Craftsman CX Series User manual

®
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179, U.S.A.
Visit our website: www.craftsman.com
Operator’s Manual
Electric Start
SNOW THROWER
Model No. 247.883981
• SAFETY
• ASSEMBLY
• OPERATION
• MAINTENANCE
• PARTS LIST
• ESPAÑOL
CAUTION: Before using this product,
read this manual and follow all safety
rules and operating instructions.
Form No. 769-08169B
(June 18, 2013)

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY STATEMENT
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS MODEL NUMBER
Engine Oil Type: 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity: 37 ounces
Fuel Capacity: Approx. 5 Quarts
Spark Plug: F6RTC (951-10292)
Spark Plug Gap: .020” to .030”
Model Number.................................................................
Serial Number .................................................................
Date of Purchase .............................................................
Record the model number, serial number
and date of purchase above
© Sears Brands, LLC
Warranty Statement..................................Page 2
Safe Operation Practices..........................Page 3
Assembly ..................................................Page 7
Operation..................................................Page 13
Service and Maintenance.........................Page 18
Off-Season Storage..................................Page 26
Troubleshooting........................................Page 27
Parts List...................................................Page 28
Repair Protection Agreement ...................Page 47
Español .....................................................Page 48
Service Numbers......................................Back Cover
CRAFTSMAN CX TWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY
FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective
product will receive free repair or replacement if repair is unavailable.
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web site: www.craftsman.com
This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT include:
• Expendable items that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period, including but not limited to augers, auger paddles,
drift cutters, skid shoes, shave plate, shear pins, spark plug, air cleaner, belts, and oil filter.
• Standard maintenance servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.
• Tire or wheel replacement or repair resulting from normal wear, accident, or improper operation or maintenance.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to damage caused by over-speeding the engine, or from
impacting objects that bend the frame, auger shaft, etc.
• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by
improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the
instructions contained in the operator’s manual.
• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be
used within 30 days of its purchase date.
• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or if rented to another person.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
TRAINING
• Read,understand,andfollowallinstructionsonthemachineandinthe
manual(s)beforeattemptingtoassembleandoperate.Failuretodosocan
resultinseriousinjurytotheoperatorand/orbystanders.Keepthismanual
inasafeplaceforfutureandregularreferenceandfororderingreplacement
parts.
• Befamiliarwithallcontrolsandtheirproperoperation.Knowhowtostop
themachineanddisengagethemquickly.
• 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.
• Neverallowadultstooperatethismachinewithoutproperinstruction.
• Thrownobjectscancauseseriouspersonalinjury.Planyoursnow-throwing
patterntoavoiddischargeofmaterialtowardroads,bystandersandthelike.
• Keepbystanders,petsandchildrenatleast75feetfromthemachinewhileit
isinoperation.Stopmachineifanyoneentersthearea.
• Exercisecautiontoavoidslippingorfalling,especiallywhenoperatingin
reverse.
PREPARATION
• Thoroughlyinspecttheareawheretheequipmentistobeused.Removeall
doormats,newspapers,sleds,boards,wiresandotherforeignobjects,which
couldbetrippedoverorthrownbytheauger/impeller.
• Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreyeshieldsduringoperationandwhile
performinganadjustmentorrepairtoprotectyoureyes.Thrownobjects
whichricochetcancauseseriousinjurytotheeyes.
• Donotoperatewithoutwearingadequatewinteroutergarments.Donot
wearjewelry,longscarvesorotherlooseclothing,whichcouldbecome
entangledinmovingparts.Wearfootwearwhichwillimprovefootingon
slipperysurfaces.
• Useagroundedthree-wireextensioncordandreceptacleforallmachines
withelectricstartengines.
• Disengageallcontrolleversbeforestartingtheengine.
• Adjustcollectorhousingheighttocleargravelorcrushedrocksurfaces.
• Neverattempttomakeanyadjustmentswhileengineisrunning,except
wherespecificallyrecommendedintheoperator’smanual.
• Letengineandmachineadjusttooutdoortemperaturebeforestartingto
clearsnow.
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.
• Whenpractical,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.
• Neverremovegascaporaddfuelwhiletheengineishotorrunning.Allow
enginetocoolatleasttwominutesbeforerefueling.
• Neveroverfillfueltank.Filltanktonomorethan½inchbelowbottomof
fillernecktoallowspaceforfuelexpansion.
• Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
• Ifgasolineisspilled,wipeitofftheengineandequipment.Moveunitto
anotherarea.Wait5minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
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
• Toreducefirehazards,keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,orotherdebris
build-up.Cleanupoilorfuelspillageandremoveanyfuelsoakeddebris.
• Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainerinsidewherethereisanopen
flame,sparkorpilotlightasonawaterheater,spaceheater,furnace,clothes
dryerorothergasappliances.
OPERATION
• Donotputhandsorfeetnearrotatingparts,intheauger/impellerhousing
orchuteassembly.Contactwiththerotatingpartscanamputatehandsand
feet.
• Theauger/impellercontrolleverisasafetydevice.Neverbypassits
operation.Doingsomakesthemachineunsafeandmaycausepersonal
injury.
• Thecontrolleversmustoperateeasilyinbothdirectionsandautomatically
returntothedisengagedpositionwhenreleased.
• Neveroperatewithamissingordamagedchuteassembly.Keepallsafety
devicesinplaceandworking.
• Neverrunanengineindoorsorinapoorlyventilatedarea.Engineexhaust
containscarbonmonoxide,anodorlessanddeadlygas.
• Donotoperatemachinewhileundertheinfluenceofalcoholordrugs.
• Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Donottouch.Keep
childrenaway.
• Exerciseextremecautionwhenoperatingonorcrossinggravelsurfaces.Stay
alertforhiddenhazardsortraffic.
• Exercisecautionwhenchangingdirectionandwhileoperatingonslopes.Do
notoperateonsteepslopes.
• Planyoursnow-throwingpatterntoavoiddischargetowardswindows,
walls,carsetc.Thus,avoidingpossiblepropertydamageorpersonalinjury
causedbyaricochet.
• Neverdirectdischargeatchildren,bystandersandpetsorallowanyonein
frontofthemachine.
• Donotoverloadmachinecapacitybyattemptingtoclearsnowattoofastof
arate.
• Neveroperatethismachinewithoutgoodvisibilityorlight.Alwaysbesureof
yourfootingandkeepafirmholdonthehandles.Walk,neverrun.
• Disengagepowertotheauger/impellerwhentransportingornotinuse.
• Neveroperatemachineathightransportspeedsonslipperysurfaces.Look
downandbehindandusecarewhenbackingup.
• Ifthemachineshouldstarttovibrateabnormally,stoptheengine,
disconnectthesparkplugwireandgrounditagainsttheengine.Inspect
thoroughlyfordamage.Repairanydamagebeforestartingandoperating.
• Disengageallcontrolleversandstopenginebeforeyouleavetheoperating
position(behindthehandles).Waituntiltheauger/impellercomesto
acompletestopbeforeuncloggingthechuteassembly,makingany
adjustments,orinspections.
• Neverputyourhandinthedischargeorcollectoropenings.Donotunclog
chuteassemblywhileengineisrunning.Shutoffengineandremainbehind
handlesuntilallmovingpartshavestoppedbeforeunclogging.
• Useonlyattachmentsandaccessoriesapprovedbythemanufacturer(e.g.
wheelweights,tirechains,cabsetc.).
• 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
judgment.
CLEARING A CLOGGED DISCHARGE CHUTE
Handcontactwiththerotatingimpellerinsidethedischargechuteisthemost
commoncauseofinjuryassociatedwithsnowthrowers.Neveruseyourhandto
cleanoutthedischargechute.
Toclearthechute:
a. SHUTTHEENGINEOFF!
b. Wait10secondstobesuretheimpellerbladeshavestopped
rotating.
c. Alwaysuseaclean-outtool,notyourhands.
MAINTENANCE & STORAGE
• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperationregularly.
Refertothemaintenanceandadjustmentsectionsofthismanual.
• Beforecleaning,repairing,orinspectingmachinedisengageallcontrol
leversandstoptheengine.Waituntiltheauger/impellercometoacomplete
stop.Disconnectthesparkplugwireandgroundagainsttheengineto
preventunintendedstarting.
• Checkboltsandscrewsforpropertightnessatfrequentintervalstokeepthe
machineinsafeworkingcondition.Also,visuallyinspectmachineforany
damage.
• Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingorover-speedtheengine.The
governorcontrolsthemaximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.
• Snowthrowershaveplatesandskidshoesaresubjecttowearanddamage.
Foryoursafetyprotection,frequentlycheckallcomponentsandreplace
withoriginalequipmentmanufacturer’s(OEM)partsonlyaslistedinthe
Partspagesofthisoperator’smanual.Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadtoimproperperformanceand
compromisesafety!
• Checkcontrolleversperiodicallytoverifytheyengageanddisengage
properlyandadjust,ifnecessary.Refertotheadjustmentsectioninthis
operator’smanualforinstructions.
• Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,asnecessary.
• Observeproperdisposallawsandregulationsforgas,oil,etc.toprotectthe
environment.
• Priortostoring,runmachineafewminutestoclearsnowfrommachineand
preventfreezeupofauger/impeller.
• Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainerinsidewherethereisanopen
flame,sparkorpilotlightsuchasawaterheater,furnace,clothesdryeretc.
• Alwaysrefertotheoperator’smanualforproperinstructionsonoff-season
storage.

5
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Checkfuelline,tank,cap,andfittingsfrequentlyforcracksorleaks.Replace
ifnecessary.
• Donotcrankenginewithsparkplugremoved.
• 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60hoursofoperation.Attheendof
theAverage Useful Lifehavethemachineinspectedannuallybyan
authorized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 arrestor is used, it should be maintained in effective working order
by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section
4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar
laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Parts
and Repair Service Center.

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
WARNING— ROTATING BLADES
Keep hands out of inlet and discharge openings while machine is running. There are rotating blades
inside
WARNING— ROTATING BLADES
Keep hands out of inlet and discharge openings while machine is running. There are rotating blades
inside
WARNING— ROTATING AUGER
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger/impeller housing or chute assembly.
Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.
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— ELECTRICAL SHOCK
Do not use the engine’s electric starter in the rain
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
ASSEMBLY
7
ASSEMBLY
b. Tightenthetwowingknobsalreadyinstalledintheupper 
 holestofirmlysecuretheupperhandleandsupporttubes. 
 SeeFigure2.
NOTE:Ifthefullrangeofspeeds(forwardandreverse)cannotbeachieved,referto
the“MakingAdjustments”section.
Figure 2
Chute Directional Control
1. RemovethehairpinclipfromthespiralcontrolasshowninA  of
ofFigure3.
2. Insertthechutedirectionalcontrolrodintothefittingonthespiralcontrol
asseeninBofFigure3.
3. Securewiththehairpinclippreviouslyremoved.SeeFigure3.
A
B
Figure 3
NOTE: Referencestorightorleftsideofthesnowthroweraredeterminedfromthe
operatingpositionlookingforwardtothefrontofthemachine.
Removing From Crate
1. Removescrewsfromthebottomofthecratesecuringthesides,andendsof
theshippingcrate.
2. Liftoffthetopoffofthecrateandsetoutofthewayoftheassemblyarea.
3. Removeanddiscardplasticbagthatcoversunit.
4. Removeanyloosepartsincludedwithunit(e.g.,Operator’sManual,etc.).
5. Pushdownonthelowerhandleandpullunitbackoutofcrate.
6. Makecertainthecratehasbeencompletelyemptiedbeforediscardingit.
Assembly
1.  Makecertainthespringsatthelowerendoftheaugeranddrive 
 cablesaresecurelyhookedintotheirrespectiveactuator
 bracketsbeforepivotingthehandleupward.RefertoFigure14.
a. PlacethespeedselectorshiftleverintheF6position.
b. Cutthecabletiesecuringthetwopiecechutecranktothe
 lowerhandle.Thecabletieisusedforshippingpurposes.
c. Removetheupperwingknobandcarriageboltfromeach 
 sideofthelowerhandle.Pulluponupperhandleasshown
 inFigure1.Alignupperhandlewiththelowerhandle.Again, 
 makecertainthespringsatthelowerendoftheaugerand 
 drivecablesaresecurelyhookedintotheirrespective
 actuatorbrackets.Also,removeanyrubberbandssecuring 
 thecablestothewingnuts.
Figure 1
2.a. Securethesupportbracket,upperhandleandlowerhandlewiththe 
 twowingknobsandcarriageboltsremovedearlier.SeeFigure2.

8
ASSEMBLY
8
ASSEMBLY
Set-Up
Chute Clean-Out Tool
WARNING
Neveruseyourhandstoclearacloggedchuteassembly.Shutoffengineand
remainbehindhandlesuntilallmovingpartshavestoppedbeforeusingthe
clean-outtooltoclearthechuteassembly.
Achuteclean-outtoolisfastenedtothetopoftheaugerhousingwithamounting
clip.SeeFigure6.Thetoolisdesignedtoclearachuteassemblyoficeandsnow.
Thisitemisfastenedwithacabletieatthefactoryforshippingpurposes.Youmay
cutthecabletieatthistime.
Clean-out Tool
Figure 6
Drift Cutters
Thesnowthrowerdriftcuttersaremountedinvertedatthefactoryforshipping
purposes.
1. Removethefourwingknobs(twooneachside)andcarriagebolts.Place
driftcutterinuprightpositionandre-secure.SeeFigure7.
Figure 7
Chute Assembly
1. Removelocknutsandscrewssecuringoneoftheflangekeeperstothechute
assembly.Loosenthefastenersoftheothertwoflangekeepers.SeeFigure
4.
2. PlacechuteassemblyontochutebaseasshowninFigure5.Makesurethat
thechutenotchesengagewiththespiralendofchutedirectionalcontrol,
andthetwoflangekeepersarebeneaththeflangeonthechutebase.
3. Secureflangekeeperremovedearlierwithlocknutsandscrews.Tighten
downnutssecuringtheothertwoflangekeepers.SeeFigure4.
Chute Crank
Bracket
Figure 4
4. Ifnotalreadydone,slipthecablesthatrunfromthehandlepaneltothe
dischargechuteintothecableguideontopoftheengine.SeeFigure5.
5. Normallythecabletiesholdingthesteeringcablesagainstthehandleare
looselyinstalledoneachsideofthelowerhandleatthefactory.Pullthe
cabletiestighttosecure.Cuttheexcessfromtheendsofcableties.
Figure 5

9
ASSEMBLY
9
ASSEMBLY
Adding Fuel
WARNING
Useextremecarewhenhandlinggasoline.Gasolineisextremelyflammableand
thevaporsareexplosive.Neverfuelthemachineindoorsorwhiletheengineis
hotorrunning.Extinguishcigarettes,cigars,pipesandothersourcesofignition.
WARNING
Alwayskeephandsandfeetclearofequipmentmovingparts.Donotusea
pressurizedstartingfluid.Vaporsareflammable.
1. Cleanaroundfuelfillbeforeremovingcaptofuel.
2. Afuellevelindicatorislocatedinthefueltank.Filltankuntilfuelreachesthe
fuellevelindictor,Figure9.Becarefulnottooverfill.
Fuel Level Indicator
Top View
Figure 9
Checking Oil Level
Theengineisshippedwithoilintheengine.Youmust,however,checktheoil
levelpriortooperatingthesnowthrower.Runningtheenginewithinsufficient
oilcancauseseriousenginedamageandvoidtheenginewarranty.
CAUTION
Someengineswillhaveaquarter-turnoilfill/dipstickcap,othersmayhavea
threadedoilfill/dipstickcap.Followtheinstructionsnextthatapplytoyourengine
model.
Shear Pins
Apairofreplacementaugershearpinsandbowtiecotterpinshavebeenincluded
withyoursnowthrower.Thereareholesprovidedintheplasticdashpanelfor
convenientstorageoftheshearpins.Pushthepinsthroughtheholesinthedash
panelandsecurewiththebow-tiecotterpins.SeeFigure8.
Figure 8
Tire Pressure (Pneumatic Tires)
WARNING
Underanycircumstancedonotexceedmanufacturer’srecommendedpsi.Equal
tirepressureshouldbemaintainedatalltimes.Excessivepressurewhenseating
beadsmaycausetire/rimassemblytoburstwithforcesufficienttocauseserious
injury.Refertosidewalloftireforrecommendedpressure.
Thetirescanbeover-inflatedforshippingpurposes.Checkthetirepressure
beforeoperatingthesnowthrower.Refertothetiresidewallformanufactures’s
recommendedpsianddeflate(orinflate)thetiresasnecessary.
NOTE: Equaltirepressureistobemaintainedatalltimesforperformancepurposes.
Fuel Recommendations
Useautomotivegasoline(unleadedorlowleadedtominimizecombustionchamber
deposits)withaminimumof87octane.Gasolinewithupto10%ethanol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E85gasoline.
• 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.

10
ASSEMBLY
10
ASSEMBLY
Checking Oil Level on Engines with Quarter-Turn Oil
Fill Caps
NOTE: Besuretochecktheengineonalevelsurfacewiththeenginestopped.
Toavoidenginedamage,itisimportantto:
• Checkoillevelbeforeeachuseandevery5operatinghourswhenengineis
warm.Checkoillevelmorefrequentlyduringenginebreak-in.
• Keepoillevelbetween“H”and“L”marksondipstick.SeeFigure10.
• Besureoilfillcap/plugistightenedsecurelywhenchecking.
1. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstickandwipethedipstickclean.SeeFigure10.
2. Insertthecap/dipstickintotheoilfillerneck,andtightenthecapuntil
seated.
3. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstick.Ifthelevelislow,slowlyaddoiluntiloil
levelregistersbetweenhigh(H)andlow(L),Figure10.
4. Replaceandtightencap/dipstickfirmlybeforestartingengine.
NOTE: Donotoverfill.Overfillingwithoilmaycausesmoking,hardstarting,or
sparkplugfouling.
NOTE: DONOTallowoilleveltofallbelowthe“L”markonthedipstick.Doingso
mayresultinequipmentmalfunctionsordamage.
NOTE: Tochangetheoilonyourengine,seetheMaintenanceSectionoftheengine
operator’smanualincludedwiththesnowthrower.
Fill
between
high
and low
marks
Figure 10
Checking Oil Level on Engines with threaded Oil Fill
Caps
NOTE: Besuretochecktheengineonalevelsurfacewiththeenginestopped.
Toavoidenginedamage,itisimportantto:
• Checkoillevelbeforeeachuseandevery5operatinghourswhenengineis
warm.Checkoillevelmorefrequentlyduringenginebreak-in.
• Keepoillevelbetween“H”and“L”marksondipstick.SeeFigure11.
• Besureoilfillcap/plugistightenedsecurelywhenchecking.
1. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstickandwipethedipstickclean.SeeFigure11.
2. Insertthecap/dipstickintotheoilfillerneck,restingonthethreads,butdo
nottighten.
3. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstick.Ifthelevelislow,slowlyaddoiluntiloil
levelregistersbetweenhigh(H)andlow(L),Figure11.
4. Replaceandtightencap/dipstickfirmlybeforestartingengine.
NOTE: Donotoverfill.Overfillingwithoilmaycausesmoking,hardstarting,or
sparkplugfouling.
NOTE: DONOTallowoilleveltofallbelowthe“L”markonthedipstick.Doingso
mayresultinequipmentmalfunctionsordamage.
NOTE: Tochangetheoilonyourengine,seetheMaintenanceSectionoftheengine
operator’smanualincludedwiththesnowthrower.
Fill
between
high
and low
marks
Figure 11

11
ASSEMBLY
11
ASSEMBLY
Auger and Drive Control Cables
WARNING
Priortooperatingyoursnowthrower,carefullyreadandfollowallinstructions
below.Performalladjustmentstoverifyyoursnowthrowerisoperatingsafely
andproperly.
Testing Auger Drive Control
Whentheaugercontrolisreleasedandinthedisengaged“up”position,thecable
shouldhaveverylittleslack,butshouldNOTbetight.RefertoFigure13forlocation
ofcontrols.
Drive
Control
Drive
Control
Cable
Auger
Control
Auger
Control
Cable
Shift Lever
Chute Tilt Control
Figure 13
1. Inawell-ventilatedarea,startthesnowthrowerengineasinstructedinthe
Operationsection.
2. Whilestandingintheoperator’sposition(behindthesnowthrower),engage
theaugercontrolandallowtheaugertoremainengagedforapproximately
tensecondsbeforereleasingtheaugercontrol.Repeatthisseveraltimes.
NOTE: Whenengagingtheauger,youmayheara“chirp”sound.Thisisnormal,it
isthebeltengagingthepulley.Asthebeltwears,thissoundwillnotbeheardwhen
engagingtheauger.
3. Withtheenginerunningandtheaugercontrolinthedisengaged“up”
position,walktothefrontofthemachine.Confirmthattheaugerhas
completelystoppedrotatingandshowsnosignsofmotion.
4. Iftheaugershowsanysignsofrotating,immediatelyreturntotheoperator’s
positionandshutofftheengine.Waitforallmovingpartstostopbefore
readjustingtheaugercontrolcable.
Adjustments
Skid Shoes
CAUTION
Itisnotrecommendedthatyouoperatethissnowthrowerongravelasitcan
easilypickupandthrowloosegravel,causingpersonalinjuryordamagetothe
snowthrowerandsurroundingproperty.
Thesnowthrowerskidshoesareadjustedupwardatthefactoryforshipping
purposes.Adjustthemdownwardpriortooperatingthemachine.
Forclosesnowremovalonasmoothsurface,adjusttheskidshoessothattheshave
plateonthebottomoftheaugerhousingisjustofftheground.
Adjusttheskidshoestoalowerpositiontoraisetheshaveplateofftheground
whenclearingunevenareas,suchasaribbontypedrivewayoragraveldriveway
NOTE: Ifyouchoosetooperatethesnowthroweronagravelsurface,keeptheskid
shoesinpositionformaximumclearancebetweenthegroundandtheshaveplate.
To adjust the skid shoes:
1. Adjustskidshoesbylooseningthesix(threeoneachside)hexnutsand
carriageboltssecuringtheskidshoestotheaugerhousing.RefertoFigure
12.
Raise
Shave
Plate
Lower
Shave
Plate
Shave Plate
Figure 12
2. Whileobservingthedistancebetweentheshaveplateandtheground,
adjusttheskidsshoesupordowntoachievethedesiredshaveplateheight.
SeeFigure12.
3. Makecertaintheentirebottomsurfaceofskidshoesareagainsttheground
toavoidunevenwearontheskidshoes;thentightennutsandboltssecurely.

12
ASSEMBLY
12
ASSEMBLY
Testing Wheel Drive Control & Speed Selector Lever
RefertoFigure13forlocationofcontrols.
1. Movethespeedselectorshiftleverintosixth(6)position.
2. Withthewheeldrivecontrolreleased,pushthesnowthrowerforward,thenpull
itback.Themachineshouldmovefreely.
3. Engagethedrivecontrolandattempttomovethemachinebothforwardand
back,resistanceshouldbefelt.
4. Movethespeedselectorshiftleverintothefastreverse(R2)positionandrepeat
theprevioustwosteps.
Ifyouexperiencedresistancerollingtheunit,eitherwhenrepositioningthespeed
selectorshiftleverfrom6toR2orwhenattemptingtomovethemachinewiththedrive
controlreleased,adjustthedrivecontrolimmediately.SeeAdjustingDriveandAuger
Controls.
Adjusting Wheel Drive & Auger Controls
1. Frombeneaththehandle,pulldownwardontheappropriatecableand
unhookthespringfoundontheendofthecablefromitsrespectiveactuator
bracket.RefertoFigure14.
Rearward most hole of the
actuator brackets
Figure 14
2. Slidethespringupthecabletoexposethecablecouplerthreadsandlock
nut.RefertoFigure15.
Figure 15
3. Ifadjustingthedrivecable,threadthelocknutoutward(downthecoupler
towardstheendofthethread)tolengthenthecableandallowtheunitto
movefreelywhenthecontrolisreleased.
Threadthelocknutinward(upthecouplertowardsthecable)toshortenthe
cabletoreduceslippageandpreventthemachinefrombeingeasilymoved
withthedrivecontrolengaged.
WARNING
Donotover-tightenthecable.Over-tighteningmaypreventtheaugershaftfrom
disengagingandcompromisethesafetyofthesnowthrower.
Ifadjustingtheaugercable,threadthelocknutdownthecouplertowardsthe
endofthethreadtolengthenthecableasnecessarytostoptheaugershaftfrom
turningwhenthecontrolisreleased.
4. Reattachthespringtotherear-mostholeintheactuatorbracket.
5. Repeatthewheeldriveandaugercontrolteststoverifyproperadjustment.
Repeatpreviousstepsifnecessarytoattainproperadjustmentofeachcable.

13
OPERATION
Nowthatyouhavesetupyoursnowthrower,it’simportanttobecomeacquainted
withitscontrolsandfeatures.RefertoFigure16.
Speed Selector Shift Lever
Thespeedselectorshiftleverislocatedontherightsideofthe
handlepanel.Placethespeedselectorshiftleverintoanyofeight
positionstocontrolthedirectionoftravelandgroundspeed.
Forward
Yoursnowthrowerhassixforward(F)speeds.Positionone(1)is
theslowestandpositionsix(6)isthefastest.
Reverse
Yoursnowthrowerhastworeverse(R)speeds.One(1)istheslower
andtwo(2)isthefaster.
Choke Control
Thechokecontrolisfoundontherearoftheengineandis
activatedbyrotatingtheknobcounter-clockwise.Activating
thechokecontrolclosesthechokeplateonthecarburetor
andaidsinstartingtheengine.
Key
Thekeyisasafetydevice.Itmustbefullyinsertedinorder
fortheenginetostart.Removethekeywhenthesnow
throwerisnotinuse.
NOTE: Donotturnthekeyinanattempttostarttheengine.
Doingsomaycauseittobreak.
Meets ANSI Safety Standards
CraftsmanSnowThrowersconformtothesafetystandardoftheAmericanNationalStandardsInstitute(ANSI)
Drift Cutters
Chute Assembly
Augers
Auger
Housing
Skid Shoes
Clean-out Tool
Drive Control
Auger Control
Primer
Choke
Throttle
Recoil Starter
Handle
Oil Drain
Electric
Starter Outlet
Electric
Start
Button
Chute
Directional
Control
Wheel Steering Control
Headlight
Oil Filler
Cap/Dipstick
Key
Gas Cap
Speed Selector
Shift Lever
Two-way Chute Control™
Figure 16

14
OPERATION
Throttle Control
Thethrottlecontrolislocatedontherearoftheengine.Itregulatesthespeedofthe
engineandwillshutofftheenginewhenmovedintotheSTOPposition.
Primer
Depressingtheprimerforcesfueldirectlyintotheengine’scarburetortoaidin
cold-weatherstarting.
Oil Fill
Engineoillevelcanbecheckedandoiladdedthroughthe
oilfill.
Recoil Starter Handle
Thishandleisusedtomanuallystarttheengine.
Electric Starter Button
Pressingtheelectricstarterbuttonengagestheengine’selectricstarterwhen
pluggedintoa120Vpowersource.
Electric Starter Outlet
Requirestheuseofathree-prongoutdoorextensioncordanda120Vpowersource/
walloutlet.
Augers
Whenengaged,theaugersrotateanddrawsnowintotheaugerhousing.
Chute Assembly
Snowdrawnintotheaugerhousingisdischargedoutthechuteassembly.
Auger Control
AUGER
CONTROL
GO
Theaugercontrolislocatedonthelefthandle.Squeezethecontrolgripagainstthe
handletoengagetheaugersandstartsnowthrowingaction.Releasetostop.
Gas Cap
Unthreadthegascaptoaddgasolinetothefueltank.
Oil Drain
Engineoilcanbedrainedthroughtheoildrain.
Drive Control /Auger Control Lock
DRIVE
CONTROL
GO
Thewheeldrivecontrolislocatedontherighthandle.Squeezethecontrolgrip
againstthehandletoengagethewheeldrive.Releasetostop.TheWheeldrive
controlalsolockstheaugercontrolsoyoucanoperatethechutedirectionalcontrol
withoutinterruptingthesnowthrowingprocess.Iftheaugercontrolisengaged
simultaneouslywiththewheeldrivecontrol,theoperatorcanreleasetheauger
control(onthelefthandle)andtheaugerswillremainengaged.Releaseboth
controlstostoptheaugersandwheeldrive.
NOTE: Alwaysreleasethewheeldrivecontrolbeforechangingspeeds.Failuretodo
sowillresultinincreasedwearonyourmachine’sdrivesystem.
Two-way chute Control™
Thetwo-waychute-pitchcontrolislocatedontheleftsideofthehandlepaneland
isusedtocontrolthedistanceofsnowdischargefromthechute.
• Tochangetheupperchuteangletocontrolthedistancethatsnowisthrown,
pivottheleverforwardorbackward.
• Movetheleverforwardtopivottheupperchutedownandreducethe
distancesnowisthrown.
• Movetheleverrearwardtopivottheupperchuteupwardandincreasethe
distancesnowisthrown.
CHUTE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL
DISCHARGE
LEFT
DISCHARGE
RIGHT
CHUTE TILT
DOWN
CHUTE TILT
UP

15
OPERATION
NOTE: Toincreaseordecreasethetensiononthetwo-waychutecontrol,tightenor
loosenthewingknobonthechuteassembly.
Chute Directional Control
Thechutedirectionalcontrolislocatedontheleftsideofthesnowthrower.
• Tochangethedirectioninwhichsnowisthrown,crankclockwiseto
dischargetotheleftandcounterclockwisetodischargetotheright.
Skid Shoes
Positiontheskidshoesbasedonsurfaceconditions.Adjustupwardforhard-packed
snow.Adjustdownwardwhenoperatingongravelorcrushedrocksurfaces.
Wheel Steering Controls
Theleftandrightwheelsteeringcontrolsarelocatedontheundersideofthe
handles.Squeezetherightcontroltoturnright;squeezetheleftcontroltoturnleft.
NOTE: Operatethesnowthrowerinopenareasuntilyouarefamiliarwiththese
controls.
Headlight
Theheadlightislocatedinsideofthehandlepanel.
Drift cutters
Thedriftcuttersaredesignedforuseindeepsnow.Theiruseisoptionalfornormal
snowconditions.Maneuverthesnowthrowersothatthecutterspenetrateahigh
standingsnowdrifttoassistsnowfallingintotheaugersforthrowing.
Clean-Out Tool
Thechuteclean-outtoolisconvenientlyfastenedtotherearoftheaugerhousing
withamountingclip.Shouldsnowandicebecomelodgedinthechuteassembly
duringoperation,proceedasfollowstosafelycleanthechuteassemblyandchute
opening:
WARNING
Never use your hands to clear a clogged chute assembly. Shut off engine
and remain behind handles until all moving parts have stopped before
unclogging.
1. ReleaseboththeAugerControlandtheWheeldrivecontrol.
2. Stoptheenginebyremovingthekey.
3. Removetheclean-outtoolfromtheclipwhichsecuresittotherearofthe
augerhousing.
4. Usetheshovel-shapedendoftheclean-outtooltodislodgeandscoopany
snowandicewhichhasformedinandnearthechuteassembly.
5. Refastentheclean-outtooltothemountingclipontherearoftheauger
housing,reinsertthekeyandstartthesnowthrower’sengine.
6. Whilestandingintheoperator’sposition(behindthesnowthrower),engage
theaugercontrolforafewsecondstoclearanyremainingsnowandicefrom
thechuteassembly.
Before Starting Engine
WARNING
Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
Oil
Theunitwasshippedwithoilintheengine.Checkoillevelbeforeeachoperation
toensureadequateoilintheengine.Forfurtherinstructions,refertotheService&
Maintenancesectionofthismanual.
NOTE: Besuretochecktheengineonalevelsurfacewiththeenginestopped.
1. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstickandwipethedipstickclean.
2. Insertthecap/dipstickintotheoilfillerneck,andtightenthecapturning
clockwiseuntilcapisseated.
NOTE: Onsomeengines,athreadedscrewcapwillbepresentinsteadof
thequarterturnlockingcap.Intheinstanceofathreadedoilcap/dipstick,
DONOTscrewthecap/dipstickintocheck.Checktheoilbyrestingthecap/
dipstickonthethreads,butnotscrewingitin.
3. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstick.Ifthelevelislow,slowlyaddoil(5W-30,
withaminimumclassificationofSF/SG)untiloillevelregistersbetweenhigh
(H)andlow(L).
NOTE: Donotoverfill.Overfillingwithoilmayresultinenginesmoking,hard
startingorsparkplugfouling.
4. Replaceandtightencap/dipstickfirmlybeforestartingengine
Gasoline
WARNING
Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
Useautomotivegasoline(unleadedorlowleadedtominimizecombustionchamber
deposits)withaminimumof87octane.Gasolinewithupto10%ethanol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E85
gasoline.
• 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
1. Cleanaroundfuelfillbeforeremovingcaptofueltopreventdebrisfrom
enteringfueltank..
2. Afuellevelindicatorislocatedinthefueltank.Filltankuntilfuelreachesthe
fuellevelindictor.SeeFigure10inset.Becarefulnottooverfill.

16
OPERATION
6. Astheenginewarms,slowlyrotatethechokecontroltotheRUNposition.If
theenginefalters,restartengineandrunwithchokeathalf-chokeposition
forashortperiodoftime,andthenslowlyrotatethechokeintotheRUN
position.
7. Afterengineisrunning,disconnectpowercordfromelectricstarter.When
disconnecting,alwaysunplugtheendatthewalloutletbeforeunplugging
theoppositeendfromtheengine.
Recoil Starter
CAUTION
Do not pull the starter handle while the engine running.
1. MovethrottlecontroltoFAST(rabbit) position.
2. MovechoketotheCHOKE position(coldenginestart).Ifengineis
warm,placechokeintheRUNposition.
3. Pushprimerthreetimes,makingsuretocoverventholewhenpushing.
Ifengineiswarm,pushprimeronlyonce.Alwayscoverventholewhen
pushing.Coolweathermayrequireprimingtoberepeated.
4. Pullgentlyonthestarterhandleuntilitbeginstoresist,thenpullquicklyand
forcefullytoovercomethecompression.Engineshouldstart.Donotreleasethe
handleandallowittosnapback.ReturnropeSLOWLYtooriginalposition.If
required,repeatthisstep.
5. Astheenginewarms,slowlyrotatethechokecontroltotheRUNposition.If
theenginefalters,restartengineandrunwithchokeathalf-chokeposition
forashortperiodoftime,andthenslowlyrotatethechokeintotheRUN
position.
WARNING
To avoid unsupervised engine operation, never leave the machine
unattended with the engine running. Turn the engine off after use and
remove key.
Stopping The Engine
Afteryouhavefinishedsnow-throwing,runengineforafewminutesbefore
stoppingtohelpdryoffanymoistureontheengine.
1. MovethrottlecontroltoSTOP STOP position.
CAUTION
Do NOT move the choke control to CHOKE position to stop the
engine. Backfire or engine damage may occur.
2. Removethekey.Removingthekeywillreducethepossibilityofunauthorized
startingoftheenginewhileequipmentisnotinuse.Keepthekeyinasafeplace.
Theenginecannotstartwithoutthekey.
3. Wipeallsnowandmoisturefromtheareaaroundtheengineaswellasthe
areainandaroundthewheeldrivecontrolandaugercontrol.Also,engage
andreleasebothcontrolsseveraltimes.
Starting The Engine
WARNING
Always keep hands and feet clear of moving parts. Do not use a pressurized
starting fluid. Vapors are flammable.
NOTE: Allowtheenginetowarmupforafewminutesafterstarting.The
enginewillnotdevelopfullpoweruntilitreachesoperatingtemperatures.
1. Makecertainboththeaugercontrolandwheeldrivecontrolareinthe
disengaged(released)position.
2. Insertkeyintoslot.Makesureitsnapsintoplace.Donotattempttoturnthe
key.
NOTE: Theenginecannotstartwithoutthekeyfullyinsertedintothe
ignitionswitch.
Electric Starter
WARNING
The optional electric starter is equipped with a grounded power plug, and
is designed to operate on an extension cord rated for 15 amps at 125 volts,
grounded and rated for outdoor use using 120 volt AC household current. It
must be used with a properly grounded three-prong receptacle at all times
to avoid the possibility of electric shock. Follow all instructions carefully
prior to operating the electric starter.
Determinethatyourhome’swiringisathree-wiregroundedsystem.Askalicensed
electricianifyouarenotcertain.
Ifyouhaveagroundedthree-prongreceptacle,proceedasfollows:
1. Pluganextensioncordintotheoutletlocatedontheengine’ssurface.Plug
theotherendofextensioncordintoathree-prong120-volt,grounded,AC
outletinawell-ventilatedarea.
CAUTION
The extension cord can be any length, but must be rated for 15 amps at 125
volts, grounded and rated for outdoor use.
2. MovethrottlecontroltoFAST(rabbit) position.
3. MovechoketotheCHOKEposition (coldenginestart).
NOTE: Iftheengineisalreadywarm,placechokecontrolintheRUNposition
insteadofCHOKE position.
4. Pushprimerthreetimes(3x),makingsuretocoverventholeinprimerbulb
whenpushing.Ifengineiswarm,pushprimeronlyonce.Alwayscovervent
holewhenpushing.Coolweathermayrequireprimingtoberepeated.
5. Pushstarterbuttontostartengine.Oncetheenginestarts,immediately
releasestarterbutton.Electricstarterisequippedwiththermaloverload
protection;systemwilltemporarilyshut-downtoallowstartertocoolif
electricstarterbecomesoverloaded.
CAUTION
To prolong starter life, use short starting cycles (5 seconds maximum, then
wait one minute).

17
OPERATION
To Engage Wheel Drive
1. WiththethrottlecontrolintheFast(rabbit) position,movespeed
selectorleverintooneofthesixforward(F)positionsortworeverse(R)
positions.Selectaspeedappropriateforthesnowconditionsandapace
you’recomfortablewith.
NOTE: WhenselectingaDriveSpeed,usetheslowerspeedsuntilyouare
comfortableandfamiliarwiththeoperationofthesnowthrower.
2. Squeezethedrivecontrolagainstthehandleandthesnowthrowerwill
move.Releaseitanddrivemotionwillstop.
NOTE: NEVERrepositionthespeedselectorlever(changespeedsordirection
oftravel)withoutfirstreleasingthedrivecontrolandbringingthesnow
throwertoacompletestop.Doingsowillresultinprematureweartothe
snowthrower’sdrivesystem.
To Engage Auger
1. Toengagetheaugerandstartthrowingsnow,squeezetheaugercontrol
againstthelefthandle.Releasetostoptheaugers.
Replacing Shear Pins
Theaugersaresecuredtothespiralshaftwithshearpinsandbow-tiecotterpins.
Iftheaugershouldstrikeaforeignobjectoricejam,thesnowthrowerisdesigned
sothatthepinsmayshear.Iftheaugerswillnotturn,checktoseeifthepinshave
sheared.SeeFigure17.
Figure 17
NOTE: Twoextrashearpinsaresuppliedinthemanualbag.
CAUTION
NEVER replace the auger shear pins with anything other than OEM Part No.
738-04155 replacement shear pins. Any damage to the auger gearbox or
other components as a result of failing to do so will NOT be covered by your
snow thrower’s warranty.
WARNING
Alwaysturnoffthesnowthrower’sengineandremovethekeypriortoreplacing
shearpins.

18
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Fill
between
high
and low
marks
Figure 18
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE: Changetheengineoilafterthefirst5hoursofoperationandoncea
seasonorevery50hoursthereafter.
1. Drainfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilthefueltankisempty.Besure
fuelfillcapissecure.
2. Placesuitableoilcollectioncontainerunderoildrainplug.
3. Removeoildrainplug.SeeFigure19.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Checking Engine Oil
WARNING
Before lubricating, repairing, or inspecting, disengage all controls and stop
engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Remove the
key to prevent unintended firing of the engine.
NOTE: Check the oil level before each use to be sure correct oil level
is maintained.
Whenaddingoiltotheengine,refertoviscositychartbelow.Engineoilcapacity
isapproximately37ounces.Donotover-fill.Usea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.
1. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstickandwipethedipstickclean.
2. Insertthecap/dipstickintotheoilfillerneck,butdonotscrewitin.
NOTE: Onsomeengines,athreadedscrewcapwillbepresentinsteadof
thequarterturnlockingcap.Intheinstanceofathreadedoilcap/dipstick,
DONOTscrewthecap/dipstickintocheck.Checktheoilbyrestingthecap/
dipstickonthethreads,butnotscrewingitin.
3. Removetheoilfillercap/dipstick.Iflevelislow,slowlyaddoiluntiloillevel
registersbetweenhigh(H)andlow(L).SeeFigure18.
4. Replaceandtightencap/dipstickfirmlybeforestartingengine.
Interval Item Service Service Log
EachUse 1. Engineoillevel
2. Looseormissinghardware
3. Unitandengine.
1. Check
2. Tightenorreplace
3. Clean
1st5-8hours 1. Engineoil 1. Change
25hours 1. Engineoil†
2. Controllinkagesandpivots
1. Change
2. Lubewithlightoil
50hours 1. Engineoil 1. Change
Annuallyor100hours 1. Sparkplug 1. Cleanandre-gap,orelsereplacewith
newplug.
BeforeStorage 1. Fuelsystem 1. Runengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel
oraddagasolineadditivetothegasin
thetank.
†Underheavyloadorinhightemperatures
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.Removethekey
topreventunintendedstarting.Alwayswearsafetyglassesduringoperationorwhile
performinganyadjustmentsorrepairs.
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®.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

19
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
WARNING
If the engine has been running, the muffler will be very hot. Be careful not
to touch the muffler.
NOTE: Checkthesparkplugonceaseasonorevery25hoursofoperation.Change
thesparkplugonceaseasonorevery100hours.
Toensureproperengineoperation,thesparkplugmustbeproperlygappedand
freeofdeposits.
1. Removethesparkplugbootanduseasparkplugwrenchtoremovethe
plug.SeeFigure20.
Spark Plug
Spark Plug Boot
Figure 20
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21.Thegapshouldbesetto.02-.03inches(0.60-
0.80mm).
23
1
1. .030 (.76 mm) Gap
2. Electrodes
3. Porcelain
Figure 21
Oil Drain
Plug
Figure 19
4. Tipenginetodrainoilintothecontainer.Usedoilmustbedisposedofata
propercollectioncenter.
CAUTION
Used oil is a hazardous waste product. Dispose of used oil properly. Do not
discard with household waste. Check with your local authorities or Sears
Service Center for safe disposal/recycling facilities.
5. Reinstallthedrainplugandtightenitsecurely.
6. Refillwiththerecommendedoilandchecktheoillevel.SeeRecommended
Oil Usagechart.Theengine’soilcapacityis37ounces.
CAUTION
DO NOT use non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil. It could shorten the
engine’s service life.
-30º -20º-10º0º
0º 20º 40º-20º
5W-30
0W-30
-40º
Synthetic
7. Reinstalltheoilfillercap/dipsticksecurely.
CAUTION
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible after
handling used oil.
Checking Spark Plug
WARNING
DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed. DO NOT crank engine with
spark plug removed.

20
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
4. AtleastonceaseasongreasethewheelaxlewithArcticgrease,partnumber
737-0318.Thegreasefittingislocatedonthewheelaxletubebehindthe
wheelaxlesupportbracket.
Wheels
Atleastonceaseason,removebothwheels.Cleanandcoattheaxleswitha
multipurposeautomotivegreasebeforereinstallingwheels.
Chute Directional Control
Onceaseason,lubricatetheeyeboltbushingandthespiralwith3-in-1oil.
Auger Shaft
Atleastonceaseason,oneatatime,removealloftheshearpinsfromtheauger
shaft.Spraylubricantinsidethehubofeachaugerspiralassemblyandaroundthe
spacersontheaugershaft.
Greasefittingscanalsobefoundateachendoftheaugershaft.Lubricatewitha
greasegunonceaseason.SeeFigure23.
Gear Case
Theaugergearcaseisequippedwithagreasefitting.Lubricatewithgreaseoncea
season(orderpartnumber737-0168).SeeFigure23.
NOTE: Torelievepressure,removetheventplugbeforelubricatingthegearcase.
SeeFigure23.Failuretodosocouldresultindamagetothegearcaseseals.
Augers
Eachoftheaugerspiralassembliesissecuredtothespiralshaftwithashearpinand
cotterpin.Iftheaugershouldstrikeaforeignobjectoricejam,thesnowthroweris
designedsothatthepinsmayshear.
1. Ifaugersdonotturn,checktoseeifpinshavesheared.
2. Replacethepinsifneeded.Tworeplacementshearpinsandcotterpins
havebeenprovidedwiththesnowthrower.Sprayanoillubricantintoshaft
beforeinsertingnewpinsandsecuringwithnewcotterpins.SeeFigure23.
Grease Fitting
SpacersBow-Tie Pins
Vent Plug
Shear Pins
Figure 23
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-to1⁄4-turn
afterthesparkplugseatstocompressthewasher.
CAUTION
The spark plug must be tightened securely. A loose spark plug can become
very hot and can damage the engine.
Carburetor Adjustment
Thecarburetorisnotuseradjustable.ContactSearsParts&Repairforadjustment.
Lubrication
Drive and Shifting Mechanism
Atleastonceaseasonorafterevery25hoursofoperation,removerearcover.
Lubricateallchains,sprockets,gears,bearings,shafts,andtheshiftingmechanism.
Useengineoiloraspraylubricant.RefertoFigure22.
NOTE:Beforetippingtheunitonthefronthousing,runthefueltankemptysofuel
doesnotleakoutofthefuelcap.
1. Carefullypivotthesnowthrowerupandforwardsothatitrestsontheauger
housing.
2. Removetheframecoverfromtheundersideofthesnowthrowerby
removingtheself-tappingscrewswhichsecureit.RefertoFigure27.
3. Applyalightcoatingofengineoil(or3-in-1oil)tothehexshaft.SeeFigure
22.
NOTE: Becarefulnottogetanyoilonthealuminumdriveplateorrubber
frictionwheel.Doingsowillhinderthesnowthrower’sdrivesystem.Wipe
offanyexcessorspilledoil.
Hex Shaft
Rubber Friction
Wheel
Wheel Axle Support
Bracket
Aluminum
Drive Plate
Figure 22