Craftsman Lawn Mower 91738885 User Guide

Owner’s Manual  
ROTARY LAWN MOWER  
6.5 Horsepower  
21" Rear Discharge  
Model No.  
917.38885  
CAUTION:  
Read and follow all  
Safety Rules and Instructions  
before operating this equipment  
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.  
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• Always wear safety goggles or safety  
glasses with side shields when operating  
mower.  
I. GENERAL OPERATION  
• Read, understand, and follow all  
instructions on the machine and in the  
manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly  
familiar with the controls and the proper  
use of the machine before starting.  
• Do not put hands or feet near or under  
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-  
charge opening at all times.  
II. SLOPE OPERATION  
Slopes are a major factor related to slip &  
fall accidents which can result in severe in-  
jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you  
feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.  
DO:  
• Only allow responsible individuals, who  
are familiar with the instructions, to oper-  
ate the machine.  
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,  
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which  
could be picked up and thrown by blade.  
• Be sure the area is clear of other people  
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone  
enters the area.  
• Mow across the face of slopes: never  
up and down. Exercise extreme caution  
when changing direction on slopes.  
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree  
limbs, etc.  
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall  
grass can hide obstacles.  
DO NOT:  
• Do not operate the mower when bare-  
foot or wearing open sandals. Always  
wear substantial foot wear.  
• Do not pull mower backwards unless  
absolutely necessary. Always look down  
and behind before and while moving  
backwards.  
• Never direct discharged material toward  
anyone. Avoid discharging material  
against a wall or obstruction. Material  
may richochet back toward the opera-  
tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel  
surfaces.  
• Do not operate the mower without  
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or  
other safety protective devices in place.  
• See manufacturer’s instructions for  
proper operation and installation of  
accessories. Only use accessories ap-  
proved by the manufacturer.  
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel  
drives, walks, or roads.  
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you  
leave the equipment, before cleaning the  
mower or unclogging the chute.  
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until  
the blade comes to complete stop before  
removing grass catcher.  
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial  
light.  
• Do not operate the machine while under  
the influence of alcohol or drugs.  
• Never operate machine in wet grass.  
Always be sure of your footing: keep a  
firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.  
• Disengage the self-propelled mech-  
anism or drive clutch on mowers so  
equipped before starting the engine.  
• If the equipment should start to vibrate  
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and  
check immediately for the cause. Vibra-  
tion is generally a warning of trouble.  
• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or  
embankments. The operator could lose  
footing or balance.  
• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.  
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-  
ing could cause slipping.  
III. CHILDREN  
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator  
is not alert to the presence of children.  
Children are often attracted to the machine  
and the mowing activity. Never assume  
that children will remain where you last  
saw them.  
• Keep children out of the trimming area  
and under the watchful care of another  
responsible adult.  
• Be alert and turn machine off if children  
enter the area.  
• Before and while walking backwards,  
look behind and down for small children.  
• Never allow children to operate the ma-  
chine.  
• Use extra care when approaching blind  
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects  
that may obscure vision.  
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE  
Use extreme care in handling gasoline.  
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the  
vapors are explosive.  
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes  
and other sources of ignition.  
• Use only an approved container.  
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with  
the engine running. Allow engine to cool  
before refueling.  
• Never refuel the machine indoors.  
• Never store the machine or fuel contain-  
er where there is an open flame, spark  
or pilot light such as a water heater or on  
other appliances.  
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• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on  
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.  
Always place containers on the ground  
away from your vehicle before filling.  
• Remove gas-powered equipment from  
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the  
ground. If this is not possible, then  
refuel such equipment with a portable  
container, rather than from a gasoline  
dispenser nozzle.  
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim  
of the fuel tank or container opening at  
all times until fueling is complete. Do  
not use a nozzle lock-open device.  
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change  
clothing immediately.  
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade  
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-  
ment in good condition.  
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check  
their proper operation regularly.  
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or  
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel  
spillage. Allow machine to cool before  
storing.  
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you  
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,  
before restarting.  
• Never attempt to make wheel height  
adjustments while the engine is running.  
• Grass catcher components are subject  
to wear, damage, and deterioration,  
which could expose moving parts or  
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently  
check components and replace with  
manufacturer’s recommended parts,  
when necessary.  
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.  
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and  
use extra caution when servicing them.  
• Do not change the engine governor set-  
ting or overspeed the engine.  
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas  
cap and tighten securely.  
V. GENERAL SERVICE  
• Never run a machine inside a closed  
area.  
• Never make adjustments or repairs with  
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect  
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire  
away from the plug to prevent accidental  
starting.  
• Maintain or replace safety and instruc-  
tion labels, as necessary.  
WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and  
should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or  
grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark  
arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it  
should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.  
In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California  
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on  
federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears  
Parts & Repair Center (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Serial Number:  
Date of Purchase:  
Gasoline Capacity / Type:  
Oil Type (API SG–SL):  
Oil Capacity:  
1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)  
SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)  
20 Ounces  
Spark Plug (Gap: .030")  
Blade Bolt Torque:  
Champion RJ19LM or J19LM  
35-40 ft. lbs.  
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower  
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.  
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Repair Protection Agreements  
Congratulations on making a smart pur-  
Fast help by phone – phone support  
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is  
designed and manufactured for years of  
dependable operation. But like all prod-  
ucts, it may require repair from time to  
time. That’s when having a Repair Protec-  
tion Agreement can save you money and  
aggravation.  
from a Sears technician on products  
requiring in-home repair, plus conve-  
nient repair scheduling.  
Once you purchase the Agreement, a  
simple phone call is all that it takes for you  
to schedule service.You can call anytime  
day or night, or schedule a service ap-  
pointment online.  
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement  
now and protect yourself from unexpected  
hassle and expense.  
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair  
specialists, who have access to over 4.5  
million quality parts and accessories.  
That’s the kind of professionalism you can  
count on to help prolong the life of your  
new purchase for years to come. Purchase  
your Repair Protection Agreement today!  
Some limitations and exclusions apply.  
For prices and additional information  
call 1-800-827-6655.  
Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:  
Expert service by our 12,000 profe-  
sional repair specialists.  
Unlimited service and no charge for  
parts and labor on all covered repairs.  
Product replacement if your covered  
product can’t be fixed.  
Discount of 10% from regular price of  
service and service-related parts not  
covered by the agreement; also, 10%  
off regular price of preventive mainte-  
nance check.  
Sears Installation Service  
For Sears professional installation of home  
appliances, garage door openers, water  
heaters, and other major home items, in  
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.  
ACCESSORIES  
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not  
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and  
service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.  
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ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION  
Read these instructions and this manual in  
its entirety before you attempt to assemble  
or operate your new lawn mower.  
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped  
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.  
Operator  
presence  
control bar  
MOWING  
POSITION  
LIFT  
UP  
Your new lawn mower has been as-  
sembled at the factory with the excep-  
tion of those parts left unassembled for  
shipping purposes. 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.  
All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,  
necessary to complete the assembly have  
been placed in the parts bag.  
LIFT  
UP  
Upper  
handle  
Handle  
knob  
Lower handle  
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM  
CARTON  
1. Remove loose parts included with  
mower.  
2. Cut down two end corners of carton  
and lay end panel down flat.  
3. Remove all packing materials except  
padding between upper and lower  
handle and padding holding operator  
presence control bar to upper handle.  
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and  
check carton thoroughly for additional  
loose parts.  
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER  
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag  
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.  
Make sure the frame handle is outside  
of the bag top.  
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.  
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold  
them in warm water for a few minutes. If  
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.  
Frame  
handle  
HOW TO SET UPYOUR LAWN  
MOWER  
TO UNFOLD HANDLE  
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so  
as not to pinch or damage control cables.  
1. Raise handles until lower handle sec-  
tion locks into place in mowing position.  
2. Remove protective padding, raise up-  
per handle section into place on lower  
handle and tighten both handle knobs.  
3. Remove handle padding holding  
operator presence control bar to upper  
handle.  
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted  
for your mowing comfort. Refer to “AD-  
JUST HANDLE” in the Service and Adjust-  
ments section of this manual.  
Vinyl  
Frame  
bindings  
opening  
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS  
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to  
be used as a mulcher. To convert to bag-  
ging, see “TO CONVERT MOWER” in the  
Operation section of this manual.  
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OPERATION  
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER  
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING  
YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the 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.  
Operator presence control bar  
Handle knob  
Starter  
handle  
Engine oil cap with dipstick  
Spark plug  
Muffler  
Grass  
catcher  
Gasoline filler cap  
Housing  
Air filter  
Wheel adjuster  
(on each wheel)  
Primer  
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.  
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS  
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the  
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-  
mission. 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.  
Starter handle – used for starting engine.  
Primer – pumps additional fuel from the  
carburetor to the cylinder for use when  
starting a cold engine.  
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TO CONVERT MOWER  
The operation of any lawn  
mower can result in foreign  
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be  
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging:  
• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and  
place the grass catcher frame hooks  
onto the door pivot pins.  
To convert to mulching operation, re-  
move grass catcher and close rear door.  
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower  
without rear door closed, clipping deflector  
or approved grass catcher in place. Never  
attempt to operate the lawn mower with  
the rear door removed or propped open.  
objects thrown into the  
eyes, which can result in  
severe eye damage. Always  
wear safety glasses or eye shields while  
operating your lawn mower or performing  
any adjustments or repairs. We recom-  
mend a standard safety glasses or wide  
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.  
HOW TO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER  
ENGINE SPEED  
The engine speed was set at the factory  
for optimum performance. Speed is not  
adjustable.  
Pivot pins  
Rear  
door  
Grass  
catcher  
handle  
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL  
CAUTION: Federal regulations require  
an engine control to be installed on this  
lawn mower in order to minimize the  
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under  
any circumstances attempt to defeat the  
function of the operator control. The blade  
turns when the engine is running.  
Your lawn mower is equipped with an  
operator presence control bar which  
requires the operator to be positioned  
behind the lawn mower handle to start  
and operate the lawn mower.  
Catcher frame hook  
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER  
1. Lift up on grass catcher using the  
frame handle.  
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT  
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings  
from under lawn mower handle.  
3. Empty clippings from bag.  
Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels  
for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit  
your requirements. Medium position is  
best for most lawns.  
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-  
ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.  
To change cutting height, squeeze ad-  
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel  
up or down to suit your requirements.  
Be sure all wheels are in the same set-  
ting.  
Grass  
catcher  
frame  
handle  
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned  
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.  
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)  
allow lever to be positioned between the  
plate tabs.  
LEVER BACKWARD  
TO LOWER MOWER  
Plate tab  
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever  
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BEFORE STARTING ENGINE  
ADD OIL  
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in  
the engine. For type and grade of oil to  
use, see “ENGINE” in the Maintenance  
section of this manual.  
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or  
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline  
near an open flame.  
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels  
(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha-  
nol) 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. Empty the gas tank, start  
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines  
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel  
next season. See Storage Instructions for  
additional information. Never use engine  
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel  
tank or permanent damage may occur.  
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with  
oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler  
on startup.  
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.  
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.  
3. You receive a container of oil with the  
unit. Slowly pour the entire container  
down the oil fill spout into the engine.  
NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz.  
due to residual oil in engine from the  
manufacturers 100% quality testing. When  
changing oil you may need 20 oz.  
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.  
IMPORTANT:  
Engine  
oil cap  
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil  
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.  
• 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. See “TO  
CHANGE ENGINE OILin the Mainte-  
nance section of this manual.  
Gasoline  
filler cap  
ATTACH FUEL CAP CARTRIDGE  
Your mower is equipped with a special  
TM  
FRESH START fuel cap and continuous  
fuel preserver cartridge. See the infor-  
mation and instructions packed with the  
Primer  
TM  
FRESH START cartridge.  
TO STOP ENGINE  
To stop engine, release operator pres-  
ence control bar.  
1. Snap cartridge into bottom of fuel cap.  
NOTE: Do not remove the silver foil seal  
on the side of cartridge that snaps into  
fuel cap.  
TO START ENGINE  
2. Grasp the white peel tab and pull to  
remove the entire seal.  
3. Screw fuel cap onto fuel tank after fill-  
ing tank with gasoline.  
Replace cartridge when empty (about  
once a season). Check preserver level  
visually.  
DANGER: Cartridge fluid is HARMFUL  
OR FATAL IF SWALLOWED. Avoid contact  
to eyes, skin, or clothing. Do not take  
internally. Do not inhale fluid vapor. Keep  
out of reach of children. If swallowed, call  
a physician immediately.  
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the  
engine, a small amount of smoke may be  
present during the initial use of the prod-  
uct and should be considered normal.  
1. To start a cold engine, push primer  
three (3) 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.  
2. Hold operator presence control bar  
down to the handle and pull starter  
handle quickly. Do not allow starter  
rope to snap back.  
ADD GASOLINE  
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces-  
sary to repeat priming steps. In warmer  
weather over priming may cause flooding  
and engine will not start. If you do flood  
engine, wait a few minutes before attempt-  
ing to start and do not repeat priming  
steps.  
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck.  
Do not overfill. 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 fresh-  
ness.  
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MOWING TIPS  
MULCHING MOWING TIPS  
CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher  
blade attachments on your mower. Such  
attachments are hazardous, will damage  
your mower and could void your warranty.  
IMPORTANT: For best performance,  
keep mower housing free of built-up  
grass and trash. See “CLEANING” in the  
Maintenance section of this manual.  
• 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 clip-  
pings. It may also be necessary to re-  
duce ground speed and/or run the lawn  
mower over the area a second time.  
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the  
width of cut by overlapping previously  
cut path and mow slowly.  
• For better grass bagging and most cut-  
ting conditions, the engine speed should  
be set in the FAST position.  
• When using a rear discharge lawn  
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps  
of cut grass may not enter the grass  
catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing  
speed) and/or run the lawn mower over  
the area a second time.  
• If a trail of clippings is left on the right  
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in  
a clockwise direction with a small over-  
lap to collect the clippings on the next  
pass.  
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-  
come filled with dirt and dust with use  
and catchers will collect less grass. To  
prevent this, regularly hose catcher off  
with water and let dry before using.  
• Keep top of engine around starter clear  
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.  
This will help engine air flow and extend  
engine life.  
• The special mulching blade will recut  
the grass clippings many times and  
reduce them in size so that as they fall  
onto the lawn they will disperse into  
the grass and not be noticed. Also, the  
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly  
to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always  
mulch with your highest engine (blade)  
speed as this will provide the best recut-  
ting action of the blades.  
• 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  
afternoon. At this time the grass has  
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be  
exposed to direct sunlight.  
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower  
cutting height so that the lawn mower  
cuts off only the top one-third of the  
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it  
will be necessary to raise the height of  
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep  
from overloading the engine and leaving  
clumps of mulched grass. For extremely  
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut  
by overlapping previously cut path and  
mow slowly.  
MAX 1/3  
• 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 sec-  
ond cut, mow across (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.  
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MAINTENANCE  
BEFORE AFTER EVERY  
EVERY  
EVERY  
100  
BEFORE  
STORAGE  
EACH  
USE  
EACH  
USE  
10  
25 HOURS  
HOURS OR SEASON HOURS  
Check for Loose Fasteners  
Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *  
Check Tires  
Check Drive Wheels ***  
Clean Lawn Mower ****  
Clean under Drive Cover ***  
Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***  
Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade  
Lubrication  
Clean and Recharge Battery **  
Check Engine Oil level  
Change Engine Oil  
Clean Air Filter  
Inspect Muffler  
Replace Spark Plug  
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge  
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer  
(if so equipped)  
1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.  
2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.  
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.  
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.  
*
Electric-Start mowers  
Power-Propelled mowers  
Use a scraper  
to clean under deck  
**  
***  
****  
5 - And after each 5 hours of use.  
LUBRICATION CHART  
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 unit as instructed in this manual.  
Wheel  
adjuster (on  
each wheel)  
Engine oil  
Some adjustments will need to be made  
periodically to properly maintain your unit.  
At least once a season, check to see if  
you should make any of the adjustments  
described in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual.  
• At least 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  
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help  
your engine run better and last longer.  
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this  
manual.  
Rear door  
hinge  
Handle bracket mounting pins  
Spray lubricant  
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.  
BEFORE EACH USE  
• Check engine oil level.  
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic  
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will  
attractdustanddirtthatwillshortenthelifeof  
the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they  
mustbelubricated,useonlyadry,powdered  
graphite type lubricant sparingly.  
• Check for loose fasteners.  
LUBRICATION  
Keep unit well lubricated  
(See “LUBRICATION CHART”).  
11  
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IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.  
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with  
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts  
section of this manual.  
LAWN MOWER  
Always observe safety rules when per-  
forming any maintenance.  
TIRES  
TO SHARPEN BLADE  
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect  
control chemicals which can harm rubber.  
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp  
objects and other hazards that may  
cause tire damage.  
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening  
the blade - but if you do, be sure the blade  
is balanced.  
Care should be taken to keep the blade  
balanced. An unbalanced blade will  
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or  
engine.  
• The blade can be sharpened with a file  
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt  
to sharpen while on the mower.  
To check blade balance, drive a nail into  
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of  
the straight nail exposed. Place center  
hole of blade over the head of the nail.  
If blade is balanced, it should remain in  
a horizontal position. If either end of the  
blade moves downward, sharpen the  
heavy end until the blade is balanced.  
BLADE CARE  
For best results, mower blade must be kept  
sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.  
CAUTION: Use only a replacement  
blade approved by the manufacturer of  
your mower. Using a blade not approved  
by the manufacturer of your mower is  
hazardous, could damage your mower and  
void your warranty.  
TO REMOVE BLADE  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark  
plug and place wire where it cannot  
come in contact with plug.  
GRASS CATCHER  
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make  
sure air filter and carburetor are up.  
3. Use a wood block between blade and  
mower housing to prevent blade from  
turning when removing blade bolt.  
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves  
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.  
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-  
clockwise.  
• The grass catcher may be hosed with  
water, but must be dry when used.  
• Check your grass catcher often for dam-  
age or deterioration. Through normal  
use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-  
ing, replace only with approved replace-  
ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts  
section of this manual. Give the lawn  
mower model number when ordering.  
5. Remove blade and attaching hardware  
(bolt,lockwasherandhardenedwasher).  
ENGINE  
LUBRICATION  
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with  
APIserviceclassificationSG–SL. Selectthe  
oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your  
expected operating temperature.  
TO REPLACE BLADE  
1. Position blade on the blade adapter  
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade  
with the raised lugs on the adapter.  
2. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo-  
site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.  
3. Install the blade bolt with the lock  
washer and hardened washer into  
blade adapter and crankshaft.  
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES  
SAE 30  
5W-30  
4. Use block of wood between blade and  
lawn mower housing and tighten the  
blade bolt, turning clockwise.  
-20  
0
30  
32 40  
0
100  
60  
80  
F
C
-20  
10  
-30  
-10  
20  
30  
40  
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE  
• The recommended tightening torque is  
35-40 ft. lbs.  
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils  
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in  
Blade adapter  
Key  
Crankshaft  
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will  
result in increased oil consumption when  
used above 32°F. Check your engine oil  
level more frequently to avoid possible  
engine damage from running low on oil.  
keyway  
Lockwasher  
Blade  
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.  
Blade  
bolt  
Hardened  
washer  
Crankshaft  
Trailing edge  
12  
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TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL  
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such  
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean  
cartridge. They may cause deterioration  
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do  
not use pressurized air to clean or dry  
cartridge.  
4. Install cartridge, then replace cover  
making sure the tabs are aligned with  
the slots in the back plate. Fasten  
screw securely.  
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain  
oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until  
fuel tank is empty.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark  
plug and place wire where it cannot  
come in contact with plug.  
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a  
clean surface.  
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown  
and drain oil into a suitable container.  
Rock lawn mower back and forth to re-  
move any oil trapped inside of engine.  
Back plate  
Slots  
Lip  
Cover  
tabs  
Cartridge  
Cover  
MUFFLER  
Container  
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it  
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.  
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn  
mower or side of engine.  
5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout,  
stopping every few ounces to check the  
oil level with the dipstick.  
6. Stop adding oil when you reach the  
FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a  
minute to allow oil to settle.  
7. Continue adding small amounts of oil,  
rechecking the dipstick until oil level  
settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or  
engine will smoke heavily from the muf-  
fler on startup.  
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick  
before starting engine.  
SPARK PLUG  
Replace spark plug at the beginning of  
each mowing season or after every 100  
hours of operation, whichever occurs  
first. Spark plug type and gap setting  
are shown in the “PRODUCT SPECIFIC-  
ATIONS” section of this manual.  
CLEANING  
IMPORTANT: For best performance,  
keep mower housing free of built-grass  
and trash. Clean the underside of your  
mower after each use.  
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire  
from spark plug and place wire where it  
cannot come in contact with plug.  
9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark  
plug.  
AIR FILTER  
Your engine will not run properly and may  
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.  
Replace the air filter cartridge every 100  
hours of operation or every season, which-  
ever occurs first. Service air cleaner more  
often under dusty conditions.  
• Clean the underside of your lawn  
mower by scraping to remove build-up  
of grass and trash.  
• Clean engine often to keep trash from  
accumulating. A clogged engine runs  
hotter and shortens engine life.  
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free  
of all gasoline, oil, etc.  
• We do not recommend using a garden  
hose to clean lawn mower unless the  
electrical system, muffler, air filter and  
carburetor are covered to keep water  
out. Water in engine can result in short-  
ened engine life.  
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER  
1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.  
2. Carefully remove cartridge.  
3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur-  
face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.  
13  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
WARNING: To avoid serious injury,  
before performing any service and  
adjustments:  
Mowing  
position  
Mowing  
position  
1. Release control bar and stop engine.  
2. Make sure the blade and all moving  
parts have completely stopped.  
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark  
plug and place wire where it cannot  
come in contact with plug.  
Hairpin  
Handle  
bracket  
cotter  
Mounting  
pin  
LOW POSITION  
HIGH POSITION  
LAWN MOWER  
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT  
See “TO ADJUST CUTTING 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.  
Lower  
handle  
TO ADJUST HANDLE  
The handle can be mounted in a high or  
low position. The mounting holes in the  
bottom of lower handle are off center for  
raising or lowering the handle.  
1. Remove upper handle and all wire  
tie(s) securing cable(s) to lower handle.  
2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower  
handle bracket mounting pin.  
3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it  
from mounting pins.  
4. Turn lower handle over to raise or  
lower handle.  
ROTATE  
ENGINE  
ENGINE SPEED  
Your engine speed has been factory set.  
Do not attempt to increase engine speed  
or it may result in personal injury. If you  
believe that engine is running too fast or  
too slow, take your mower to a Sears or  
other qualified service center for repair  
and adjustment.  
5. Squeeze lower handle in and position  
holes onto mounting pins on handle  
bracket.  
CARBURETOR  
6. Reassemble upper handle and all  
parts removed from lower handle.  
Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your  
enginedoesnotoperateproperlyduetosus-  
pected carburetor problems, take your lawn  
mower to a Sears or other qualified service  
center for repair and/or adjustment.  
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the  
engine governor, which is factory set  
for proper engine speed. Overspeeding  
the engine above the factory high speed  
setting can be dangerous. If you think  
the engine-governed high speed needs  
adjusting, contact a Sears or other  
SQUEEZE  
TO ADJUST  
Lower handle  
Mounting pin  
Handle  
bracket  
Hairpin cotter  
qualified service center, which has proper  
equipment and experience to make any  
necessary adjustments.  
14  
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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.  
Operator  
presence  
control bar  
MOWING  
POSITION  
LAWN MOWER  
When lawn mower is to be stored for a  
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove  
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a  
clean, dry area.  
1. Clean entire lawn mower (See  
“CLEANING” in the Maintenance sec-  
tion of this manual).  
FOLD  
FORWARD  
FOR  
Upper  
handle  
STORAGE  
Handle  
knob  
2. Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance  
section of this manual.  
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and  
pins are securely fastened. Inspect  
moving parts for damage, breakage  
and wear. Replace if necessary.  
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint  
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.  
Lower handle  
ENGINE  
FUEL SYSTEM  
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent  
gum deposits from forming in essential  
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel  
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.  
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.  
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en-  
gine and letting it run until the fuel lines  
and carburetor are empty.  
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner  
products in the fuel tank or permanent  
damage may occur.  
HANDLE  
You can fold your lawn mower handle for  
storage.  
1. Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower  
handle toward each other until the  
lower handle clears the handle bracket,  
then move handle forward.  
2. Loosen upper handle mounting bolts  
enough to allow upper handle to be  
folded back.  
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for  
storage or transportation, be sure to fold  
the handle as shown or you may damage  
the control cables.  
• When setting up your handle from the  
storage position, the lower handle will au-  
tomatically lock into the mowing position.  
• Use fresh fuel next season.  
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable  
alternative in minimizing the formation of  
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add  
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor-  
age 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 car-  
buretor. Do not empty the gas tank and  
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.  
SQUEEZE  
TO FOLD  
Lower handle  
TM  
NOTE: FRESH START fuel cap and  
cartridge system automatically drips con-  
centrated fuel preserver into your fuel tank  
and is an acceptable alternative to adding  
fuel stabilizer.  
15  
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ENGINE OIL  
• Replace your gasoline can if your can  
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your  
gasoline will cause problems.  
• If possible, store your unit indoors and  
cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.  
• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-  
tive cover that does not retain moisture.  
Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot  
breathe, which allows condensation to  
form and will cause your unit to rust.  
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while  
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.  
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower  
with gasoline in the tank inside a building  
where fumes may reach an open flame  
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before  
storing in any enclosure.  
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace  
with clean engine oil. (See “ENGINE” in  
the Maintenance section of this manual).  
CYLINDER  
1. Remove spark plug.  
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through  
spark plug hole into cylinder.  
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times to  
distribute oil.  
4. Replace with new spark plug.  
OTHER  
• Do not store gasoline from one season  
to another.  
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed  
to a Sears Parts & Repair Center.  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Does not start  
1. Dirty air filter.  
2. Out of fuel.  
3. Stale fuel.  
1. Clean/replace air filter.  
2. Fill fuel tank.  
3. Empty fuel tank and refill tank  
with fresh, clean gasoline.  
4. Empty fuel tank and refill tank  
with fresh, clean gasoline.  
5. Connect wire to plug.  
4. Water in fuel.  
5. Spark plug wire is  
disconnected.  
6. Bad spark plug.  
7. Loose blade or broken  
blade adapter.  
8. Control bar in released  
position.  
6. Replace spark plug.  
7. Tighten blade bolt or  
replace blade adapter.  
8. Depress control bar to  
handle.  
9. Control bar defective.  
10.Fuel valve lever (if so  
equipped) in OFF position.  
9. Replace control bar.  
10.Turn fuel valve lever  
to the ON position.  
11.Weak battery (if equipped). 11.Charge battery.  
12.Disconnected battery  
connector (if equipped).  
12.Connect battery to engine.  
16  
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TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed  
to a Sears Parts & Repair Center.  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Loss of power  
1. Rear of lawn mower  
housing or cutting blade  
dragging in heavy grass.  
2. Cutting too much grass.  
3. Dirty air filter.  
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,  
and trash under mower.  
5. Too much oil in engine.  
6. Walking speed too fast.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Raise cutting height.  
3. Clean/replace air filter.  
4. Clean underside of mower  
housing.  
5. Check oil level.  
6. Cut at slower walking speed.  
Poor cut –  
uneven  
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.  
2. Wheel heights uneven.  
1. Replace blade. Tighten  
blade bolt.  
2. Set all wheels at same  
height.  
3. Buildup of grass, leaves  
and trash under mower.  
3. Clean underside of  
mower housing.  
Excessive  
vibration  
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.  
2. Bent engine crankshaft.  
1. Replace blade. Tighten  
blade bolt.  
2. Contact a Sears or other  
qualified service center.  
Starter rope  
hard to pull  
1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to  
when control bar is released.  
upper handle before  
pulling starter rope.  
2. Contact a Sears or other  
qualified service center.  
3. Replace blade adapter.  
4. Move lawn mower to cut  
grass or to hard surface.  
2. Bent engine crankshaft.  
3. Blade adapter broken.  
4. Blade dragging in grass.  
Grass catcher  
not filling  
(If so equipped)  
1. Cutting height too low.  
2. Lift on blade worn off.  
3. Catcher not venting air.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Replace blade.  
3. Clean grass catcher.  
Hard to push  
1. Grass is too high or wheel  
height is too low.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Rear of lawn mower  
housing or cutting blade  
dragging in grass.  
3. Grass catcher too full.  
4. Handle height position not  
right for you.  
2. Raise rear of lawn mower  
housing one (1) setting  
higher.  
3. Empty grass catcher.  
4. Adjust handle height to suit.  
17  
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For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment,  
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02410  
© Sears, Roebuck and Co.  
® Registered Trademark / TM Trademark / SM Service Mark of Sears, Roebuck and Co.  
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199182 04.20.05 BY  
Printed in U.S.A.  
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