeat thefunction ofthe operator
control, The blade tums when the engine is
running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower_
Lower Wheels for
High Cut
Raise Wheelsfor
Low Cut
Plate Tab
_Lever
TO ADJUST CUTT1NG HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut.
oAdjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium positionis best for most
lawns.
° To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wfleel up or
down to suit your requirements. Be sure all
wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is property positioned when
plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-
position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever
to be positioned between the plate tabs.
Your lawn mower has been shipped ready for
mulching operation. To convert to discharging
or bagging operation:
TO CONVERT TO DISCHARGING MOWER
Your mower isshipped ready to be used as a
mulcher, To convert to bagging ordischarging:
= Lift discharge guard and remove mulcher
plate.
o Mower can now be used for side discharg-
ing or optional grass catcher' can be
attached.
• To retum to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
CAUTION; Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or muicher plate in place.
__(a Mulcher
Plate
rge guard
Tab
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oilinthe
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 oi!
to use, see "ENGINE" in Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual,
o Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill
= Check oil level before each use. Add oi! if
needed. Fillto full line on dipstick.
= To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time.
• Reinstall engine oit cap and tighten_
o Change the oil after' every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
GAS
• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline witl
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN
TEMPERATURES BELOW 32°F(0°C), use
fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good cold weather starting.
WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcoholblendedfuels(calledgasoholorusing
ethanolormethanol)canattractmoisturewhich
leadstoseparationandformationofacids
duringstorage.Addicgascandamagethefuel
systemofanenginewhileinstorage.Toavoid
engineproblems,thefuelsystemshouldbe
emptiedbeforestorageof30daysorlonger.
Drainthegastank,starttheengineandletit
rununtilthefuellinesandcarburetorareempty.
Usefreshfue!nextseason.SeeStorage
instructionsforadditionalinformation°Never
useengineorcarburetorcleanerproductsin
thefueltankorpermanentdamagemayoccur.
CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler
neck, Do not overfill. Wipe off anyspilled
oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
o To start a cold engine, push primer five
(5) 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°
o 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
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps° In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not starL If you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps. Gasoline
_ler cap
Engine oil ,_,
capwldipstick "4_"-. fi
MOWING TiPS
oUnder 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 by overlapping previously cut
path and mow slowly..
o For side discharge iawn mowers, cutting in
a counter-clockwise direction, starting at the
outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass
clippings more evenly and puts less load on
the engine° To keep clippings off of
walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first
cuts in a clockwise direction.
o Pores in cloth grass catchers can become
filled with dirt and dust with use and
catchers will collect less grass° To prevent
this, regularly hose catcher off with water
and let dry before using.
o Keep top of engine around starter clear and
clean of grass clippings and chaff, This will
help engine air flow and extend engine life.
bIULCH?NG MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housingfree of built-up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing after
each use. See "CLEANING" in CUSTOMER
RESPONSIBILITIES section ofthis manual.
oThe special mulchingblade wiltrecur the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades,
° Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet, Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
w_h the mulching action. The best time to
mow your lawn isthe early afternoon, At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct
suno
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass blades.
If the lawn isovergrown it will be necessary
to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut, mow slowly and
raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel
adjuster setting higher than the front.
o Certain types of grass and grass conditions
may require that an area be mulched a
second time to completely hide the
clippings° When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
o Change your cutting pattern from week to
week. Mow north to south one week then
change to east to west the next week. This
wit! help prevent matting and graining of the
lawn. Max 113

MAINTENANCE"'SCHEDULE .....___ ,,_o_ S ...................
F'LL'N DATES /__7_,y
AsYouCOMPLetE ....
RE U RSERV,OE SERVICEDA.:
Check for Loose Fasteners , _
iClean!Inspect Grass Catcher
(if Equipped) 6/ _ ,, 6/ .L__
M Clean Lawn Mower 6/' V'
clean Under Ddve Cover
{power-pr0pe!!ed Mowers} ,_,
Check drive bell/pulleys
E(power..Pr0pe!!edMowers) _'4I
Check/Sharpen!Replace Blade I _ a
Lubrication Chart ,,, _ 6"'
Clean BatterylRecharge i -- --
(Electric Start Mowers) ........ i ..................... _ .........6'r4
E Check,Engine Oil Level _#'
N o, ' .....] .....
Gclean Air Rler
IInspectMuffler
N clean or Replace Spark Plug
EReplace Air Filter Paper Cartridge _e'2
1 -Change mote o_en whet_operatiagundera h_avy tsad ot in high ambient lemperatures
2- Service more often when operating Indidy ordustyconditions
3-Repbce blades morn ofzen whenmowing in sandysoi|
4-Charge 4B hoursa! end of season
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments if] the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season,
•Once a year', replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear° A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
= Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual
BEFORE EACH USE
o Check engine oil level.
= Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART")
LUBRICATION CHART
(_ Wheel
adjuster (_ Engine oil
(_ Handle bracket
mounting pin
_) Brake spring
bracket
(_) Discharge
guard hinge pin
Sray lubricant
(_) Refer to CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
"ENGINE" section_
IMPORTANT; Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
8

: RODUCT SPECnFnCATaONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.387221
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 4°5
DISPLACEMENT: 11°5 CUo IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZSo
SPARK PLUG(GAP: ,030") CHAMPION J19LM
VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .-O04-.008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.
The model and serial numbers wilt be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing_Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above°
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
TIRES
,, Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
= Avoid stumps, stones, deep r'u'ts,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 itcannot come in
contact with spark phg_
. Turn lawn mower on itsside. Make sure air
filter and carburetor are up_
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap
blade with heavy cloth°
o Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise. Use a 9/16" box or open-end
wrench.
o Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt,lock washer and hardened washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check
the key insidehub of blade adapter. The key
must be in good condition to work properly.
Replace adapter if damaged°
TO REPLACE BLADE
= Position the blade adapter on the engine
crankshaft° Be sure key in adapter and
crankshaft keyway are aligned.
o Position blade on the blade adapter aligning
the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised
lugs on the adapter.
o Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite
sharp edge) is up toward the engine°
,, Instal! the btade bolt with the lock washer
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 is35_
40 ft, tbs.
iMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.

NOTE:Wedonotrecommendsharpening
blade-butifyoudo,besurethebladeis
balanced. Crankshaft
Blade keyway
washer edge adapter'
Lock washer
TO SHARPEN BLADE
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced° An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine_
o The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
. To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall, Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed_ Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nai!.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either' end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced_
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
o The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
= Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. tf catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF,SG or SH, Select
the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improvestarting in cold weather,
these multi-v_scosity oils will result in increased
oil consumption when used above 32°F.
SAE VISCOS f'_" GRADES
_PEF_TURE RANGE ANT IC_=ATEDB-_FORE NEXT O_L CHANGE
Check your engine oil level more frequently to
avoid possible engine damage from running
low on oi!.
Changetheoilafterthefirsttwohoursofoperation
and every25 hoursthereafteror'at leastoncea
yearifthe lawnmower isnot usedfor 25 hoursin
oneyear.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use.,Tighten oi! plug securely each
time you check the oil level
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower'to drain oil,
d_ainfuel tank by running engine until fuel tank
isempty.
° Disconnect spark plug wire fi'omspark plug
and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with spark plug_
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean
surface,
• T_plawn mower on itsside as shown and
drain oil intoa 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.
= Fillengine with oil Fill only to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.
• Replace engine oil cap.
°Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may be
damaged by using a dirty air fitter_
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
° Remove the air filter by turning counter_
clockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar=
. Remove filter from inside of cover.
° Clean the inside of the cover and the collar
to remove any dirt accumulation.
o Insert new filter into cover_
10

PutairfiltercoverandfilterintocoUar
aligningthetabwiththeslot.
Pushinoncoverandturnclockwiseto
tighten.
;ol_ar Clip Turn
counter-
toremove
Air filter Tab Turn clockwise
to tighten
Air filter cover
4UFFLER
nspect and replace corroded muffler as it
:ouldcreate a fire hazard and/or damage,
_,PARK PLUG
;hange your spark plug each year to make
tour engine start easier and runbetter. Set
_parkplug gap at .030 inch°
CLEANBNG
iMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower after
each use.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from
spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with the spark plug
,, Clean the underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass and
trash_
= Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runshotter
and shortens engine lifeo
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of
all gasoline, oil,etc.
o 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.
3AUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
._ERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
Release control bar.
Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.
.AWN MOWER
rO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
_ee "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
_)peration section of this manual.
:{EAR DEFLECTOR
Fhe rear deflector' attached between the rear
wheels of your mower, is provided to minimize
he possibility that objects will be thrown out of
he rear of the mower into the operator
"nowing position, tf the deflector becomes
Jamaged, it should be replaced.
)ISCHARGE GUARD
]'he discharge guard attached to the dis-
:harge opening of your lawn mower, is
3rovided to prevent the possibility of injury
"esulting from objects being thrown out of the
:tischarge opening into the operator mowing
)osition. If the discharge guard becomes
:lamaged, it should be replaced_
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or
lowered foryour mowing comfort° Four (4)
positions are available: high, medium high,
medium low and lowo 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 the controls and operator presence
control bar from the upper handle.
,, Remove the starter rope guide from the
lower handle.
o 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 operator
presence control bar to the upper handle.
CAUTION: The operator presence control bar
must pivot freely to permit blade brake
engagement when control bar is released_ Do
not overtighten the fasteners holding the
controls to the upper handle.
o To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section will
have to be turned over.
o To change from medium tow to low position,
only the lower handle section will have to be
turned over.
11

Shipping position
Medium low Medium high
Low
High
x_X_. _ Lower handle
Squeeze toX'x_'x,X
Hairpin clip Mounting
bracket
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control, if your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed has been factory seL Do
not attempt to increase engine speed as it
may result in personal injury° Ifyou believe the
engine is running too fast or too slow, take
your lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and adjustment.
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the unit
wilt not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period
oftime, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
= Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
inthe Customer Responsibilities section of
this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual
o Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear,
Replace if necessary°
o Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; 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 dears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.
o Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be folded
back.
IMPORTANT; When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold the
handle as shown or you amy damage the
control cables.
o When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing position,
Lowerhandle
Squeeze tc
remove
Mounting
Hairpin clip bracket
Operator presence control bar
Upper handle--___."-'-'-J_ ,;//,_:'}
..: _xf// Mowing
" position
Lower handle
12

ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming inessential fue!
system parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel
hose, or tank during storage.. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanot) 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,
o Drain the fuel tank°
° Start the engine and let it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occurs,
° Use fresh fuel next season
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of fue!
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 the gas
tank and carburetor ifusing fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual),
CYLINDER
-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,
oReplace with new spark plug.
OTHER
,Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
o Replace your gasoline can ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and!or dirt in your gasoline will
cause problems.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and cover
itto 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 to coo! before storing in any
enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART
PROBLEM
Does not start
CAUSE
o Dirty air filter°
° Out of fuel.
,, Stale fuel.
o Water in fuel
o Spark plug wire is
disconnected_
• Bad spark plug.
o Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
o Control bar in released
position.
• Control bar defective.
CORRECTION
,, Clean/replace air filter°
,, Fill fuel tank_
o Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
°Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline,
•Connect wire to plug.
o Replace spark plug.
o Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter,
o Depress control bar to
handle.
o Replace control bar,
!3

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
.o otpower
_oor cut- uneven
i
_cessive
Ab_ion
_tarter rope hard
to pull
L,,,,, ,,,,
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
_luipped)
_ard to push
CAUSE 1, ...._=--
oRear oflawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass,
o Cutt_g too much grass.
,Dirty airfilter:
= Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower:
o Too much oil in engine,
• Walking speed too fast.
Q
0
Worn, bent or loose blade.
Wheet heights uneven=
Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
,,, .................. ,,,,,,,j ,
°Woml bent or toose bladei
o Bent engine crankshaft_
= Engine flywheet brake is on
when control bar isreleased.
° Bent engine crankshaft,
. E_ladeadapter broken,
= Blade dragging in grass,
° Cutting height too low,
Lift on blade wornoff.
Catcher not venting air.
= Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
°Rear of fawnmower
housingor blade dragging
in grass.
°Grass catcher too full.
= Handle height pos_on not
right for you,
CORRECTION
= Set to "Higher Cut"
pos_on.
°Set to"Higher Cut"
position.
• Clean/replace air filter:
o Clean underside of mower
housing.
°Checkoil level
•Cut at slower walking
speed.
• Replace blade.Tighten
blade bolt.
° Set all wheels at same
height
= Clean underside of
mower housing.
• Replace blade, 13ghten
blade bolt.
QContact an authorized
service center,
° Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
°Contact an authorized
service center.
° Replace blade adapter,
o 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 oflawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher=
o Empty grass catcher.
° Adjust handle height to
suit.
14