Owner’s Manual
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
6.5 Horsepower
Power-Propelled
21" Multi-Cut
Model No.
917.37707
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when oper-
ating 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
injury. 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.
• 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.
• 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 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
footing could cause slipping.
• 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.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma-
chine and the mowing activity. Never as-
sume 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
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
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.
• 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.
3
• 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 Capacity:
1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
20 Ounces
Oil Type (API SG–SL):
Spark Plug:
SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Champion RJ19LM or J19LM (Gap: .030")
35-40 ft. lbs.
Blade Bolt Torque:
• 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.
4
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.
5
ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION
Read these instructions and this manual in 2. Insert handle bolt through handle and
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.
Your new lawn mower has been assem-
bled at the factory with the exception of
those parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. All parts such as nuts, wash-
ers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the
assembly have been placed in the parts
bag. To ensure safe and proper opera-
tion of your lawn mower, all parts and
hardware you assemble must be tightened
securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
sary to ensure proper tightness.
bracket and secure with knob.
3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.
4. Remove protective padding, raise up-
per handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
5. Remove any packing material from
around control bar.
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.
Operator
presence
control bar
MOWING
POSITION
LIFT
UP
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
LIFT
UP
Upper
handle
2. Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
Handle
knob
3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
Lower handle
Bolt
Handle
bracket
HOW TO SET UPYOUR MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise lower handle section to operat-
ing position and align hole in handle
with one of three height positioning
holes.
Knob
6
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
TO PREPARE BATTERY
1. Putgrasscatcherframeintograssbagwith NOTE: Your battery must be charged
rigidpartofbagonthebottom. Makesure before you can start your lawn mower.
theframehandleisoutsideofthebagtop. 1. Connect battery charger connector
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
(male) to harness connector (female).
2. Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet.
3. Leave battery charger connected for
24 hours before starting your engine
for the first time.
4. After charging, disconnect harness
connector (female) from battery char-
ger connector (male).
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
Connect your battery charger to charge
battery after each use.
IMPORTANT: The engine will not re-
charge your battery.
At the end of the mowing season the
battery should be charged for 48 hours to
protect the battery during winter storage.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the
engine connector (male) from the battery
connector (female) to prevent accidental
starting when transporting or storing your
lawn mower after the season.
Vinyl
bindings
Frame
opening
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Battery charger
Battery
box
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.
Charger
connector
(male)
Harness
connector
(female)
Engine connector (male)
7
OPERATION
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDALLSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR
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.
Drive
control
lever
Operator presence control bar
Handle knob
Key start
switch
Engine oil fill cap with dipstick
Auxiliary
starter
handle
Grass
catcher
Spark plug
Muffler
Housing
Mulcher plug
Gasoline filler cap
Air filter
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
Mulcher
door
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 lever – must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Drive control bar – used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of mower.
Auxiliary starter handle – used for start-
ing engine.
Key start switch – used for starting engine.
Mulcher door – allows conversion to
discharging or bagging operation.
Mulcher plug – located at the rear dis-
charge opening. Must be removed when
converting to bagging operation.
8
4. If condition fails to improve after the
above steps (forward speed remains
the same), your drive belt is worn and
should be replaced.
The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always
Operator presence control bar
wear safety glasses or eye shields while
operating your lawn mower or performing
any adjustments or repairs. We recom-
mend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
Drive
control
HOW TO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
TO
ENGAGE
DRIVE
lever
Adjustment
turnbuckle
DRIVE
CONTROL
Theenginespeedwassetatthefactoryforop-
timumperformance.Speedisnotadjustable.
(on underside) CONTROL
DISENGAGED
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
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.
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.
•
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 setting.
NOTE:Adjuster is properly positioned when
plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-
positionadjusters(ifsoequipped)allowlever
to be positioned between the plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
Plate tab
DRIVE CONTROL
• Self-propelling is controlled by hold-
ing the operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pulling the drive
control lever rearward to the handle.
The farther toward the handle the lever
is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.
• Forward motion will stop when either
the operator presence control bar or
drive control lever are released. To stop
forward motion without stopping engine,
release the drive control lever only. Hold
operator presence control bar down
against handle to continue mowing
without self-propelling.
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower
and place the grass catcher frame side
hooks onto the door pivot pins.
2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without mulcher plug or approved grass
catcher in place. Never attempt to op-
erate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.
NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the
mowerwillnotrollbackwards,pushthemow-
erforwardslightlytodisengagedrivewheels.
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
Over time, the drive control system may be-
come“loose”, resulting in decreased speed.
Thereisaturnbuckleontheundersideofthe
drive control housing to increase tension on
the drive cable. Proceed as follows:
1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug
wire from spark plug.
Pivot pins
Rear
Grass
door
catcher
handle
2. Turn nut on underside of drive control
to increase drive speed.
3. Operate mower to test drive speed.
Readjust as required.
Catcher frame hook
9
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door closed.
1. Lift up on grass catcher using the
frame handle.
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings
from under lawn mower handle.
3. Empty clippings from bag.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emp-
tying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
Grass
catcher
frame
handle
Open mulcher door
Install
discharge
deflector
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe
place.
• You can now install the grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower.
MOWER IS NOW READY FOR
DISCHARGING OPERATION
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTINGYOUR LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug removed.
2. Grass catcher installed.
3. Mulcher door closed.
Mulcher plug
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Mulcher plug must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower.
• Open mulcher door and install dis-
charge deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
2. Discharge deflector installed.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without mulcher plug or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.
10
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.
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: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler
on startup.
ADD GASOLINE
• 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. Pur-
chase fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
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.
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.
IMPORTANT:
• 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 OIL” in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
Engine
oil cap
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
Gasoline
filler cap
TO START ENGINE
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.
NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an
automatic choke system. No priming or
choking is required before starting.
• To start engine, hold operator presence
control bar down to the handle and turn
the start key.
ATTACH FUEL CAP CARTRIDGE
Your mower is equipped with a special
FRESH START fuel cap and continuous
TM
fuel preserver cartridge. See the infor-
mation and instructions packed with the
FRESH START cartridge.
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.
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.
TM
IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more
than five continous seconds between each
time you try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds
between each attempt.
• To start engine using the rope starter,
hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope
to snap back.
Replace cartridge when empty (about once
a season). Check preserver level visually.
11
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 clippings.
It may also be necessary to reduce
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.
• 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 recutting ac-
tion 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.
• For better grass bagging and most cut-
ting conditions, the engine speed should
be set in the FAST position.
• 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.
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.
12
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.
➀ Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
➁ Engine oil
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
➀ Mulcher
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.
door hinge pin
➀ Rear door
hinge
➀ Handle bracket mounting pins
Spray lubricant
➀
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
➁
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”).
13
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. lbs. / 47-54 N-m.
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
• 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.
Blade adapter
Key
Crankshaft
keyway
DRIVE WHEELS
Check rear drive wheels each time you
mow to be sure they move freely. The
wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the
drive wheel and dust cover area and must
be cleaned out to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,
check both rear wheels.
Lockwasher
Blade
Blade
bolt
Hardened
washer
BLADE CARE
Crankshaft
Trailing edge
For best results, blade must be kept sharp.
Replace a bent or damaged blade.
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 SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is bal-
anced. Careshouldbetakentokeeptheblade
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.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
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.
5. Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
GRASS CATCHER
• 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.
1. Position the blade adapter on the en-
gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter
and crankshaft keyway are aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo-
site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
GEAR CASE
• To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area around
the drive should be kept clean and free
of trash build-up. Clean under the drive
cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to the
proper level at the factory. The only time
the lubricant needs attention is if service
has been performed on the gear case.
14
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.
750369. Do not substitute.
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
muffler on startup.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SG–SL.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick
before starting engine.
9. Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
SAE 30
5W-30
AIR FILTER
-20
0
30
32 40
0
100
60
80
F
C
-20
10
-30
-10
20
30
40
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.
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 oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
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.
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-
tridge. 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
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
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.
screw securely.
Back plate
Slots
Lip
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.
Cover
tabs
Cartridge
Cover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
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.
Container
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn
mower or side of engine.
15
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
• Clean underside of 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.
• 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.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a sea-
son. Scrape underside of cover with putty
knife or similar tool to remove any build-up
of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: To avoid serious injury,
before performing any service or adjust-
ments:
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.
4. Remove idler arm assembly from
housing by removing hex nut; then
remove drive belt from drive pulley, belt
keepers and idler arm assembly.
5. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
6. Remove screw securing debris shield.
Note that the debris shield has a tab
which fits into a gap in the housing.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in
the Operation section of this manual.
Crankshaft
Blade
Housing hole
adapter
REAR DEFLECTOR
Thereardeflector,attachedbetweentherear
wheelsofyourmower,isprovidedtominimize
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.
Hardened
washer
Tab
Blade
bolt
TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT
Debris shield
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
2. Remove screws retaining drive cover
(not shown); and remove drive cover
from lawn mower housing.
3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then
detach it and return spring from idler
arm assembly.
Lock-washer
Trailing edge
7. 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.
8. Remove blade bolt.
9. Remove blade, attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer),
blade adapter and debris shield. Note
that the debris shield has a tab which
fits into the housing hole.
10.Remove drive belt from engine pulley;
discard old belt.
Drive pulley
Drive cable anchor
Housing holes
Drive belt
TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT
1. Place new drive belt on engine pulley.
2. Route the other end of the new drive
belt through hole in housing.
Belt
keepers
Return Idler arm
spring assembly
Hex nut
16
3. Return mower to upright position.
4. Install new drive belt into idler arm
assembly, then around the drive pulley.
Be sure belt is inside of belt keepers.
5. Reattach idler arm assembly with hex
nut previously removed.
6. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
7. Reattach debris shield to housing with
tab of debris shield in housing hole.
8. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
9. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op-
posite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine as shown.
3. Align opposite side of handle with
same positioning hole and secure with
bolt and knob.
High
Med.
Low
Bolt
Handle
bracket
Knob
10.Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
11.Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. lbs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
12.Return mower to upright position.
13.Reattach drive cable and return spring
to the idler arm assembly, then reat-
tach drive cable to anchor.
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 the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to a
Sears or other qualified service center for
repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service center for repair 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
14.Reattach drive cover with screw(s)
previously removed.
15.Connect spark plug wire to spark plug.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mower has three
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.
1. Remove knob and carriage bolt on one
side of the lower handle.
2. While holding handle assembly, remove
knobandcarriageboltfromoppositeside,
align hole in handle with desired hole in
handle bracket and reassemble bolt and
knob and tighten securely.
qualified service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
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.
“CLEANING” in the Maintenance sec-
tion of this manual).
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.
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
17
HANDLE
ENGINE
You can fold your mower handle for storage.
1. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on
sides of the upper handle and allow
handle to fold down to the rear.
2. Remove the two (2) handle knobs and
carriageboltsonsidesofthelowerhandle
andpivotentirehandleassemblyforward
and allow it to rest on mower.
3. Reinstall knobs and carriage bolts to
lower handle or handle brackets for
safe keeping.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
require manually locking into the mow-
ing position.
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.
IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
the handle as shown or you may damage
the control cables.
• 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
storage container. Always follow the mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not empty the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
Operator
presence
control bar
MOWING
POSITION
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
Upper
handle
STORAGE
TM
NOTE: FRESH START fuel cap and
cartridge system automatically drips con-
centrated fuel preserver into your fuel tank
Handle
knob and is an acceptable alternative to adding
fuel stabilizer.
Lower handle
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See “ENGINE” in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
Handle
bracket
Bolt
CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.
2. Pour 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.
Knob
BATTERY
Disconnect the battery from the engine
connector and charge battery 48 hours.
18
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
OTHER
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
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.
• 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 protective
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.
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.
19
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.
Loss of drive
or slowing of
drive speed
1. Belt wear.
1. Check/replace drive belt.
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.
2. Belt off of pulley.
3. Drive cable worn or broken. 3. Replace drive cable.
4. “Loose” drive control system. 4. Adjust drive control.
20
21
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no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!
For the replacement parts, accessories and
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(U.S.A. and Canada)
Our Home
For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment,
and electronics, call or go on-line for the nearest
Sears Parts and Repair Center.
1-800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only)
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or maintenance agreement (Canada) on a product serviced by Sears:
1-800-827-6655 (U.S.A.)
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Au Canada pour service en français:
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1-888-SU-HOGARSM
(1-888-784-6427)
02410
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® Registered Trademark / TM Trademark / SM Service Mark of Sears, Roebuck and Co.
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