Owner's Manual 6.75 HORSEPOWER 21" REAR DISCHARGE

Owner's Manual

6.75 HORSEPOWER

21" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY 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 60179

Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2

Safety Rules ......................................... 2

Assembly .............................................. 5

Operation .............................................. 6

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 10

Maintenance ....................................... 10

Product Specifications ........................ 11

Service and Adjustments .................... 14

Storage ............................................... 15

Troubleshooting ................................. 16

Repair Parts ........................................ 35

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in

the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or work-

manship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty

applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn 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 instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest

Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

while this product is in use in the United States.

This Warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other rights

which 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 and

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

I.GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before starling. Be thor-

oughly familiar with the controls and

the proper use of the machine before

starling.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating pads. Keep clear of the

discharge opening at all times,

• Only allow responsible individuals,

who are familiar with the instructions, to

operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown

by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower when

barefoot or wearing open sandals.

Always wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless

absolutely necessary. Always look

down and behind before and while

moving backwards.

• 'Do not operate the mower without

proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for

proper operation and installation of

accessories. Only use accessories

approved by the manufacturer.

• Stopthe blade(s) when crossing gravel

drives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you

leave the equipment, before cleaning

the mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait

until the blade comes to complete stop

before removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.

Always be sure of your footing: keep a

firm hold on the handle and walk; never

run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-

nism or drive clutch on mowers so

equipped before starting the engine

(motor).

•, if the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor)

and check immediately for the cause.

Vibration is generally a warning of

trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety

glasses with side shields when

operating mower.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip

and fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. All slopes require extra

caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do

not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: never

up and down. Exercise extreme caution

when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT."

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or

embankments. The operator could lose

footing 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 operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity. Never

assume that children will remain where

you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult,

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,

look behind and down for small

children.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable

and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow

engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with

the engine (motor) running. Disconnect

the spark plug wire, and keep the wire

away from the plug to prevent acciden-

tal starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you

strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height

adjustments while the engine (motor) is

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.

Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor

setting or overspeed the engine.

ALook for this symbo! to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!r BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and

place wire where itcannot contact spark

plug.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer

and birth defects or other reproductive

harm.

_WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related ecceseodes contain lead and

lead compounds, chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after handling.

These accessorieswere availablewhen this lawn mowerwas produced. They are not

shipped with your mower. They are also availableat mostSears retailoutletsand service

centers. Most Sears storescan alsoorder repairparts for you, when you providethe model

number ofyour lawnmower. Some of these accessoriesmay not applyto your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

_1 GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEEL_

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual

in its entirety before you attempt to

assemble or operate your new lawn

mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is

shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in

the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exception

of those parts left unassembled for

shipping purposes. A!l parts such as nuts,

washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-

plete the assembly have been placed in

the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper

operation of your lawn mower, all parts

and hardware you assemble must be

tightened securely. Use the correct tools

as necessary to ensure proper tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with

mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton

and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except

padding between upper and lower

handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and

check carton thorougly for additional

loose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise lower handle section to

operating position and squeeze the

bottom ends of lower handle towards

each other until the pin in handle can

be inserted into one of the three

height adjustment holes,

2. Remove protective padding, raise

upper handle section into place on

lower handle and tighten both handle

knobs.

3. Remove any packing material from

around control bar.

Your handles may be adjusted for your

mowing comfort. Refer to Service and

Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator presence _.

controlbar _

f_ Liftu_;,_ "_

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

_.___:_ Mowing

°siti°n

Lower handle

3-Position

handle

,, , adjustment

bracket

Handle

KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER

READTHIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULESBEFORE OPERATINGYOUR

LAWNMOWER, Comparetheillustrationswithyour lawnmowertofamiliarizeyoumelf

withthe locationofvariouscontrolsand adjustments.Save thismanual forfuture

reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature suppliedwiththe

product. Learnand understandtheirmeaning.

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 is

shipped without oil or gasoline in the

engine.

Wheael adjuster

(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-

sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar - must be Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

held down to the handle to start the carburetor to the cylinder for use when

engine. Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine.

Starter handle - used for starting the

engine.

The operation of any lawn

mower can result in

foreign objects thrown into

the eyes, which can result

in severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eye

shields while operating your lawn mower

or performing any adjustments or repairs.

We recommend a wide vision safety

mask over spectacles or standard safety

glasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance. Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk

of blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start

and operate the fawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower

wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height

to suit your requirements. Medium

position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze

adjuster lever toward wheel. Move

wheel up or down to suit your require-

ments. Be sure all wheels are in the

same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.

Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the

plate tabs.

PlateTab

LowerWheelslfor High Cutm,,,__ I

"_ _.ever

RaiseWheels forLowCut

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mutcher.Toconvertto bagging:

REAR BAGGING

• Liftrear door ofthe lawn mower and place

the grasscatcherframe hooksonto the

doorpivot pins.

• To convertto mulchingoperation,remove

grass catcherand dose rear door.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without clipping deflector or approved

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear

door removed or propped open.

Pivot pins Grass catcher

handle

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the

frame handle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings

from under lawn mower handle.

3. Empty clippings from bag using both

frame handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when

emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

handle "_ I_,

BEFORESTARTINGENGINE

ADDOIL

Yourlawnmowerisshippedwithoutoilin

theengine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.

For type and grade of oil to use, see

"ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this

manual.

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 oil

slowly. Do not over fill.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into

engine for accurate reading. To read

proper level, tighten engine oil cap, then

remove 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 may

need to change the oil more often

under dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso-

line. Purchase fuel in quantities that

can be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness.

AWARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage instructions for

additional information. Never use engine

or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

_, CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

use gasoline near an open flame.

Engineoil cap

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

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the

engine, a small amount of smoke may be

present during the initial use of the

product and should be considered

normal.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer

three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not

usually necessary when starting an

engine which has already run for a

few minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pull starter

handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be

necessary to repeat pdming steps. In

warmer weather over priming may cause

flooding and engine will not start. If you

do flood engine, wait a few minutes

before attempting to start and do not

repeat priming steps.

MOWINGTIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing

effort and to keep from overloading the

engine and leaving clumps of grass

clippings. It may also be necessary to

reduce ground speed and/or run the

lawn mower over the area a second

time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most

cutting conditions, the engine speed

should 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 be

cut, spreads grass clippings more

evenly and puts less load on the

engine. To keep clippings off of

walkways, flower beds, etc., make the

first cuts in a clockwise direction.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can

become filled with dirt and dust with

use and catchers will collect less gross.

To prevent this, regularly hose catcher

off with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and

extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWINGTIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "Cleaning" in

MAINTENANCE section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse into the

grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrode quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn.

Always mulch with your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early

afternoon. At this time the grass has

dried and the newly cut area will not be

exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so that the lawn mower

cuts off only the top one-third of the

grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it

will be necessary to raise the height of

cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep

from overloading the engine and

leaving clumps of mulched gross. For

extremely heavy mulching, reduce your

width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of gross and grass

conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely

hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu-

lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting

and groining of the lawn.

MAX 1_

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 EngineOil I/1,2 --

G Clean Air Filter if 2

I Inspect Muffler l#/

Ni 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 does

not cover items that have been subjected

to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,

operator must maintain mower as

instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your

unit.

All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual

should be checked at least once each

season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

clean or replace air filter element and

check blade for wear. A new spark

plug and clean/new air filter element

assures proper air-fuel mixture and

helps your engine run better and last

longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in

this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated(See "LUBRI-

CATIONCHART").

LUBRICATIONCHART

•)Wheel adjuster

_)Brake

spring

bracket

_Handle bracket

mounting pin

(I) Refer to maintenance "Engine" section.

_) Spray lubricant

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease

plastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri-

cants will attract dust and dirt that will

shorten the life of the self-lubricating

bearings, if you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS

UNLEADED 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 the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space

provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when

performing any maintenance,

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm

rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may

cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make

sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves

and/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 hardened

washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key inside hub of blade

adapter. The key must be in good condi-

tion to work properly. Replace adapter if

damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the

engine crankshaft. Be sure key in

adapter and crankshaft keyway are

aligned.

2. Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward

the engine.

4. install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

5. Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat

treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-

ing blade - but if you do, be sure the

blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will

cause eventual damage to lawn mower

or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt

to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail

into a beam or wall. Leave about one

inch of the straight nail exposed. Place

center hole of blade over the head of

the nail. If blade is balanced, it should

remain in a horizontal position. If either

end of the blade moves downward,

sharpen the heavy end until the blade

is balanced.

Lockwasher

Blade

adapter

Crankshaft

bolt

Crank

/ /

Hardened edge Bladeadapter

washer

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher needs

replacing, replace only with a manufac-

turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number

when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oirs SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to

drain oil, drain fuel tank by running

engine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown

and drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn mower back and forth to

remove any oil trapped inside of

engine.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower

and on side of engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. (See "Add Oil" in

the Operacion section of this manual.)

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter.

Replace the air filter every year, more

often if you mow in very dusty, dirty

conditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

1. Remove the air filter by turning

clockwise to the stop and pult away

from 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. Turn

clockwiseto

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in

cold weather, these muRi-viscosity oils

will result in increased oil consumption

when used above 32°F. Check your

engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running Collar

low on oil. _ Clip

Change the oil after every 25 hours of "_

operation or at least once a year if the

lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before SI

starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use, Tighten oil plug Airfilter

securely each time you check the oil

level.

remove

Air filter cover Turn counter-

clockwise to

tighten

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam-

age.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to

make your engine start easier and run

better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of buiif-up

grass and trash. Clean the underside of

your mower after each use.

_I_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark

plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn

mower by scraping to remove build-up

of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free

of all gasoline, oil,etc.

• We do not recommend using a garden

hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and

carburetor are covered to keep water

out. Water in engine can result in

shortened engine life.

ACAUTION: Before performing any

service 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 come

in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your mower, is provided to

minimize the possibility that objects will

be thrown out of the rear of the mower

into the operator's mowing position, If the

deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to the

discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of

injury resulting from objects being thrown

out of the discharge opening into the

operator mowing position. If the discharge

guard becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle on your lawn mower has

three (3) height positions - adjust to

height that suits you.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pin

in handle can be inserted into one of

the three height adjustment holes.

High

Med.

Low. pin

handle

adjustment

bracket

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1.Put grass catcher frame intograss bag

with dgid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside

of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without clipping deflector or approved

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear

door removed or propped open.

Catcher

frame

handle

_t Frame

opening

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.

Do not attempt to increase engine speed

or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that the engine is running too fast

or too slow, take your lawn mower to an

authorized service center for repair and

adiustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable

fixed main jet for mixture control. If your

engine does not operate properly due to

suspected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to an authorized service

center for repair and/or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which is factory set for

proper engine speed. Overspeeding the

engine above the factory high speed

setting can be dangerous. If you think the

engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest autho-

rized service center, which has proper

equipment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for

storage at the end of the season or if the

unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a

period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove

all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a

clean, dry area.

1. Clean entire lawn mower (See

"CLEANING" in the Maintenance

section 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 if

necessary.

4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

1. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on

sides of the upper handle and allow

handle to fold down to the rear.

2. Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle toward each other until pins in

handle clear the brackets and pivot

entire handle assembly forward and

allow it to rest on mower.

• When setting up your handle from the

storage position, the lower handle will

require manually locking into the

mowing position.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle

for storage or transportation, be sure to

fold the handle as shown or you may

damage the control cables.

Operator presence

controlbar

Upper

Med,

Low pin

3-Position

handte

adjustment

bracket

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: it is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential

fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel

filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.

Also, experience indicates that alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture

which leads to separation and formation

of acids during storage. Acidic gas can

damage the fuel system of an engine

while in storage.

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 permanent

damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable

alternative in minimizing the formation of

fuel gum deposits during storage. Add

stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or

storage container. Always follow the mix

ratio found on stabilizer container. Run

engine at least 10 minutes after adding

stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach

the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank

and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

Fold fonNard for

stroage

Fold

backward

Mowing

position

Lower handle

ENGINEOIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace

with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in

the 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 season

to another.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Does not start 1. Dirty air filter,

2, Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel

Lossof power

Poor cut -

uneven

Excessive

vibration

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark prug wire is

disconnected.

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 mower

housingor cutting blade

dragging 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, leaves

and trash under mower.

f. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can

starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your

gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and

cover it to give protection from dust and

dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-

tive cover that does not retain mois-

ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot

breathe which allows condensation to

form and will cause your unitto rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engone and exhaust areas are still warm.

_, CAUTION:Never store the lawn mower

with gasoline in the tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or

spark. Allow the engine to cool before

storing 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 tank

with 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. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Clean underside of

mower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

12. Contact a Sears or other

qualified service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Starter rope hard I. Engine flywheel brake is on

to pull when control bar is released

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

CORRECTION

1, Depress control bar to

upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact a Sears or other

qualified 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 wheel

height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging

in grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position not

right for you.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4, Adjust handle height to

suit.

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388620

44 2

43 34

l i

KEY PART

NO. NO.

1 131696

2 166860X479

3 1611(_X479

4 132001

5 63601

6 131959

7 66426

8 7478(_12

11 156577

12 750097

13 850733X004

14 136376

15 5179_

17 165946X479

18 17600406

19 167132X(_04

20 167133X004

21 165858

22 168360X004

23 166875

24 751153

25 16r_X479

26 166243x479

27 851856

29 160635X007

30 1911_

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388620

DESCRIPTION

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Control Bar

UpperHande

LowerH_dle

RogeGuide

Locknut 1/4-20

Handle Bblt

Wire Tie

Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4

Engine Zone Control Cable

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2

Up-Stop Bracket

HandleKnob

Hairpin Cotter

Support Bracket

Sct'ew

Axle Arm Assembly - LF

Axle Arm Assembly - RF

Rear Skirt

Selector Spdng

Rear 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 - Front

Spacer

33 87877

34 167130X004

3_5 166785

36 160828

37 15116_2

38 1643_

39 83923

40 774OO

41 88652

42 165766

43 165767

44 165912

45 15O406

46 85463

47 63124

48 167131X004

49 151161

50 57143

52 175871

53 851084

54 85O263

56 851074

56 165833

57 851514

58 161551

67 166113

68 166755

- - 161(T_8

- - 176217

Selector Knob

A)de Arm ASSembly - LR

Locknut 5/16-18

Shoulder Boft 3/16-18

Wheel Assembly

Shoulder Boft

Flanged Locknut

Hu_.ap

Hinge Screw

Spdng (LH)

S_ing(RH)

Door Bblt

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

Danger Decal

Nut

Axle Arm Assembly - RR

Who_

WaveWasher

Nut

Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref, #17, 18 & 46) .

Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8

Helical Lockwashor

Hardened Washer

21" Blade

Blade Adadter

Adj_nent BOb

Grass Bag

Catcher Frame

Engine - (See Breakdown)

Craftsman 143.0167O2

Waming DecaJ (Not Shown)

Ownel's ManuaJ

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

370C

120

119

130

416

182216 19 277

182

185

178

223_

125

174

/93

285

/90

103

"305

"306

195

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

KEY PART KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37465 Cylinder IncL 2 & 20) 150 31672 Valve Spring

2 26727 Dowe Pin 151 31673 Valve Spring Cap

6 33734 Breather Element 151A 40017 Intake Valve Seal

7 36557 Breather Ass'y. (Incl, 6 & 12A) 169 36783 * Valve Cover Gasket

12 36775 Breather Tube 172 36784 Valve Cover

12A 36558 Breather Cover & Tube 174 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

(Incl, 12B) 178 29752 Nut & Lock Washer, I/4-28

12B 36694 Breather Tube Elbow t82 6201 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"

14 28277 Washer 184 26756 * Carburetor To Intake Pipe

t 5 30589 Governor Rod (Incl. 14) Gasket

16 34839A Governor Lever 185 37466 Intake Pipe

17 31335 Governor Lever Clamp 186 32653 Govemor Link

18 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 Terminal

20 32600 Oil Seal 207 4336 Throttle Link

30 37464 Crankshaft 216 33086 R.RM. Adjusting Lever

40 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 AirCleaner 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 Housing

40007 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 Muffler

46 32610A Connecting Rod Bolt 277 650988 Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"

48 27241 Valve Lifter 285 35000A Starter Cup

50 37460 Camshaft 287 650926 Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

(Exhaust MCR)(Inc. Ref.104) 290 29774 Fuel Line

52 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y. 292 26460 Fuel Line Clamp

69 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 Cap

72 37614 Oil Drain Plug 305 35647 Oil FillTube

75 27897 Oil Seal 305A 37611 Fill Tube Bracket

80 30574A Governor Shaft 306 37610 * "o'-Ring

81 30590A Washer 307 35499 "O'-Ring

82 30591 Governor Gear Ass'y, 309 650562 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

(Incl. 81) 309A 651047 Screw, T15, 10-24 x 21/32

83 30588A Governor S)p(ool 310 35648 Dipstick

86 650488 Screw, 114-20 x 1-1/4" 313 34080 Spacer

89 611004 Flywheel Key 347 651038 Screw, 10-32 x 51/64"

90 611112 Flywheel 370A 36261 Lubrication Decal

92 650815 Belleville Washer 370R 37317 Hot Surface Decal

93 650816 Flywheel Nut 380 640271 Carburetor Incl. 184)

100 34443C Solid State Ignition 390 590739 Rawnd Starter

101 610118 Spark Plug Cover 400 37613 Gasket Set

103 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 3200

37288 Exhaust Valve (Std.)

(Incl. 151 NOTE: This engine could have been built with

126 37289 Intake Valve (Std. (Incl. 151) 590702 starter

130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2

135 37598 Resistor Spark Plug NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.

(RJ19LM4) inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 143.016702

KEY

NO.

20A

36A

?E_7

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

640271 Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

31615 Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly

31767 Throttle Return Spring

631184 * Oust Seal Washer

631183 * Oust Seal (Thro01e)

640070 Throttle Shutter

650506 * Shutter Screw

631807 Fuel Fitting

651025 Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

630766 Tension Spring

640027 Idle Restrictor Screw

640200 Idle Restdctor Scrwa Cap (Black)

631867 Float Bowl

631024 * Float Shaft

632019 Float

631028 * Float Bowl "O" Ring

631021 * Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

631022 Spring Clip

640259 Primer Bulb/Retainer Ring

640080 Main NoZZleTube

632766 Carburetor Tube

632547 * "O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

640030 High Speed Bowl Nut

27110A * Bowl Nut Washer

630748 * Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well

631O27

Repair kit _ncl. Items Marked * in Notes)

• Welch Plu , Atmospheric Vent

632760B

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 143,016702

KEY

NO,

PART

NO.

590702

590599A

590600

590696

590601

590697

590698

590699

590700

590703

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter

_OadnhgePin(Incl. 4)

Retainer

Washer

Brake Spring

Starter uog

Dog Spring

Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y

Starter Ho_sing Ass'y.

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope

{_98" X 9/64" dia.)

starter Handle

KEY

NO.

PART

NO.

590739

590740

590616

590617

590618A

590638

590535

590701

590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter

Retainer

Starter Dog

DOg Spdng

Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y

Stader Rousing Ass'y

(40 degree grommet)

Starter Rope

(Length 98" x 9/64" dla.)

Starter Handle

Spring Clip

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 Es. 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 manuals

that 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:

1-800-827-6655

7 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)

® RegisteredTrademark / rMTrademark of Sears, Roebuckand Co.

i_ Ma_ca Registrada/ TMMarca de Fdbdcade Seam, Roebuckand Co,

176217 _I_00 VE Printed in U.S.A.