Craftsman 486.24506 User manual

Operators Manual
I CRRFTSMRN°I
5 H.P,
VAC SYSTEM
Model No. 486.24506
CAUTION:
Before using this product,
read this manual and follow
all Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions.
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Parts
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.sears.com/craftsman
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 47763 (8/00)

WARRANTY ............................................................... 2
SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 3
ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS ................... 5
FULL SIZE HARDWARE CHART ............................. 6
CARTON CONTENTS ............................................... 8
ASSEMBLY ................................................................ 9
OPERATION ............................................................ 19
MAINTENANCE ....................................................... 21
STORAGE ......... :...................................................... 21
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................. 22
REPAIR PARTS ILLUSTRATIONS ............ 23,24,26
REPAIR PARTS LISTS ................................ 23,25,26
SLOPE GUIDE ......................................................... 27
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ............... Rear Cover
LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWERED TRACTOR ATTACHMENTS
For one (1) year from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Equipment is maintained, lubricated
and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free
of charge any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is avail-
able free of charge by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center.
In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only
while this product is in the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as spark plugs, air cleaners,
belts, and oil filters.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns,
stumps, or glass.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by
impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.
• 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
owner'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.
• Equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with the equipment proves
defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a
charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge
by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only while this product is in
the United States.
TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE SERVICE,
SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from
state to state.

Any power equipment can cause injury if operated improperly or if the user does not understand how to operate the
equipment. Exercise caution at all times, when using power equipment.
•Read and follow all instructions in this manual before
attempting to assemble or operate this equipment. Failure
to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. Keep this manual in asafe place for future reference
and for ordedng replacement pads.
•Read this operating and service instruction manual carefully.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and proper use of
this power vacuum.
•Read the vehicle owners manual and vehicle safe operation
rules before using this equipment.
• Never allow children under 16 to operate this Mow-N-Vec.
Children 16 years and older should only operate under
close parental supervision.
•Do not allow anyone to operate this equipment without
proper instructions.
•Do not allow passengers to ride on this equipment or on the
towing vehicle.
•Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children. Also keep area clear of pets.
•Check fuel before starting engine. Do not fill fuel tank
indoors, or when engine is_,unning, or while engine is hot.
Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting engine.
•Engine and muffler get hot. Do not touch! To avoid fire
hazard, keep clean of debris and other accumulations.
•Never store Mow-N-Vac with fuel in tank. Allow engine to
cool before storing in any enclosure.
•Do not change engine governor settings.
•Do not operate engine if air cleaner or cover is removed,
except for adjustment. Removal of these parts could create
afire hazard.
•Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of inlet
and discharge area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside
these openings.
•Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain all
moving parts come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark
plug wire and keep wire away from plug to prevent acciden-
tal starting. Keep throtUe control lever in stop position.
•Ifthe Mow-N-Vac should become blocked with debris at any
point, shut engine off and wait until the impeller comes to a
complete stop before attempting to remove the obstruction.
Disconnect spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
• If thecuttingmechanismstrikesa foreignobject,or ifyour
Mow-N-Vac should start to vibrate abnormally,stop the
engine immediately, disconnectthe spark plug wire and
movethe wireawayfromthesparkplug.Allowthemachine
to stopand take the following steps.
a. Inspectfor damage.
b. Repair or replaceany damaged pads.
c. Check for looseparts and tighten toassure
Continuedsafe operation.
•Check all boltsfor tightness at frequent intervalsto help
insuresafe operation.
•Check vinyl hard top boot frequently for wear. Replace if
wornor damaged.
•Never operate Mow-N-Vac unless deck adapter, hose,
hose adapter (nozzle), dischargechute (elbow), and top
cover are properlyattached intheir place.
•Do not removetop cover or attempt to empty contentsof
cart whileengine is running.
•Never attempttochange hoseadapter(nozzle) ortoinstall
remote hose attachment when engine isrunning.
•Keep all shields and guards (e.g. dischargechute(elbow)
and hose adapter(nozzle) inplace and securelyattached.
•Alwayswearsafety glassesorothersuitableeye protection
when operatingor maintainingthis equipment.
•Do not stand behindcart in exhaust dischargearea while
engine is running.
•Do not operate this equipmentwhile intoxicatedor while
taking drugs or medicationthat impairs the senses and
reactions."
•Whenusingthisequipment,startwiththevehicletransmis-
sionin first (low).gear and then gradually increasespeed
onlyas conditionspermit.
•Operate thisequipmentat reducedspeed onroughterrain,
along creeksand_litchesand on slopesto preventtipping
or lossofcontrol.Donotdrivetooclosetoacreekor ditch.
•Vehiclebrakingand stabilityare affectedbytheadditionof
thisequipment.Do notfill theMow-N-Vec toitsfull capacity
without checking the capability of the towing vehicle to
safely pulland stopwith the Mow-N-Vac attached.
•Beforeoperatingonanygrade (hill)refertothesafetyrules
inthevehicleowner'smanualconcerningsafeoperationon
slopes. Alsorefer totheSLOPE GUIDE onpage 23 ofthis
owner'smanual. Do notoperate onslopes inexcess of10
degrees. STAY OFF STEEP SLOPES.
•Followthe maintenanceinstructionsoutlinedinthismanual.
Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means--Attentlont! Become alert!1
Your safety is involved.
DANGER: This Vac System was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the opera-
tor can result in serious injury. This unit is capable of amputating fingers and hands and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
3

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY
• Read Owner's Manual and all safety labels on machine before starting and using machine.
•Do Not remove top cover or attempt to empty contents of cart while engine is running.
•Do Not stand behind cart in exhaust discharge area while engine is running.
•Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of chipper inlet, vac inlet, and discharge
area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside these openings.
•Wear approved safety glasses and gloves. Avoid loose fitting clothes.
•Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets.
•Keep all shields and guards (e.g. upper chipper chute extension, discharge chute, nozzle
assembly) in place and securely attached.
•Check discharge boot frequently for wear. Replace if worn or damaged.
•If unit becomes clogged or jammed, shut off engine right away. Do Not attempt to clear
clog or jam with engine running•
•Muffler and engine get hot and can cause burns. Do Not Touch• To avoid a fire hazard,
keep leaves, grass and other combustible debris off hot muffler and engine.
•Do Not attempt to remove or attach vac nozzle or optional Hose Kit with engine running.
!• Do Not operate unit unless nozzle or optional Hose Kit is secured in place.
I
i°Do Not fill gas tank while engine is running. Allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes
I before refueling.
MUFFLER & ADJACENT AREAS
MAY EXCEED 150 oF
WARNING
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near unimproved forest-covered,
or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or
state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
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 arrester muffler is available at your nearest
engine authorized service center.

These accessories were available when the unit was purchased. They are also available at most Sears retail
outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you when you provide the model
numbers of your tractor and Vac System.
\\ it
I he Hand Wand Attachment, Model 486.24509
provides a15' x 5" diameter hose to clean
around shrubs, patios, window wells and other
areas not accessible to the tractor.
I he model and serial numbers willbe found on a decal
attached to the engine base.
You should record both the serial number and the date of
purchase and keep in a safe place for future reference.
MODELNUMBER:
SERIALNUMBER:
DATE OF PURCHASE:
486.24506
5

SHOWN FULL SIZE
/Y jZ /AA +/BB jCC /DD +fEE HH
GG
i i [
NOT SHOWN FULL SIZE
/JJ_/KK /LL _)I MM
PP
UU VV WW XX
6

ATTENTION! Keep contents of each hardware package separate for easier assembly.
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACKAGES IN CART CARTON
Ref. Qty. Description Ref.
A
B
D
J
M
O
P
Q
R
X
3
2
2
9
14
11
14
5
2
4
Bolt, Hex 3/8" x 3"
Bolt, Hex 1/4" x 1-3/4"
Bolt, Hex 3/8" x 1-1/4"
Bolt, Hex 1/4" x 5/8"
Z
BB
EE
GG
Qty. Description
11 Hex Nut, 1/4"
14 Hex Nut, 5/16"
5 Nut, Hex Lock 3/8"
2 Pin, Cotter 1/8" x 1-1/2"
Bolt, Truss Head 5/16" x 3/4"
Lockwasher, 1/4"
Lockwasher, 5/16"
Lockwasher, 3/8"
Flat Washer, 1/4"
Flat Washer, 1"
HH
II
JJ
KK
NN
1
2
2
2
1
Hair Cotter Pin, 1/8"
Hub Cap
Spacer Tube
Door Support
Hitch Pin
CONTENTS OF (2) VAC HARDWARE PACKAGES IN VAC CARTON
Extra nuts and washers are included in these packages.
Ref. Qty. Description
C 1 Hex Bolt, 1/2" x 1-1/4"
E 2 Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 1-1/4"
G 4 Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 1"
H 6 Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4"
J 30 Hex Bolt, I/4" x 5/8"
L 4 Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4" Thread Forming
N 2 Truss Bolt Head, #10-32 x 5/8"
O 40 Lock Washer, 1/4"
P 4 Lock Washer, 5/16"
R 26 Flat Washer, 1/4"
S 6 Nylon Washer
U 4 Flat Washer, 3/8"
V 1 Flat Washer, 7/16"
W 4 Flat Washer, 11/32" x 1-1/2"
Ref. Qty. Description
Y 2 Hex Nut, #10-32
Z 46 Hex Nut, 1/4"
AA 2 Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"
DD 6 Nylock Nut, 5/16"
EE 2 Hex Lock Nut, 3/8"
FF 1 Hex Lock Nut, 1/2"
LL 1 Hitch P!ate
MM 3 Knob
OO 1 Tarp Str_p, 25 =
PP 2 Tarp Strap (Less Hooks)
QQ 2 "S" Hooks
RR 2 Eye Bolt
SS 1 Door Latch (RH)
TT 1Door Latch (LH)
UU 3 Hinge
CONTENTS OF DECK ADAPTER HARDWARE PACKAGE IN VAC CARTON
Not all parts in thislist will be used for any one tractor.
Ref. Qty. Description
F 2
I 3
K2
R3
S 3
T12
AA 3
CO 3
VV 1
VWV 1
XX 1
Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 1"
Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 3/4"
Carriage Bolt, 5/16" x3/4"
Flat Washer, 1/4"
Nylon Washer
Flat Washer, 5/16"
Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"
Hex Lock Nut, 5/16"
Mounting Strap
Angle Bracket
Mounting Bracket
7

CARTON CONTENTS (Cart Carton)
Ref. Qty. Description Ref. Qty.
1 1 Wheel Support 61
2 1 Rear Tongue 7 1
3 1 Front Tongue 8 1
4 1 Hose Hanger Rod Assembly 9 1
5 2 Cart BooT_es 10 2
Description
Hose
Tailgate Reinforcement Bracket
Axle
Latch Stand Bracket
Wheels
10
1\7
16
\
CARTON CONTENTS (Vac Carton)
Ref. Qty.
1 1
2 2
3 2
4 1
5 1
6 1
7 1
8 2
9 2
Description Ref, Qty. Description
Front Panel 10 1 Deck Adapter
Side Brackets 11 1 Poly Hard Top
Side Panels 12 1 Elbow
Dump Handle 13 1 Skid Plate
Prop Rod (Right) 14 1 Hitch Bracket
Prop Rod (Left) 15 1 Adapter Bracket
Rear Door 16 1 Engine/Impeller Assembly
Tie Rods 17 1 Hose Adapter (Nozzle)
Hose Clamps 18 1 Hose Hanger Bracket
8

This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL. After
assembly, see separate engine manual for proper fuel
and engine oil recommendations.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
(1) Screwdriver
(1) Pliers
(1) 3/8" Wrench
(2) 7/16" Wrenches
(2) 1/2" Wrenches
(2) 9/16" Wrenches
(2) 3/4" Wrenches (only if figure 27 on page 15 is used)
REMOVAL OF PARTS FROM CARTONS
•Remove the hardware packs and all loose parts from
the cartons.
• Lay out and identify parts shown in carton contents.
• Lay out and identify parts in the hardware packs.
Keep contents of each hardware package separate
for easier assembly.
ASSEMBLING THE VAC SYSTEM
• Place cart body halves upright on a smooth level
surface such as a garage floor or a paved driveway.
See figure 1.
ACAUTION: Do not leave the cart unattended
in upright position during assembly. A falling
cart can cause personal injury! Pay close
attention to the stability of the cart while it
remains in an upright position. For best stability,
assemble on a smooth level surface.
• Assemble cart body halves together using three 1/4"
x 5/8" hex bolts, 1/4" lock washers and 1/4" hex nuts
as shown in figure 1. Do not tighten yet.
1/4" x 518"
HEX BOLT
114" HEX NUT
FIGURE 1
• Fit the tailgate reinforcement bracket over the end of
the cart bed. Position the two door support brackets
on the bottom of the reinforcement bracket as shown
in figure 2. Fasten the reinforcement bracket and the
door supports to the bottom of the cart using six 5/16"
x 3/4" truss head screws, 5/16" lock washers and
5/16" hex nuts. Do not tighten yet. See figure 2.
• Fasten the tailgate reinforcement bracket to the sides
of the cart body using four 1/4" x 5/8" hex bolts, 1/4"
lock washers and 1/4" hex nuts as shown in figure 2.
Do not tighten yet.
1/4" HEX NUT 1/4" LOCK
WASHER
114"x 5/8"
HEX BOLT
//
DOOR
SUPPORT
/" TAILGATE
5/16" LOCK REINFORCEMENT
5/16" HEX NUT WASHER BRACKET
FIGURE 2
• Pull the cart body halves together.
Tighten the six truss head screws in figure 2.
Tighten the four hex bolts in figure 2.
Tighten the three hex bolts in figure 1, keeping the
bottom aligned and pulled together.
• Carefully flip the cart end for end so that it rests on
the tailgate reinforcement bracket. See figure 3.
FIGURE 3

Assemble the wheel support to the bottom of the cart
using eight 5/16" x 314"truss head screws, 5/16" lock
washers, and 5/16 hex nuts as shown in figure 4.
Heads of screws go on the inside of cart. Tighten.
e"
WHEEL
SUPPORT
TRUSS HEAD SCREW
5116"x _4"
'_16"LOCK
WASHER
5116"HEX NUT
FIGURE 4
Align the latch stand bracket so that the tab is at the
rear. Fasten the bracket to the rear set of holes at the
front of the cart using two 1/4" x 518" hex bolts, 114"
flat washers, 1/4" lock washers, and 1/4" hex nuts.
Use the 1/4" flat washers as shims between the
bracket and the cart bed. Make finger tight at this
time. See figure 6.
LATCH STAND 1_" HEX NUT
BRACKET _/ I_"LOCKwAsHER
114"FLAT
\114"x 5/8"
HEXBOLT
• Lower the cart to rest upside down, with the wheel
support facing up, as shown in figure 5.
NOTE: The parts assembled in the next paragraph are
shipped in the Vac carton.
Assemble the skid plate to the bottom of the cart
using two 1/4" x 1" hex bolts, four 1-1/2" flat
washers, two 114" lock washers and two 1/4" hex
nuts. See figure 5.
SKID PLATE
I_"HEX NUT
I_"LOCK
WASHER_
1-1/2" x 11/32"
1_"x1"
HEXBOLT
FIGURE6
Place the rear tongue onto the wheel support and the
latch stand bracket. Assemble the axle through the
ends of the wheel support and the tongue. Fasten the
axle to the wheel support using two 114"x 1-314" hex
bolts, 1/4" lock washers and 1/4" hex nuts. Tighten.
See figure 7.
IMPORTANT: Make sure the tongue issecurely locked
to the latch stand bracket by the latch lock lever.
114" x 1-3/4"
HEX BOLT
LATCH
LOCK
LEVER
II4"LOCK WASHER
II4"HEX NUT
FIGURE 5 FIGURE 7
10