CRAFTSMAN 917.386620 Walk Behind Mower Owner’s Manual

SEARS
MODEL NUMBER 917.388620 OWNER’S MANUAL
EZ³

917.386620 Walk Behind Mower

• Assembly
• Operation
• Customer Responsibilities Service
• Adjustments
• Repair Parts

Caution: Read and Follow all Safety Rules and instructions Before Operating This Equipment
This product has alow emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, SAFETY STANDARDS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF INJURY. YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION-OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator’s manual carefully..Become familiar with the controls and know hew 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 accessoryattachments thatare not recommended by the manufacturer: Use of such attachments may be hazardous

• The btadeturnswhenthe engineis running

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughlycheck the area to be mowed and clear itof all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects 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.,
• Dress propedy, Do not operate mower when barefoot or weadng open sandals Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.
• Check fuet tank before starting engine. Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the engine is running orwhen the engine is hot. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before fillingthe 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.,

OPERATION:

• 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, waiks, roads, and any grave Fcovered 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 sure the blade and all moving parts have stopped Then disconnectthe 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.
  Foltow 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 personaf injury may result Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally° Excessive ration 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 danger-OUS,

• Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you Mow acmes the face of slopes, never up and down or you might loseyourfooting. Do not mow excessively steep slopes. Use cautionwhen operatingthe mower on uneven terrain erwhen 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 mounting bolts often to be sure they are tightened properly.
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condition_
• Keep aUsafety devices in place and working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, Eeaves or excessive grease and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deterioration 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..

** Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERTI!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: 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 California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn Mower° It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependabilit’y and performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/Departmento We have competent, welltrained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this lawn mower..
Please read and retain this manual.. The instructions wilt enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”r

MODEL
NUMBER 917.386620
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING.
YOUSHOULDRECORDBOTHSERIALNUMBERAND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEPIN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

EXHAUST: .008
SOLID STATE IGNITION MR GAP:| 0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:| 35-40 FT. LBS.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product, Contact your nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSiBILITiES

• Read and observe the safety rules..
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower°
• Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibilities” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual

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 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 during 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 INTHE 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

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

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

ASSEMBLY

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 assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness,

TO REMOVE CARTON LAWN MOWER FROM

• Remove loose parts included with mower’,
• Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down fiat°
• 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.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Fig. 1)
IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLES CAREFULLY SO AS NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES..

• Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position°
• Raise upper handle section intoplaceon lower’handle, remove protective padding and tighten both handle 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 and Adjustment section of this manual.

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS (See Fig, 2)
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a rnulcher, To convert to bagging or discharging:

• Open rear door’ and remove mulcher plug. Store muicher plug in a safe place.
• You can now install catcher or optional dipping deftectoro
• To return to mulching operation, install mulcher plug into discharge opening of mower,. Be sure all tabs are seated properly

CAUTION: Donot runyour 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.

TO ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH GRASS CATCHER (See Figs. 3A thru 4)

• Insert leg of tubular frame through front opening of grass catcher and thread frame intosewn hem of bag.
  NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the straight leg of the tubular frame.=

• When frame comes out the other end of sewn hem, immediately work the end of frame down insidethe bag as shown in inset,,

•  Slide sewn hem evenly around the tubular frame until both ends of frame 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 vinyr 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.

• Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the grass catcher frame onto the formed tabs on the rear door hinge bracket.

• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame,,

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.

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 tn literature supplied with the product Learn and Understand their meaning. MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotarywalk-behind power lawn mowers conformtothe safety standards of the American NationalStandards Institute and the U,S, Consumer ProductSafety Commission. The blade turnswhen the engine is running.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR – must be held downto the handle to start the engine, Release to stop the engine.
PRIMER – pumps additional fuel from the carburetorto the cylinder’for use when startinga cold engine,,
STARTER HANDLE – usedfor starting the engine,
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL – located on the side of the engine which allows you to select either fast ( )or slow ( ) engine speed.
MULCHER PLUG – located at the discharge opening must be removed when converting to bagging or discharging operation.
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 the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED CONTROL (See Fig, 5)
The engine speed is controlledby a lever located on the side of the engine, Fast ( ) positionis for starting the engine, normal cutting, and better grass bagging, Slow ( ) position isfor light cutting, trimming and fuel economy,,
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control, The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower°

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cuL Wheels are set in towcut for shipping, 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 requirements, Be sure all wheels are in the same setting

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 7)

• Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle,,
• Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle,
• Empty clippings from bag using both frame handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it wilt cause unnecessary wear.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine, . Be sure mower is leveland area around oil fill is clean.

• Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill to the full line on the dipstick,,
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. Fortype and grade of oil to use, see “ENGINE” inCustomer Responsibilities section of this manual,,
• Pour oil s{owly,, Do not over flit.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oit if needed. Fill to ful! line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time.
• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
• After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change the oii, and every 25 hours thereafter_ 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 (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce vatve life) 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’ carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent damage may occur°
TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer five (5) times before trying to start, Use afirm push. This step is not usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a few minutes°
• Push engine speed control leverto fast ( ) position.
• 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, releaseoperator presence control bar.,

NOTE: In cooter weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps In warmer weather over priming may cause flooding and engine will not start_ If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

•  Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, itmay 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.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower housing one (!) wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better discharge of grass.
• 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 (pushing speed) and/or runthe lawn mower over the area a second time_
• Ifa trail of grass clippings isleft on the right side of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass
• Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.
• Pores incloth grass catchers can become filled withdirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catchers off with water and let dry before using

MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH, CLEAN UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING AFTER EACH USE, SEE “CLEANrNG” IN CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES 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 willdisperse intothe 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 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 btades (See Fig. 8). If the lawn is overgrown it willbe 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 fronL
• 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 perpendicular to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from weekto 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,

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

1.  Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient lemperatures
2.  Service more often when operaltng in dirty or dusly conditions
3. Replace blades more often when mewing insandy 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 negtigence_ To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments wilt 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, replace air filter element and check blade for wear,. A new spark piug and clean/new air filter element assures proper air-fuel mixture and helps your engine run better and last longer,,
•  Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual..

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level..
• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”)
LUBRICATION CHART

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PLASTIC WHEEL BEARINGS, VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DlRT THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF THE SELF LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEELTHEY MUST BE  UBRICATED, USE ONLYA DRY, POWDERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY°
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.
TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.
  BLADE CARE
  For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.
  TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig. 9)

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plugand place wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.

• Use a wood block between blade and mower housing to prevent blade from turning when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwiseo Use a 9/16″ box or open-end wrench.

• Remove blade and attaching hardware (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 condition to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged°
TO REPLACE BLADE (See Fig. 9)

• Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and keyway in crankshaft are aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge is up toward the engine.
• Instaltthe blade bolt with the lockwasher and hardened washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ftoIbs..

IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEATTREATED.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade -but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced_
TO SHARPEN BLADE
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower’ or engine.
The blade can be sharpened with afile oron a gdnding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wail 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 hea_r_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 ordeterioration. 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.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwith API service classification SF or SG Select theoil’s SAE viscositygrade according to your expected operatingtemperature,

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 more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil, Change the oil after the first two hours of operation and every 25 hours thereafter or at least once ayear ifthe lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year,. Check the crankcase oil level before starling 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 (See Fig. 10)
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty_

• Disconnect spark pfug wire from spark plugand place wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug,
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface,
• Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil into a suitable container° Rock tawn mower back and forthto remove any oil trapped inside of engine
• Wipe off any spilled oii on tawn mower and on side of engine.,
• Fill engine with oil. Fi!l onty to the “FULL” line on the dipstick,. DO NOT OVER FILL,
• Replace engine oit cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug,,

AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more often if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions Do not wash air filter.,
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER (See Fig,,1t)

• Remove the air filtercover by turning counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from collar,,
• Remove filter from inside of cover,
• Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove any dirt accumulation,
• Insert new filter into cover.
• Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab with the slot,
• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to tighten.,

MUFFLER
inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and!or damage.
SPARK  PLUG Change your spark plug each year to make your engine start easier and run better. Set spark plug gap at ,030 inch,
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH, CLEAN UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING AFTER EACH USE.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and piace wire where it cannot come in contact with the spark plua.

• Turn lawn mower on its side., Make sure air filter and carburetor are up., Clean the underside of your Iawn mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash°
• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A ctogged 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

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

• Release control bar.
• 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 intothe operator’s mowing position. if the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced
TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Figs. 12 Thru 14)
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or loweredfor 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 lowto medium high position, the upper and lower handle sections will have to be turned over (See Fig° 12B)
• Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator presence control bar from the upper handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the lower handle°
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets (See Fig. 14).
• Turn 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.

CAUTION: 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.

• To change from medium low to high position only the upper handle section will have to be turned over (See Fig. 13A)
• To change from medium low to low position,only the lower handle section will have to be turned over (See Fig_ 13B)

ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a nomadjustabIe fixed main jet for mixture control. If your engine does not operate property due to suspected 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 runningtoo fast ortoo slow, take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair and adjustment.

STORAGE

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, etco Store in a clean, dry area°

• Clean entire lawn mower (See CLEANING Jn t e Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Customer Responsibilities 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 at! rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand lightly before painting_

HANDLE (See Fig. 15)
You 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.
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 lock intothe mowing position° ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEMPARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE tNDICATES 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_

• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty,
• Never useengine orcarburetorcleaner products inthe 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 fue! tank or storage container° Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizerto allowthe 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 (See “ENGINE” in the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual),
CYLINDER
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine oiL (See “ENGINE” in the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual),
CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug,
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into cylinder
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distribute oil.
• 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 indoorsand cover it to give protection from dust and dirt.
• 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,

IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER MOWER WHILE ENGINE AND EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.
CAUTION: Never storethe lawn mower with gasoline in the tank inside abuilding where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

REPAIR PARTS

ROTARY LAWN MOWER – – MODEL NO. 917.386620

KEY NO.| PART PART
O.| DESCRIPTION
---|---|---
1| 86902| Control Bar
2| 133088X479| Upper Handle
3| 150424| Mulcher Plug
4| 132001| Rope Ciiiirie
5| 151516X479| Lower Handle
6| STD541425| Locknut 1/4-20
7| 131959| Handle Roll
8| 151517| Cable Clio
9| 51793| Hairpin Cotter
10| 136376| Handle Knob
11| 130861| Engine Zone Control Cable
12| 74350424| Hex Head Bolt 1/4-20 x 1-1/2
13| 750097| Hex Washer Head Screw 10-24 x 112
14| 850733X004| Up-Stop Bracket
15| 73510400| Keps Locknut 1/4-20
17| 147613| Rear Door Assembly Kit
18| 700357X479| Back Plate
19| 150050| Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x 5/8
21| 54583| Hex Head Tape 4 Screw 1/4-20 x 1/2
22| 700063X479| Rear Baffle
23| 88652| Hinge Screw 1/4-20 x 1-1/4
24| 700363X479| Side Baffle
25| 144875X479| Discharge Baffle
26| 140657| Rear Deflector
28| 151512X479| Handle Bracket Assembly (I eft)
29| 151511X479| Handle Bracket Assembly (Right)
31| 150078| Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4
32| 700325X007| Wheel Adjusting Rmcket
33| 146630| Spacer
34| 128415| Pop Rivet
35| 87877| Selector Knob
36| 700331X004| Selector Spring
37| 145935X004| Axle Arm Assembly
38| 62335| Belleville! Washer
39| 142748| Shoulder Bolt
40| 146248| Wheel and Tire Assembly
42| 83923| Hex Flange I ocknut
43| 77400| Hubcap
44| 85463| Danger Decal
45| 150406| Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1
46| 48395| Lawn Mower Housing (Inch Key #18. 22. 24. 44 brn
47| 751592| Locknt tt 318-16
50| 700938X479| Front Baffle
51| 851084| Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grri 8)
52 –| 850263| Helical Lock-washer 3/8
53| 851074| Washer
54| 145106| Blade 20″
55| 850977| Blade Adapter
56| 144748| Tube Frame
57| 149844| Grass Bag
58| 152709| Ermine – Craftsman Model No.143.964010
59| 144747| Throat Frame
– –| 153511| Owner’s Manual

Available accessories not included with lawn mower:

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

CRAFTSMAN 4=CYCLE ENGINE

Piston Pin & Ring Set 010 051
41| 36070| Piston & Pin Ass’v. (St .) (Incl. 43)
41| 36071| Piston & Pin Ass’y. (.010° OS) (Incl. 43)
41| 360/2| Piston & Pin Ass’y. (.020″ OS (Incl. 43)
42| 40006| Ring Set Std.)
42| 40007| Ring Set .010° OS)
43| 70381| Pis nn Pin Retsina-xi Hing
45| 36777| Connecting Rod Ass’y. (Ind, 46)
46| 37610A| Connecting Rod Bolt
48| 77241| Valve I titer
50| 36778| Camshaft (MCR)
52| 29914| Oil PUMD Ass’v.
69| 35261| • Mounting Ranee Gasket
70| 34311 D| Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru 83)
72| 36083| Oil Drain Plug
75| 27897| Oil Seal
80| 30574A| Govemor Shaft
81| 30590A| Washer
82| 30591| Governor Gear Ass’y. (Incl. 81)
83| 30588A| Governor Spool
86| 650488| Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4″
89| 611004| Flywheel Key
90| 611112| Flywheel
92| 650815| Belleville Washer
93| 650816| Flywheel Nut
100| 34443A| Solid State Ignition
101| 610118| Spark Plug Cover
103| 65100/| Screw, i orx I -15, 10-24 x 15/16
110| 34961| Ground Wire
119| 36787| ‘ Cylinder Head Gasket
120| 36788| Cylinder Head
125| 36/ /9| Libaust valve (Std.) (Intl. lb/)
125| 36780| Exhaust Valve
(1/32′ OS) (Incl. 151)
126| 36781| Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)
126| 36782| Intake Valve (1/32′ OS) (Inc; 151)
130| 6021A| Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2″
135| 35395| Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)
150| 35991| Valve Spring
151| 31673| Valve Spnnq Cap
151A| 40017| Intake Valve Seal
| rlacl;ti:SiriTI| rarrIZTASSELI, –
172| 36784| Valve Cover

(NOTE: This engine could have been built with 590737 starter., Refer to the design of the rope pulley strength ribs for part identification, Individual starter parts do not interchange,)
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.& inches 1 inch = 25,4 mm

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

(Length 98″ x 9/64″ dia.)
13| 590701| Starter Handle
14| 590741| Locking Tab

TROUBLESHOOTING  POINTS

adapter
| 6| COntrol bar i■ rcleasid panto| 8| Conan tonal bar so swore
| 9.| Control bar delletwe| ES| RetiOnr cOntrOl bet
Loss ol pow a:| I| Rear of limn mower houranybale among In helm/ Was| 1| Set In ‘Weser Ct” Pan,
| 2| Cutting too mitts grass| 2| Sot Intiffin 04T DOS’
| 3| DM Si Stec| 3| CINGinnete Sr Mier.
| 4| Hang of Ginn leaves ono wish war mower.| 4| Cann Wenn, of mower bowing
| 5| Too much di as gales| 6| Check Oren,
| S.| Waning speed loo test.| 6.| Cut et down sating Speed.
ROOF CO – uneven| I| W00% nano loose Male| I| Replace blade lighten tirade boll
| 2| Wheel harsita uneven| 2| Sal elinvels el nano hOl311
| 3| Low engine spett| 3| Corral an Enilholza0 cornet. cantacidopannosni
| 4| Buill4p Of gran. naves. and trash undue:Moir| 4| Clean undwide ol moan noting
tionsive vexation| t| Wan bent or twee blase| I| Rennie bide 1101len Made boll
| 2| Bent engine embitter| 2| Canted en authorized beNce osmandepartnsil
Slants rope herd to poll| I| EnOno Sfittal Nate IS di Wien tend bar 4| I| Cesare., coital Wu to wow handle Wore puling starter rope
| 2| Ben angina crankshaft| 2| Contact an authorized seniors oenlerldaporment
| 3| MEW *login Roma.| 3| Roplre blade adapter
| 4| Wale dmpging In pan| 4| Mose Iran mower ben gran or lo howl stream/ to Ran core.
Gress widow not filling| I| Wing PtignI leo low.| 1| Rain &Ming height
01 so snuffled/| 2| lilt on blade wan off| 2| Replace node
| 3| Colones net sewing air| 3| Clean gran tinter.
| 4| Loaronglne speed| 4| Cana en AUV3043443 wok. conieddepertrent
Hard to push| I| Grant toa he a noel hegn t 15 100 loa| I| Rate esnr6 bight
| 2| RON °Hawn avow housinGtlade drallcir 2 in grass| 2| Raise rear ot Wan mower IsisieRg one IR wain; Inner.
| 3| Oran onto, sat ha| 3| Errpty gross catcher
| 4| Hands haNN panto not light hr you| 4| Aclust Sane taint la :di

4.0 HORSEPOWER
20″ REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Each lawn mower has its own model number. Each engine has its own model number.
The model number for your lawn mower will be found on a decal attached to the rear’ of the lawn mower housing. The model number for your engine wilt be found on the blower housing of the engine..
AII parts listed herein may be ordered from any Sears, Roebuck and Co. Service Center/Department and most Retail Stores..
WHEN ORDERING REPAIR PARTS, ALWAYS GIVE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

• PRODUCT- LAWN MOWER = MODEL NUMBER – 917_386620
• ENGINE – CRAFTSMAN
•  MODEL NO. 143o964010
• PART NUMBER
• PART DESCRIPTION

Your Sears merchandise has added value when you consider Sears has service units nationwide staffed with Searstrained technicians_, professional technicians specifically trained to insure that we meet our pledge to you, we service what we sell

References

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