CRAFTSMAN M090 Gas Push Lawn Mower Instruction Manual

: July 14, 2024
: Craftsman

CRAFTSMAN M090 Gas Push Lawn Mower Instruction Manual

Record Product Information

Before setting up and operating your new mower, please locate the model plate on the equipment and record the information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operator’s position and looking down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary, should you seek technical support via our web site, Customer Support Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.

Model Number
Serial Number

WARNING
Read and follow all safety rules and instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine.
Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury – SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all models and the model depicted may differ from yours.

Important Safe Operation Practices

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands, toes and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

General Information

Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the mower and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this mower. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the mower and should be trained and supervised by an adult.
Never allow adults to operate this mower without proper instruction.
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your customer service representative for assistance.
According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an estimated useful life of seven (7) years, under ordinary use conditions. At the end of its useful life, have the product inspected annually to ensure all mechanical and safety systems are operating properly, safely, and are not worn excessively. Failure to do so may result in accident, injury, or death.

Preparation Before Operating

Thoroughly inspect the area where the mower is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.
To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay in the operator zone behind the mower handles. Keep helpers at least 75 feet (23 meters) from the mower while it is in operation. Keep bystanders, children and pets inside while the mower is in operation. Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction and do not point the mower discharge at anyone.
Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.
Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes, jewelry and long hair can be caught in moving parts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended.
Never operate mower in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1” (2.5 cm) below bottom of filler neck to allow space for fuel expansion.
Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
Use only accessories and attachments approved for this mower by the mower manufacturer. Read, understand and follow all instructions provided with the approved accessory or attachment.

Operating

Data indicates that operators, age 65 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries.
These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are losing your balance or footing; immediately release the handle.
Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and then follow these steps:
a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
Do not engage the drive control (if equipped) while starting engine.
The blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device inoperative and may result in personal injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade control must operate freely in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged (off) position when released. The cutting blade continues to rotate for up to three seconds after the blade control is released. Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you are certain the blade has stopped rotating.
If the mower should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
Never operate mower without the proper trail shield, discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control or other safety protective devices in place and working. Never operate mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.
When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could result.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain or hidden objects could cause a slip and/or trip accident. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Your mower is designed to cut normal residential grass of a height no more than 7” (17.5 cm). Do not attempt to mow through unusually tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves.
Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, helpers and the like. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.
Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to rotate for up to three seconds after the blade control is released. Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you are certain the engine is off and the blade has stopped rotating.
A missing or damaged discharge door, chute or mulch plug can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.
Do not operate the mower without the discharge door, chute, mulch plug or the entire grass catcher in its proper place.
Stop the mower blade when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting grass.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The muffler and engine become very hot and can cause serious burn injuries. Do not touch. Allow the mower to cool for at least five minutes before storing or attempting any service.
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep bystanders, children and pets inside while the mower is in operation under watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator. Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
Be alert and turn mower off if a child or bystander enters the area.
Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this mower. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the mower and should be trained and supervised by an adult.
This mower is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times.
This mower has been designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.
Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects that may block your vision of a child who may run into the path of the mower.
Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot engine or muffler.
If your mower is equipped with an Electric Start Push Key, remove the key when the mower is unattended to prevent unauthorized operation. Make certain the key is inaccessible to small children.

Slope Operation for Walk-Behind Mowers

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on the slope, do not mow it.
For your safety, measure any slope before using the mower on the sloped area. Use a slope measuring device in addition to the slope gauge included as part of this manual to measure slopes before operating this mower on a sloped or hilly area. Smart phone applications can be also utilized to measure slopes. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees (25%) as shown on the slope gauge or a slope measuring device, do not operate this mower on that area or serious injury could result.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees (25%).
Only mow across slopes, never mow up and down slopes.
The mower may speed up when turning downhill, always turn uphill. Maintain control of the mower at all times.
Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause slipping.
Do not operate the mower under any conditions where traction or stability is in question. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your balance or footing, release the blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop rotating within three (3) seconds.
Stay at least 3 feet (1 meter) from drop-offs, ditches, embankments or the edge of water. You could lose your balance or footing.

Fire & Fuel

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.
Only use an approved portable fuel (gasoline) container.
Use only containers certified by EPA, CARB, and/or OSHA.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least five minutes before refueling.
Never fuel the mower indoors.
Never store the mower or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.
If fuel is spilled, wipe it off the engine and mower. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris. Move the mower to another area. Wait at least 5 minutes before starting the engine.
To reduce fire hazards, keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Follow the instructions in the Service and Maintenance section to keep your mower free of debris.
Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1” (25mm) below bottom of filler neck to allow space for fuel expansion.
Replace gas cap and tighten securely.
Allow a mower to cool at least five minutes before fueling or storing.
Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

Service

Keep the mower in good working order. Replace worn or damaged parts.
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
Ensure the blade comes to a complete stop within (3) three seconds after operating the blade control. If the blade does not stop in less than three seconds, your mower must be serviced professionally by an authorized service dealer. Check for proper operation per the Service and Maintenance section.
Regularly check the safety interlock system for proper function, as described later in this manual. If the safety interlock system does not function properly, have your mower serviced professionally by an authorized service dealer.
Never tamper with the blade control safety interlock or other safety devices. Check for proper operation per the Service and Maintenance section.
Check the mower blade and engine mounting bolt torque in accordance to the Service and Maintenance section in this manual. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace the blade with the original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) blade only.
Use of service parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety.
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition. Check all hardware for tightness per the Service and Maintenance section.
After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating
Never attempt to make wheel cutting height adjustments or repairs to the mower while the engine is running.
Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are subject to wear and damage which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection, frequently check components and replace immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety.”
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.

Notice Regarding Emissions

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

When required, models are equipped with low permeation fuel lines and fuel tanks for evaporative emission control. California models may also include a carbon canister. Please contact Customer Support for information regarding the evaporative emission control configuration for your model.

Spark Arrestor

WARNING: This mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrestor is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

WARNING: This mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

WARNING: Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury or death.
The machine is heavy and can speed up when going downhill. Be prepared to maintain control of the machine. To avoid loss of control, operate across slopes, not up and down. When turning, turn uphill, not down. Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees.

Assembly & Set-Up

Contents of Carton

Lawn Mower (1)
Chute Deflector (1)
Hardware Pack (1)
Lawn Mower Operator’s Manual (1)
Engine Operator’s Manual (1)
Oil (1)
Registration Card (1)

Hardware Pack

Assembly
NOTE: This lawn mower is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Fill up the gasoline and oil as instructed in the Engine Operator’s Manual BEFORE operating your mower.

Handle
1. Remove any packing material which may be between upper and lower handles.
a. While pushing in on both sides of the lower handle, pull up and back on upper handle as shown in Figure 3-1. Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the handle mounting brackets. Do not crimp cable while lifting the handle up.
b. Tighten wing knobs to secure upper handle to lower handle. Make sure that each carriage bolt is seated properly in the handle.

a. Hold blade control against upper handle.
b. Slowly pull starter rope handle out of the engine and slip starter rope into rope guide. See Figure 3-4.
c. Tighten rope guide wing nut (a).
d. Insert cable tie into hole provided on the lower handle. Wrap around cable and handle, pull tight, and trim excess.

Chute Deflector
NOTE: Use the hardware in Group 2 to complete the following steps.
1. Align the holes on the chute deflector with the corresponding holes on the deck surface. See Figure 3-5.

2. Insert carriage screws (a) up through the underside of the deck and through the chute deflector.
3. Secure each screw (a) with a washer (b) and metal wing nut (c).

Adjustments

Cutting Height
1. Remove the shoulder screws (a), washers (b) (front wheels only), and nuts (c) from the wheels. See Figure 3-6.

2. Reattach the wheels with shoulder screws, washers (b) (front wheels only), and nuts (c) at one of the other two holes. Remember to attach ALL wheels at the same relative position to ensure an even cut. For a higher cutting height, use the lower hole on the deck. For a lower cutting height, use the upper hole.

Set-Up

Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for additional engine information.
1. Add oil provided before starting unit for the first time out of the box.
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the Engine Operator’s Manual.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and any other sources of ignition.

Controls and Features

Blade Control
The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower.
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

WARNING: This blade control is a safety device.
Never attempt to bypass its operations.

Primer
The primer is located on the left side of the engine. The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor and aid in starting the engine.

Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.

Operation

Starting Engine

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual for help with the engine.

1. Push the primer three times. See Figure 5-1. Do not prime to restart a warm engine.
NOTE: If you push the primer too many times, excessive fuel will flood the engine and it will be difficult to start.
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control against upper handle.
3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 5-1. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

Stopping Engine

Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the mulching baffle.

Using Your Lawn Mower
Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

Figure 5-112AGA2MP793

WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating.

Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

Maintenance & Adjustments

Maintenance
General Recommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed here.
Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.
All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

WARNING: Always stop engine, allow engine to cool, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

Lubrication
1. Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. This control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 6-1.

2. Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 6-1.
3. Follow the Engine Operator’s Manual for lubrication schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

Deck Care
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below for proper cleaning.

Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual.
Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
IMPORTANT: Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to the engine.
The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground.

Engine Care
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good performance by the mower are listed below. Follow the Engine Operator’s Manual for a detailed list and instructions.

Maintain oil level as instructed in Engine Operator’s Manual.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.
Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season. Check Engine Operator’s Manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the top of the engine clean to permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt, and combustible debris from muffler area.
Engines stored between 30 and 90 days need to be treated with a gasoline stabilizer to prevent deterioration and gum from forming in fuel system or on essential carburetor parts.

Service

Blade Care

WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service.

Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual.
Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are facing up.
Remove the bolt (a) and the blade bell support (b) which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 7-1.

4. Remove blade (c) and adapter (d) from the crankshaft. See Figure 7-1.
5. Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.
Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check.
Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly. When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.

WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal injury.
6. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade adapter (d) onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side of the blade marked “Grass Side” (or with part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges.
7. Place blade bell support (b) on the blade (c). Align notches on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.
8. Replace hex bolt (a) and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in-lb (min.), 600 in-lb (max.).
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct torque.

Off-Season Storage
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower for storage.
• Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the Lubrication section on page 1314.
• Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.
• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.
• Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual for correct engine storage instructions.
• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.