Craftsman 38872 Owner's Manual
Owner's Manual JCRAFT$1qAWJ 6.0 HORSEPOWER 21" MULTI-CUT ROTARY LAWN MOWER Model No. 917.388721 ⢠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/craftsrnan
Warranty ................................................. 2 Safety Rules ....................................... 2-4 Assembly ................................................ 5 Operation ............................................ 6-9 Maintenance Schedule ....................... 10 Maintenance ................................... 10-13 Product Specifications ......................... 11 Service and Adjustments ................ 13-14 Storage ........................................... 14-15 Troubleshooting ............................. 16-17 Repair Parts .................................... 34-41 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 workman- ship. 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 rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179 IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and thro.wing, objects. Failure to observe the fallowing safety instructions could result in senous mlury or death. I, GENERAL OPERATION o ⢠Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thor- oughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting. ⢠Do not put hands or feet near or under ⢠rotating parts. 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. 2 Do not operate the mower when barefoot or weedng 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. ⢠Stop the 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.
⢠Shvt 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 ddve 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 drep-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance. ⢠Do not tdm excessively steep slopes. ⢠Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping. IlL CHILDREN Tragic accidents can oecur 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 comers, 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 accidental 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 stodng. ⢠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 pads, 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 symbol to point out " important safety precautions. It means CAUTIONIt[ BECOMEALERTIU YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. A WARNING: In order to prevent acci- dental starting when setting up, transport- ing, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot 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. A.WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories 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. A CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot dudng operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas. These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower. LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE CLIPPING DEFLECTOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS GRASS CATCHERS _ GRASS CATCHERS FOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE S)DE DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL STABILIZER GAS CANS
Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your now lawn mower. IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Your now lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the exception of those parts leR unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, belts, 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 comers of carton and lay end panel down fiat. 3, Remove all packing matedals 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 handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position. 2. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten beth handle knobs. 3. Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle. Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD- JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Operator conbrol bar Lift position Lower handle TO INSTALL ATTACHMENT$ Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging, see =TO CON- VERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual. 5
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER, Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or In literature supplied with the product, Learn and understand their meaning. CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY ine zone control cable Starter handle Grass Gasoline filter cap Engine oil cap with dipstick Primer Muffler Air filter Mulcher doo IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped Wheel adjuster WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. (on each wheel) MEETS CPSC SAFEW 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 Primer - pumps additional fuel from the be 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. Mulcher door - allows conversion to Starter Handle - used for starting the discharge or bagging operation, 6 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 bsr which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower. TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT Raise wheels for low cut end 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 setf_ng, 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 prate tabs. Lower Wheels for High Cu_ Raise Wheels for Low Cut Le er TO CONVERT MOWER Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging: REAR BAGGING ⢠Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame books onto the door pivot pins. ⢠To convert to mulching or discharging operation, remove grass catcher and close rear door. Pivc.t " Rea_ Grass catcher handle Catcher frame hook SIDE DISCHARGING ⢠Rear door must be closed. ⢠Open mulcher door and install dis- charge deflector under guard as shoWn. ⢠Mower is now ready for discharging operation. ⢠To convert to mulching or bagging operation, discharge deflector must be removed and muicher door must be dosed. SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBERWHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER FOR MULCHING - 1. Rear door closed. 2. Mulcher door closed. FOR REAR BAGGING - 1, Grass catcher installed, 2. Mulcher door closed. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING - 1. Rear door closed. 2. Side discharge deflector installed. A, CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear door closed or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open. 7
Open mulcher door Discharge defiector---,..,._...,.,.,__. BEFORE STARTING ENGINE ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. 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 lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean. 2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the fur| 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 read the dipstick. 3. Reinstatl 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 every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. ADD GASOLINE NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove and discard the debris plug that is inside the tank. ⢠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. _I_WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasehoi 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 ran 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. A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler ned<. Do not overf_l. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame, Gasoline filler cap Engine oil (Discarcl debris / cap 8
TO _TART 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 far 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 priming steps. In warmer weather over pdming 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. MOWlNGTIPS ⢠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 fawn mower over the area a second time. ⢠For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by ovedapp'mg previously cut path and mow slowly. ⢠For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast p(_ition. ⢠Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using. ⢠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 MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the 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 biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutUng 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 dumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut, mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel adjuster setting higher than the front. ⢠Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or 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 graining of the lawn.
MA, rE.,NCESCNEDU'E AS YOU COMPLETE _/"__'_2 _ 0_"_ _'_ ..... REGULAR SERVICE Check for Loose Fasteners _ _/ Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher i ! t,/ V' t,/ (_f Equipped) i clean Lawn MOwer t/' _/ O clean Under Drive Cover (power-Propelled Mowers) IV / Check ddve bell] ulleys E (Power_Pro pell_lPaowe rs) I_' Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade ¥/_ Lubrication Char _ Clean Baltery/Rechar_ Electric Star Mowers 11/' 11_4 E Check Engine Oil Level N Change Engine OII fell,z G Clean AJrFilter I_ z I Inspect Muffler N Clean or Replace Spark Plug V / E Replace Air Filter Paper cartridge Mez 1 - Change rnoce oRen when cperating under a beery bad or in high _ t;*_ent ter_pe fatufee=. 2 * Service nt_e ellen where opecatlng in d kty (x 6tmty co_Ji_ons. 3 * _ bladn mm'e often wl',en n m,,ving in sand y sc*l, 4 - Ch_ge 48 hou_ at end _f e, eaec_, 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 now spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help 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- CATION CHART"). LUBRICATION CHART (_ each wheel) Engine oil Mulcher door hinge pin Rear door hinge 10 (_ Handle bracket mounting pins (_) Spray lubricant _) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section. IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri- cents 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: 31L TYPE (API-SF-SJ): OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUGIGAP: .030") BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 1.6 QUARTS UNLEADED REGULAR SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F) 20 OZS. CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM 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 sedal number and date of purchase in the space provided above. LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rulas when perform- ing any maintenance. "nRES ⢠Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect cenf_l chemicaJs which can harm rubber. ⢠Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that rney cause _'e 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. Tum 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 propedy. 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. Blade adapter Crankshaft Key_. Blade shaft bolt washer Trailing edge Blade adapter 11
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 eP, gk_e. ⢠The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a gdnding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower. ⢠To check blade balance, ddve 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 hodzontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced. 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 manufacturer approved replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower model number when ordedng. ENGINE LUBRICATION Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API sewica classification SF-SJ. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature. SAE VISCOSITY GRADES F -_ ce 30- 3_ 4o* ⢠co" _o* lao'. TEMPERA'nJR£ RM4GE/_/lrlCIPAll_ BEFORE NF.,XT OIL CP, ANC_ NOTE: .&Jthough multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-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 low on oil. 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 starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil level. 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 Operation 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 100 hours of operation or every season, more often if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions. TO CLEAN AIR FILTER 1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove. 2. Carefully remove cartridge. 3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge. A, CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean cartridge. They may cause detedoration of the cartddge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressudzed air to clean or dry cartddge. 4. Install cartridge, then replace cover making sure the tabs are aligned with the slots in the back plate. Fasten screw securely. 12
Back ⢠Slots Up Cover "Caffridge Cover tabs MUFFLER Inspect and replace con'oded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or dam- age. SPARK PLUG Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plu=g, type and gap setting are shown in PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" in Maintenance section of this manual. CLEANING IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean the underside of _our mower after each use. CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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 electdcal system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life. _CAUTION: 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 "ro 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 mowing position. If the deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced. TO ADJUST HANDLE The handle can be mounted in a high or ;ow position. The mounting holes in the bottom of lower handle are off center for raising or lowering the handle. 1. Remove upper handle and all parts attached to lower handle. 2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin. 3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins. 13 4. Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle. 5. Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on handle bracket. 6. Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle. \ Lower handle Rotate
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER : 1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with dgid part of beg 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. _I, CAUTION: 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 Frame opening ENGINE ENGINE SPEED Your engine speed has been factory set. Do net attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe that the engine is runniag too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified service center for repair and adjustment. 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 a Sears or other quelifled service center for repair and/or adjust- ment. 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 a Sears or other qualified 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. Lubdcate 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. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handle toward each other until the lower handle clears the handle bracket, then move handle forward. 2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts enough to allow upper handle to he f_olded back. IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for storage or transportation, be sure to fold the handle as shown or you may damage the control cables. ⢠When setting up your handle from the storage position, the lower handle will automatically look into the mowing posifion. 14
: . Lower handle l Handle Squeeze to fold bracket Hairpin cotter Operator presence con'_ol bar _ Fold //// forward // U) Upper handle-.,....7//// for _// //Z S "t°raoeJZ ,'/l Lower _ .d_'J'_YLVI_ /// 11 handle .---...__\ F\ /F _ / I backward _'_._:___ _ Mo_ng __ position 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 daring 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 dudng 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 feast 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. 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 plug hole into cylinder. 3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distdbute oil. 4. Replace with new spark plug, OTHER ⢠Do not store gasoline from one season to another. ⢠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 moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe, which allows condensation to form and will cause your unit to rust. IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while engone and exhaust areas are still warm. A 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 stodng in any enclosure. 15
⢠TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Ioea not start 1. Dirty air filter. 1. Clean/replace air filter. 2. Out offueL 2. Fill fuel tank. 3. Stale fuel. 3. Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel. 4. Water in fuel. 4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor and refill tank with fresh gasoline. 5. Spark plug wire is 5. Connect wire to plug. disconnected. 6. Bad spark plug. 6. Replace spark plug. 7. Loose blade or broken 7. Tighten blade bolt or blade adapter, replace blade adapter. 8. Control bar in released 8. Depress control bar to position, handle. 9. Control bar defective. 9. Replace control bar. Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower 1. Set to "Higher Cut" housing or cutting blade position. dragging in heavy grass. 2. Cutting too much grass. 2. Set to "Higher Cut" position. 3. Dirty air filter. 3. Clean/replace air filter. 4. Buildup of grass, leaves, 4. Clean underside of mower and trash under mower, housing. 5. Too much oil in engine. 5. Check oil level. 6. Walking speed too fast. 6. Cut at slower walking speed. F_oor cut- 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten Jneven blade bolt. 2. Wheel heights uneven. 2. Set all wheels at same height. 1 3. Buildup of grass, leaves 3. Clean underside of and trash under mower, mower housing. Excessive 1, Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten vibration blade bolt. 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a Sears or other qualified service center. Starter rope hard 1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to topull when control bar is released upper handle before pulling starter rope. 2. Bent engine crankshaft, 2, Contact a Sears or other qualified service center, 3. Blade adapter broken. 3. Replace blade adapter. 4. Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface. 16
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Srass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1_ Raise cutting height. rmtfllllng (Ifso 2. L_ on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade. aqulpped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher. Hard to push ! 1. 1. 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 dght for you. 2. Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1) setting higher. 3. Empty grass catcher. 4. Adjust handle height to suit. 17
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NUMBER 917.388721 23 44 \ 67 68 14 44 33 4O 37 37 4O 16 10 5 56
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER--MODEL NUMBER 917.388721 KEY PART NO. NO, 1 86SO2 2 169709X479 3 169708X479 4 132001 5 63601 6 131939 7 66426 9 154132 10 165754 11 1765,56 12 750634 13 86899X004 14 136376 15 51793 18 147293 17 165946)(479 18 17600406 19 167132XCO4 20 167133X004 2t 165858 22 168360X004 23 166878 24 751153 25 166111X479 26 166112X479 27 851856 28 152124 29 16083_<C07 30 19112.222 31 185760 32 169421X004 33 87877 34 165762X004 K]EY PART DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPllON ConbolBar 36 160828 Upper Handle 37 151157 Lew_Hanc_e 39 83923 RopeGuide 40 77400 Locknut 1/4-20 41 88652 HaudJe Bolt 42 165766 WkeTDe 43 165767 Hinge Bracket 44 165912 Mulcher Door 45 150406 Engine Zone Control Cable 46 85463 Hex Washer Head Screw 48 165761X004 Up-Stop Bracket 52 166876 HandleKnob Hairpin Cober 53 851084 HingeRod 54 650263 Support Bracket 55 851074 Screw 56 175064 Axle Ann Assembly - LF 57 851514 Axle Arm Assembly - RF 67 166113 Rear Skirt 68 165755 Selector Spring - Front 70 - - - Roar Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Spitngs) Locknut 5/16-18 71 132004 Handle Brackel Assembly (Left) -- 161058 Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) -- 178935 Screw 114-20 x 3/8 Hinge Spitng Wheal Adjusting Bracket - Front Spacer Clip on DiSCharge Guard Selector" Spdng - Rear Selector Knob Axle Arm Assembly * LR Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 WheelAssembly Flanged Locknut Hubcap HingeScmw Spring(LH) Spdng(RH) Door Bolt Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1 Danger Decal Axle Arm Assembly - RR Housing Assembly (Includes Kay Numbers 17, 18 and 46) Hex Head Screw 3/6-24 x 1-3/8 Grade 8 Helical Lockwashet HautenedWasher 21" Blade BladeAdapter Grass Bag Catcher Frame Engine, Brkjgs & Stratton, Model Number 12H802-2636-B1 (See Breakdown) Nut, Hex Warning Decal(Not Shown) Ownefe Manual Available accessories not included with lawn mower: Z.1.33623 Gas Can (2.5 gel.) 7133500 Fuel Stabilizer 7133000 SAE 3OW OIJ (20 oz.) NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 [1019 LABEL KIT 1 584 684 383_ 635 33 "_r REQUIRES SPECIALTOOLS TO INSTALL, SEE REPAIR INSTRUCTION MANUAL. 11058 OWNER'S MANUAL r 15_ 525! J 524 1895VALVE GASKET SET 36
3RIGGS & STRATTON/,-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639.,B1 977 CARBURETOR GASKET SET _708 _ _ 617_._ 276_ 121 CARBURETOR _ lOT 708_ 276(_ 127(_ 443_ 365 _1 5 159_ _9_ 97_ 12__1 _ J 276 37
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 969 | 921 _ 304 3os F [ 1036 EMISSIONS LABEL ] 332 363 _ 466 ] 689 _ 60 456
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 745 505 334_ 39
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639-1BI KEY PART KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPllON NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 493260 Cylinder Assembly 50 497465 Ma nifold-lotake 2 399269 Kit-Bushlog/Seal 51 272199 ⢠Gasket-Intake 3 299819 ⢠Seal-Oil (Magneto Side) 54 691650 Screw (Intake Manifold) 4 493279 Sump-Engloe 55 691421 Housing-Rewind Starter 5 691160 Head-Cylinder 56 692259 Rope-Starter Cut to 7 692249 . Gasket-Cylinder Head Required Length) 8 695250 Breather Assembly 60 281434 Grip,Starter Rope 9 272461 . Gasket-Breather 65 990759 Screw (Rewldd Starter) 10 691125 Screw (Breather Assembly) 81 691740 Lock-Muffler Screw 11 691781 Tube-Breather 98 691636 Screw (Throttle Valve) 12 692232 ⢠Gasket-Crankcase 97 493267 Shaft-Throttle 13 690912 Screw (Cylinder Head) 104 691242 O Pin-Float Hinge 15 691680 plug-Oil Drain 117 494870 Jet-Main (Standard) 16 691451 Crankshaft 497316 Jet-Malo (High Alttiude) 20 399781 ⢠Seal-Oil (PTO Side) 121 498260 Kit-Carburetor Overhaul 22 691092 Screw (Engine Sump) 125 498176 Carburetor 23 692315 Flywheel 127 694468 _1 Plug-Welch 24 922698 Key-Flywheel 130 691203 Valve-Throttle 25 499429 Piston Assembly (Standard) 133 398187 Float-Carburetor 499430 Piston Assembly (010 = O,S.) 134 398188 _1 Valve-Needle/Seat 499431 Piston Assembly (.020" O.S) 137 693981 _1_ Gasket-Float Bowl 499432 Piston Assembly (.030" O.S.) 146 690979 Key.Tlmlog 26 499425 Ring Set-Piston (Standard) 159 691753 Bracket-Air Cleaner Pdmer 499426 Ring Set*Piston (.010" O.S.) 163 272653._1:1: Gasket-Air Cleaner 499427 Ring Set-Piston .020"O,S.) 187 691050 Line-Fuel (Cut to Requked 499428 Ring Set-Piston .030" O.S.) Length) 27 691866 LoCk-P_stan Pin 198 690877 Screw (Control Bracket 28 499423 Pin-Piston 190 690940 Screw (FueITank 29 499424 Rnd-Connecting 202 691829 Link-Mechanical Governor 32 691664 Screw (Connecting Rod) 209 690319 Spring-Govemor 32A 695759 Screw(Connecting Rod) 222 692467 Bracket-Control 33 262651 Valve-Exhaust 227 690783 Control Lever-Governor 34 262652 Valve-Intake 276 271716 2_$ Seanug Washer 35 691270 Sprlog-Valve (Intake) 267 690940 Screw (Dipstick Tube) 36 691270 Sprlog-Valve (Exhaust 300 692038 Muffler 40 692194 Retainer-Valve 304 695892 Houslog-Btcwer 43 691997 81loger-Govemor/OU 305 691108 Screw (Blowe¢ Housing) 45 690548 Tappet-Valve 306 690450 Shtatd-Cynnder 46 691449 Camshaft 307 690345 Screw Cylinder Shield) 48 498826 Short Block Replacement 332 690662 Nut F_heel Eng ne 12J802-2915-B1) 333 802574 Armature-Magneto 4O
BRIGGS & STRA'rTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639-B1 KEY PART KEY PART NO. NO, DESCRIP'nON NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 334 691061 Screw (Armature Magneto) 847 692017 Assembly-Dipstick/Tube 337 802592 Spark Plug 851 493880 TerminaFSparkplug 356 692390 WIm-Sto }p 869 691155 Seat-Valve (Inte ke) 358 497315 Engine Gasket Set 670 690389 Seat-Valve (Exhaust) 363 19069 Flyv, hasl Puller 871 262001 Bushing-Guide Exhaust) 365 692524 Screw (Carburetor) 63709 8ushng-Gude nake) 363 89838 Wrench-S_parrk Plug 921 497233 Cover-Blower Housing 404 890272 Washer (Governor Crank) 922 692135 Spring-Brake 425 690670 Screw (Air Cleaner Cover) 923 595891 Brake 443 692523 Screw (Air Cleaner B_;e) 957 397974 Cap-Fuel Tank 445 491588 Filter-Air Cleaner Cartridge 966 496116 Base-Air Cleaner Primer 455 691219 Cup-Flywheel 968 692298 Cover-Air Cleaner 456 692299 Plate-Pawl Fdc_on 969 590700 Screw 459 281505 PawI-Ratchet (BlOWer Housing Cover) 505 231082 Nut (Governor Control Lever) 970 691669 Screw 523 495264 DipsUck (Air Cleaner Primer Bracket) 524 692296 ⢠Seal-Dipstick Tube 972 495224 Tank-Fuel 525 495265 Tube-Dipstick 975 493640 Bowl-Float 529 691923 Grommet 976 496115 Pdmer÷Carbureter 562 92613 Bolt (Governor Control Lever) 977 498261 Set-Carburetor Gasket 554 692342 Cover-Breather Passage 1019 494256 Kit*Label i85 691879 ⢠Gasket-Breather Passage 1036 695111 Label-Emissions 592 690800 Nut Rewind Starter) 1066 274265 Owner's Manual i97 691696 Screw Pawi Friction Plate 1059 692311 KIt_ScrewNVasher ;01 95162 C_nlpHose 1095 498528 Set-Valve Gasket ;08 497680 Starter-Rewind 1210 498144 Assembly-Pullay/Sprlng ;13 691340 Screw Muffler) (Pulley) ;15 690340 Reainer-GovernorSheft 1211 498144 Assembly-Pulley/Spdn 9 ;16 691306 Crank-Governor (Spring) ;17 270344 O_: SeaI-O Ring (Intake Manifold) ;21 692310 Switch*Stop ⢠Included in Engine Gasket Set, Key #358 ;35 66538 Boot-Sparkplug ;68 493823 ⢠Spacer (Includes 2) _1 Included in Carburetor Overhaul Kit, Key #121 ;70 692294 Spacer-Fual Tank ;84 690345 Screw :_ Included in Carburetor Gasket Set, Key #977 (Breather Passage Cover) _89 691855 Spdng-Fdclto, Included In Valve Overhaul Kit. Key #1095 08 691321 O:1: Seal.Throttle Shaft '41 891830 Gear-Timing NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. ;42 691031 ⢠SeaI-O Ring (Dipstick Tube) inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm 41
SERVICE NOTES 42
For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call for the nearest Sears Pads and Repair Center. 1-800-488-1222 Anyone, day or rigff (U.S.A. or'Jy) W_PN, S6_tZ_O01tt For _e replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PadsDirect'_! 1-800-366-PART 6a.m.- 11 p.m., 7days a_k (1-800-,366-7"278) (U.S.A. orgy) www.sears.comipatsdlrect To purchase or inquire about a _ears Service Agreement or Sears Maintenance Agreement 1-800-827-6655 (u.s.._.) 1-800-361-6665 (Canada) 7 a.m. -5 p.m., CST, Mo_. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 8 p.rn. EST, M - F, 4 p.m. Sat. Para pedr SelVicio de mparad_ a domic_o, y para ordenar piezas: 1.-888_LkHOGAR _ ._ Ca_:b pour se_ce en f,-a')_as: 1-800.LE-FOYER "c © Sears, Roeted( and Co. [suJ sl Hon' s 2 nlral® J ® Registered Trademark / "rM Trademark I su Service Mark of Seam, Roebuck and Co. ® Marca Reglstrada / "fM Marca de Fdbdca I s_ Marca de Serv_cio de Sears, ROebuck and Co. wc Marque de commerce I Mo Marque d_posde de Seam, Roebuck and Co. 178935 02.27.01 BY Printed in U.S.A.
Warranty ................................................. 2 Safety Rules ....................................... 2-4 Assembly ................................................ 5 Operation ............................................ 6-9 Maintenance Schedule ....................... 10 Maintenance ................................... 10-13 Product Specifications ......................... 11 Service and Adjustments ................ 13-14 Storage ........................................... 14-15 Troubleshooting ............................. 16-17 Repair Parts .................................... 34-41 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 workman- ship. 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 rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179 IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and thro.wing, objects. Failure to observe the fallowing safety instructions could result in senous mlury or death. I, GENERAL OPERATION o ⢠Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thor- oughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting. ⢠Do not put hands or feet near or under ⢠rotating parts. 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. 2 Do not operate the mower when barefoot or weedng 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. ⢠Stop the 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.
⢠Shvt 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 ddve 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 drep-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance. ⢠Do not tdm excessively steep slopes. ⢠Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping. IlL CHILDREN Tragic accidents can oecur 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 comers, 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 accidental 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 stodng. ⢠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 pads, 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 symbol to point out " important safety precautions. It means CAUTIONIt[ BECOMEALERTIU YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. A WARNING: In order to prevent acci- dental starting when setting up, transport- ing, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot 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. A.WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories 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. A CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot dudng operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas. These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower. LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE CLIPPING DEFLECTOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS GRASS CATCHERS _ GRASS CATCHERS FOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE S)DE DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL STABILIZER GAS CANS
Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your now lawn mower. IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Your now lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the exception of those parts leR unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, belts, 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 comers of carton and lay end panel down fiat. 3, Remove all packing matedals 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 handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position. 2. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten beth handle knobs. 3. Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle. Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD- JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Operator conbrol bar Lift position Lower handle TO INSTALL ATTACHMENT$ Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging, see =TO CON- VERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual. 5
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER, Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or In literature supplied with the product, Learn and understand their meaning. CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY ine zone control cable Starter handle Grass Gasoline filter cap Engine oil cap with dipstick Primer Muffler Air filter Mulcher doo IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped Wheel adjuster WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. (on each wheel) MEETS CPSC SAFEW 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 Primer - pumps additional fuel from the be 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. Mulcher door - allows conversion to Starter Handle - used for starting the discharge or bagging operation, 6 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 bsr which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower. TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT Raise wheels for low cut end 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 setf_ng, 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 prate tabs. Lower Wheels for High Cu_ Raise Wheels for Low Cut Le er TO CONVERT MOWER Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging: REAR BAGGING ⢠Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame books onto the door pivot pins. ⢠To convert to mulching or discharging operation, remove grass catcher and close rear door. Pivc.t " Rea_ Grass catcher handle Catcher frame hook SIDE DISCHARGING ⢠Rear door must be closed. ⢠Open mulcher door and install dis- charge deflector under guard as shoWn. ⢠Mower is now ready for discharging operation. ⢠To convert to mulching or bagging operation, discharge deflector must be removed and muicher door must be dosed. SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBERWHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER FOR MULCHING - 1. Rear door closed. 2. Mulcher door closed. FOR REAR BAGGING - 1, Grass catcher installed, 2. Mulcher door closed. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING - 1. Rear door closed. 2. Side discharge deflector installed. A, CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear door closed or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open. 7
Open mulcher door Discharge defiector---,..,._...,.,.,__. BEFORE STARTING ENGINE ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. 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 lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean. 2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the fur| 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 read the dipstick. 3. Reinstatl 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 every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. ADD GASOLINE NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove and discard the debris plug that is inside the tank. ⢠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. _I_WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasehoi 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 ran 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. A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler ned<. Do not overf_l. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame, Gasoline filler cap Engine oil (Discarcl debris / cap 8
TO _TART 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 far 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 priming steps. In warmer weather over pdming 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. MOWlNGTIPS ⢠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 fawn mower over the area a second time. ⢠For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by ovedapp'mg previously cut path and mow slowly. ⢠For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast p(_ition. ⢠Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using. ⢠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 MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the 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 biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutUng 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 dumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut, mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel adjuster setting higher than the front. ⢠Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or 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 graining of the lawn.
MA, rE.,NCESCNEDU'E AS YOU COMPLETE _/"__'_2 _ 0_"_ _'_ ..... REGULAR SERVICE Check for Loose Fasteners _ _/ Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher i ! t,/ V' t,/ (_f Equipped) i clean Lawn MOwer t/' _/ O clean Under Drive Cover (power-Propelled Mowers) IV / Check ddve bell] ulleys E (Power_Pro pell_lPaowe rs) I_' Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade ¥/_ Lubrication Char _ Clean Baltery/Rechar_ Electric Star Mowers 11/' 11_4 E Check Engine Oil Level N Change Engine OII fell,z G Clean AJrFilter I_ z I Inspect Muffler N Clean or Replace Spark Plug V / E Replace Air Filter Paper cartridge Mez 1 - Change rnoce oRen when cperating under a beery bad or in high _ t;*_ent ter_pe fatufee=. 2 * Service nt_e ellen where opecatlng in d kty (x 6tmty co_Ji_ons. 3 * _ bladn mm'e often wl',en n m,,ving in sand y sc*l, 4 - Ch_ge 48 hou_ at end _f e, eaec_, 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 now spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help 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- CATION CHART"). LUBRICATION CHART (_ each wheel) Engine oil Mulcher door hinge pin Rear door hinge 10 (_ Handle bracket mounting pins (_) Spray lubricant _) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section. IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings, viscous lubri- cents 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: 31L TYPE (API-SF-SJ): OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUGIGAP: .030") BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 1.6 QUARTS UNLEADED REGULAR SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F) 20 OZS. CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM 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 sedal number and date of purchase in the space provided above. LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rulas when perform- ing any maintenance. "nRES ⢠Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect cenf_l chemicaJs which can harm rubber. ⢠Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that rney cause _'e 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. Tum 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 propedy. 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. Blade adapter Crankshaft Key_. Blade shaft bolt washer Trailing edge Blade adapter 11
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 eP, gk_e. ⢠The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a gdnding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower. ⢠To check blade balance, ddve 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 hodzontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced. 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 manufacturer approved replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower model number when ordedng. ENGINE LUBRICATION Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API sewica classification SF-SJ. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature. SAE VISCOSITY GRADES F -_ ce 30- 3_ 4o* ⢠co" _o* lao'. TEMPERA'nJR£ RM4GE/_/lrlCIPAll_ BEFORE NF.,XT OIL CP, ANC_ NOTE: .&Jthough multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-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 low on oil. 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 starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil level. 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 Operation 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 100 hours of operation or every season, more often if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions. TO CLEAN AIR FILTER 1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove. 2. Carefully remove cartridge. 3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge. A, CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean cartridge. They may cause detedoration of the cartddge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressudzed air to clean or dry cartddge. 4. Install cartridge, then replace cover making sure the tabs are aligned with the slots in the back plate. Fasten screw securely. 12
Back ⢠Slots Up Cover "Caffridge Cover tabs MUFFLER Inspect and replace con'oded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or dam- age. SPARK PLUG Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plu=g, type and gap setting are shown in PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" in Maintenance section of this manual. CLEANING IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean the underside of _our mower after each use. CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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 electdcal system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life. _CAUTION: 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 "ro 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 mowing position. If the deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced. TO ADJUST HANDLE The handle can be mounted in a high or ;ow position. The mounting holes in the bottom of lower handle are off center for raising or lowering the handle. 1. Remove upper handle and all parts attached to lower handle. 2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin. 3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins. 13 4. Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle. 5. Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on handle bracket. 6. Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle. \ Lower handle Rotate
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER : 1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with dgid part of beg 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. _I, CAUTION: 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 Frame opening ENGINE ENGINE SPEED Your engine speed has been factory set. Do net attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe that the engine is runniag too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified service center for repair and adjustment. 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 a Sears or other quelifled service center for repair and/or adjust- ment. 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 a Sears or other qualified 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. Lubdcate 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. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handle toward each other until the lower handle clears the handle bracket, then move handle forward. 2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts enough to allow upper handle to he f_olded back. IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for storage or transportation, be sure to fold the handle as shown or you may damage the control cables. ⢠When setting up your handle from the storage position, the lower handle will automatically look into the mowing posifion. 14
: . Lower handle l Handle Squeeze to fold bracket Hairpin cotter Operator presence con'_ol bar _ Fold //// forward // U) Upper handle-.,....7//// for _// //Z S "t°raoeJZ ,'/l Lower _ .d_'J'_YLVI_ /// 11 handle .---...__\ F\ /F _ / I backward _'_._:___ _ Mo_ng __ position 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 daring 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 dudng 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 feast 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. 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 plug hole into cylinder. 3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distdbute oil. 4. Replace with new spark plug, OTHER ⢠Do not store gasoline from one season to another. ⢠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 moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe, which allows condensation to form and will cause your unit to rust. IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while engone and exhaust areas are still warm. A 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 stodng in any enclosure. 15
⢠TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Ioea not start 1. Dirty air filter. 1. Clean/replace air filter. 2. Out offueL 2. Fill fuel tank. 3. Stale fuel. 3. Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel. 4. Water in fuel. 4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor and refill tank with fresh gasoline. 5. Spark plug wire is 5. Connect wire to plug. disconnected. 6. Bad spark plug. 6. Replace spark plug. 7. Loose blade or broken 7. Tighten blade bolt or blade adapter, replace blade adapter. 8. Control bar in released 8. Depress control bar to position, handle. 9. Control bar defective. 9. Replace control bar. Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower 1. Set to "Higher Cut" housing or cutting blade position. dragging in heavy grass. 2. Cutting too much grass. 2. Set to "Higher Cut" position. 3. Dirty air filter. 3. Clean/replace air filter. 4. Buildup of grass, leaves, 4. Clean underside of mower and trash under mower, housing. 5. Too much oil in engine. 5. Check oil level. 6. Walking speed too fast. 6. Cut at slower walking speed. F_oor cut- 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten Jneven blade bolt. 2. Wheel heights uneven. 2. Set all wheels at same height. 1 3. Buildup of grass, leaves 3. Clean underside of and trash under mower, mower housing. Excessive 1, Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten vibration blade bolt. 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a Sears or other qualified service center. Starter rope hard 1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to topull when control bar is released upper handle before pulling starter rope. 2. Bent engine crankshaft, 2, Contact a Sears or other qualified service center, 3. Blade adapter broken. 3. Replace blade adapter. 4. Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface. 16
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Srass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1_ Raise cutting height. rmtfllllng (Ifso 2. L_ on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade. aqulpped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher. Hard to push ! 1. 1. 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 dght for you. 2. Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1) setting higher. 3. Empty grass catcher. 4. Adjust handle height to suit. 17
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NUMBER 917.388721 23 44 \ 67 68 14 44 33 4O 37 37 4O 16 10 5 56
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER--MODEL NUMBER 917.388721 KEY PART NO. NO, 1 86SO2 2 169709X479 3 169708X479 4 132001 5 63601 6 131939 7 66426 9 154132 10 165754 11 1765,56 12 750634 13 86899X004 14 136376 15 51793 18 147293 17 165946)(479 18 17600406 19 167132XCO4 20 167133X004 2t 165858 22 168360X004 23 166878 24 751153 25 166111X479 26 166112X479 27 851856 28 152124 29 16083_<C07 30 19112.222 31 185760 32 169421X004 33 87877 34 165762X004 K]EY PART DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPllON ConbolBar 36 160828 Upper Handle 37 151157 Lew_Hanc_e 39 83923 RopeGuide 40 77400 Locknut 1/4-20 41 88652 HaudJe Bolt 42 165766 WkeTDe 43 165767 Hinge Bracket 44 165912 Mulcher Door 45 150406 Engine Zone Control Cable 46 85463 Hex Washer Head Screw 48 165761X004 Up-Stop Bracket 52 166876 HandleKnob Hairpin Cober 53 851084 HingeRod 54 650263 Support Bracket 55 851074 Screw 56 175064 Axle Ann Assembly - LF 57 851514 Axle Arm Assembly - RF 67 166113 Rear Skirt 68 165755 Selector Spring - Front 70 - - - Roar Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Spitngs) Locknut 5/16-18 71 132004 Handle Brackel Assembly (Left) -- 161058 Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) -- 178935 Screw 114-20 x 3/8 Hinge Spitng Wheal Adjusting Bracket - Front Spacer Clip on DiSCharge Guard Selector" Spdng - Rear Selector Knob Axle Arm Assembly * LR Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 WheelAssembly Flanged Locknut Hubcap HingeScmw Spring(LH) Spdng(RH) Door Bolt Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1 Danger Decal Axle Arm Assembly - RR Housing Assembly (Includes Kay Numbers 17, 18 and 46) Hex Head Screw 3/6-24 x 1-3/8 Grade 8 Helical Lockwashet HautenedWasher 21" Blade BladeAdapter Grass Bag Catcher Frame Engine, Brkjgs & Stratton, Model Number 12H802-2636-B1 (See Breakdown) Nut, Hex Warning Decal(Not Shown) Ownefe Manual Available accessories not included with lawn mower: Z.1.33623 Gas Can (2.5 gel.) 7133500 Fuel Stabilizer 7133000 SAE 3OW OIJ (20 oz.) NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 [1019 LABEL KIT 1 584 684 383_ 635 33 "_r REQUIRES SPECIALTOOLS TO INSTALL, SEE REPAIR INSTRUCTION MANUAL. 11058 OWNER'S MANUAL r 15_ 525! J 524 1895VALVE GASKET SET 36
3RIGGS & STRATTON/,-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639.,B1 977 CARBURETOR GASKET SET _708 _ _ 617_._ 276_ 121 CARBURETOR _ lOT 708_ 276(_ 127(_ 443_ 365 _1 5 159_ _9_ 97_ 12__1 _ J 276 37
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 969 | 921 _ 304 3os F [ 1036 EMISSIONS LABEL ] 332 363 _ 466 ] 689 _ 60 456
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2639-B1 745 505 334_ 39
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639-1BI KEY PART KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPllON NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 493260 Cylinder Assembly 50 497465 Ma nifold-lotake 2 399269 Kit-Bushlog/Seal 51 272199 ⢠Gasket-Intake 3 299819 ⢠Seal-Oil (Magneto Side) 54 691650 Screw (Intake Manifold) 4 493279 Sump-Engloe 55 691421 Housing-Rewind Starter 5 691160 Head-Cylinder 56 692259 Rope-Starter Cut to 7 692249 . Gasket-Cylinder Head Required Length) 8 695250 Breather Assembly 60 281434 Grip,Starter Rope 9 272461 . Gasket-Breather 65 990759 Screw (Rewldd Starter) 10 691125 Screw (Breather Assembly) 81 691740 Lock-Muffler Screw 11 691781 Tube-Breather 98 691636 Screw (Throttle Valve) 12 692232 ⢠Gasket-Crankcase 97 493267 Shaft-Throttle 13 690912 Screw (Cylinder Head) 104 691242 O Pin-Float Hinge 15 691680 plug-Oil Drain 117 494870 Jet-Main (Standard) 16 691451 Crankshaft 497316 Jet-Malo (High Alttiude) 20 399781 ⢠Seal-Oil (PTO Side) 121 498260 Kit-Carburetor Overhaul 22 691092 Screw (Engine Sump) 125 498176 Carburetor 23 692315 Flywheel 127 694468 _1 Plug-Welch 24 922698 Key-Flywheel 130 691203 Valve-Throttle 25 499429 Piston Assembly (Standard) 133 398187 Float-Carburetor 499430 Piston Assembly (010 = O,S.) 134 398188 _1 Valve-Needle/Seat 499431 Piston Assembly (.020" O.S) 137 693981 _1_ Gasket-Float Bowl 499432 Piston Assembly (.030" O.S.) 146 690979 Key.Tlmlog 26 499425 Ring Set-Piston (Standard) 159 691753 Bracket-Air Cleaner Pdmer 499426 Ring Set*Piston (.010" O.S.) 163 272653._1:1: Gasket-Air Cleaner 499427 Ring Set-Piston .020"O,S.) 187 691050 Line-Fuel (Cut to Requked 499428 Ring Set-Piston .030" O.S.) Length) 27 691866 LoCk-P_stan Pin 198 690877 Screw (Control Bracket 28 499423 Pin-Piston 190 690940 Screw (FueITank 29 499424 Rnd-Connecting 202 691829 Link-Mechanical Governor 32 691664 Screw (Connecting Rod) 209 690319 Spring-Govemor 32A 695759 Screw(Connecting Rod) 222 692467 Bracket-Control 33 262651 Valve-Exhaust 227 690783 Control Lever-Governor 34 262652 Valve-Intake 276 271716 2_$ Seanug Washer 35 691270 Sprlog-Valve (Intake) 267 690940 Screw (Dipstick Tube) 36 691270 Sprlog-Valve (Exhaust 300 692038 Muffler 40 692194 Retainer-Valve 304 695892 Houslog-Btcwer 43 691997 81loger-Govemor/OU 305 691108 Screw (Blowe¢ Housing) 45 690548 Tappet-Valve 306 690450 Shtatd-Cynnder 46 691449 Camshaft 307 690345 Screw Cylinder Shield) 48 498826 Short Block Replacement 332 690662 Nut F_heel Eng ne 12J802-2915-B1) 333 802574 Armature-Magneto 4O
BRIGGS & STRA'rTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2639-B1 KEY PART KEY PART NO. NO, DESCRIP'nON NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 334 691061 Screw (Armature Magneto) 847 692017 Assembly-Dipstick/Tube 337 802592 Spark Plug 851 493880 TerminaFSparkplug 356 692390 WIm-Sto }p 869 691155 Seat-Valve (Inte ke) 358 497315 Engine Gasket Set 670 690389 Seat-Valve (Exhaust) 363 19069 Flyv, hasl Puller 871 262001 Bushing-Guide Exhaust) 365 692524 Screw (Carburetor) 63709 8ushng-Gude nake) 363 89838 Wrench-S_parrk Plug 921 497233 Cover-Blower Housing 404 890272 Washer (Governor Crank) 922 692135 Spring-Brake 425 690670 Screw (Air Cleaner Cover) 923 595891 Brake 443 692523 Screw (Air Cleaner B_;e) 957 397974 Cap-Fuel Tank 445 491588 Filter-Air Cleaner Cartridge 966 496116 Base-Air Cleaner Primer 455 691219 Cup-Flywheel 968 692298 Cover-Air Cleaner 456 692299 Plate-Pawl Fdc_on 969 590700 Screw 459 281505 PawI-Ratchet (BlOWer Housing Cover) 505 231082 Nut (Governor Control Lever) 970 691669 Screw 523 495264 DipsUck (Air Cleaner Primer Bracket) 524 692296 ⢠Seal-Dipstick Tube 972 495224 Tank-Fuel 525 495265 Tube-Dipstick 975 493640 Bowl-Float 529 691923 Grommet 976 496115 Pdmer÷Carbureter 562 92613 Bolt (Governor Control Lever) 977 498261 Set-Carburetor Gasket 554 692342 Cover-Breather Passage 1019 494256 Kit*Label i85 691879 ⢠Gasket-Breather Passage 1036 695111 Label-Emissions 592 690800 Nut Rewind Starter) 1066 274265 Owner's Manual i97 691696 Screw Pawi Friction Plate 1059 692311 KIt_ScrewNVasher ;01 95162 C_nlpHose 1095 498528 Set-Valve Gasket ;08 497680 Starter-Rewind 1210 498144 Assembly-Pullay/Sprlng ;13 691340 Screw Muffler) (Pulley) ;15 690340 Reainer-GovernorSheft 1211 498144 Assembly-Pulley/Spdn 9 ;16 691306 Crank-Governor (Spring) ;17 270344 O_: SeaI-O Ring (Intake Manifold) ;21 692310 Switch*Stop ⢠Included in Engine Gasket Set, Key #358 ;35 66538 Boot-Sparkplug ;68 493823 ⢠Spacer (Includes 2) _1 Included in Carburetor Overhaul Kit, Key #121 ;70 692294 Spacer-Fual Tank ;84 690345 Screw :_ Included in Carburetor Gasket Set, Key #977 (Breather Passage Cover) _89 691855 Spdng-Fdclto, Included In Valve Overhaul Kit. Key #1095 08 691321 O:1: Seal.Throttle Shaft '41 891830 Gear-Timing NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. ;42 691031 ⢠SeaI-O Ring (Dipstick Tube) inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm 41
SERVICE NOTES 42
For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call for the nearest Sears Pads and Repair Center. 1-800-488-1222 Anyone, day or rigff (U.S.A. or'Jy) W_PN, S6_tZ_O01tt For _e replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PadsDirect'_! 1-800-366-PART 6a.m.- 11 p.m., 7days a_k (1-800-,366-7"278) (U.S.A. orgy) www.sears.comipatsdlrect To purchase or inquire about a _ears Service Agreement or Sears Maintenance Agreement 1-800-827-6655 (u.s.._.) 1-800-361-6665 (Canada) 7 a.m. -5 p.m., CST, Mo_. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 8 p.rn. EST, M - F, 4 p.m. Sat. Para pedr SelVicio de mparad_ a domic_o, y para ordenar piezas: 1.-888_LkHOGAR _ ._ Ca_:b pour se_ce en f,-a')_as: 1-800.LE-FOYER "c © Sears, Roeted( and Co. [suJ sl Hon' s 2 nlral® J ® Registered Trademark / "rM Trademark I su Service Mark of Seam, Roebuck and Co. ® Marca Reglstrada / "fM Marca de Fdbdca I s_ Marca de Serv_cio de Sears, ROebuck and Co. wc Marque de commerce I Mo Marque d_posde de Seam, Roebuck and Co. 178935 02.27.01 BY Printed in U.S.A.