Owner's Manual

rRRFTSMRNo6.0 HORSEPOWER

ii0 REAR DISCHARGEROTARY LAWN MoWL_IF

Model No.917.387282

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance• EspaSol• 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 11Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13Assembly 4 Storage 15Operation 6 Troubleshooting 16Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 32Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITEDTWO 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 theowner'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 warrantyapplies 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 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 retuming the Craftsman power mower to the nearestSears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only whilethis product is in use in the United States.This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights whichvary from state to state.SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

Safety standards require operator pres-ence controls to minimize the risk of

injury. Your unit is equipped with suchcontrols. Do not attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator presencecontrols under any circumstances.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully.Become familiar with the controls and

know how to operate your mowerproperly. Learn how to quickly stopmower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower.Never allow adults to use mower withoutproper instructions.

• Keep the area of operation clear of allpersons, especially small children andpets.

• Use mower only as the manufacturerintended and as described in this manual.

• Do not operate mower if it has beendropped or damaged in any manner.Always have damage repaired beforeusing your mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments thatare not recommended by the manufac-turer. Use of such attachments may behazardous.

• The blade turns when the engine isrunning.

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughly check the area to bemowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,wires, bones, and other foreign objects.These objects will be thrown by the bladeand can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eyeshields when starting and while usingyour mower.

2

• Dress properly. Do not operate mowerwhen barefoot or wearing open sandals.Wear only solid shoes with good tractionwhen mowing.

• Check fuel tank before starting engine.Do not fill gas tank indoors, when theengine is running or when the engine ishot. Allow the engine to cool for severalminutes before filling the gas tank. Cleanoff any spilled gasoline before starting theengine.

• Always make wheel height adjustmentsbefore starting your mower. Neverattempt to do this while the engine isrunning.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your mowerand the area being cut. Do not let otherinterests distract you.

• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Neverrun while operating your mower. Alwaysbe sure of your footing -- keep a firmhold on the handles and walk.

• Do not put hands or feet near or underrotating parts. Keep clear of the dischargeopening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever youleave or are not using your mower, orbefore crossing driveways, walks, roads,and any gravel--covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material towardbystanders nor allow anyone near themower while you are'operating it.

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairingyour mower, stop the engine and makeabsolutely sure the blade and all movingparts have stopped. Then disconnect thespark plug wire and keep it away from thespark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Do not continue to run your mower if youhit a foreign object. Follow the procedureoutlined above, then repair any damagebefore restarting and operating youmower.

• Do not change the governor settings oroverspeed the engine. Engine damage orpersonal injury may result.

• Do not operate your mower if it vibratesabnormally. Excessive vibration is anindication of damage; stop the engine,safely check for the cause of vibrationand repair as required.

• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaustfumes are dangerous.

• Never cut grass by pulling the mowertowards you. Mow across the face ofslopes, never up and down or you mightlose your footing. Do not mow exces-sively steep slopes. Use caution whenoperating the mower on uneven terrainor when changing directions -- maintaingood footing.

• Never operate your mower withoutproper guards, plates, grass catcher orother safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine mount-ing bolts often to be sure they aretightened properly.

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws atfrequent intervals for proper tightness tobe sure mower is in safe workingcondition. ,:

• Keep all safety devices in place andworking.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the enginefree of grass, leaves or excessive greaseand oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-tion and wear and replace worn bags.Use only replacement bags that arerecommended by and comply withspecifications of the manufacturer of yourmower. , ,

° Always keep a sharp blade on yourmower.

• Allow engine to cool before storing in anyenclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel in the tankinside a building where fumes may reachan open flame or an ignition source suchas a hot water heater, space heater,clothes dryer, etc.

_I_CAUTION: Always disconnect sparkplug wire and place wire where it cannotcontact spark plug in order to preventaccidental starting when setting up,transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this productcontains chemicals known to the State ofCalifomia to cause cancer, birth defects,or other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessories were available when thislawn mower was produced. They are alsoavailable at most Sears retail outlets andservice centers. Most Sears stores can also

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

order repair parts for you, when you providethe model number of your lawn mower.Some of these accessories may not apply

CLIPPING DEFLECTORFOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERSFOR

REAR DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

to your lawn mower.

MULCHER KrrS

_'_} GRASS CATCHERSFOR

SlOE DISCHARGELAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR RLTERS SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual inits entirety before you attempt to assembleor operate your new lawn mower. Your newlawn mower has been assembled at thefactory with the exception of those parts leftunassembled for shipping purposes. Allparts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,necessary to complete the assembly havebeen placed in the parts bag. To ensuresafe and proper operation of your lawnmower, all parts and hari]ware you as-semble must be tightened securely. Use thecorrect tools as necessary to ensure propertightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROMCARTON

• Remove loose parts included withmower.

• Cut down two end comers of carton and

lay end panel down flat.• Remove all packing materials except

padding between upper and lowerhandle and padding holding operatorpresence control bar to upper handle.

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and checkcarton thoroughly for additional looseparts.

4

HOW TO SET UPYOUR LAWNMOWERTOUNFOLDHANDLEIMPORTANT:Unfoldhandlescarefullysoasnotto pinchor damagecontrolcables.• Raise handles until lower handle section

locks into place in mowing position.• Remove protective padding, raise upper

handle section into place on lowerhandles and tighten both handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holdingoperator presence control bar to upperhandle.

• Your lawn mower handle can beadjusted for your mowing comfort. Referto "Adjust Handle" in the Service andAdjustment section of this manual.

Operator presencecontrolbar

Lift up

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to beused as a mulcher. To convert to baggingor discharging:• Open rear door and remove mulcher

plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.• You can now install catcher or optional

clipping deflector.• To return to mulching operation, install

mulcher plug into discharge opening of

mower.

Mulcherplug_@

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawnmower without mulcher plug in place orapproved clipping deflector or grasscatcher in place. Never attempt to operatethe lawn mower with the rear doorremoved or propped open.

Lowerhandle

Mowingposition

5

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWERREAD THIS OWNER'S MANUAL.AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWNMOWER. Compam the illustrationswithyour lawn mower to familiarize yourself with thelocationof various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with theproduct. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP _DSOR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presencecontrolbar

Starte zone control cable

Handle knob

Grass catcher_

Airfilter

Mulcher plug

Engineoil capwithdipstick

Lawn mower housing

Wheel adjuster(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Seam rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the AmericanNational Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The bladetums when the engine is running.

Operator Presence Control Bar- must beheld down to the handle to start the engine.Release to stop the engine.Pdmer - pumps additional fuel from thecarburetor to the cylinder for use when startinga cold engine.

Starter Handle - used for startingthe engine.Mulcher Plug - located at the dischargeopening must be removed when converting tobagging or dischargingoperation.

6

The operationof any lawn mower can result inforeign objects thrown into the eyes, which canresultin severe eye damage. Always wearsafetyglasses or eye shields while operatingyour lawn mower or performing any adjust-ments or repairs. We recommend a widevisionsafety mask over spectacles or standardsafety glasses.HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CON'rROL

The engine speed was set at the factoryfor optimum performance. Speed is notadjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

,_,CAUTION: Federal regulations requirean engine control to be installed on thislawn mower in order to minimize the risk ofblade contact injury. Do not under anycircumstances attempt to defeat thefunction of the operator control. The bladeturns when the engine is running.• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar whichrequires the operator to be positionedbehind the lawn mower handle to start andoperate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTrlNG HEIGHT• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut.• Adjust cuttingheightto suityour require-

ments. Medium positionis best for mostlawns.

• To change cuttingheight, squeeze a_usterlevertoward wheel. Move wheel up or downto suityour requirements. Be sure all wheelsare in the same setting.

NOTE; Adjuster is properlypositioned whenplatetab inserts into hole in lover.Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped) allow leverto be positioned between the plate tabs.

LowerWheels for High Cut

_ Lever

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

• Close the flip lid.Rip lid must be closedwhile operalJng lawn mower.

• Lift the rear door on the mower housingandplace the grass catchar framo onto theformed tabs on the rear door hingebracket.

• The grass catcher is secured to the lawnmower housingwhen the rear door islowered onto the grass catcher frame.

_,CAUTION: Do not runyour lawn mower

withoutdipping deflectoror approved grasscatcher in place. Never attempt to operatelawn mower with the rear door removed or

propped open.

Hingebracket

Grass catcher

tabs

TO EMPTYGRASSCATCHER

• To remove grass catcher, release operatorpresence control bar to stop engine.

• Lift up rear door and remove the grasscatcher by the handle.

NOTE: Do notdrag the bag when emptying;itwill cause unnecessary wear.

7

BEFORESTARTING ENGINE

OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oilin theengine.• Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fillis clean.• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line

on the dipstick.• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of 6il

to use, see =ENGINE" in Maintenancesec_on of this manual.

• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill• Check onlevel before each use. Add oil if

needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.• To read proper level, tightenengine oil cap

each time.• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operationor each season. You may needto change the oil more often under dusty,dirtyconditions.

GAS

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.Purchase fuel in quantities that can be usedwithin 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) can attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids dudng storage. Acidicgas can damage the fuel system of anengine while in storage. To avoid engineproblems, the fuel system should beemptied before storage of 30 days orlonger. Drain the fuel tank, start the engineand let it run until fuel lines and carburetorare empty. Use fresh fuel next season.See Storage Instructions for additionalinformation. Never use engine or carbure-tor cleaner products in fuel tank orpermanent damage may occur.

Engineoil cap e fillercap

TO START ENGINE

• To starta cold engine, push primer five (5)times before tryingto start. Use a firm push,This step is notusually necessary whenstartingan engine which has already run fora few minutes.

• Holdoperator presence controlbar down tothe handle and pull starter handle qu_ly.Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

• To stop engine, release operator presencecontrol bar.

NOTE: Incooler weather if may be necessaryto repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weatherover priming may cause flooding and enginewill not start. If you do flood engine, wait a fewminutes before attempting to start and do notrepeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as verytall grass, it may be necessary to raisethe height of cut to reduce pushing effortand to keep from overloading the engineand leaving clumps of grass clippings. Itmay also be necessary to reduceground speed and/or run the lawnmower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce thewidth of cut by overlapping previouslycut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and mostcutting conditions, the engine speedshould be set in the fast position.

• When using a rear discharge lawnmower in moist, heavy grass, clumps ofcut grass may not enter the grasscatcher. Reduce ground speed (push-ing speed) and/or run the lawn mowerover the area a second time.

• If a trail of clippings is left on the dghtside of a rear discharge mower, mow ina clockwise direction with a smallovedap to collect the clippings on thenext pass.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers canbecome filled with dirt and dust with useand catchers will collect less grass. Toprevent this, regulady hose catcher offwith water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clearand clean of grass clippings and chaff.This will help engine air flow and extendengine life.

8

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPSIMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keepmower housing free of built-up grass andtrash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWERHOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning" inMAINTENANCE section of this manual.• The special mulching blade will recut the

grass clippings many times and reducethem in size so that as they fall onto thelawn they will disperse into the grass andnot be noticed. Also, the mulched grass willbiodegrade quickly to provide nutrientsforthe lawn. Always mulch with your highestengine (blade) speed as this will providethebest recutUngaction of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it is wet. Wetgrasstends to form dumps and interfereswith the mulching action.The best time tomow your lawn is the early afternoon. At thistime the grass has dried and the newly cutarea will not be exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results,adjustthe lawn mowercuttingheightso that the lawn mower cutsoft only the top one-thirdof the grass blades.If the lawn is overgrown itwill be necessaryto raise the heightof cut to reduce pushingeffort and to keep from overloadingtheengine and leavingclumps of mulchedgrass. For extremely heavy mulching,reduce your width of cut, mow slowlyandraise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel

adjustersetting higher than the front.• Certain types of grass and grass conditions

may requirethat an area be mulched asecond time to completelyhide theclippings. When doing a second cut, mowacross or perpendicularto the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from weektoweek. Mow northto south one week then

change to east to west the next week. Thiswill help prevent marling and grainingof thelawn.

't lr_ + MAX 1

9

r,.E OL*. E.V,CE SERVlC OATESCheck for Loose Fasteners ¥oClean/Inspect Grass Catcher

M CleanLawn Mower

O Clean Under Ddve Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)Check ddve belt/pulleys

E (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_ChecldSharpan/Replace Blade I/=

Lubdcation Chart II/ J IfClean Battery/RechargeElectric Stair MowersI b1' I I_4

E Check Engine Oil Level lJ'

N ChangeEngineOil ql/1,2G Clean Air Filter I_ =

I Inspect Muffler _#/N Clean or Replace Spark Plug i,/

E ReplaceAJrFilterPaperCartddge i,/2

1 - ChangeInOrJ on_ "NhM1operatingi_¢k_ 8 heart loado__ highilmbienltemperalure$.2. s,rye* mo_* oft,mwh_ opemllngk_dktyor dustycon_*_s.3 ° Repb_c*blades n'_* one*Y_*n mowt_ insandysoa.4 ° Char_ 48 hows _4e,x[o_suson.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does notcover items that have been subjected tooperator abuse or negligence.To receive fullvalue from the warranty,operator mustmaintain mower as instructedin this manual.Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodicallyto properly maintainyour unit.All adjustments in the Service and Adjustmentssection of this manual should be checked atleast once each season.• Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace

air filterelement and check blade for we_. A

new spark plug and clean/new air filterelement assures proper air-fuel mixture andhelps your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in thismanual.

BEFORE EACH USE

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

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATIONCHART').

LUBRICATION CHARTWheeladjusters

Brake spring

Engineoil

(_) Rear (_) Handle bracketdoorhinge mountingpin

(_) SPRAYLUBRICANT

(_) SAE30 MOTOR OIL REFER TOENGINE- MAINTENANCESECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease plasticwheel bearings.Viscous lubricantswill attractdustand dirtthat will shorten the lifeof the self

lubricatingbearings. If you feel they must belubricated,use only a dry, powdered graphitetype lubricantsparingly.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.387282

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER:

DISPLACEMENT:

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:

6.0

11.5 CU. IN.

1.5 QUARTS

IINI I=ADFD RI::_I]I AR

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

:OIL CAPACITY:

;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

20 OZS.

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

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 spaceprovided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performingany maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil,or insectcontrolchemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avo'd stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharpobjects and other hazards that may causetire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must bekept sharp. Replace bent or damagedblades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

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

• Use a wood block between blade andmower housing to prevent blade fromturning when removing blade bolt.

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

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise.

• Remove blade and attaching hardware(bolt, lock washer and hardenedwasher).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter andcheck the key inside hub of blade adapter.The key must be in good condition to workproperly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

• Position the blade adapter on the enginecrankshaft. Be sure key in adapter andcrankshaft keyway are aligned.

• Position blade on the blade adapteraligning the two (2) holes in the bladewith the raised lugs on the adapter.

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade(opposite sharp edge) is up toward theengine.

• Install the blade bolt with the lockwasher and hardened washer into bladeadapter and crankshaft.

• Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten theblade bolt, tuming clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heattreated.

11

TOSHARPENBLADENOTE:We do not recommend sharpeningblade - but if you do, be sure the blade isbalanced.Care should be taken to keep the bladebalanced. An unbalanced blade will causeeventual damage to lawn mower orengine.• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail intoa beam or wall. Leave about one inch ofthe straight nail exposed. Place centerhole of blade over the head of the nail.If blade is balanced, it should remain ina horizontal position. If either end of theblade moves downward, sharpen theheavy end until the blade is balanced.

Blade Crank shaft

adapter

Bolt CrankLockwasher Hardened Blade shaft

washer Trailing adapteredge

GRASS CATCHER

• The grasscatcher may be hosed withwater, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grasscatcher often for damageor deterioration.Through normal use it willwear. If catcher needs replacing, replaceonly with a manufacturer approvedreplacement catcher. Give the lawn mower

number when ordering.

ENGINELUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwith API service classification SF, SH orSG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity gradeaccording to your expected operatingtemperature.

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANT_ tpATEO BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi---viscosity oils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting incold weather, these multi--viscosity oilswill result in increased oil consumptionwhen used above 32°F. Check your engineoil level more frequently to avoid possibleengine damage from running low on oil.Change the oil after every 25 hours ofoperation or at least once a year if thelawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plugsecurely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drainoil, drain fuel tank by running engine untilfuel tank is empty.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on aclean surface.

• Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oilinto a suitable container. Rock lawnmower back and forth to remove any oiltrapped inside of engine.

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mowerand on side of engine.

• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL"line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and maybe damaged by using a dirty air filter.Replace the air filter every year, moreoften if you mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter cover by tumingcounterclockwise to the stop and pullaway from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

12

• Cleantheinsideof thecover and thecollar to remove any dirt accumulation.

• Insert new filter into cover.• Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to

tighten.

Collar Clip

Slot

mum

counter--:lockwisetoremove

Turn clockwise

to tightenAir filter cover

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as itcould create afire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year tomake your engine start easier and runbetter. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keepmower housing free of built--up grass andtrash, Clean underside of mower housingafter each use.

_,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure

air filter and carburetor are up. Clean theunderside of your lawn mower byscraping to remove build_up of grassand trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating. A clogged engine runshotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels freeof all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We DO NOT recommend using agarden hose to clean lawn mowerunless the electrical system, muffler, airfilter and carburetor are covered to keepwater out. Water in engine can result inshortened engine life.

,_.CAUTION: Before performing anyservice or adjustments:• Release control bar and stop engine.• Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped,• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place where it cannot come incontact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHTSee "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.REAR DEFLECTORThe rear deflector, attached between therear wheels of your lawn-mower, isprovided to minimize the possibility thatobjects will be thrown out the rear of thelawn mower into the operator's mowingposition.If the rear deflector becomes damaged, itshould be replaced.TO ADJUST HANDLEYour lawn mower handle can be raised orlowered for your mowing comfort. Four(4) positions are available: high, mediumhigh, medium low and low. Handles areshipped mounted in the medium lowposition.

• To change from medium low to mediumhigh position, the upper and lowerhandle sections will have to be turnedover.

• Remove the cable clips.• Remove the controls and operator

presence control bar from the upperhandle.

• Remove the starter rope guide from theupper handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters.• Disconnect the lower handle from the

handle brackets.• Turn the handle over and reassemble

the hairpin cotters that have beenremoved.

• Reassemble the starter rope guide.• Reassemble the controls and the

operator presence control bar to the,_upper handle.

CAUTION: The operator presencecontrol bar must pivot freely to permitblade/brake engagement when control baris released. Do not overtighten thefasteners holding the controls to the upperhandle.• To change from medium low to high

position only the upper handle section13 will have to be turned over.

• To change from medium low to lowposition, only the lower handle sectionwill have to be turned over.

Medium Low Medium High

ShippingPosition

Low

High

Squeezetoremove

Lower Handle

NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on thestraight leg of the tubular frame.• When frame comes out the other end of

sewn hem, immediately work the end offrame down inside the bag as shown ininset.

• Slide sewn hem evenly around thetubular frame until both ends of frameare exposed out of the front opening.

• Assemble lower frame to tubular frameas shown. Be sure handle is outside of

bag and frames are fully seated asshown in inset.

• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, holdthem in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.• Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed

while operating lawn mower.

,_CAUTION: Do not run your lawnmower without clipping deflector orapproved grass catcher in place. Neverattempt to operate the lawn mower withthe rear door removed or propped open.

Tubularframe

HandleBracket

Hairpin Clip

ENGINE

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixedmain jet for mixture control. If your enginedoes not operate properly due to sus-pected carburetor problems, take yourlawn mower to an authorized servicecenter-for repair or adjustment.ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has I)een factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor it may result in personal injury. If youbelieve that the engine is running too fastor too slow, take your lawn mower to anauthorized service center for repair andadjustment.TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• Insert leg of tubular frame through frontopening of grass catcher and threadframe into sewn hem of bag.

Sewn FliplidHem

._FLOWe r Frame

rames must be

_ $_,_1_ I ftJy seated)

Tubularframe

14

Lowerframe handle

Immediatelyprepare your lawn mower forstorage at the end of the season or if the unitwill not be used for 30 days or more.LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a periodof time, clean if thoroughly, remove all dirt,grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"

in the Maintenance section of this manual).• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

section of this manual.• Be sure that all nuts, belts, screws, and pins

are securely fastened. Inspect movingparts for damage, breakage and wear.Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand Iighlty before painting.

HANDLEYou can fold your lawn mower handle forstorage.• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower

handle toward each other untilthe lowerhandle clears the handle bracket, thenmove handle forward.

• Loosen upper handle mounting beltsenough to allow upper handle to be foldedback.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle forstorage or transportation, be sure to fold thehandle as shown or you may damage thecontrol cables.• When setting upyour handle from the

storage position, the lower handle willautomatically lockintothe mowing position.

Lower Handle•Bracket

Squeeze to fold

HairpinCotter

Oper_t¢Control Bar

FoldFor Storage

Lower Handle

ENGINEFUEL SYSTEM

MowingI Position

Also, experience indicatesthat alcoholblended fuels (called gasohol or usingethanolor methanol) can attract moisture which leadsto separation and formation of acids duringstorage. Acidic gas can damage the fuelsystem of an engine while in storage.

Drain the fuel tank.• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel

lines and carburetorare empty.• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanentdamage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptableaitemative in minimizingthe formation of fuelgum deposits duringstorage. Add stabilizertogasoline in fuel tank or storage container.Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizercontainer. Run engine at least 10 minutesafter adding stabilizerto allow the stabilizertoreach the carburetor. Do notdrain the gastank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine _warm)andrep_ce withclean engine oil. (See ENGINE in theMaintenance section of this manual).CYLINDER• Remove spark plug.• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark

plug hole into cylinder.• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to

distribute oil.• Replace with new sparkplug.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 willcause problems.

• Ifpossible, store your unit indoorsand coverit to give protectionfromdust and dirt.

• Cover your unitwith a suitableprotectivecover that does not retain moisture. Do notuse pla_c. Plasticcannot breathe whichallowscondensation to form and will causeyour unitto rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while:old engine and exhaust areas are still warm.Backward

_.CAUTION: Never store the lawn

mower with gasoline in the tank inside abuilding where fumes may reach an openflame or spark. Allow the engine to coolbefore storing in any enclosure.

IMPORTANT: It is importantto prevent gumdeposits from forming in essential fuel systemparts such as carburetor,fuel filter,fuel hose,or tank duringstorage. 15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEMDoes n_s_d

Loss of power

Poor cut- uneven

CAUSE

• Dirty air filter.• Out of fuel.• Stale fuel.

• Water in fuel.

• Spark plug wire isdisconnected.

• Bed spark plug.• Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.• Control bar in released

position.• Control bar defective.

• Rear of lawn mower housingor cutting blade draggingin heavy grass.

• Cutting too much grass.

• Dirtyair filter.• Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.• Too much oil in engine.• Walking speed too fast.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildupof grass, leavesand trashunder mower.

•Wom, bent or loose blade.

CORRECTION

• Clean/replace air filter.• Fill fuel tank.• Drain tank and refillwith

fresh clean fuel.• Drain fuel tank and

carburetorand refilltankwith fresh gasoline.

• Connect wire to plug.

• Replace spark plug.• "13ghtenblade belt or

replace blade adapter.• Depress control bar to

handle.• Replace controlbar.

• Set to "Higher Cut"position.

• Set to "Higher Cut"position.

• Clean/replaee air filter.• Clean underside of mower

housing.• Check oil level.• Cut at slower walking

speed.

• Replace blade. Tightenblade bolt.

• Set all wheels at sameheight

• Clean underside ofmower housing.

Excessive • Replace blade. TKjhtenvibration blade bolt.

• Bent engine crankshaft. • Contact an authorizedservice center,

Starter rope hard • Engine flywheel brake is onto pull when controlbar is released.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Blade adapter broken._- Blade dragging in grass.

• Depress controlbartoupper handle beforepullingstarter rope.

• Contact an authorizedservice center.

• Replace blade adapter.• Move lawn mower to cut

grass or to hard surfaceto startengine.

Grass catcher • Cutting height too low. • Raise cuttingheight.not filling (if so • Lifton blade worn oft. • Replace blade.equipped) • Catcher notventing air. • Clean grass catcher.

!Hard to push • Raise cuttingheight.• Grass is too highor wheelheight is too low.

• Rear of lawn mowerhousingor blade draggingin grass.

• Grass catcher too full.• Handle heightposition not

rightfor you.

• Raise rear of lawn mowerhousingone (1) settinghigher.

• Empty grass catcher.Adjusthandle heighttosuit.

16

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387282

(.oro 57

43

43

43

4O

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387282

KEY PARTNO. NO.

KEY PARTDESCRIP_ON NO. NO. DESCRIP_ON

O_co

1 869022 165451X4793 1504244 1320015 157081X4797 1319598 664269 51793

10 13637611 15657713 75009714 850733X00415 6360117 14761318 700357X47919 15005021 5458322 70(X)63X47923 8865224 700363X47925 144875X47926 14065728 151512X47929 151511X47931 15007832 700325)<00733 14663334 12841535 8787736 700331X00437 145935X00438 62335

ControlBarUpper HandleMulcher PlugRope GuideLower HandleHandle BoltWire TieHairpinCotterHandle KnobEngineZone ControlCableHex Washer Head Screw 10-24 x 1/2Up-StopBracketKeps Locknut 1/4-20Rear DoorAssembly KitBackPlateSolf TappingScrew 10-24 x 5/8Hex Head TappingScrew 1/4-20 x 1/2Rear BaffleHingeScrew 1/4-20 x 1-1/4Side BaffleDischarge BaffleRear DeflectorHandle BracketAssembly(Left)Handle BracketAssembly (Right)Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4Wheel AdjustingBracketSpacerPop RivetSelector KnobSelectorSpringAxleArmAssemblyBelleville Washer

39 14274840 15115742 8392343 7740044 8546345 15040646 16185747 75159250 14491551 85108452 85026353 85107454 14510655 85097756 14474857 16606958 ......

59 144747-- 161058-- 166631

ShoulderBoltWheel and Tire AssemblyHex Flange LocknutHubcapDanger DecalHex Head Thread RoilingScrew 3/8-16 x 1Lawn Mower Housing(Incl. Key #18, 22, 24, 44, 50)Locknut3/8-16FrontBaffleHex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd.8)HelicalLockwasher3/8WasherBlade 20"Blade AdapterTubeFrameGrassBagEngine- (See Breakdown)CraftsmanModel 143.996000ThroatFrameWarningDecal (NotShown)Owner'sManual

Availableaccessoriesnot includedwith lawn mower:71 33723 Hi-WheelKit71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gaL)71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer71 33300 SAE 33W Oil (20 oz.)71 33417 Dust Shield71 33316 MowerCover71 33303 Chute Deflector

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996000

I

O-370K

119

125

310

,3OO

34

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996000

KEY PARTNO. NO. DEscRIPTION

1 37266 Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 150)2 26727 Dowel Pin6 33734 Breather Element7 36557 Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 & 12A)

12 36775 Breather Tube12A 36558 Breather Cover & Tube (Incl.

12B)12B 36694 Breather Tube Elbow

14 28277 Washer15 30589 Governor Rod (Incl. 14)16 34839A Governor Lover17 31335 Governor Lever Clamp16 651018 Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32 x 19/64"19 36281 Extension Spdng20 32600 Oil Seal30 36793 Crankshaft40 40004 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.)

40006 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.010"OS)

41 36070 Piston & Pin Ass'y. (Std.) (Incl.43)

36071 Piston & Pin Ass'y. (.010" OS)(Incl. 43)

42 40006 Ring Set (Std.)40007 Ring Set (.010" OS)

43 20381 Piston Pin Retaining Ring45 36777 Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl.

46)46 32610A Connecting Rod Bolt48 27241 Valve Lifter50 36776 Camshaft (MCR)52 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y.69 35261 " Mounting Flange Gasket70 34311E Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru

83,306)72 36083 Oil Drain Plug75 27897 Oil Seal80 30574A Governor Shaft81 30590A Washer

82 30691 Governor Gear Ass'y. (Incl. 81 )83 30588A Governor Spool86 650488 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"89 611004 Flywheel Keygo 611112 Flywheel92 650815 Bellevilta Washer93 650816 Flywheel Nut

100 34443B Solid State Ignition101 610118 Spark Plug Cover103 651007 Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24 x 15/

16"110 37047 Ground Wire119 36787 * Cylinder Head Gasket120 36825 Cylinder Head125 37288 Exhaust Valve (Std.) (Incl, 151)126 37289 Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"135 35395 Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)150 31672 Valve Spring151 31673 Valve Spring Cap151A 40017 Intake Valve Seal169 36783 " Valve Cover Gasket

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

172 36784 Valve Cover174 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"178 29752 Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28182 6201 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"184 26756 " Carburetor To Intake Pipe

Gasket185 36785 Intake Pipe186 32653 Governor Unk189 650839 Screw, 114-20 x 3/8"191 36559A S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)195 610973 Terminal207 34336 Throttle Link216 33086 R.P.M. Adjusting Lever223 650451 Screw, I/4-20 x 1"224 36786 * Intake Pipe Gasket238 650932 Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"239 34338 * Air Cleaner Gasket241 35797 Air Cleaner Collar245 35066 Air Ctaansr Filter250 35065 Air Cleaner Cover260 36980 Blower Housing261 30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"262 650831 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"275 36790A Muffler277 650988 Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-5/16"285 35000A Starter Cup287 650926 Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"290 29774 Fuel Line292 26460 Fuel Line Clamp298 28763 Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"300 36916 Fuel Tank (Ind. 292 & 301)301 36246 Fuel Cap305 35647 Oil Fill Tube306 36996 * "O"-Ring307 35499 =O"-Ring309 650562 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"310 35648 Dipstick313 34080 Spacer370A 36261 Lubrication Decal370C 37199 Primer Decal370K 36695 Starter Decal380 640174 Carburetor (Incl, 184)390 690737 Rewind Starter400 36792B Gasket Set (Incl. Items Marked

-)416 36085 Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.

417)(Opticeat)417 650821 Screw, 8-32 x 3/8" (Optional)900 ---- Replacement Engine NONE900 ---- Replacement Short Block

750795B,order from 71-999---- RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: This engine could have been built with590694 starter

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm

35

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996000

_p--,.

KEYNO.

_m

124567

16171820

20A252728293O313536

36A374O444748

48A60

PARTNO.

64017463161563176763118463118364OO7065O5066318076510_5630766640018640O536318676310246320196310286310216310223O045A64008O63276663254764017527110A630748631027631027632760

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor(Incl. 184 of Engine PartsList)ThrottleShaft& LeverAssemblyThrottleRetum Spring

• DustSeal Washer• DustSeal_)

ThrottleShutter• ShutterScrew

Fuel F_ngThrottle CrackBorew/tdle Speed ScrewTensionSpringIdle Restrlct_ ScrewIdle RestdctorScrewCapRoat Bowl

• FloatShaftFloat

"Rest Bowl"O"Ring• InletNeedle,Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

Sp_ngClipPrimerBulb/RetainerRingMainNozzleTubeCarburetorTube

"=O" Ring,Main Nozzle TubeHighSpeedBowlNutBowlNutWasher

• WelchPlug, Idle MixtureWell• WelchPlug, AtmosphericVent• Welch Plug

Repairkit(Incl.ItemsMarked ")

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.996000

O--2

KEYNO.

12345678

11

12

13

PARTNO.

590694590599A59060059O69659060159069759O69859O699590700

590695

590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

RecoilStarterSpringPin (IncL4)WasherRetainerWasherBrakeSpringStarter DogDogSpdngPulley& RewindSpringAss'y.Starter HousingAss'y.(40 degree grommet)Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/64" dia.)Starter Handle

KEYNO.

I__

3678

11

12

1314

PARTNO.

590737590740590616590617590618A

590687A

590535

590701590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind StarterRetainerStarter DogDog SpdngPulley & RewindSpringAss'yStarter HousingAss'y(40 degree gromrnet)Starter Rope (Length98"x 9/64"dia.)Starter HandleSpdngClip

37

38

39

For the repair or replacement parts you needdelivered directly to your homeCall 7 am - 7 pro, 7 days a week

1-800-366-PART(1-800-366-7278)Para ordenar piezas con entrega adomicilio - 1-800-659-7084

For in-house major brand repair serviceCall 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-REPAIR(1-800-473-7274)Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n adomicilio - 1-800-676-5811

For the location of a Sears Parts andRepair Center in your areaCall 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

mmmmmn|mmmmn

For information on purchasing a SearsMaintenance Agreement or to inquireabout an existing AgreementCall 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or orderingparts, always provide the followinginformation:

• Product Type • Part Number• Model Number • Part Description

S£ARSAmersca's Repair Specialists

166631 10.06.98 TR Printed in U.S.A.