CRAFTSMAN 917.377422 Ez Mulch Power Propelled Rotary Lawn Mower Owner’s Manual

CRAFTSMAN 917.377422 Ez Mulch Power Propelled Rotary Lawn Mower

Product Specifications

• Brand : Craftsman
• Model : 917.377422
• Type : Power propelled rotary lawn mower
• Engine : 6.5 horsepower
• Cutting Width: 22 inches

Product Usage Instructions

• Safety Rules
  Before operating the lawn mower, it is important to read and follow all safety rules and instructions provided in the owner’s manual. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the equipment.

Assembly
Your lawn mower has been partially assembled at the factory. To complete the assembly, follow these steps:

1. Remove all parts from the packaging.
2. Refer to the assembly instructions in the owner’s manual for specific details on attaching handles, adjusting cutting height, and installing accessories.
3. Ensure all nuts, washers, bolts, and other necessary parts are securely tightened.

Operation
Before starting the lawn mower, make sure you are familiar with the following operational guidelines:

1. Ensure the operator presence controls are not disabled. These controls are designed to minimize the risk of injury.
2. Do not operate the lawn mower in enclosed areas or near flammable substances.
3. Always disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting during setup, transportation, adjustments, or repairs.
4. Be aware that the engine exhaust contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your lawn mower in optimal condition. Follow these maintenance guidelines:

1. Refer to the maintenance schedule provided in the owner’s manual for recommended maintenance tasks and intervals.
2. Keep the lawn mower clean and free of debris.
3. Check and change the engine oil regularly.
4. Inspect and clean the air filter.
5. Monitor the condition of the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
6. Inspect and replace belts, blades, and other worn parts as needed.

Storage
Proper storage of your lawn mower is important to ensure its longevity. Follow these storage guidelines:

1. Clean the lawn mower thoroughly before storage.
2. Store the lawn mower in a dry and secure location, away from children and pets.
3. If storing for an extended period, consider draining the fuel or using a fuel stabilizer.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Q: Where can I find accessories and repair parts for my Craftsman lawn mower?
   A: Accessories and repair parts for Craftsman lawn mowers can be found at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. You can also order them by providing the model number of your lawn mower.

2. Q: Are there any specific accessories that may not apply to my lawn mower?
   A: Some of the accessories mentioned in the user manual may not be applicable to your specific model of lawn mower. Please refer to the product specifications and consult with a Sears representative for compatibility.

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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 tuned1.1p 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 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 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 f<1miliar 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 manufacturer.
• 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 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 properly. 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

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, 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 sure 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 excessively 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 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 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 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.
• CAUTION : Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transportirig, adjusting o 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

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

ASSEMBLY

• Read these instructions and this manual in its entirely 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 LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower.
• 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 handle carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle 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.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER Lower handle

• READ THIS OWNER’S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
• MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yours with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for More reference
• These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

• Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
• American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
• The blade turns when the engine is running.
• Operator presence control bar – must be held down to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop the engine. Primer – pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.
• Starter handle – used for starting the engine.
• Drive control lever – used to engage power- propelled forward motion of lawn mower.
• Mulcher – allows conversion to discharge or bagging 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 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
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.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pushing the drive control lever forward until It dicks; 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 control bar down to handle to continue mowing without selfpropelling.
• To keep drive control engaged when turning comers, push down on handed and lift front wheels off ground while turning lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high Clll.

• 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.
  NOTE : Adjuster is properly positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9- position austere (If so equipped) allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.

• NOTE : Your lawn mower has been shipped ready for mulching operation. To convert to discharging operation, you must install the discharge deflector attachment included with your mower.

TO INSTALL DISCHARGING

DEFLECTOR

• Lilt door upward on it’s hinge until the deflector frame can be hooked over the door mounting bracket as shown.
• Release the door to rest against deflector frame.
• To return to mulching operation, reverse the above steps and be sure door is in closed position.

CAUTION: Do not operate your lawn mower without mulcher door in closed position, discharge deflector in place, or approved grass catcher in place.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil fill is dean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line on the dipstick.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see “ENGINE” in Maintenance section of this manual.
• Pour 011 slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil fr needed. Fqih to full line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time.
• ReinstaH engine oil cap and tighten.
• 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.

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. Acicfic 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 dealer 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 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 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, It may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It may also be necessary to reduce ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast position.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction, starting at the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more evenly and puts less load on the engine. To keep clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock?/ice direction.
• 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 perfonnance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See “Cleaning” in MAINTENANCE section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will 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 fond clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades.
• If the lawn is overgrown It will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.
• • 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 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 ,

MAINTENANCE

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 acijustments 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, dean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and dean/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.
• LUBRICAllON
  • Keep unit well lubricated (See ‘LUBRICATION CHART”).

1. Spray lubricate
2. Refer to MAINTINANCE “ENGINE” SECTION.
   IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the sett lubricating bearings. tt you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

LAWNMOWER
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, ship 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

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and 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 fromV turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counterclockwise.
• 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

• Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway 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 of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock washer 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 ft. lbs
• IMPORTANT : Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

• NOTE : We do not recommend sharpening blade – but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.
• Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of blade over the head of the nail.
• If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)

• 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.

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.
• 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 Texe: co Starplex Premium Grease, part no. 750369. Do not substitute.

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 the drive wheels, check both front wheels.

• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers.
• Remove wheels from wheel adjuste~.
• 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.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION

• Use only high quality detergent oil rated with

• API service basification SF, SG or SH.

• Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

• 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 every 25 hours of operation orat least once a year ff 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. lighten 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.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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
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

• Remove the air filter by turning clockwise 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 tum counterclockwise 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-grass and trash. Clean the underside of your mower after each use.
• CAUTION : 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 knifes or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

CAUTION: Before performing any service and 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.

LAWNMOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation section of this manual.

• DISCHARGE GUARD
  The discharge guard, attached to the discharge opening of your lawn mower, is provided to prevent the possibility of injury resulting from objects being thrown out of the discharge opening into the operator mowing position. If the discharge guard becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

• 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 REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT

  • Remove drive cover. Remove belt by pushing down on gear case pulley and rolling belt off it.·
  • Tum lawn mower on its side with carburetor and fuel cap up.
  • 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.

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 turned over.
• Remove the cable clips.
• Remove the controls and operator presence control bar from the upper handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the upper handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets.
• Tum 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 overtighten 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.

To change from medium low to low position, only the lower handle section

will have to be turned over . ENGINE

• ENGINE SPEED
• Your engine speed has been factory set.
• Do not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe that engine is running too fast or too slow, take your mower to an authorized service center for repair and adjustment.
• IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine governor, which is factory set for the proper engine speed. Over speeding the engine above the factory high speed scan be dangerous. If you think the engine-governed high speed needs adjusting, contact your nearest authorized service center, which has proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments.
• CARBURETOR
  Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed main jet for mixture control. If your engine does not operate properly due to suspected carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair and/or adjustment

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the season or off the un will not be used for 30 days or more.
LAWNMOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a dean, 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 ff necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE
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 into the mowing 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 during storage. Also, experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanoQ 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 tt run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
• NOTE : Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
• Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least 1 O 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 mQ 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.
• H possible, store your unit indoors and cover tt 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 store the lawn mower with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

• 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 in-house major brand repair service
• Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• 1-800-4-REPAIR
• ( 1-800-4 7~-727 4)
• 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:
  • Product Type
  • Part Number
  • Model Number
  • Part Description
  • 166055 REV.1 02.12.99 V

Printed in U.S.A.

References

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