Craftsman 917


#### ®

####### MODEL NUMBER 917.: OWNER'S MANUAL

Convertible

########### • Assembly"Operation" Customer

Responsibilities

########### • Service

########### • Repair Parts

Caution: Read and Follow all Safety Rules _nd Instructions Before Operating This Equipment

IrllllllllllllllllIIII¸ I111111111111111111111!IIIIIII111IIIHIII IIIIIIIHII! IIIII ...............................................


############# SAFETY RULES

############# REPA,RS. IMPORTANT

SAFETY STANDARDS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCECONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK,OF INJURY, YOUR UNff IS EQUIPPED WiTH SUCH CONTROLS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES,

###################### TRAINING:

° Always stop the blade whenever you leave or are not using your mower, or before crossing driveways, walks, roads, and any gravel-covered areas.

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.

Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially small children and pets.

= Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Always have damage repaired before using your mower.

o Do not continue to run your mower if you hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure outlined above, then repair any damage before restarting and operating you mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments that are not recommended by the manufacturer. Use of such attachments may be hazardous.

Be aware that the blade turns when the engine is running.

###################### PREPARATION:

° Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are danger-

ous.

° Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down or you might lose your footing. Do not mow excessively steep slopes. Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain or when changing directions - maintain good footing.

• Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety devices in place.

###################### MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

° Check fuel tank before starting engine. Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the engine is running or when the engine is hot. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine.

proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condition.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

####################### ...................................................................................................................................................................................................orexcessivegreaseandoil,...................................................................................................................................................... OPERATION:

° Check grass catcher often for deterioration and wear and replace worn bags. Use only replacement bags that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your mower.

o Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being cut. Do not let other interests distract you.

AIways keep a sharp blade on your mower.

Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

ii i,illll : ........................... rll ............................

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. I IT MEANS ATTENTION!!! BECOME ALERT!t! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. 1

#################### 2


PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS HORSEPOWER: 4.0 DISPLACEMENT: 1!.5 CU. IN. GASOLINE CAPACITY 1.5QUARTS AND TYPE; UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (APt-SG): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn Mower. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best posSible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easi}y remedy, please contact your nearest Sears AUthorized Service Center/Department. We have competent, welltrained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this lawn mower.

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS. SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJt9-LM (GAP: ,030") STD361458 VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .008"

Please read and retain this manual: The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower properly. Always observe the SAFETY _RULES".

MODEL NUMBER 917.383242

EXHAUST: .008"

SERIAL NUMBER

SOLID STATE IGNITION AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

DATE OF PURCHASE

BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS,

THE MODELAND SERIALNUMBERSWILL BE FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

MADNTENANCE AGREEMENT A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES o Read and observe the safety rules.

• Fellow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower. Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

################# LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Moweris used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

WARRANTY SERVICE fSAVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES, THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE IN THE UNITED STATES.

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179


####### TABLE OF CO TENTS

SAFETY RULES ....................... _..... ,, ........ . .................... 2 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ............. ,......................... 3 CUSTOMER RESPONSIBIMTIES ..................... 3,.11-13 WARRANTY .................................................... ...o...... ,o.3 ASSEMBLY ................................................................... B OPERATSON ............... ......................... :......................... 8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 11 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............... .................. 14 STORAGE ........................ ,........................................... 15

TROU BLESHOOTtNG ..;;;..,:........................................ 21 RE PAlR PARTS - LAWN:MOWER ........................ I6-17 REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE ..................................... 18-20 PARTS ORDERINGISERV}CE ................ BACK COVER

######### iNDEX

#################### E

A Accessories ...................................... 5 Adjustments:

Operation: Engine Control .......................... 9 Grass Catcher ...................... :... 9 Mower ....................................... 9 Operator Presence Control Bar ............................... 9

Engine: Air Filter .................................. 13 Oil Change .............................. I3 Oil Level .................................. 13 Oil Type ................................. :13 Starting ..................................... 10 Stopping .................................. 10 Storage ................................... i 5

Carburetor .............................. 14 Engine Speed ......................... 14 Handle Height, ................... ;.... 14 Height of Cut ............................. 9

Options:

Air Filter:

Accessories ............................... 5 F

Replacement .......................... 13 Service .................................... t 3

Ft

Assembly ........................................ 6

Fuel:

Repair Parts: Engine ....::......................... 18-20 Lawn Mower ...................... !6-17

Capacity .................................... 3 Storage ................................... !5 Type .......................................... 9

E} Blade:

Responsibilities, Customer ..3, 11-13 H

Sharpening ............................. 12 Replacement .......................... 12

S Safety Rules .................................... 2 Service and Adjustments ..................

Handle Adjustment:

C Controls:

Assembly ........ .......................... 6 Cutting Height ....................... ,.. 9

Carburetor .............................. 14 Engine Speed ......................... 14 Handle .................................... t 4

Engine Zone Control ................. 9 Engine Speed Control .............. 8 Operator Presence Control Bar 8

L Lubrication:

Spark plug .................................... 13 Specifications .................................. 3 Speed Controh

Customer Responsibilities ...3, 11-13 Air Filter .................................. 13 Blade Care/Replacement .....,, 12 Engine .................................... 13 Lubrication ................... _.......... 13 Spark Plug ...............;.....i....,..,i3

Engine i 3 Lawn Mower 11

M Maintenance Agreement .........,_........3 Maintenance Schedule .................. ! 1 Mowing Tips ............... ................... 10

E ng!ne ...................................... 9 Starting the Engine..: ..................... I0

Stopping the Engine ....................... 10 Storage ......................................... 15

Cutting Levels ............................ _....9

O Oil:

T TroubleShooting Chart ................. 21

...............................................................................................................................Engine,,,,,,........................... t3 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... Storage ................................... ! 5 W

Warranty ......................................... 3

4


####### LAWN ACCESSORIES

i

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the modeJ number of your lawn mower° Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

ENGmNE

SPARK PLUG MUFFLER AIR FILTER

GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABiLiZE R

if tawn mower is an electric start

################# LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

DUST SHIELD

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

REAR BAG OPTIONAL

FABRIC BAG

###################### SIDE DISCHARGE CATCHER

REPLACEMENT BAG FOR REAR

OPTIONAL

CATCHER FOR

DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

SiDE DISCHARGE LAWN MOWER

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

. _ .... _..

BELT BLADE

BLADE

ADAPTER..


######## ASSE LY

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower. Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembied for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have bee n placed in the parts bag, To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLBAR

UPPER:HANDLE

################## TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON

MOWING POSITION

Remove loose parts included with mower. Cut down two end corners of carton and tay end pane] down flat.

• Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle. '

, Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Fig. 1)

IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLES CAREFULLY SO AS NOT TO P1NCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES.

Raise upper handle section into place on lower handle, remove protective padding and tighten both handle knobs.

MULCHER PLATE TABS

FiG. 2

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without muicher plate in place or approved clipping deflector or grass catcher in place, Never attempt to op-

i crate the lawn mower with the rear door ,removed or propped open.

TO iNSTALL ATTACHMENTS (See Fig. 2)

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mutcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

Open rear door and remove mutcher ptate. Store mulcher pfate in a safe place.

........You can now.install catcher or optional clipping deffec .......

###################### tor.

To return to mulching operation, install mulcher plate into discharge opening of mower. Be sure all tabs are seated properly.


###### MBLY

#################### TO ASSEMBLE & ATTACH GRASS CATCHER (See Figs, 3 & 4) o Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part

m

########################## CATCHER FRAME

of bag on the bottom. Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top.

• SJipvinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, h0fd them in warm water for a few minutes. If bag gets wet, let it dry before using,

\

Lift the rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame side hooks onto the handle bracket hooks.

FRAME OPENING

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

FiG. 3

DOOR

GRASS CATCHER FRAME

FORMED TABS

• • m,,,, ,J ,,L

######################## FiG. 4


##### OPERATION

################## KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the tocation of various controls and adjustments, Save this manual for future reference_

OPERATORPRESENCECONTROLBAR :=

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL CABLE

STARTERRANDLE

HANDLE KNOB

GRASS CATCHER

MULCHER PLATE

########################## ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER

'_ LAWN MOWER HOUSING

WHEEL ADJUSTER (ON EACH WHEEL)

GASOUNE FILLER CAP

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Sears rotary walk-behind power iawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American Nat ona Standards institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. "['he blade turns when the engine is running.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR _must be hefd down to the handb to start the engine. Release to stop the engine.

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL ,, located on the side of the engine which allows you to select either fast (_) or slow (_) engine speed°

PRIMER _pumps additional fuer from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine. STARTER HANDLE[ oused for starting the engine_

MULCNER PLATE - located at the discharge opening must be removed when converting to bagging or discharging operation.


###### OPERATIO

################## HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED CONTROL (See Fig. 5)

The engine speed is controlled by a lever located on the side of the engine. Fast (_) position is for starting the

engine, normal cutting, and better grass bagging. Slow (_) position isfor light cutting, trimming and fuel economy. ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine contro! to be instaiUedon this t_wn mower in order to minimize the

dsk of blade contact injury, Do not

under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator controL The blade turns when the engine is

LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT RAISE WHEELS

###################### running.

FOR LOW CUT

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

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT {See Fig. 6)

ward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit youi_ requirements. Be sure alt wheels are in the same

setting.

###################### RG. 6

#################### TO E_PTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 7)

Emptycfippings from bag using both frame hand e and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

BEFORE STARTmNG ENGINE OraL ._ Your lawn mower is shipped without oit in the engine. FiG. 7

....._.................Besure mower.is.level and area around oi! fill-is clean, ..................................GAS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ o Remove engine oi! cap w/dipstick and fill to the full line on the dipstick.

• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline. DQ NOT USE PREMIUM GASOUNE. BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVER FILL TANK.

Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Customer Responsibilities section of this manual.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (calted gasohol or using ethano_ or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel tines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in fueJ tank or permanent damage may occur.

to full line on dipstick. ® To read proper leve!, tighten engine oil cap each time, ,0 Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten. o After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change the oil,

and every 25 hours thereafter. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty condition&


######## OPERATION

################ TO START ENGINE

o Push engine speed control lever to fast (_,8_)position. , Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle

and pult starter handle quiCkly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

FIG. 8

o Under certain conditions, such as very tafi grass, itmay be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving ctumps of grass clippings.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUStNG FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. CLEAN UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING AFTER EACH USE. SEE "CLEANING" IN CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES SECT_ONOFTH1S MANUAL

, For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower housing one (1) wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better discharge of grass.

grass catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing speed) and/or run the Iawn mower over thearea a second time.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.

Ifatrail of grass clippings is left onthe right side of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a smatt overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

, Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine airflow and extend engine tife.

,, For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the tawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades (See Fig. 8). If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut, mow stowty and raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel =adjuster setting higher than the front.

o Pores incloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt

and dust with use and catchers wit! collect tess grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catchers off with water and let dry before using.

...............,,..................Ce_ain types of :grass and grass.conditions.may re...... : quire that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicuiar to the first cut path.

,, Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow no_lhto south one week then change to east to west the next week. This wilt help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.


####### CUSTOMER RESPONSiBiLiTiES

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE i FILL 1NDATES

AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE

SERVLCE DATES

Check for Loose .Fasteners .................... Clean/inspect Grass Catcher (If Equipped) ........ Clean Lawn Mower Inspect!Clean Drive Wheels .... (Self-Propelled Mowers) . _ .... Sharpen!Replace Mower Blade ............. Lubrication Chart Clean Battery/Recharge

.I...........:,V'3! ,

........V' t

,; ,,,

Check Engine Oil Level Change Engine oit ' Clean Air Filter inspect Muffler

############### ..... _ JI,2

......

Replace Spark Pug Re.t_J.ace Air Filter Pape r Cartridge .......

############## .....I • ii ....

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain mower as instructed in this manual, Some 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, replace air filter //

(_) ENGINE OiL WHEEL

########################## ADJUSTER

element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug (_ BRAKESPRING / and clean/new air filter element assures !3roper air4uef 8RACKET

mixture and helps your engine run better and Iast longer.

....F6ilow the maintenance schedute irl this man[JaJ_................................................

(_ HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTING PINBEFOREEACHUSE

dREAR

DOOR HINGE

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT (_) SAE 30 MOTOR OiL. REFER TO ENGINE * CUSTOMER RESPON-

SIB|BTIES 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 DRY, POWDERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.

1!


####### CUSTOM PONSIBILITIE

LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. TIRES =" Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-

8LADE CRANK-

SHAFT

ADAPTER ,,_ KEYWAY KEY

BLADE

cals which can harm rubber: , Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and

other hazards that may cause tire damage. BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig. 9) o Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place

BL B_

SHAFT

HARDENED WASHER

wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug. • Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and

TRA_LING LOCK WASHER EDGE

carburetor are up.

########################## BLADE ADAPTER

, 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.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade -but ifyou do, be sure the blade is balanced,

" Remove btade boit by turning counter-clockwise. Use a 9/16" box or open-end wrench.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade wilt cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.

o Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt, tock washer and hardened washer).

The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

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 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

TO REPLACE BLADE (See Fig. 9) ,, Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft.

btade is balanc÷d, it shoutd remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

Be sure key in adapter and keyway in crankshaft are atigned.

= Position blade on the blade adapteraligning the two (2)

##################### GRASS CATCHER

holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter. _, " Be sure the trailing edge is up toward the engine. o ]nstalt the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used. : Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, reptace only with a manufacturer approved replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower model number when Qraering.

washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

housing and tighten the btade bolt, turning clockwise. = The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. tbs.

iMPORTANT: BLADE 8OLT 1SGRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.

1•2


####### CUSTO RESPON iL S

################## ENGINE LUBRICATION

Use oniy high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

!

SAEVISCOSITYGRADES

/ CONTAINER

°°F . -20_ _ 08 T 30° 32_ 40° " 60° 80_ 1009 _C -30_ -20 ° -10 ° 0 ° 10 ° 20 ° 30 ° 40°

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F, Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oit, Change the oil after the first two hours of operation and every 25 hours thereafter or at least once a year ifthe 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 oil plug securely each time you check the oil level. TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig. 10) NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty,

F_G. 10

1

COLLAR

SLOT

tURN CLOCKWMSE TO T_GHTEN

AIR F_LTER COVER

Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.

• Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil into a suitable container. Rock lawn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine,

FiG, 11

SPARK PLUG Change your spark plug each year to make your engine start easier and run better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch,

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.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH. CLEAN UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING AFTER EACH USE.

....TO CHANGE AIR-FILTER (See Figi111t)

any dirt accumulation.

Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash.

Ctean engine often to keep trash from accum ulating. A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life. Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc,

Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab with the sioto

Push in on cover and turn cbckwise to tighten. MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

We DO NOT recommend using a garden hose to ciean lawn mower unless the electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in encline can result in shortened enqine life.


• •¢

####### SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: Release control bar.

LAWN MOWER TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

########################## SHIPPING POSITION MEDIUM LOW

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

REAR DEFLECTOR The rear deflector, attached between the rear wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out the rear of the lawn mower intothe operator's mowing position.

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be reptaced. TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Figs. 12 Thru !4)

Your fawn mower handle can be raised or lowered for your mowing comfort. Four (4) positions are available: high, medium high, medium tow and low. Handles are shipped mounted in the medium low position.

iI

• To change from medium low to medium high position, the upper and lower handle sections will have to be turned over (See Fig. 12B).

LOW

° Remove the controls and operator presence controf bar from the upper handle.

, Remove the starter rope guide from the lower handle.

(See Fig. 14). , Turn the handle over and reassemble the hairpin cotters that have been removed.

FIG. 13B

LOWER HANDLE

CAUTION: The operator presencecontrol bar must pivot freely to permit blade brake engagement when control bar is released° Do not over tighten the fasteners l_oMdingthe controls to the up-

SQUEEZE TO REMOVE

To change from medium low to high position only the upper handle section will have to be turned over (See Fig. t3A).

HANDLE BRACKET

HAIRPIN CLiP

To change from medium tow to tow position, only the lower handle section wilf have to be turned over (See Fig. 13B).

FiG. t4

################## ENGINE CARBURETOR

##################### ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe that the engine isrunning too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair and adjustment.

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed main jet for mixture control. If your engine does not operate properly due to Suspected carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair or adjustment.


######## STORAGE

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

################## ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM

_MPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GU_ DEPOSITS FROM FORMING iN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO,

################# LAWN P OWER

When lawn mower isto be stored for a period oftime, clean it thoroughly, remove alt dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a ciean, dry area.

EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN STORAGE.

. Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING" in the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).

Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are securely fastened, inspect moving parts for damage, breakage and wear, Replace if necessary.

. Drain the fuef tank.

Start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuet tank or permanent damage may occur, Use fresh fuel next season.

HANDLE (See Fig. 15) You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuet gum deposits during stor_,

age, Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuet tank or storage container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at bast 10 minutes after adding stabJlizer to allow the stabJ]izer to reach the carburetor, Do not drain the gas tank and carburetor ifusing fuel stabilizer.

Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handJe toward each other until the lower handle clears the handle bracket, then move handle forward,

• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts enough to allow upper handle to be folded back.

ENGINE ONL Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine oi!. (See "ENGINE" in,the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual). CYUNDER

IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORTATION, BE SURE TO FOLD THE HANDLE AS SHOWN OR YOU MAY DAMAGE THE CONTROL CABLES.

o When setting upyour handle from the storage position, the lower handle witl automatically lock into the mowing position.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml)of oil through spark plug hob into cylinder. Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distribute oil.

OTHER Do not store gasoline from one season to another, Replace your gasoline can if your can star[s to rust. Rust and!or dirt in yOUrgasoiine wiii cause probiems,

LOWER HANDLE

HANDLE BRACKET

SQUEEZE TO FOLD

HAiRPiN COTTER

............C_Ver your unit _ith-a. suitable protective coV_Pthat does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic, Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and wilt cause your unit to rust.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL_AR

iMPORTANT: NEVER COVER MOWER WHILE ENGINE AND EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.

UPPER HANDLE

FOLD FORWARD FOR STORAGE

A AUTION: Neverstorethelawnmower with gasotine in the tank inside a bui_do ing where fumes may reach an open ' ftarne or spark, Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure,,

FOLD BACKWARD

MOWING .....,:;POSlT_ON

LOWER HANDLE

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############## CRAFTSMAN 4.-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER143.944010

/301

3OO

MODELand SERIAL NUMBERSHERE

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45

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2O7

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178

18


############## CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER!43.944010

REF PART REF PART NO. NO, DESCRiPTiON NO. NO. DESCRiPTiON

172 32755 Valve Cover 178 ' 29752 Nut and Lock Washer I/4_28 182 6201 Screw t/4-28 x 7/8

36478 26727

Cylinder (Includes Ref. #2 and 20) Dowel Pin Breather Element Breather Assembly (Includes Reference #6, 8, 9, 12 and 12B) Breather Gasket Screw #10-24 x 9/16 Breather Tube Breather Tube Elbow Washer Governor Rod :(includes Ref. # 14) Governor Lever Governor Lever Clamp Screw #8_32 x 5t16 Extension Spring Oil Seal Crankshaft Piston, Pin & Ring Set, Std. Size Piston, Pin &.Ring Set, .010" Over Piston, Pin & Ring Set, .020" Over Piston & Pin Assembly, Std. Size Piston & Pin Assembly, .010" Over Piston & Pin Assembly, .020" Over (Assemblies Include Ref. #43) Ring Set, Piston, Standard Size Ring Set, Piston, .010" Oversize Ring Set, Piston, .020" Oversize Piston Pin Retaining Ring Connecting Rod Assy. (incl° #46) Connecting Rod Bolt Valve Lifter Camshaft (BCR) Oil Pump Assembly Mounting Flange Gasket Mounting Flange (Incl. #72 thru 83) Oil Drain Plug Oil Seal Governor Shaft Washer Governer Gear Assy.(tncludes #81) Governor Spool Screw 1/4-20 x t-I/4 Flywheel Key: Flywheel Bellevi)le Washer Flywheel Nut Soiid State Ignition Spark Plug Cover Screw, Torx T:15 #10:24 x 1..... Ground Wire

12 33886 128 34695

!4 28277

Reference Numbers 202 thru 205)

20 32600 30 35798

260 36420A Blower Housing 262 650831 Screw 1/4-20 x t/2 275 27181B Muffler (Includes Reference #277) 277 650795 Screw !/4-20 x 2-!/4 285 35000 Starter Cup 287 650926 Screw #8-32 x 21/64 290 30705 Fuel Line 292,26460 Fuel Line Clamp 298 28763 Screw #10-32 x 35/64

I00 34443A !0I 610118

........103650815

........380 632569 .......... Ref: #184} 390 590694 Rewind Starter 400 36481 Gasket Set

1!0 34961 1t9 36477 120 36476 !25 36471

(All Valves !nclude Reference #15I) Screw 5/!6-t8x I-!/2

Resistor Spa(k Plug (RJIgLM) Valve Spnng. Valve Spring Cap

(includes All items Marked *) RPM Settings: Low Speed: 2450-2750

36472

t26 29314B 29315C

High Speed: 2900-3200

NOTE; This engine could have been built with 590686 Starter. Refer to design of air intake louvers for part identification. Individual starter parts do not interchange.

t30 6021A I35 35395

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

!9


############## CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODELNUMBER143.94.4010

REF PART NO. NO, DESCRIPTItON

CARBURETOR NO. 632569

I_, -- 632569

Carburetor, Complete (Includes #184 of Engine Parts List) Throttle Shaft and Lever Assembly Throttle Return Spring Dust Seal Washer, Throttle Dust Seal, Throttle Throttle Shutter Shutter Screw Fuel Fitting Float Bowl Float Shaft Float Float Bowl "O" Ring Inlet Needle, Seat & Clip (includes Reference Number 31) Spring Clip Primer Bulb/Retaining Ring High Speed Bowl Nut Bowl Nut Washer Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

r

"_'2

:, 2 631767

o o oo16631775

" 6 631616

_fj_ 2_--_.. 25 631700 27 631024

=__ _,._ 28 6320192963t028

...._ _._=

_/® " 3t 631022 35 632047

_'_ 40 632071 44 631334 48 63t 027

REWIND STARTER NO. 590694 REF PART

NO, NO. DESCRIPTION

-- 590694 Recoil Starter, Complete

/

13

!1 590695 Starter Housing Assembly (40 Degree Grommet)

########## o__£

--4

3 _--5

component given 1inch = 25.4 mm

_2 NOTE: Att dimensions in U.S. inches

REWIND STARTER NO. 590686

REF PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

H

-- 590686

Recoil Starter

.Sp_ingP!n (inc!udes Befe[en£_ #4)..............

_asher Retainer Washer Brake Spring Starter Dog Dog Spring Pulley Assembly (includes Reference Numbers 9 and !0) Rewind Spring Spring Cover Starter Housing Assembly (40 Degree Grommet) Starter Rope (98" Long, 9/64" Dia.) Starter Handle

NOTE: Aff component dimensions given in U.S. inches I inch = 25.4 mm

20


####### TROU LESHOOT! POINTS

###################### PROBLEM

###################### CAUSE

###################### CORRECT!ON

Does not start

t. Clean/replace air filter.

Loss of power

Poor cut - uneven

!. Worn, bent or loose blade. 2, Wheel heights uneven.

Excessive vibration

I. Worn, bent or toose blade.

Starter rope hard to pull

1, Depress control bar to upper handle before pulling starter rope.

to start engine.

######################## Grass catcher not fil|ing (If so equipped)

Hard to push

t, Raise cutting height.

in grass.

......... Oct dgh_ fo[ you.....

............4. Adjust handle, height to suit,

#################### 21




########## ®

....... i

####### OWNER'S MANUAL

############# 4.0 HORSEPOWER 20" REAR DISCHARGE 3 in ONE Convertible ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Each lawn mower has its own model number. Each engine has its own model number.

The model number for your lawn mower will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the lawn mower housing.

############# MODEL NO. 917.383242

The model number for your engine will be found on the blower housing of the engine.

All parts listed herein may be ordered from any Sears, Roebuck and Co. Service Center/Department and most Retail Stores.

################# IF YOU NEED REPAIR SERVICE OR PARTS:

WHEN ORDERING REPAIR PARTS, ALWAYS GIVE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

= PRODUCT - LAWN MOWER

FOR REPAIR SERVICE, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER:

1-800-4-REPAIR

(! -800-473-7247)

FOR REPLACEMENT PARTS INFORMATION AND ORDERING, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-FON-PART

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

(1-800-366-7278)

141532 09/!3/93 Printed in U.S.A.