Craftsman 917.374042 Lawn Mower User Manual
Contents
1. ACAUTION Before performing any service or adjustments Release control bar and stop engine Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped 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 lawn mower is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the operator s mowing position if the rear deflector becomes damaged it should be replaced TO REMOVE REPLACE DRIVE BELT e Remove drive cover Remove belt by pushing down on gear case pulley and rolling belt off it Turn lawn mower on its side with carburetor and fuel cap up e Remove blade Remove debris shield Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft Install new belt by reversing above steps Always use factory approved belt to assure fit and long life Drive cover BI i Belt Push down TO ADJUST HANDLE Your lawn mower handle can be raised or lowered for your mowing comfort Four 4 positions are available high medium high medium low and low Handles are shipped mounted in the medium low position To change from medium low to medium high position the upper and lower handle sections will have to be t2. e Grass catcher too full e Handle height position not right for you Raise cutting height Raise rear of lawn mower housing one setting higher Empty grass catcher Adjust handle height to suit 18 REPAIR PARTS ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO 917 377582 GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 702511 KEY PART KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 17490416 Tapping Screw 1 4 20 x 10 57079 Hardened Washer 1 1 4 11 131484 Clutch Yoke 2 137055X004 Engagement Bracket 12 700343 Bushing 3 137053 Shifter 13 86447 Plug 4 57072 Seal 14 137050 Helical Gear 6 48373 Gear Case Halves Kit 15 750436X Clutch Jaw Includes Key Nos 4 5 16 750369 Grease b and 7 17 12000003 E Ring 7 77881 Bearing 18 850848 Hi Pro Key 8 137051 Worm Shaft 19 81585X004 Spring Bracket 9 137074 Drive Shaft NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 37 8E CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO 917 377582 SLYVd YIVd34 6 KEY NO PART NO 165451X479 158152 150425 66426 136376 145793 151023 128415 150050 STD512505 150181 156374X479 700365X479 133190X479 140661X479 63601 140540 85543 87677 83923 150341 142748 62335 145935X004 701037 700331X004 146630 700325X007 150078 751592 CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO 917 377582 DESCRIPTION Upper Handle Engine Zone Control Cable Mulcher Plug Wire Tie Handte Knob Co
3. Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes All parts such as nuts washers bolts etc necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower all parts and hardware you as semble must be tightened securely Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON Remove loose parts included with mower e Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER TO UNFOLD HANDLE IMPORTANT Unfold handles carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables e Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position e Remove protective padding raise upper handle section into place on lower handles and tighten both handie knobs Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort Refer to Adjust Handle in the Service a
4. Reinstall cover to air cleaner body Be sure hinge is assembled property Swing cover up and tighten cover knob Do not overtighten Container I Air filter cover MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and or damage SPARK PLUG l 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 built up grass and trash Clean underside of mower housing after each use ACAUTION Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with the spark plug Tum lawn mower on its side Make sure air filter and carburetor are up 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 CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a season Scrape underside of cover with putty knife or similar tool to remove any build up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover 13
5. 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 Drain the fuel tank 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 e 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 ENGINE OIL Drain oil with engine warm and replace with clean engine oil See ENGINE in the Maintenance section of this manual CYLINDER Remove spark plug Pour one ounce 29 ml of oil through spark plug hole into cylinder e Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distribute oil Replace with new spark plug 16 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 IMPORTANT Never cover mower while engine and exhaust areas are still
6. Clean underside of mower housing Check oil level Cut at slower walking speed Replace blade Tighten blade bolt Set all wheels at same height Clean underside of mower housing TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM _ cause 3 cormectioN Excessive e Worn bent or loose blade vibration bolt Bent engine crankshaft Replace blade Tighten blade Contact an authorized service center department Starter rope hard to pull e Engine flywheel brake is on when control bar is e Depress control bar to upper handle before pulling starter released rope Bent engine crankshaft e Contact an authorized service center department e Blade adapter broken Blade dragging in grass Replace blade adapter e Move lawn mower to cut grass or to hard surface to start engine Loss of drive Self Propelled Mowing e Drive wheels not turning with drive control engaged Belt not driving Adjust or replace drive control cable if broken Put belt on pulleys or replace belts if broken Grass catcher not filling If so equipped e Cutting height too low e Lift on blade worn off e Catcher not venting air Raise cutting height e Replace blade e Clean grass catcher Hard to push Grass is too high or wheel height is too low Rear of lawn mower housing blade dragging in grass
7. Dog Spring 8 590700 Pulley amp Rewind Spring Ass y 11 590703 Starter Housing Ass y 40 degree grommet 12 590535 Starter Rope 98 X 9 64 dia 13 590701 Starter Handle V KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 590739 Rewind Starter 3 590740 Retainer 6 590616 Starter Dog 7 590617 Dog Spring 8 590618A Pulley amp Rewind Spring Ass y 11 590638 Starter Housing Ass y 40 degree grommet 12 590535 Starter Rope Length 98 x 9 64 dia 13 590701 Starter Handle 14 590760 Spring Clip 45 46 47 For the repair or replacement parts you need delivered directly to your home Call 7 am 7 pm 7 days a week 1 800 366 PART 1 800 366 7278 Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio 1 800 659 7084 For inhouse major brand repair service Call 24 hours a day 7 days a week 1 800 4 REPAIR 1 800 473 7274 Para pedir servicio de reparaci n a domicilio 1 800 676 5811 For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center in your area Call 24 hours a day 7 days a week 1 800 488 1222 For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement Call 9 am 5 pm Monday Saturday 1 800 827 6655 When requesting Service or ordering parts always provide the following information e Product Type Part Number Model Number Part Description 166062 09 24 98 VB SEARS America s Repair Speciausts Printed in U S A
8. season You may need to change the oil more often under dusty dirty conditions GAS Fill fuel tank Use fresh clean regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane Do not mix oil with gasoline Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness WARNING 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 fuel tank start the engine and let it run until fuel lines and carburetor are empty Use fresh fuel next season See Storage Instructions for additional information Never use engine or carbure tor cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent damage may occur Engine oil cap Gasoline filler cap TO START ENGINE To start a cold engine push primer five 5 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 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 release operator presence control bar NOTE in cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps In warmer weather ov
9. to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U S Consumer Product Safety Commission The blade tums when the engine is runni Operator Presence Control Bar must be Drive Control Lever used to engage held down to the handie to start the engine power propelled forward motion of lawn Release to stop the engine mower Primer pumps additional fuel from the Mulcher Plug located at the discharge carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting Opening must be removed when convert _ a cold engine ing to bagging or discharging operation 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 adjust ments or repairs We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED CONTROL The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance Speed is not adjustable ENGINE ZONE CONTROL ACAUTION Federal regulations reguire an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of biade 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 co
10. torque is 11 35 40 ft Ibs MPORTANT Blade bolt is grade 8 heat reated TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE We do not recommend sharpening lade but if you do be sure the blade is Jalanced Zare should be taken to keep the blade Jalanced An unbalanced blade will cause aventual damage to lawn mower or angine 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 Blade adapter v Crank shaft keyway Blade Bolt Cran Lockwasher Hardened Blade shaft washer Trailing adapter edge 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 ordering DRIVE WHEELS Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely The wheels not turning freely means trash grass cuttings etc are in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels if necessary to clean
11. warm ACAUTION 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 itto give protection from dust and dirt e Cover your unit with a suitable protective 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 TROUBLE SHOOTING in any enclosure PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Loss of power Poor cut uneven Dirty air filter Out of fuel Stale fuel Water in fuel Spark plug wire is disconnected Bad spark plug Loose blade or broken blade adapter Control bar in released position Control bar defective Rear of lawn mower housing blade dragging in heavy grass Cutting too much grass Dirty air filter Buildup of grass leaves and trash under mower Too much oil in engine Walking speed too fast Worn bent or loose blade Wheel heights uneven Buildup of grass leaves and trash under mower 17 Clean replace air filter Fill fuel tank Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel Drain fuel tank and carburetor and refill tank with fresh gasoline Connect wire to plug Replace spark plug Tighten blade bolt or replace blade adapter Depress control bar to handle Replace control bar Set in Higher Cut position Set in Higher Cut position Clean replace air filter
12. A 32610A 36030 36031A 29914 36032A 37271 36010 30574A 30590A 30591 36057 36034 650924 611154 611155 611156 650815 650816 34443B 610118 651007 36054 36061 36187 36471 36472 29314C 29315C 6021A 35395 31672 31673 40016A 27234A DESCRIPTION Cylinder Incl 2 10 12 20 amp 125 Dowel Pin Breather Element Screw 10 24 x 3 4 Breather Valve Body Check Valve Breather Tube Breather Cover amp Gasket Flat Washer Govemor Rod Machined Governor Lever Govemor Lever Clamp Screw Torx T 15 8 32 x 19 64 Govemor Spring Oil Seal Blower Housing Baffle Ass y incl 195 Screw 1 4 20 x 5 8 Crankshaft Piston Pin Ring Set Std Piston Pin Ring Set 010 OS in amp Pin Ass y Std Incl 43 Piston amp Pin Ass y 010 OS Inci 43 Ring Set Std Ring Set 010 OS Piston Pin Retaining Ring Connecting Rod Ass y Incl 46 Connecting Rod Bolt Valve Lifter Camshaft MCR Oil Pump Ass y Mounting Flange Gasket Mounting Flange Incl 72 thru 85 Oil Seal Governor Shaft Washer Govemor Gear Ass y Incl 81 Governor Spool Idier Gear Screw 1 4 20 x 1 9 16 Flywheel Key Flywheel Flywheel Fan Belleville Washer Fiywheel Nut Solid State Ignition Spark Plug Cover Screw Torx T 15 10 24 x 15 16 Ground Wire Cytinder Head Gasket Cylinder Head Exhaust Valve Std Inci 151 Exhaust Valve 1 32 OS intake Valve Std Incl 151 Intake Valve 1 32 OS Screw 5 16 18 x 1 1 2 Res
13. Owner s Manual CRAFTSMAN 6 75 HORSEPOWER 22 REAR DISCHARGE POWER PROPELLED ROTARY LAWN MOWER Model No 917 377582 Safety Assembly Operation Maintenance Espanol Repair Parts CAUTION Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment Sears Roebuck and Co Hoffman Estates IL 60179 TABLE OF CONTENTS Warranty Safety Rules Assembly Operation Maintenance Schedule Maintenance h Ooo RN Ph Product Specifications 11 Service and Adjustments 14 Storage 16 Troubleshooting 17 Repair Parts 37 Parts Ordering Back Cover WARRANTY 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 workmanship If this Craftsman Lawn Mower i is used for commercial or rental purposes this warranty applies for only 90 days hot This Warranty does not cov we date of purchase Expendable items which pacers worn during normal use such as rotary mower blades blade adapters belts air cleaners and spark plug e Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence including bent crank shafts and the failure to maintain the eguipment according to the instructions con tained in the owner s manual Warranty service is available byr tu
14. WER MODEL NO 917 377582 40 iv KEY NO 1 3 4 5 6 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 25 26 PART NO 145755 751152 158755 146527 150495 150182 145212 150340 12000058 137054 88080 88118 67725 701037 152903 143603 CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO 917 377582 DESCRIPTION Control Cable Assembly Locknut 10 24 Hex Washer Head Screw 1 4 20 x 2 12 V Belt Spring Retainer Hubcap Locknut Wheel amp Tire Assembly E Ring Pinion Dust Cover Felt Washer Washer 1 2 x 1 1 2 x 134 Selector Knob Drive Cover Decal Pan Head Tapping Screw 10 24 x 2 3 4 KEY NO PART NO 154990 132010 137052 151521 702511 137090 STD541425 75192 151520 144747 166069 86012 144748 DESCRIPTION Drive Cover Hex Flange Nut Drive Pulley Wheel Adjuster Assembly Left Gear Case Assembly Spring Locknut 1 4 20 Spring Wheel Adjuster Assembly Right Frame Throat Grassbag Assembiy Driveshaft Cover Frame Tube CRAFTSMAN 4 CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143 996704 Ta p Se oOo 348A N L EN N 120 42 42 43 45 46 48 50 52 69 70 75 80 81 82 83 85 86 89 91 92 93 100 101 103 110 119 120 125 126 130 135 150 151 151A 169 PART NO 36177 27652 36059 590568 36002 36003A 32447 36005A 28277 36006 36008 31335 651018 36103 36010 37149 650802 36185 40004 40005 36070 36071 40006 40007 20381 36023
15. arburetor Incl 184 amp 239 390 590739 Rewind Starter 400 36062D Gasket Set Incl Items Marked 416 36085 Spark Arrestor Kit Incl 417 Optional 417 650821 Screw 10 32 x 1 2 Optional 900 _ Replacement Engine 750819E order from 71 999 900 Replacement Short Block 750797B RPM High 2900 to 3200 NOTE This engine could have been built with 59070 starter NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm CRAFTSMAN 4 CYCLE ENGINE PART NO 640020A 632539 632593 632541 632773 632675A 632544 632543 632548 632709 632672 632673 640022 632547 632547 632545 632545 632549 640021 632554 4 I f I i l J MODEL NUMBER 143 996704 g n DESCRIPTION Carburetor Incl 187B amp 239 of Engine Parts List Throttie Shaft amp Lever Assembly Dust Seal Throttle Shutter Throttle Shutter Screw Venturi Float Bowl Float Shaft Float Float Bowl to Body Gasket Inlet Needle amp Seat Bowl Drain Screw Bowl Drain Washer Main Nozzle Tube O Ring O Ring Main Nozzle Tube Spring Main Nozzle Tube ring Float Bowl Retainer Main Fuel Jet Welch Plug Idle Mixing Well CRAFTSMAN 4 CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143 996704 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 590702 Recoil Starter 1 590599A Spring Pin Incl 4 2 590600 Washer 3 3 590696 Retainer 4 590601 Washer 5 590697 Brake Spring 6 590698 Starter Dog 7 590699
16. bjects These objects will be thrown by the blade and can cause severe injury Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and while using your mower O Dress properiy Do not operate mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing Check fuel tank before starting engine Do not fill gas tank indoors when the engine is running or when the engine is hot Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before filling the gas tank Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine Always make wheel height adjustments before starting your mower Never attempt to do this while the engine is running Mow only in daylight or good artificial light PERATION Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being cut Do not let other interests distract you Do not mow wet or slippery grass Never run while operating your mower Always be sure of your footing keep a firm hold on the handles and walk Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times Always stop the engine whenever you leave or are not using your mower or before crossing driveways walks roads and any gravel covered areas Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the mower while you are operating it Before cleaning inspecting or repairing your mower stop the engine and make absolutely sur
17. e clean it thoroughly remove all dirt jrease leaves etc Store in a clean dry area Clean entire lawn mower See CLEANING in the Maintenance section of this manual Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this manual Be sure that all nuts bolts screws and pins are securely fastened Inspect moving parts for damage breakage and wear Replace if necessary Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces sand lightly before painting JANDLE fou can fold your lawn mower handle for storage Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handle toward each other until the lower handle clears the handle bracket then move handle forward Loosen upper handle mounting bolts enough to allow upper handle to be folded back MPORTANT When folding the handie for storage or transportation be sure to fold the yandle as shown or you may damage the control cables i gt When setting up your handle from the storage position the lower handle will automatically lock into the mowing position Handle Bracket gt Squeeze to Al FA SA Operator Presence Control Bar Hairpin Cotter Fold Forward For Storage Lower Handle 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
18. e frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera tion 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 12 TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL NOTE Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug Remove engine oil cap lay aside on a clean surface e Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil into a suitable container Rock fawn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and on side of engine Fill engine with oil Fill only to the FULL line on the dipstick DO NOT OVER FILL Replace engine oil cap Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug AIR FILTER Yourengine will not run property 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 Loosen cover knob Swing cover down and remove from hinge Pull paper fitter out of air cleaner body Clean air cleaner cover and body Install a new paper filter
19. e the blade and all moving parts have stopped Then disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting Do not continue to run your mower if you hit a foreign object Follow the procedure outlined above then repair any damage before restarting and operating you mower Do not change the governor settings or overspeed the engine Engine damage or personal injury may result Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally Excessive vibration is an indication of damage stop the engine safely check for the cause of vibration and repair as required Do not run the engine indoors Exhaust fumes are dangerous Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you Mow across the face of slopes never up and down or you might lose your footing Do not mow exces sively steep slopes Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain or when changing directions maintain good footing Never operate your mower without proper guards plates grass catcher or other safety devices in place MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE Check the blade and the engine mount ing bolts often to be sure they are tightened property Check all bolts nuts and screws at frequent intervais for proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condition Keep all safety devices in place and working To reduce fire hazard keep the engine free of grass leaves or excessive grease and oil Check grass ca
20. er 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 MOWING TIPS 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 When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist heavy grass clumps of cut grass may not enter the grass catcher Reduce ground speed push ing speed and or run the lawn mower over the area a second time If a trail of clippings is left on the right side of a rear discharge mower mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass 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 Forbest performa
21. istor Spark Plug RJ19LM Valve Spring Lower Valve Spring Cap Intake Valve Sea Valve Spring Box Gasket MODEL NUMBER 143 99670 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 172 32755 Valve Spring Box Cover 174 30200 Screw 10 24 x 9 16 177 650925A Carburetor Mounting Stud 184 36183 Carburetor Gasket 186 36009 Governor Link 187A 37148 Air Baffle 190 36013 Brake Lever Ass y 191A 36012 Brake Control Lever 192 36016 Brake Control Lever Link 193 36015 Brake Spring 194 36014 Retaining Ring 195 610973 Terminal Ass y 198 36017 Brake Control Lever Spring 199 36018 Brake Lever Bushing 239 36048 Carburetor To Air Cleaner Gasket 240 36190 Air Cleaner Body incl 239 amp 350 243B 651041 Air Cleaner Stud 245 36046 Air Cleaner Filter 250 36191 Air Cleaner Cover 251 650928 Lock Nut 1 4 20 251A 650933 Wing Nut 1 4 20 255 36193 Control Plate 256 650983 Screw 8 32 x 17 32 260 36188 Blower Housing 261 650737 Screw 1 4 20 x 1 2 263A 36192 Starter Grill 275 36107A Mutfier 276 36043 Locking Plate 277 650927 Screw 5 16 18 x 2 11 32 285 34449A Starter Cup 287 650926 Screw 8 32 x 21 64 290 29774 Fuel Line 292 26460 Fuel Line Clamp 300 36189 Fuel Tank Incl 301 301 36246 Fuel Cap 305 36063 Oil Fill Tube 307 435499 O Ring 308 36040 Fill Tube Clip 310 36064 Dipstick 346A 28763 Screw 10 32 x 35 64 347 650898A Screw 10 32 x 27 64 350 36045A Primer 370A 36261 Lubrication Decal 370C 37199 Primer Decal 380 640020A C
22. ming the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears Service Center Department i 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 SAFETY RULES Safety standards require operator pres ence controls to minimize the risk of injury Your unit is equipped with such controls Do not attempt to defeat the function of the controls under any circumstances TRAINING Read this operators manual carefully Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly Learn how to quickly stop mower Do not allow children to use your mower Never allow adults to use mower without proper instructions Keep the area of operation clear of all persons especially small children and pets Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as described in this manual Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in any manner Always have damage repaired before using your mower Do not use accessory attachments that are not recommended by the manufac turer Use of such attachments may be hazardous The blade turns when the engine is running PREPARATION Always thoroughly check the area to be mowed and clear it of all stones sticks wires bones and other foreign o
23. nce keep mower housing free of built up grass and trash Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING after each use 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 biodegrade 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 aftemoon At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area wili not be exposed to the direct sun e 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 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 e Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be muiched a second time to completely hide the clippings When doing a second cut mow across or perpendicular to the firs
24. nd Adjustment section of this manual Operator presence TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher To convert to bagging or discharging Open rear door and remove mulcher plug Store mulcher plug in a safe place You can now install catcher or optional clipping deflector To return to mulching operation install mulcher plug into discharge opening of mower Mulcher plug Io ACAUTION Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plug in place or approved clipping deflector or grass catcher in place Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open OPERATION 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 IS eag 9 CAUTION ENGINE s FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER KEEP HANDS OR WARNING ON AND FEET AWAY Engine zone control cable Operator presence control bar L Drive control lever Engine oil cap with dipstick Gasoline filler cap Primer Lawn mower housing Wheel adjuster on each wheel MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Sears rotary walk behind power lawn mowers confom
25. ntrol Bar Rear Door Kit Pop Rivet Self Tapping Screw 10 16 x 1 2 Hex Tapping Screw w Sems 1 4 20 x 1 2 Hubcap Back Piate Side Baffle Discharge Baffle Rear Baffle Keps Locknut 1 4 20 Rear Skirt Engine Pulley Hi Pro Key 505 Hex Flange Nut Wheel Shoulder Bolt 38 16 x 1 Spring Washer Axle Arm Assembly Selector Knob Selector Spring Spacer Wheel Adjusting Bracket Right Thread Cutting Screw w Sems 5 16 18 x 3 4 Nut KEY NO PART NO 151512X479 151511X479 150406 161769 851514 157101 851074 850263 851084 165548 85463 88652 51793 157081X479 131959 132001 134612 161058 166062 71 33623 71 33500 11 33027 7133417 7133316 7133723 DESCRIPTION Handle Bracket Assembly Left Handle Bracket Assembly Right Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3 8 16 x 1 1 8 Lawn Mower Housing Incl Key 14 15 51 amp 52 Blade Adapter Blade 22 Hardened Washer Helical Washer 3 8 24 x 1 3 8 Gr 8 Hex Head Machine Screw 3 8 24 x 1 3 8 Gr 8 Kit Baffle Danger Decal Hinge Screw 1 4 20 x 1 1 4 Hairpin Cotter Lower Handle Handle Bolt Rope Guide Debris Shield Engine Craftsman Model No 143 996704 Warning Deca Not Shown Owner s Manual English Spanish Available accessories not included with lawn mower 71 33303 Clipping Deflector Gas Can 2 5 gal Fuel Stabilizer SAE 30W Oil 27 oz Dust Shield Mower Cover High Wheel Kit REPAIR PARTS CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MO
26. ntrol bar which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower 1O ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut e Adjust cutting height to suit your require ments Medium position is best for most lawns Tochange cutting height squeeze adjuster lever toward wheel Move wheel up or down to suit your reguirements Be sure all wheels are in the same setting NOTE Adjuster is property positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever Also 9 position adjusters if so eguipped allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs Lower Wheels for High Cut Plate Tab Raise Wheels 2 JO amp for Low Cut N SH Lever TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER Close the flip lid Flip lid must be closed while operating lawn mower Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the grass catcher frame onto the formed tabs on the rear door hinge bracket e The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame 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 Rear door Grass catcher ANS TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER To remove grass catcher release operator presence control bar to stop engine Lift up rear door and remove the grass ca
27. rame are exposed out of the front opening Assemble lower frame to tubular frame as shown Be sure handle is outside of bag and frames are fully seated as shown in inset 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 Close the flip lid Flip lid must be closed while operating lawn mower 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 Sewn hem Sewn hem Lower frame Frames must be fully seated Tubular frame Lower frame handle ENGINE CARBURETOR Your carburetor has a non adjustable fixed main jet for mixture control If your engine does not operate properly due to sus pected carburetor problems take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair or adjustment 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 adjustment 15 STORAGE nmediately prepare your lawn mower for torage at the end of the season or if the unit sill not be used for 30 days or more AWN MOWER Vhen lawn mower is to be stored for a period f tim
28. spark plug and clean new air filter element assures proper air fuel mixture and helps your engine run better and last longer e Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual BEFORE EACH USE Check engine oil level e Check for loose fasteners LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated See LUBRICATION CHART LUBRICATION CHART Wheel adjusters Engine oil O Jes Handie bracket oor b hinge mounting pin O SPRAY LUBRICANT 2 SAE 30 MOTOR OIL REFER TO ENGINE MAINTENANCE SECTION IMPORTANT Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings Viscous lubricants 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 10 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS MODEL NUMBER 917 377582 SERIAL NUMBER DATE OF PURCHASE HORSEPOWER 6 75 DISPLACEMENT 12 56 CU IN GASOLINE CAPACITY TYPE 1 5 QUARTS UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE API SF SG SH SAE 30 ABOVE 32 F SAE 5W 30 BELOW 32 F OIL CAPACITY 27 OZS SPARK PLUG GAP 030 CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM VALVE CLEARANCE INTAKE 004 008 EXHAUST 004 008 SOLID STATE IGNITION AIR GAP 0125 IN 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 seria number and date of purchase in space provided above LAWN MOWER N Remove blade and at
29. t cut path e Change your cutting pattem 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 MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE Check for Loose Fasteners Cleanfinspect Grass Catcher li Equipped Clean Under Drive Cover Power Propelled Mowers Check drive belt pulleys Power Propelled Mowers Check Sharpen Replace Blade Lubrication Chart Clean Battery Recharge Electric Start Mowers N f CO nn i J eriace An Fitor Paper cas el 1 11 SRL LBS IHNEN oo 1 Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures 2 Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions 3 Replace biades more often when mowing in sandy soil 4 Charge 48 hours at end of season 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 property 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 replace air fitter element and check blade for wear A new
30. taching hardware Always observe safety rules when performing bolt lock washer and hardened any maintenance washer TIRES NOTE Remove the blade adapter and N JA tti check the key inside hub of blade SRV De adapter The key must be in good Avoid stumps stones deep ruts sharp condition to work properly Replace objects and other hazards that may cause adapter if damaged _ tire damage TO REPLACE BLADE BLADE CARE Position mi tas on the engine crankshaft Be sure key in For best results mower blade must be kept sharp Replace bent or damaged blades md and crankshaft keyway are TO REMOVE BLADE e Position blade on the blade adapter Disconnect spark plug wire from spark aligning the two 2 holes in the blade plug and place wire where it cannot with the raised lugs on the adapter come in contact with spark plug Be sure the trailing edge of blade Turn lawn mower on its side Make sure opposite sharp edge is up toward the air filter and carburetor are up engine Use a wood block between blade and Install the blade bolt with the lock mower housing to prevent blade from washer and hardened washer into turning when removing blade bolt blade adapter and crankshaft e Protect your hands with gloves and or e Use block of wood between blade and wrap blade with heavy cloth lawn mower housing and tighten the Remove blade bolt by turning counter blade bolt turning clockwise clockwise The recommended tightening
31. tcher by the handle NOTE Do not drag the bag when emptying it will cause unnecessary wear RIVE CONTROL Self propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the handie and pushing the drive control lever forward until it clicks then release the lever Forward motion will stop when the operator presence control bar is released To stop forward motion without stopping engine release the operator presence control bar slightly until the drive control disengages Hold operator presence controi bar down to handle to continue mowing without self propelling To keep drive control engaged when tuming comers push down on handle and lift front wheels off ground while tuming lawn mower Dperator presence control bar Drive ontrol Drive control To engage disengaged drive control 3EFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the angine Be sure mower is level and area around oil fill is clean Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line on the dipstick Use 27 ozs of oil For type and grade of oil to use see ENGINE in Maintenance section of this manual Pour oil slowly Do not over fill Check oil level before each use Add oil if needed Fill to full line on dipstick To read proper level tighten engine oil cap each time e Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each
32. tcher often for deteriora tion and wear and replace worn bags Use only replacement bags that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your mower Always keep a sharp blade on your mower Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure Never store mower with fuel in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or an ignition source such as a hot water heater space heater clothes dryer etc ACAUTION Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up transporting adjusting or making repairs WARNING The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of Califomia to cause cancer birth defects or other reproductive harm ACCESSORIES These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced 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 D CLIPPING DEFLECTOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE GRASS CATCHERS FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS GI FOR SIDE DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS STABILIZER GAS CANS SPARK PLUGS ENGINE OIL MULCHER KITS GRASS CATCHERS ASSEMBLY
33. the drive wheels check both front wheels Remove hubcaps hairpin cotters and washers Remove wheels from wheel adjusters Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside the dust cover pinion and or drive wheel gear teeth Put wheels back in place If after cleaning the drive wheels do not turn freely contact your nearest authorized service center GEAR CASE To keep your drive system working properly the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build up Clean under the drive cover twice a season e The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory The only time the lubricant needs attention is if service has been performed on the gear case If lubricant is required use only Texaco Starplex Premium 1 Grease Part No 750369 Do not substitute ENGINE LUBRICATION Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SF SH or SG Select the oil s SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature SAE VISCOSITY GRADES ae eee HENNAS SAE 30 _ ae Ge PS k 207 o ao F 30 32 so Br 100 c ao 20 210 o 10 20 30 w TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE NOTE Although 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 mor
34. urned over SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS e Remove the cable clips Remove the controls and operator presence control bar from the upper handle Remove starter rope guide from upper handle e Remove hairpin cotters e Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets e Turm the handle over and reassemble the hairpin cotters that have been removed Reassemble the starter rope guide Reassemble the controls and the operator presence control bar to the upper handle ACAUTION The operator presence control bar must pivot freely to permit blade brake engagement when control bar is released Do not over tighten the fasteners holding the controls to the upper handle Tochange from medium low to high position only the upper handle section will have to be turned over Tochange from medium low to low position only the lower handle section wili have to be turned over Shipping Position Medium Low IN EN N Low syn High BEN 14 Lower Handle Squeeze to 2 Handie Bracket Hairpin Cotter TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER Insert leg of tubular frame through front opening of grass catcher and thread frame into sewn hem of bag NOTE Keep bag hem gathered on the straight leg of the tubular frame e When frame comes out the other end of sewn hem immediately work the end of frame down inside the bag as shown in inset Slide sewn hem evenly around the tubular frame until both ends of f
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