Owner's Manual

6.75 HORSEPOWER21" REAR DISCHARGEROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.917.388620

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2Safety Rules ......................................... 2Assembly .............................................. 5Operation .............................................. 6Maintenance Schedule ...................... 10Maintenance ....................................... 10

Product Specifications ........................ 11Service and Adjustments .................... 14Storage ............................................... 15Troubleshooting ................................. 16Repair Parts ........................................ 35Parts 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 inthe owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or work-manship.If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warrantyapplies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:• Expendable items which become worn dudng 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

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscontained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearestSears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies onlywhile this product is in use in the United States.

This Warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other rightswhich vary from state to state.

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet andthrowing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result inserious injury or death.

I.GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow allinstructions on the machine and in themanual(s) before starling. Be thor-oughly familiar with the controls andthe proper use of the machine beforestarling.

• Do not put hands or feet near or underrotating pads. Keep clear of thedischarge opening at all times,

• Only allow responsible individuals,who are familiar with the instructions, tooperate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such asrocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,which could be picked up and thrownby the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of otherpeople before mowing. Stop machine ifanyone enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower whenbarefoot or wearing open sandals.Always wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unlessabsolutely necessary. Always lookdown and behind before and whilemoving backwards.

• 'Do not operate the mower withoutproper guards, plates, grass catcher orother safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions forproper operation and installation ofaccessories. Only use accessoriesapproved by the manufacturer.

• Stopthe blade(s) when crossing graveldrives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever youleave the equipment, before cleaningthe mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and waituntil the blade comes to complete stopbefore removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.

• Do not operate the machine whileunder the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.Always be sure of your footing: keep afirm hold on the handle and walk; neverrun.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-nism or drive clutch on mowers soequipped before starting the engine(motor).

•, if the equipment should start to vibrateabnormally, stop the engine (motor)and check immediately for the cause.Vibration is generally a warning oftrouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safetyglasses with side shields whenoperating mower.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slipand fall accidents which can result insevere injury. All slopes require extracaution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, donot mow it.DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: neverup and down. Exercise extreme cautionwhen changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, treelimbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tallgrass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT."

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches orembankments. The operator could losefooting or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

footing could cause slipping.

II1.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operatoris not alert to the presence of children.Children are often attracted to themachine and the mowing activity. Neverassume that children will remain whereyou last saw them.• Keep children out of the trimming area

and under the watchful care of anotherresponsible adult,

• Be alert and turn machine off if childrenenter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,look behind and down for smallchildren.

• Never allow children to operate themachine.

• Use extra care when approaching blindcorners, shrubs, trees, or other objectsthat may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasolineand other fuels. They are flammableand vapors are explosive.-Use only an approved container.- Never remove gas cap or add fuelwith the engine running. Allowengine to cool before refueling. Donot smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.- Never store the machine or fuelcontainer inside where there is anopen flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closedarea.

• Never make adjustments or repairs withthe engine (motor) running. Disconnectthe spark plug wire, and keep the wireaway from the plug to prevent acciden-tal starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially bladeattachment bolts, tight and keepequipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, orother debris build-up. Clean oil or fuelspillage. Allow machine to cool beforestoring.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if youstrike an object. Repair, if necessary,before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel heightadjustments while the engine (motor) isrunning.

• Grass catcher components are subjectto wear, damage, and deterioration,which could expose moving parts orallow objects to be thrown. Frequentlycheck components and replace withmanufacturer's recommended parts,when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, anduse extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governorsetting or overspeed the engine.

3

ALook for this symbo! to point outimportant safety precautions. It meansCAUTION!!r BECOMEALERT!!! YOURSAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: In order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transporting, adjusting or making repairs,always disconnect spark plug wire andplace wire where it cannot contact sparkplug.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of itsconstituents, and certain vehicle compo-nents contain or emit chemicals known tothe State of California to cause cancerand birth defects or other reproductiveharm._WARNING: Battery posts, terminals andrelated ecceseodes contain lead andlead compounds, chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancer andbirth defects or other reproductive harm.Wash hands after handling.

These accessories were availablewhen this lawn mower was produced. They are notshipped with your mower. They are also availableat mostSears retailoutletsand servicecenters. Most Sears storescan alsoorder repairparts for you, when you provide the modelnumber of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FORREAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

_1 GRASS CATCHERS

FORSIDE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEEL_

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

4

Read these instructions and this manualin its entirety before you attempt toassemble or operate your new lawnmower.IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.Your new lawn mower has been as-sembled at the factory with the exceptionof those parts left unassembled forshipping purposes. A!l parts such as nuts,washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-plete the assembly have been placed inthe parts bag. To ensure safe and properoperation of your lawn mower, all partsand hardware you assemble must betightened securely. Use the correct toolsas necessary to ensure proper tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROMCARTON

1. Remove loose parts included withmower.

2. Cut down two end corners of cartonand lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials exceptpadding between upper and lowerhandle and padding holding operatorpresence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton andcheck carton thorougly for additionalloose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWNMOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully soas not to pinch or damage control cables.1. Raise lower handle section to

operating position and squeeze thebottom ends of lower handle towardseach other until the pin in handle canbe inserted into one of the threeheight adjustment holes,

2. Remove protective padding, raiseupper handle section into place onlower handle and tighten both handleknobs.

3. Remove any packing material fromaround control bar.

Your handles may be adjusted for yourmowing comfort. Refer to Service andAdjustments section of this manual.

Operator presence _.controlbar _

f_ Liftu_;,_ "_

Upper handle _ //// S" /;_'

_.___:_ Mowing

°siti°nLower handle

3-Positionhandle

,, , adjustmentbracket

Handlepin

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWERREADTHIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER, Comparethe illustrationswithyour lawnmowerto familiarizeyoumelfwiththe locationof variouscontrolsand adjustments. Save thismanual forfuturereference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature suppliedwiththeproduct. Learn and understandtheir meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER. KEEP HANDS

CA WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presencecontrolbar

Engine zone control cable

Handle knob

Engine oil cap with Gasoline filler cap

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped without oil or gasoline in theengine.

Wheael adjuster(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of theAmerican National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar - must be Primer - pumps additional fuel from theheld down to the handle to start the carburetor to the cylinder for use whenengine. Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine.

Starter handle - used for starting theengine.

The operation of any lawnmower can result inforeign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can resultin severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eyeshields while operating your lawn moweror performing any adjustments or repairs.We recommend a wide vision safetymask over spectacles or standard safetyglasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWERENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factoryfor optimum performance. Speed is notadjustable.ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_CAUTION: Federal regulations requirean engine control to be installed on thislawn mower in order to minimize the riskof blade contact injury. Do not under anycircumstances attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator control. The bladeturns when the engine is running.• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar whichrequires the operator to be positionedbehind the lawn mower handle to startand operate the fawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHTRaise wheels for low cut and lowerwheels for high cut, adjust cutting heightto suit your requirements. Mediumposition is best for most lawns.• To change cutting height, squeeze

adjuster lever toward wheel. Movewheel up or down to suit your require-ments. Be sure all wheels are in thesame setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positionedwhen plate tab inserts into hole in lever.Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)allow lever to be positioned between theplate tabs.

PlateTab

LowerWheelslfor High Cutm,,,__ I

"_ _.ever

RaiseWheels for LowCut

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to beused as a mutcher. To convertto bagging:REAR BAGGING

• Liftrear door of the lawn mower and placethe grass catcherframe hooks onto thedoor pivot pins.

• To convertto mulchingoperation,removegrass catcher and dose rear door.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mowerwithout clipping deflector or approvedgrass catcher in place. Never attempt tooperate the lawn mower with the reardoor removed or propped open.

Pivot pins Grass catcherhandle

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using theframe handle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippingsfrom under lawn mower handle.

3. Empty clippings from bag using bothframe handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag whenemptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

handle "_ I_,

BEFORESTARTINGENGINEADDOILYourlawnmowerisshippedwithoutoil intheengine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.For type and grade of oil to use, see"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of thismanual.1. Be sure lawnmowar is level and area

around oil fill is clean.2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the

full line on the dipstick. Pour oilslowly. Do not over fill.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down intoengine for accurate reading. To readproper level, tighten engine oil cap, thenremove it to road the dipstick.3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.• Check oil level before each use. Add

oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.• Change the oil after ever./25 hours of

operation or each season. You mayneed to change the oil more oftenunder dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso-line. Purchase fuel in quantities thatcan be used within 30 days to assurefuel freshness.

AWARNING: Experience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) can attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidicgas can damage the fuel system of anengine while in storage. To avoid engineproblems, the fuel system should beemptied before storage of 30 days orlonger. Drain the gas tank, start theengine and let it run until the fuel linesand carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuelnext season. See Storage instructions foradditional information. Never use engineor carburetor cleaner products in the fueltank or permanent damage may occur._, CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tankfiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill oruse gasoline near an open flame.

Engineoil cap __._=_l..._ _'- Gasolinefiller

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on theengine, a small amount of smoke may bepresent during the initial use of theproduct and should be considerednormal.1. To start a cold engine, push primer

three (3) times before trying to start.Use a firm push. This step is notusually necessary when starting anengine which has already run for afew minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bardown to the handle and pull starterhandle quickly. Do not allow starterrope to snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operatorpresence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may benecessary to repeat pdming steps. Inwarmer weather over priming may causeflooding and engine will not start. If youdo flood engine, wait a few minutesbefore attempting to start and do notrepeat priming steps.

MOWINGTIPS• Under certain conditions, such as very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raisethe height of cut to reduce pushingeffort and to keep from overloading theengine and leaving clumps of grassclippings. It may also be necessary toreduce ground speed and/or run thelawn mower over the area a secondtime.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce thewidth of cut by overlapping previouslycut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and mostcutting conditions, the engine speedshould be set in the fast position.

• For side discharge lawn mowers,cutting in a counter-clockwise direction,starting at the outside of the area to becut, spreads grass clippings moreevenly and puts less load on theengine. To keep clippings off ofwalkways, flower beds, etc., make thefirst cuts in a clockwise direction.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust with

use and catchers will collect less gross.To prevent this, regularly hose catcheroff with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clearand clean of grass clippings and chaff.This will help engine air flow andextend engine life.

MULCHING MOWINGTIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of built-upgrass and trash. See "Cleaning" inMAINTENANCE section of this manual.• The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times andreduce them in size so that as they fallonto the lawn they will disperse into thegrass and not be noticed. Also, themulched grass will biodegrode quicklyto provide nutrients for the lawn.Always mulch with your highest engine(blade) speed as this will provide thebest recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.Wet grass tends to form clumps andinterferes with the mulching action. Thebest time to mow your lawn is the earlyafternoon. At this time the grass hasdried and the newly cut area will not beexposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mowercutting height so that the lawn mowercuts off only the top one-third of thegrass blades. If the lawn is overgrown itwill be necessary to raise the height ofcut to reduce pushing effort and to keepfrom overloading the engine andleaving clumps of mulched gross. Forextremely heavy mulching, reduce yourwidth of cut by overlapping previouslycut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of gross and grassconditions may require that an area bemulched a second time to completelyhide the clippings. When doing asecond cut, mow across or perpendicu-lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from weekto week. Mow north to south one weekthen change to east to west the nextweek. This will help prevent mattingand groining of the lawn.

MAX 1_

9

AS YOU COMPLETE JO_'_'_ _,-_/_._ _""I'/_"."_ _ "_ 0 v .

REGULAR SERVICE _._/_._ _=f_ERVICE DATES

Check for Loose Fasteners M _'

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

M (If Equipped) II/ II/ I_Clean Lawn Mower V'

Clean Under Drive CoverfPower-Propelled Mowers)Check drive beri!pulleys

S (Power-Prot_dled Mowers) II_Check/Sharpen/Replace Sl_de f//$

Lubrication Chart I__lean Battery/Recha •Etactdc Start Mowe_jr_ It/ I_1

E 3hack Engine Oil Level

N Change Engine Oil I/1,2 --G Clean Air Filter if 2

I Inspect Muffler l# /N i Clean or Replace Spark Rug (p/

E Replace Air Filtar Paper Cartridge II/=

1 Change mote often when operating under a _leavy load or _nhigh ambient temperatures

2. _ er,_pce more often when operat_lg _n diny ¢r dusly conditions

3. Replace blades more otten whe_ mowing in _ndy sod.

4. Gharg e 48 hours at end of _ason.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower doesnot cover items that have been subjectedto operator abuse or negligence. Toreceive full value from the warranty,operator must maintain mower asinstructed in this manual.Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodically to properly maintain yourunit.All adjustments in the Service andAdjustments section of this manualshould be checked at least once eachseason.• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

clean or replace air filter element andcheck blade for wear. A new sparkplug and clean/new air filter elementassures proper air-fuel mixture andhelps your engine run better and lastlonger.

• Follow the maintenance schedule inthis manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATIONKeep unit well lubricated(See "LUBRI-CATIONCHART").

LUBRICATIONCHART

•)Wheel adjuster\

dl _)Brake

springbracket

_Handle bracket

mounting pin

(I) Refer to maintenance "Engine" section.

_) Spray lubricant

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or greaseplastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri-cants will attract dust and dirt that willshorten the life of the self-lubricatingbearings, if you feel they must belubricated, use only a dry, powderedgraphite type lubricant sparingly.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONSSERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTSUNLEADED REGULAR

OILTYPE (API-SF - SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of thelawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in spaceprovided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules whenperforming any maintenance,TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insectcontrol chemicals which can harmrubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharpobjects and other hazards that maycause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must bekept sharp. Replace bent or damagedblades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Makesure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade andmower housing to prevent blade fromturning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with glovesand/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-

clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard-ware (bolt, lock washer and hardenedwasher).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter andcheck the key inside hub of bladeadapter. The key must be in good condi-tion to work properly. Replace adapter ifdamaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on theengine crankshaft. Be sure key inadapter and crankshaft keyway arealigned.

2. Position blade on the blade adapteraligning the two (2) holes in the bladewith the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade(opposite sharp edge) is up towardthe engine.

4. install the blade bolt with the lockwasher and hardened washer intoblade adapter and crankshaft.

5. Use block of wood between blade andlawn mower housing and tighten theblade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heattreated.TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-ing blade - but if you do, be sure theblade is balanced.Care should be taken to keep the bladebalanced. An unbalanced blade willcause eventual damage to lawn moweror engine.• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nailinto a beam or wall. Leave about oneinch of the straight nail exposed. Placecenter hole of blade over the head ofthe nail. If blade is balanced, it shouldremain in a horizontal position. If eitherend of the blade moves downward,sharpen the heavy end until the bladeis balanced.

11

Lockwasher

Bladeadapter

Crankshaft

bolt

Crank

/ /

Hardened edge Blade adapterwasher

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed withwater, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often fordamage or deterioration. Throughnormal use it will wear. If catcher needsreplacing, replace only with a manufac-turer approved replacement catcher.Give the lawn mower model numberwhen ordering.

ENGINELUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwith API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oirs SAE viscosity gradeaccording to your expected operatingtemperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower todrain oil, drain fuel tank by runningengine until fuel tank is empty.1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on aclean surface.

3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shownand drain oil into a suitable container.Rock lawn mower back and forth toremove any oil trapped inside ofengine.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mowerand on side of engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. (See "Add Oil" inthe Operacion section of this manual.)

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to sparkplug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and maybe damaged by using a dirty air filter.Replace the air filter every year, moreoften if you mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

1. Remove the air filter by turningclockwise to the stop and pult awayfrom collar.

2. Remove filter from inside of cover.3. Clean the inside of the cover and the

collar to remove any dirt accumula-tion.

4. Insert new filter into cover.5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.6. Push in on cover and turn counter-

clockwise to tighten. Turnclockwise to

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting incold weather, these muRi-viscosity oilswill result in increased oil consumptionwhen used above 32°F. Check yourengine oil level more frequently to avoidpossible engine damage from running Collarlow on oil. _ ClipChange the oil after every 25 hours of "_operation or at least once a year if thelawn mower is not used for 25 hours inone year.Check the crankcase oil level before SI

starting the engine and after each five (5)hours of continuous use, Tighten oil plug Air filtersecurely each time you check the oillevel.

remove

12

Air filter cover Turn counter-clockwise totighten

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as itcould create a fire hazard and/or dam-age.SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year tomake your engine start easier and runbetter. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep mower housing free of buiif-upgrass and trash. Clean the underside ofyour mower after each use._I_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Clean the underside of your lawn

mower by scraping to remove build-upof grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating. A clogged engine runshotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels freeof all gasoline, oil,etc.

• We do not recommend using a gardenhose to clean lawn mower unless theelectrical system, muffler, air filter andcarburetor are covered to keep waterout. Water in engine can result inshortened engine life.

13

ACAUTION: Before performing anyservice or adjustments:1. Release control bar and stop engine.2. Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place where it cannot comein contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHTSee "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" inthe Operation section of this manual.REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between therear wheels of your mower, is provided tominimize the possibility that objects willbe thrown out of the rear of the mowerinto the operator's mowing position, If thedeflector becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to thedischarge opening of your lawn mower, isprovided to prevent the possibility ofinjury resulting from objects being thrownout of the discharge opening into theoperator mowing position. If the dischargeguard becomes damaged, it should bereplaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle on your lawn mower hasthree (3) height positions - adjust toheight that suits you.• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pinin handle can be inserted into one ofthe three height adjustment holes.

HighMed.Low. pin

handleadjustmentbracket

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bagwith dgid part of bag on the bottom.Make sure the frame handle is outsideof the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, holdthem in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mowerwithout clipping deflector or approvedgrass catcher in place. Never attempt tooperate the lawn mower with the reardoor removed or propped open.

Catcherframehandle

/

_t Frameopening

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor it may result in personal injury. If youbelieve that the engine is running too fastor too slow, take your lawn mower to anauthorized service center for repair andadiustment.CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustablefixed main jet for mixture control. If yourengine does not operate properly due tosuspected carburetor problems, take yourlawn mower to an authorized servicecenter for repair and/or adjustment.IMPORTANT: Never tamper with theengine governor, which is factory set forproper engine speed. Overspeeding theengine above the factory high speedsetting can be dangerous. If you think theengine-governed high speed needsadjusting, contact your nearest autho-rized service center, which has properequipment and experience to make anynecessary adjustments.

14

Immediately prepare your lawn mower forstorage at the end of the season or if theunit will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWERWhen lawn mower is to be stored for aperiod of time, clean it thoroughly, removeall dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean, dry area.1. Clean entire lawn mower (See

"CLEANING" in the Maintenancesection of this manual).

2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-nance section of this manual.

3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,and pins are securely fastened.Inspect moving parts for damage,breakage and wear. Replace ifnecessary.

4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle forstorage.1. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on

sides of the upper handle and allowhandle to fold down to the rear.

2. Squeeze the bottom ends of lowerhandle toward each other until pins inhandle clear the brackets and pivotentire handle assembly forward andallow it to rest on mower.

• When setting up your handle from thestorage position, the lower handle willrequire manually locking into themowing position.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handlefor storage or transportation, be sure tofold the handle as shown or you maydamage the control cables.

Operator presencecontrolbar

Upper

Med,Low pin

J3-Positionhandteadjustmentbracket

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: it is important to preventgum deposits from forming in essentialfuel system parts such as carburetor, fuelfilter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.Also, experience indicates that alcoholblended fuels (called gasohol or usingethanol or methanol) can attract moisturewhich leads to separation and formationof acids during storage. Acidic gas candamage the fuel system of an enginewhile in storage.1. Drain the fuel tank.2. 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 permanentdamage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptablealternative in minimizing the formation offuel gum deposits during storage. Addstabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank orstorage container. Always follow the mixratio found on stabilizer container. Runengine at least 10 minutes after addingstabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reachthe carburetor. Do not drain the gas tankand carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

Fold fonNard forstroage

Foldbackward

Mowingposition

Lower handle

15

ENGINEOIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replacewith clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" inthe Maintenance section of this manual).CYLINDER

1. Remove spark plug.2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through

spark p_ug ho_e into cylinder.3. Pull starler handle slowly a few times

to distribute oil.4. Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one seasonto another.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start 1. Dirty air filter,2, Out of fuel.3. Stale fuel

Lossof power

Poor cut -uneven

Excessivevibration

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark prug wire isdisconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.7. Loose blade or broken

blade adapter.8. Control bar in released

position.9. Control bar defective.

1. Rear of lawn mowerhousingor cutting bladedragging in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter.4. Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.5. Too much oil in engine.6. Walking speed too fast.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leavesand trash under mower.

f. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

16

• Replace your gasoline can if your canstarts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in yourgasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors andcover it to give protection from dust anddirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-tive cover that does not retain mois-ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannotbreathe which allows condensation toform and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whileengone and exhaust areas are still warm._, CAUTION:Never store the lawn mowerwith gasoline in the tank inside a buildingwhere fumes may reach an open flame orspark. Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure,

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.2. Fill fuel tank.3. Drain tank and refill with

fresh clean fuel.4. Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refill tankwith fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.7. Tighten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.8. Depress control bar to

handle.9. Replace control bar.

1. Set to "Higher Cut"position.

2. Set to "Higher Cut"position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.4. Clean underside of mower

housing.5. Check oil level.6. Cut at slower walking

speed.

1. Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at sameheight

3. Clean underside ofmower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.

12. Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Starter rope hard I. Engine flywheel brake is onto pull when control bar is released

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.4. Blade dragging in grass.

CORRECTION

1, Depress control bar toupper handle beforepulling starter rope.

2. Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.4. Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surface.

Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.notfllllng(ifeo 2. Lift on blade wom off. 2. Replace blade.equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.

Hard to push 1. t. Raise cutting height.Grass is too high or wheelheight is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mowerhousing or blade draggingin grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.4. Handle height position not

right for you.

2. Raise rear of lawn mowerhousing one (1) settinghigher.

3. Empty grass catcher.4, Adjust handle height to

suit.

17

68

67

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388620

70

44 2

43 3425

l i47 22

38

37\

27

36

KEY PARTNO. NO.

1 1316962 166860X4793 1611(_X4794 1320015 636016 1319597 664268 7478(_1211 15657712 75009713 850733X00414 13637615 5179_17 165946X47918 1760040619 167132X(_0420 167133X00421 16585822 168360X00423 16687524 75115325 16r_X47926 166243x47927 85185629 160635X00730 1911_

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388620

DESCRIPTIONKEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Control BarUpperHandeLowerH_dleRogeGuideLocknut 1/4-20Handle BbltWire TieHex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4Engine Zone Control CableHex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2Up-Stop BracketHandleKnobHairpin CotterSupport BracketSct'ew

Axle Arm Assembly - LFAxle Arm Assembly - RFRear Skirt

Selector SpdngRear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Springs)Locknut 5/16-18

Handle Bracket Assembly (Left)Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8_1 Adjusting Bracket - FrontSpacer

33 8787734 167130X0043_5 16678536 16082837 15116_238 1643_39 8392340 774OO41 8865242 16576643 16576744 16591245 15O40646 8546347 6312448 167131X00449 15116150 571435_52 17587153 85108454 85O26356 85107456 16583357 85151458 16155167 16611368 1667557O

- - 161(T_8- - 176217

Selector Knob

A)de Arm ASSembly - LRLocknut 5/16-18Shoulder Boft 3/16-18Wheel AssemblyShoulder Boft

Flanged LocknutHu_.apHinge ScrewSpdng (LH)S_ing(RH)Door Bblt

Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1Danger DecalNut

Axle Arm Assembly - RRWho_WaveWasherNut

Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref, #17, 18 & 46) .Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8Helical LockwashorHardened Washer21" Blade

Blade AdadterAdj_nent BObGrass BagCatcher Frame

Engine - (See Breakdown)Craftsman 143.0167O2

Waming DecaJ (Not Shown)Ownel's ManuaJ

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

370C

120119

130

416

182216 19 277

182185

178

223_

125

174

/93

285

/90

103

"305

"306

195

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

KEY PART KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37465 Cylinder IncL 2 & 20) 150 31672 Valve Spring2 26727 Dowe Pin 151 31673 Valve Spring Cap6 33734 Breather Element 151A 40017 Intake Valve Seal7 36557 Breather Ass'y. (Incl, 6 & 12A) 169 36783 * Valve Cover Gasket12 36775 Breather Tube 172 36784 Valve Cover12A 36558 Breather Cover & Tube 174 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

(Incl, 12B) 178 29752 Nut & Lock Washer, I/4-2812B 36694 Breather Tube Elbow t82 6201 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"14 28277 Washer 184 26756 * Carburetor To Intake Pipet 5 30589 Governor Rod (Incl. 14) Gasket16 34839A Governor Lever 185 37466 Intake Pipe17 31335 Governor Lever Clamp 186 32653 Govemor Link18 651018 Screw, Torx 1"-15, 189 650839 Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"

8-32 x 19/64" 191 36559A S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)19 36281 Extension Spring 195 610973 Terminal20 32600 Oil Seal 207 4336 Throttle Link30 37464 Crankshaft 216 33086 R.RM. Adjusting Lever40 40027 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.) 223 65045 1Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

40028 Piston, Pin & Ring Set 224 36786 * Intake Pipe Gasket.010" OS) 238 650932 Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

41 40025 Piston & P n Ass'y. 239 34338 * Air Cleaner Gasket(Std.) (Incl. 43) 241 36919 Air Cleaner Collar

40026 Piston & Pin Ass'y, 245 36905 Air Cleaner Filter(,010" OS) (IncL 43) 250 37122 Air Cleaner Cover

42 40006 Ring Set (Std.) 260 36980 Blower Housing40007 Ring Set (.010" OS) 261 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

43 20381 Piston Pin Retaining Ring 262 650831 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"45 36777 Connecting Rod Ass'y. 263 37184 Recoil Grille (Black)

(Incl. 46) 275 37462 Muffler46 32610A Connecting Rod Bolt 277 650988 Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"48 27241 Valve Lifter 285 35000A Starter Cup50 37460 Camshaft 287 650926 Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

(Exhaust MCR)(Inc. Ref.104) 290 29774 Fuel Line52 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y. 292 26460 Fuel Line Clamp69 37609 * Mounting Flange Gasket 298 28763 Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"70 37608 Mounting Flenge 300 36916 Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

(Incl. 72 thru 83) 301 36246 Fuel Cap72 37614 Oil Drain Plug 305 35647 Oil FillTube75 27897 Oil Seal 305A 37611 Fill Tube Bracket80 30574A Governor Shaft 306 37610 * "o'-Ring81 30590A Washer 307 35499 "O'-Ring82 30591 Governor Gear Ass'y, 309 650562 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

(Incl. 81) 309A 651047 Screw, T15, 10-24 x 21/3283 30588A Governor S)p(ool 310 35648 Dipstick86 650488 Screw, 114-20 x 1-1/4" 313 34080 Spacer89 611004 Flywheel Key 347 651038 Screw, 10-32 x 51/64"90 611112 Flywheel 370A 36261 Lubrication Decal92 650815 Belleville Washer 370R 37317 Hot Surface Decal93 650816 Flywheel Nut 380 640271 Carburetor Incl. 184)100 34443C Solid State Ignition 390 590739 Rawnd Starter101 610118 Spark Plug Cover 400 37613 Gasket Set103 651007 Screw, T-15, 10-24 x 15/16" (Incl. Items Marked*)104 37480 Cam Bushing 416 36085 Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.t 10 37047 Ground Wire 417)(Optional)119 36787 " Cylinder Head Gasket 417 650760 Screw, 8-32 x 3/8" Optional)120 36825 Cylinder Head 900 -- Rep acement S/B 750865,125 36780 Exhaust Valve (1/32" OS) order from 71-999

(Incl. 151) RPMHigh 2900 to 320037288 Exhaust Valve (Std.)

(Incl. 151 NOTE: This engine could have been built with126 37289 Intake Valve (Std. (Incl. 151) 590702 starter130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2135 37598 Resistor Spark Plug NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.

(RJ19LM4) inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm

37

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

KEYNO.

mm

1245671617182020A252728293031353636A37404447486O

?E_7

PARTNO. DESCRIPTION

640271 Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)31615 Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly31767 Throttle Return Spring631184 * Oust Seal Washer631183 * Oust Seal (Thro01e)640070 Throttle Shutter650506 * Shutter Screw631807 Fuel Fitting651025 Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw630766 Tension Spring640027 Idle Restrictor Screw640200 Idle Restdctor Scrwa Cap (Black)631867 Float Bowl631024 * Float Shaft632019 Float631028 * Float Bowl "O" Ring631021 * Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)631022 Spring Clip640259 Primer Bulb/Retainer Ring640080 Main NoZZle Tube632766 Carburetor Tube632547 * "O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube640030 High Speed Bowl Nut27110A * Bowl Nut Washer630748 * Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well631O27

Repair kit _ncl. Items Marked * in Notes)• Welch Plu , Atmospheric Vent

632760B

38

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143,016702

KEYNO,

1234567811

12

13

PARTNO.

590702590599A590600590696590601590697590698590699590700590703

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter

_OadnhgePin(Incl. 4)RetainerWasherBrake SpringStarter uogDog SpringPulley & Rewind Spring Ass'yStarter Ho_sing Ass'y.(40 degree grommet)Starter Rope{_98" X 9/64" dia.)starter Handle

KEYNO.

367811

12

1314

PARTNO.

590739590740590616590617590618A590638

590535

590701590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind StarterRetainerStarter DogDOg SpdngPulley & Rewind Spring Ass'yStader Rousing Ass'y(40 degree grommet)Starter Rope(Length 98" x 9/64" dla.)Starter HandleSpring Clip

39

Get it fixed, at your home or ourst

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home...no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

1-800-4-MY-HOM E s. Anytir_,dayo, night

(1-800-469-4663)

www.sears.com

To bring in products such as vacuums,lawn equipment and electronics for repair, call for

the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222 A°yt,._,d_yor night

www.sears.com

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manualsthat you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PartsDirectSM!

1-800-366-PART 6a.m.-11p.m.CST,(1-800-366-7278) 7daysaweek

www.sears.com/partsdlrect

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement:

1-800-827-66557 a.m.- 5p.m.CST,Mon.- Sat.

Para pedk serviciode reparaci6n a domicilio,y para ordenar plezas con entrega a domicilio:

1-888-SU-HOGAR _(1-888-784-6427)

Au Canada pour service en franc,,ais:1-877-LE-FOYER _

(1-877-533_937)

© Se_l_k and Co.® Registered Trademark / rMTrademark of Sears, Roebuckand Co.i_ Ma_ca Registrada/ TMMarca de Fdbdcade Seam, Roebuckand Co,

176217 _I_00 VE Printed in U.S.A.