Owner's Manual
®
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" SIDE DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.387023
Safety
e Assembly
• Operation
o Maintenance
o Espa5ol
Repair Parts
CAUTION'.
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments t3
Assembly 4 Storage 14
Operation 6 Troubleshooting 15
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 32
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or 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.
o Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank,
shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained 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, ROEBUCKAND CO,, D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
TRAINING:
o Read this operator's manual carefully,.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
,, Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never aIlow adults to use mower without
proper instructions,
o Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets,
o Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
o Do not operate mower if it _hasbeen
dropped or damaged in any manner..
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower,
° Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
o The blade turns when the engine is
running.
PREPARATION:
o Always thoroughJy check the area to be
mowed and clear it of a]! stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects wilt 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 fil! gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when tile engine is
hot..Allowtheenginetocootforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthegastank.Clean
offanyspilledgasolinebeforestartingthe
engine..
Alwaysmakewheelheightadjustments
beforestartingyourmower.Never
attempttodothiswhiletheengineis
running.
Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificial
light.
OPERATION:
o Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you°
o Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. A!ways
be sure of your footing -- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
o Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times,
o Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walk,s, roads,
and anjj gravel--covered areas.
- Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
o Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
abso!utely Sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away fromthe
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
o Do not cOntinue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object, Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restart!ng and operating you
mower°
o Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
o Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; step the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required°
o Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
. Never cut grass by pulling ttte mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow exces-
sively steep slopes.. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when changing directions -- maintain
good footing,.
o Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place,
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
o Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts omen to be sure they are
tightened properlyr
o Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
o Keep all safety devices in place and
wo,rking,
o To reduce fire hazard, Reep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive grease
and oil,
° Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and. wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
,, Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
o Never store mower with fuel tn 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, 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.
3
.Theseacces_sorieswereavailablewhenthis lawnmowerwasproduced.Theyareals0
availableat mostSearsretailoutlets_ndservicecenters. MostSearsstorescan 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,
FOR REAR D1SOHARGE LAWN MOWERS ,, MULCHER KITS, .
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
'[.AWNMOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
; "_GRASS CATCII'I_RS
FOR
' SIDE DISCHARGE
:I_AWNMQWE'RS
BLADE AZ}A'PTERS ._HEELS
STABIL[ZP-R
GAS .CANS
SPARK PLUGS
E_GIt_E0_. I
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to. assemble
or operate your new lawn mower. Yo[_r
new lawn mower' has been assembled at
the factory with the e×ception 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 sefe and proper operation
of your lawn mower, al! parts and hard-
ware you assemble must be tightened
securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
sary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
o Remove loose parts included with
mower.
o Cut down two end corners of carton and
lay end panel down flat.
o Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and .lower
4
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
= Rot! lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
B_PORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
Operator presence
control bar "'-..
Upper handle ..... .--..,,,.,_,dft up/_'A_
, Lift up _'./_._____ _r
_. Z,::,,,z
r/ Mowing
position
Lower h
,, Raisehandlesuntillowerhandlesection
locksintoplacein mowingposition.
,, Removeprotectivepadding,raiseupper
handlesectionintoplaceonlower
handleandtightenbothhandleknobs,
• Removehandlepaddingholding
operatorpresencecontrolbartoupper
handle.
Yourlawnmowerhandlecanbe
adjustedfo[.yobrmowingcomfort.
Refer'to"AdjustHandle"in theService
andAdjustmentssectionofthis_anuaL
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING Y_UB LAWN
MOWER. Compare lhe illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product Learn and understand their meaning.
CAt_IT_ON ENG_N_ _NGINE FA_T SLOW CHOK_ FUEl, OiL DANOFR. K_EP HANDS
OR WARNING Ofl OFF AN[} FEE]" AWAY
Engine zone _erator presence
control cable control bar
- Upstop brackel
Starter handle
Handle knob
Cable clip
Gasoline fill cap
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Primer
Discharge
guard
Housir_g
Mutcher
plate
Wheel adjuster
(on each whee!)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of lhe 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 ttle engine.
Mulcher plate - Located at the discharge
opening must be removed when converting to
bagging or discharging operation.,
Theoperationofanylawnmowercan resultin
foreignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcan
resultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswear
safetyglassesoreyeshieldswhileoperating
yourlawnmower"orperforminganyadjust-
mentsorrepairsWerecommendawide
visionsafetymaskoverthespectaclesor
standardsafetyglasses
ENGINESPEED
Theenginespeedwassetatthefactoryfor
optimumperformanceSpeedisnotadjust-
able.
ENGINEZONECONTROL
CAUTION',Federalregulationsrequirean
enginecontroltobeinstalledonthisfawn
mowerinordertominimizetheriskofblade
contactinjuryDonotunderanycircumstances
attempttodefeatthefunctionoftheoperator
control..Thebladeturnswhentheengineis
running.
o Yourlawnmowerisequippedwithan
operatorpresencecontrolbarwhich
requirestheoperatortobepositioned
behindthefawnmowerhandletostartand
operatethelawnmower.
Lower Wheels lor Plate Tab
High Cut
Raise Wheels for
Low Cut
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
,, Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut
,, Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
merits 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, g-
position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever
to be positioned between the plate tabs,
Your lawn mower has been shipped ready for
mulching operation, To convert to discharging
or bagging operation:
TO CONVERT TO DISCHARGING MOWER
Your mower is shipped ready to be used as a
mutcher.. To convertto bagging or discharging:
,, Lift discharge guard and remove mulcher
plate.
o Mower can now be used for side discharg-
ing or optional grass catcher can be
attached
• To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plate in place.
Tab
Discharge guard
Mulcher
Piate
(
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 clean..
, Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill
to the full tine on the dipstick,
o Use 20 ozs. of oil.. For type and grade
of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual.
• Pour oi! slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use, Add oil
if neede& Fill to full line on dipstick.
o To read proper level, tighten engine oil
cap each time.
o Reinstall 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:Experienceindicatesthatalcohol
blendedfuels(calledgasoholorusingethanol
ormethanol)canattractmoisturewhichleads
toseparationandformationofacidsduring
storage,Acidicgascandamagethefuel
systemofanenginewhileinstorage_Toavoid
engineproblems,thefuelsystemshouldbe
emptiedbeforestorageof30daysorlonger.
Drainthefueltank,starttheengineandletit
rununtilfuellinesandcarburetorareempty..
Usefreshfuelnextseason_SeeStorage
Instructionsforadditionalinfonnation.Never
useengine or carburetor cleaner products in
fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
....I-_--------_ Gasoline
filler
Engine oil ....q__\-\
cap
capwidipstiok ",._._-- _.;_
TO START ENGINE
o 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 step& 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.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously cut
path and mow slowly..
o For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in
a counf6r-cloc#¢ise direction, starting at the
outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass
clippings more even!y and puts less load on
the engine. fo keep clippings off of
walt{ways, flower beds, etc., make the first
cuts in a clocl_ise direction.
7
. Pores in cloth grass catchers can become
filled with dirt and dust with use and
catchers will collect less grass,. To prevent
[his, regularly hose catcher off with water
and let dry before using_
o Keep top of engine around starter clear and
clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will
help engine air flow and extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of buibup grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing after
each use. See "CLEANING" 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 will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutnents for
the lawn.. AfwaYs mulch with your_highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades,.
o Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes
with the mulching action The best time to
mow your lawn is the early aftemoon,. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area 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 one4hird of the grass blades,
if the lawn is overgrown it wil! be necessary
to raise the height Ofcut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your Width of cut, mow slowly and
raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel
adjuster setting higher than the front
o 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
lawn.
Max 1/3
MAINTENANCESCHEDULE
SERVICE DATES
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
T-he warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or ,negligence, To receive
full value from :thewarranty, _operator must
maintain mower as ,instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will-need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual -should
be checked at least once .each season_
o Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean!new air filter element assures
proper aiP(uei mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
o Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
,, Check engine oil level.
- Check for loose fasteners
LUBRICATION
Keep Unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA-
TION CHART")
LUBRIICATION CHART
(_ -Wheel
\ adjuster _ Engine oil
/
(_) Handle bracket
mounting pin
Brake spring
bracket
(1__DlschaFge
guard hinge pin
(_ Sray lubricant
(_) Refer to CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
':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 self lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a d_,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly_
8
PRODUCT SPECnFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER 917.387023
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: &0
DISPLACEMENT: 11o5 CUd IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W.30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJIgL
VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - _008
EXHAUST _. :004.. ,008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: ,0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS,
" The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing,Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above
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.
o Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
° 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
objects and other hazards that may cause
tire damage
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Replace bent qr damaged blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE
o Disconnect spa_rkplug wire from spark plug
and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with spark plug.
o 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.
o 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,
o install the blade bolt with the rock 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 f1,,Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated_
Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise. Use a 9/I 6" box or open-end
wrench.
NOTE:Wedonotrecommendsharpening
blade-butifyoudo,besurethebladeis
balanced. Crankshaft
Blade .. _ keyway
adapter"_..z/_ ---m--.L
\ V'S <
bolt _ Hardened Trailing "Blade
washer edge adapter
Lock washer
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 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 Made 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)
o The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
o Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification 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 multiwiscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
I SAE V_E_OD_rTY GRADES ]
Check your' engine oil level more fre-
quently to avoid possible engine damage
from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year_
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oi! plug
securely each time you check the oil level,
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL.
NOTE: Befo[e 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 w]th spark plug.
o Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean
surface.
o 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,
o 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
o Replace engine oil cap,
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.
Container
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may be
damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the a!r filter every year, more often if
you mow in very dust/, dirty conditions. Do not
wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER
, Remove the air filter by turning counter-
cloclewise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
o 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.
4t'_
Put air filler cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot..
Push in on cover and turn clockwise to
tighten.
Clip
"rum
counter-
to remove
Air filter
Tab 'Turn clockwise
to tighten
Air filter cover
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 n._nbetter. Set
spark plug gap at ,030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTAN'f_ For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up 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
• Clean the underside of your fawn mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass and
trash..
° Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating A clogged engine runs holier
and shodens engine life.
o Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of
all gasoline, oil,etc.
o 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.
CAUTION: Before performing any setvice or
adjustments:
° Release control bar.
,' Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped..
° Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
piug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug,
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUrTING HEIGHT" in the
Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear
wheels of your mower, is provided to minimize
the possibility that objects will be thrown out of
the rear of the mower into the operator
mowing position. If the deflector becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard attached to the dis-
charge 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°
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 arid low. Handles are
shipped mounted in the medium low
position.
o To change from medium low to medium
high position, the upper and lower
handle sections will have to be turned
over_
o Remove the cable clips.
o Remove the controls and operator
presence control bar from the upper
handle.
,, Remove the starter rope guide from the
lower handle°
o Remove hairpin cotters,.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets_
o 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 overtlghten the fasteners holding
the controts to the upper' handle.
1I <....
Shipping position
_,__i Medium
High
\\
LOW
..,a
" To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be turned over.
o To change from medium low to tow
position, only the lower handle section
wil! have to be turned over.
Lower handle
\
Squeez e
remove
Hairpin clip Mounting
bracket
ENGINE
,CARBURETOR
.YourcaiStiretor has, a non-adjustable fixed
main_t for mixture c,ontroL Ii your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected
carburetor problems; take your lawn mower to
an au[hofized service center for repair and
adjustment.
ENGINE S_EED
The engine speed has been facto,_ set, Do
not attempt to increase engine speed as it
may result in personal injury. If you believe the
engine is runfling too .fast or too slow_ take
your lawn recover to an authorized service
center for repair and adjustment.
immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or ifthe 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 a}t di&
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a dean, dry area.
o Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
in the Customer Responsibilities section of
this manual).
o Lubricate as shown in the Customer
Responsib_ities section ofthis manual.
. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
aresecuretyiastened..Inspect moving
paris for damage; breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
o Touch up alt rusted or chipped'paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
,you can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
Squeeze the bottom ends oflhe lower
handle toward each oU_eruntil 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
handie as shown or you amy damage the
control cables.
. When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle Will
automatically lock into the mowing position.
X x Lower handle
N
Squeeze to
remove
Hairpin clip
Operator presence control bar
Upper handle ._.....
Lift up
Mounting
bracket
up
t
Mowing posflJor
Lower handle
12
ENGINE
FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT:ttisimportanttopreventgum
depositsfromforminginessentialfuelsystem
parissuchascarburetor,fuelfilter,fuelhose,
ortankduringstorage.Also,experience
indicatesthatalcoholblendedfuels(called
gasoholorusingethanolormethanol)can
attractmoisturewhichleadstoseparationand
formationofacidsduringstorage,.Acidicgas
candamagethefuelsystemofanengine
whileinstorage_
o Drainthefueltank.
o Starttheengineandletitrununtilthefuel
linesandcarburetorareempty,,
o Neveruseengineorcarburetorcleaner
productsinthefueltankorpermanent
damagemayoccur.
* Usefreshfuelnextseason.
NOTE:Fuelstabilizerisanacceptable
alternativeinminimizingtheformationoffuel
gumdepositsduringstorage.Addstabilizerto
gasolineinfueltank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor, Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual).
CYLINDER
,, Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark
plug hole into cylinder.
o Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oi!.
o Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
° Do not store gasoline from one season to
another_
o Replace your gasoline can if your can starts
to rusL Rust and!or dirt in your gasoline will
cause problems.
o if possible, store your unit indoors and 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 plaslic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and will cause
your unit to rusL
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 coot before storing in any
enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM CAUSE
Does not start * Dirty air filter°
o Out of fuel..
o Stale fuelo
Water in fuel.
o Spark plug wire is
disconnected,
,, Bad spark plug.
o Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.
o Control bar in released
position,
o Control bar defective_
CORRECTION
o Clean/replace air filter
• Fill fuel tank°
. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel,
o Dlain fueltank and
carburetor and refill tank
with _resh gasoline.
,, Connect wire to plug.
o Replace spark plug.
. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter,
o Depress control bar to
handle.
Replace control bar°
13
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
[.o--_ of power
CAUSE
o Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
o Cutting too much grass.
o Dirty air filter.
,, Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
o Too much oii in engine,
,, Walking speed too fast.
_oor cut _ uneven
Excessive
vibration
•3tarter rope hard
:o pu!!
Grass catcher
not filling (if so
...quipped)
Hard to push
o Worn, bent or loose blade,
,, Wheel heights uneven
o Low engine speed
o Buildup of grass, heaves
and trash under mower.
o Worn, bent or loose blade,
,, Bent engine crankshaft.
o Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
° Bent engine crankshaft.
,, Blade adapter broken.
o Blade dragging in grass.
o Cutting height too low.
o Lift on blade worn off.
,, Catcher not venting air,,
,, Low engine speed.
,, Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
o Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
o Grass catcher too full.
,, Handle height position not
right for you.
CORRECTION
-_ Setto "Higher Cut"
position,
• Setto "Higher Cur'
po.citiono
o Clean/replace air fitte[:
o Clean underside of mower
housing.
Check oil level
,_Cut at slower walking
spee&
• Replace blade. _ghten
blade boll ,
o Set all wheels at same
height
o Set engine speed con{rol
in fast position.
o Clean undelside of
mower housing.
o Replace blade. "tighten
blade bolt.
o Contact an authorized
service center.
. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
,, Contact an authorized
set€ice center.
,, Replace blade adapter'.
o Move lawn mowerto cut
grass or to hard surface
to stalt engine.
, Raise cutting height,,
o Replace blade°
o Clean grass catcher,
o Set engine speed control
in fast position.
o Raise cutting height°
• Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (I) setting
higher.
° Empty grass catcher.
,, Adjust handle height to
suit.
4 ,4
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ROTARY LAWN MOWER- -MODEL NO. 917.387023
KEY PART DESCRIPTION KEY PART
NO, NO. NO. NO.
DESCRIPTION
t 86902 Control Bar 36 850263
2 145646X479 Upper Handle 37 851074
3 850733X004 Up-Slop Bracket 38 145108
4 750097 Hex Wsh. }-lead Screw #10-24 x t12 39 850977
5 STD541425 Locknut 114-20 40 150078
6 156577 Engine Zone Control Cabie 4t 88272X479
8 151517 Cal31e Clip 42 88271 X479
9 63601 Nylon Locknut 43 85463
10 136376 Handle Knob 44 51793
t 1 t 4Q543 Rear Skirt 46 147286
12 701313 Engine Spacer 47 87589
13 87584X004 Skirt Bracket 48 87593
t4 15t665X479 Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) 49 750149
15 151667X479 Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) 50 157081X479
17 750085X007 Wheei Adiusting Bracket 51 131959
!8 146630 Spacer 52 103672X
20 87877 Selector Knob 56 ......
2! 700331X004 Selector Spring
22 145935X004 Axle Arm Assembly 57 751772X479
23 62335 Belleville Washer - - 87576X479
24 o 142748 Shoulder Bolt - - 152095
25 146248 Wheel and Tire AssembIy - - 161303
26 83923 Hex Flange Locknut 3/8-16 - - 128415
27 53998 Fiat Washer
28 77400 Hubcap
29 850999 Hex Head Se]f4applng Screw 3/8-16 × 1-1/8
30 48403 Lawn Mower Housing Kit (Incl. Rel, #31, 43'}
31 701706X479 Front Baffle
32 751592 Locknut 318-16
35 851084 Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x t-3/8
(Gr. 8}
Hellcat Lockwasher 3/8
Hardened Washer
20" Mulching 8tade
Blade Adapter
Self Tapping Screw 5/t6-t8 x 3/4
Handle Support Bracket (Right)
Handle Support 8rackel (Left]
Danger Decal
Hairpin Cotter
Hinge Roa
Torsion Spnng
Housing Bracket Assembly
Discharge Guard
Lower Handle
Handle Bott
Rope Guide
Engine - (See Breakdown) Craftsman
Model I43.974036
Muicher Plate
Rear Baffle (Not Shown)
Dec:a(-EZ.
Owner's Manuai (EnglishtSpantsh)
Pop Rivet .I56 x .415 (Not shoran}
Available accessor{es not included with lawn mower:
71 33072 Grass Catcher
7__33823 Gas Can (2.5 gal.}
ZJ..33500 Fuel Stabilizer
"/'1.._.33300 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
Z.I_I33723 High Wheel Kit
7.1 33316 Mower Cover
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143,9/'4036
26t
4OO
195
32
CRAFTSMAN4-CYCLEENGINE • MODEL NUMBER 143,974036
REF PART
NO. NOo DESCRIPTION
36470A
2 26727
6 337,34
7 36557
t 2A 36558
t2B 34695 '-
14 28277
15 30589
16 32651
17 31335
I8 .651018....
19 36281
20 32600
30 34460A
40 34514
40 34515 -
40 34516
41 ; . 325388.
.41 3254-88.,.
• '¢i."
41 32549B
42 28986
42 28987
42 28988
43 20381,
45" 309638:
46 32610A
48 27241
50 36726
52 299t4
69 35261 "
70 3565IE
72 36083
75; 262q8
80 30574A
8I -30590A
82 30591
83 305QSA
86 650488
69 611004
9Q 611112
92 650815
93 650816
t00 34443A
101 610118
103 651007
110 34961
1!9 36437 "
t20 36474
I25 36471
125 36472
126 29314B
t26 29315C
130 6021A
135 25395
150 35991
t51 31673
Cylihder .....
(Incl.. 2,7.20, I25.169';172_ 174}
Dowel Pin
Breather Element
Breather &ss'yi(tnct. 5 & t2A).
Breather Cover &Tube (lncl. t28)
Breather Tube Elbow
Washer
Goveroor R0d:(Incl t4)
Governor Lever
Gqvem0r Lever Clamp.
Screwr Tot× :Tq 5, 8:32-x I9t64.!'
Extension Spring
Oil.Seal
Crankshaft
Piston, Pin & Ring set (Std.)
Piston, Pin & Ring Se_(010" OSi
Piston, Pin & Ring Set {.020" OS)
Piston & Pin Ass[y (Std) (Ih.el,.43)
Piston & Pin Ass'y.
.(.010" OS) (lncL 43} ..........
Piston & Pin Ass'y,
(.020" OS) (lncL 43). :
#itng Set (Std,) ..
Ring Set (010""0S) _'
Ring Set (.020" OS) : '"
Piston Pin Retaining Ring
ConnecllngRod Ass'y (IncL 46)
Connecling Rod Bolt
Valve Lifter
Camshalt (RCR)
Oil Pump. Ass'y
Mounling Flange Gasket
Mounting F,ange {lnc172 lhru 83)
Oi1Drain Ptug
:Oil Seal :',.. :,.,'
Governor Sha[_ "" " '
Washer -: . "" .:_
Governor Gear Ass'y (fncL81)
Governor Spool
Screw, 1t4-20 x 1-114"
Flywheel Key
Eywlleel
Belteville Washe_;
Flywheel Nut
Solid State Ignition
Sparrk Plug Cover
Screw, Torx T..15, 10-24 x 15,ti6"
Ground Wire
Cylinde# Head Gaskel
Cylinder' Head
Exhaust Valve (Std_)({ncl. 151)
Exhaust Valve
(1t32',O8) (IncL.151) .
Intake Valve (Std.) (lncL I5:f)
Intake Valve (1/32" OS) (fnCt I5t)
Screw; 5116-18 x I-t/2"
•Resistor Spark Plug (RJ t 9LM)
Valve Spdng
Valve Spring Cap
REF PART
NO. NO.
DESCRIPTION
169 27234A _
172 32755
174 30200
I78 29752
!82 620I,
184 26756 "
I85 36544
,186 32653
,189 650839
_,191 36559 -_
195 610973
.207- 34336
2t6 33086
223 650451.
224 34690A _'
238 650932
239 34338 "
24I 35797
. 245 ,, 35066
250 35065
260 36915
261 30200
262 650831
275 36473
277 650988
285 35000A
287 650926
290 30705
292 26460
298 28763
300 36916
301 36246
305 35647
3436 36£96 *
307 35499
3Q9 .650562
"3t0 35648 _
313. 34080
370A 36261
370C 36861
370K 36695
380' 632744
390 590694
400 36475
4t6 36085
417 650760
900
900 _
valve Cover Gasket
Valve Cover
Screw, t0-24 x 9/16"
Nut & Lock Washer, t/4-28
Screw, t/4-28 x 7/81'
Carburetor To Intake Pipe Gasket
_ntake Pipe
Governor Link
Screw, 1/4:20 x 3/8"
SE, Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)
Terminal
Throttle Link
R P.M. Adjusting Lever
.Screw;, 114:20 x t"
Intake Pipe Gasket
Screw, 10-32 X49164"
Air. C_eaner Gasket
Atr Cleaner CoIlar
AIrCleaner Filter
Air Cleaner Cover
Blower Housing
Screw, 10-24.x 9/I6"
Screw, 1f4-20 x _1f2"
Muffler (incl, 277)
Screw, 1-/4-20× 2-5/i6"
Starter Cup
Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"
- Fuel Une '
Fuel Line Clamp
Sdrew, 10-32 X 35164"
Fuel Tank gncL 292 & 301)
Fuel Cap
Oil Fill Tube
"O"-Ring
"O"-Rtng
' Screw, 10.32 x !/2 _
Dipstick
Spacer .. •
Lubrication Decal
Primer Decal
Starter Deca_
Carburetor (tnol, 184)
Rewind Starter ..
Gasket Set (include items marked
,)
Spark Arrestor Kit
.(incl..417)(Optional)
Screw, 8-32 x 3/8" {Optional)
Replacement Engine NONE
Replacement S/B 750674A,
order from 71-999
RPM High 2900 to 3200
(NOTE: This engine could have been built with
590737 stader Refer to the design of lhe rope pulley
strength ribs lot part identification, individual starter
parts dO not interchange)
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S,. inches
1 inch = 25.4 mm
33
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER143,974036
6¸
ILii
t
REF
NO,
1
2
4
5
6
7
I6
25
27
26
29
30
31
35
36
37
4O
44
48
PART
NO. DESCRIPTION
631615
631767
631184
631183
632504
650506
631776
631867
631024
32019
631028
631021
631022
36045
632745
632547
632746
27110
631027
632744
Throttle Shaft & Levar Assembly
Throttle Return Spring
Dust Seal Washer
Dust Seal (Throttle)
Throffle Shutter
Shutter Screw
Fuel Fitting
Float Bowl
Float Shaft
Float
Float Bowl "O" Ring
Inter Needle, Seat, &CItp (IncL 3!)
Spring Cllp
Primer Butb/Retainer Ring
Main Nozzle Tube
"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube
High Speed Bo_ Nut
Bowl Nut Washer
Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent
Carburetor
(tncL 184 of Engine Parts List)
34
CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER143,974036
="1 !
REF PART
NO, NO, DESCRIPTION
1 590599A Spring Pin (Inct 4)
2 590600 Washer
3 590696 Retainer
4 590601 Washer
5 590697 Brake Spdng
6 590698 Starter Dog
7 590699 Dog Spring
8 590700 Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y.
1! 590695 Starter Housing Ass'y.
(40 degree grommet)
I2 590535 Starter Rope (98" X 9/64" dia)
I3 590701 Starter Handle
590694 Recoil Starter
REF PART
NO- NO,, DESCRIPTION
t2
t3
14
.q.£
690740 Retainer
5906 t 6 Starter Dog
590617 Dog Spring
5906t8A Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y
590687A Starter Housing Ass'y
(40 degree g_ommet)
590535 Starter Rope
(Leng_,h98" x 9/64" dta,)
590701 Starter Handte
590741 Locking Tab
590737 Rewind Starter
For 1he iepair or replacement parts you need
deliverg,d directly to your home
Call 7 am - 7 pro, 7 days a week
1-800:..366-PART
(1-800-366-7278)
Para ordenar piezas con entrega a
domicili0 .- 1-800-659-7084
i
For" in-h.0,use major brand repair service
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
l o80 ;4..REPAIR
(I-800-4_3:7274)
Para pedi_- servicio de reparacidn a
domicilio - 1-800-676-5811
f
For the focation of a Sears Parts and
Repair Center in your area
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-488..1222
For' inf6r:niation on purchasing a Sears
Maintenance Agreement or to inquire
about an existing Agreement
Call 9 am - 5 pro, Monday-Saturday
1-.800 .827°6655
When requesting service or ordering
parts, airways provide the following
informat!£_
• Product T.£pe o Part Number
° Model N'ember ° Part Description
Amertcas Repacr .,.qpeclailsts
161303 07.,15o97 REV,1 VB Printed in U,S,A.
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- español: Sears 917.387023 Manual de usuario