Manualslib.

com - Simplified Manuals

CRAFTSMAN Push Mower

CMXGMAM1125499/CMXGMAM1125500
Manual
Manuals / Brands / Craftsman Manuals / Lawn Mower / CMXGMAM1125499 / User manual / PDF

Contents
1 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2 SLOPE GAUGE
3 ASSEMBLY
3.1 Unpacking
3.2 Assembly
4 Adjustments
5 OPERATION
6 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
7 OFF-SEASON STORAGE
8 TROUBLESHOOTING
8.1 Engine fails to start
8.2 Engine runs erratic
8.3 Engine overheats
8.4 Occasional skips (hesitates)
8.5 Idles poorly
8.6 Excessive vibration
8.7 Mower will not mulch grass
8.8 Uneven cut
9 Documents / Resources
9.1 References
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Before using this equipment, read the manual and follow all safety rules and operating
instructions. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

NOTE:
This Operator's Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all
features in this manual are applicable to all models and the model depicted may differ
from yours.

This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could
endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and
follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine.
Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you
see this symbol, HEED ITS WARNING!

This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the
part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of
amputating fingers, hands, toes and feet and throwing debris. Failure to observe
the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain
or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read,
understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the
machine.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

GENERAL OPERATION

Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble
this machine. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manuals before operation. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts

Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before
operating it.

This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore,

exercise extreme caution at all times. This machine has been designed to perform
one job: to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and
over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this
manual and on the machine and should be trained and supervised by an adult.

Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation
should be allowed to use this machine.

Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all stones,
sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign objects, which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious personal
injury.

Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction, which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the
operator.

To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay in operator zone behind
handles and keep children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing
an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and
pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-weight (e.g. canvas)
shoes.

Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with
blade can amputate fingers, hands, toes and feet.

A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object
injuries.

Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall
caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling: release
the handle immediately.

Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking. If you must back the
mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping
and then follow these steps:

a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms forward.

b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.

d. Repeat these steps as needed.

Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on machines so equipped while

starting engine.

The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.
Doing so makes the safety device inoperative and may result in personal injury
through contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle must operate easily
in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.

Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall
can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop rotating within three
seconds.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.

Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before
removing the grass Bagger or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the blade control is released. Never place any part of
the body in the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.

Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge cover, grass Bagger,
blade control handle or other safety protective devices in place and working. Never
operate mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can result in personal
injury.

Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.

Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is
running.

Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by the manufacturer. Failure
to do so can result in personal injury.

When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid
retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
 you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could result.

If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good
judgement.

SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe
injury. Operation on slopes requires extra caution. The machine is heavy and can speed
up when going downhill. Be prepared to maintain control of the machine. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
of this manual to measure slopes before operating this machine on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down to avoid loss of control.

Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes; turn uphill not down.

Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which can cause you to slip or
trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If
you feel you are losing your balance, release the blade control handle immediately
and the blade will stop rotating within three (3) seconds.

Do Not:

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, because you could lose your
footing or balance.

Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope guide.

Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause slipping.

CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the mower and the mowing activity. They do not
understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw
them.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful care of a responsible adult
other than the operator.

Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.

Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees, or other
objects that may obscure your vision of a child who may run into the mower.
 Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot
muffler.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and
over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this
manual and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an adult.

SERVICE
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes
which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

Use only an approved gasoline container.

Never fill containers inside a vehicle or 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 on a trailer 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.

Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will accumulate in the area.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to
cool at least two minutes before refueling.

Never over-fill fuel tank. To allow for expansion of the fuel, do not fill above the
bottom of the fuel tank neck.

Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. Move machine to another
area. Wait 5 minutes before starting engine.

Never store the machine or fuel container near an open flame, spark or pilot light as
on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-soaked debris.

Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

General Service:
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts
have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.

Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn). Replace blade
with the original equipment manufacture's (O.E.M.) blade only. Use of parts which do
not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance
and compromise safety!

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing them.

Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working
condition.

Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating the mower.

Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is
running.

Grass Bagger components, discharge cover, and trail shield are subject to wear and
damage which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety
protection, frequently check components and replace immediately with original
equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) parts only. Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!

Do not change the engine's governor setting or over-speed the engine. The governor
controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if
necessary.

Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper disposal of fluids and
materials can harm the environment.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an Average Useful Life of
seven (7) years, or 140 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful Life
have the machine inspected annually by a qualified service dealer to ensure that all
 mechanical and safety systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

DO NOT MODIFY ENGINE

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering with
the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to operate at
unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor.

NOTICE REGARDING EMISSIONS

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal EPA emission
regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to operate on
regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control
systems: Engine Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air
Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

SPARK ARRESTOR

This machine is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be
used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered
land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor
meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest Parts and
Repair Service Center. For location and purchase information call 1-888-331-4569.

SAFETY SYMBOLS
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to
assemble and operate.
Symbol Description
READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before
attempting to assemble and operate

ROTATING BLADES To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away.
Do not operate unless discharge cover or grass bagger is in its proper place.
If damaged, replace immediately.

BYSTANDERS Do not mow when children or others are around.

HAND/ FOOT CUT Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

THROWN DEBRIS Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any
direction. Wear safety glasses.

SLOPES Use extra caution on slopes. The machine is heavy and can speed
up when going downhill. Be prepared to maintain control of the machine. To
avoid loss of control, operate across slopes, not up and down. When turning,
turn uphill, not down. Do not operate on slopes greater than 15°.

GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes

before refueling.

CARBON MONOXIDE Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated

area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas.

HOT SURFACE Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot
during operation. Allow engine and muffler to cool before touching.

Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read,
understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

SLOPE GAUGE
USE THIS SLOPE GAUGE TO DETERMINE IF A SLOPES TOO STEEP FOR SAFE
OPERATION!

To checkthe slope, proceed a follows:

1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed ine.

2. Locate a vertical object on or behind the slope (e..a pole building, fence, tree, etc)

3. Align elther side of the slope gauge withthe object (See Figure 1 and Figure 2)

4. Adjust gauge up of down untilthe left comer touches the slope (See Figure 1 and
Figute 2)

5. If there isa gap below the gauge, the slope is too steep for safe operation (See
Figure 2 above).

Slopes are a major factor related to sip and fall accidents which can result in severe
injury or death.
The machine is heavy and can speed up when going downhil. Be prepared to maintain
contol ofthe machine. To avoid loss of contol, operate across slopes, not up and down.
When turning tun uphl, ot down. Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15
degrees.

ASSEMBLY
This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Be certain to service engine
with gasoline and oil as instructed in the Operation section of the Engine Operator's
Manual before starting or running your machine.

NOTE:
Reference to right and left hand side of the lawn mower is observed from the operating
position.

Unpacking

Opening Carton

1. Cut each corner of the carton vertically from top to bottom.

2. Remove all loose parts.

3. Remove loose packing material.

Removing Unit From Carton

1. Lift unit from the rear to detach it from underlying carton material and roll unit out of
carton.

2. Check carton thoroughly for any other loose parts.

Loose Parts In Carton

Grass Catcher

Side Discharge Cover

Engine Oil

Assembly

Attaching The Handle

1. Remove any packing material which may be between upper and lower handles.

a. Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts handle as shown in Figure 1. Do not loosen
or remove adjacent hex head screws.
 b. While stabilizing mower so it doesn't move, pivot upper handle up as shown in
Figure 2. Do not crimp cable while lifting the handle up.

2. Remove T-bolts from the handle brackets as shown in Figure 3.

3. Follow the steps below to complete handle assembly:

a. Pull upward on the handle until holes in lower handle (shown in Figure 3 deck
cutaway) line up with holes in handle bracket. See Figure 4.
NOTE:
 When pulling upward on handle, make sure to not pull handle all the way out.

b. Insert the T-bolts removed in Step 2 through the handle brackets and lower
handle and tighten securely to secure the handle in place. See Figure 4.

c. Reattach wing nuts and carriage bolts removed in Step 1 into lower holes of
handle as shown in Figure 5.

4. The rope guide is attached to the right side of the upper handle. Loosen the wing
knob which secures the rope guide. Refer to Figure 6.

a. Hold blade control against upper handle.

b. Slowly pull starter rope handle from engine and slip starter rope into the rope
guide. See Figure 6.

c. Tighten rope guide wing knob.

d. Use cable ties to secure blade control cable to lower handle.

Attaching the Grass Catcher

1. Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher. Make certain bag is turned right
side out before assembling (warning label will be on the outside).

a. Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side is at the bottom.

b. Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the frame. See Figure 7.

2. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:

a. Lift rear discharge door.

b. Place grass catcher into the slots in the handle brackets as shown in Figure 8. Let
go of discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.

To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the mower. Lift grass catcher
up and off the slots in the handle brackets. Release rear discharge door to allow it
to close rear opening of mower.
Attaching Side Discharge Cover

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To convert to side discharge, make sure grass
catcher is off of the unit and rear discharge door is closed.

1. On the side of the mower, lift the mulch cover. See Figure 9.

2. Slide two hooks of side discharge cover under hinge pin on mulching cover
assembly. Lower mulching cover. Do not remove side mulching cover at any time,

even when you are not mulching.

Adjustments

Cutting Height
There is a cutting height adjustment lever located above the front and rear right wheel.

1. Pull the height adjustment lever outward towards wheel (unit will tend to fall when
lever is moved outward). See Figure 10.

2. Move lever to desired position for a change in cutting height. See Figure 10.

3. Release lever towards deck.

All wheels must be placed in the same position. For rough or uneven lawns, move each
height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will prevent you from cutting the grass

too close to the ground.

Handle Pitch (If Equipped)

For convenience of operation, you may adjust the pitch of the handle as follows:

1. Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle. See Figure 11.

2. Position the handle in one of the three positions that is most comfortable. See Figure
11 inset.

3. Secure into position with wing nuts and carriage bolts removed in Step 1.

OPERATION
Blade Control
The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress and squeeze it
against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

This blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.

Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

One adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one is located on the right
front wheel. Both levers have to be at the same position to ensure a uniform cut. To
adjust the cutting height, refer to the Assembly Section.

Deck Wash (If Equipped)

Your mower's deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck wash
system. Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside.

Mulch Cover (If Equipped)

The mulch cover is used for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting the grass clippings
in a grass catcher or using the side discharge chute, some mower models have the
option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called mulching.

Side Discharge Cover

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass clippings to the side
instead, follow the instructions in the Assembly section to attach the side discharge
cover.
Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning
label on the unit.

Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grass clippings
for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, remove it up through the handles and
empty it before any further mowing.

Trail Shield
The trail shield is attached to the rear of the mower and is there to protect the operator
from flying debris. Do not use the mower unless the shield is fully functional and in
place.

Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand behind the unit and pull
the recoil starter rope to start the unit.

Meets ANSI Safety Standards

Craftsman Lawn Mowers conform to the safety standard of the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI).

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

Refer to the separate Engine Operator's Manual for additional engine information.

This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Be certain to service engine
with gasoline and oil as instructed in this section before starting or running your
machine.

1. Add provided oil before starting mower for the first time.

2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the separate Engine Operator's
Manual.

Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.

To Start Engine

Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while
starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving
parts on engine and lawn mower.

Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for instructions on starting and stopping the
engine.

Keep a firm grip on the starter cord handle to prevent rapid retraction of starter
cord (kickback). Rapid retraction can pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go, and result in broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains.

To Stop Engine

1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the
mower or to remove the grass catcher.

Using as Mulcher
For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher or side discharge chute from the mower.
When you remove the grass catcher from the mower, the rear discharge door will close.
When you remove the side discharge chute, the mulching cover will close. For effective
mulching, do not cut wet grass. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of four
inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

Using Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are operating the mower.

1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in the Assembly section. Grass clippings
will automatically collect in bag as you run mower. Operate mower until grass bag is
full.

2. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control. Make sure that the unit has
come to a complete stop.

3. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away from the mower to remove the
bag. Dispose of the grass clippings and reinstall the bag when complete.

If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Disconnect the spark plug wire,
thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before
restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an
indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and

stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop.
Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.

Follow the maintenance schedule given below. This chart describes service guidelines
only. Use the Service Log column to keep track of completed maintenance tasks. To
locate the nearest Service Center or to schedule service, call the following toll free
number: 1-888-331-4569.

See the Engine Operator's manual packed with the mower for detailed instructions on
how to perform many of the following maintenance items.
 Service
Interval Item Service
Log

1. Engine oil
level
1. Check
2. Loose or
Each missing 2. Tighten or replace
Use hardware
3. Check
3. Air cleaner
4. Clean
4. Unit and
engine

1st
Month or 1. Engine oil 1. Change
5 hours

1. Air cleaner *

2. Control 1. Clean
Annually
linkages/pivots
or 25 2. Lube with light oil
and wheels
hours
3. Clean
3. Underside of
mower deck

Annually
or 50 1. Engine oil 1. Change
hours

1. Spark plug 1. Replace

Annually
2. Air Cleaner 2. Replace

1. Run engine until it stops from lack of fuel, or

Before
1. Fuel system add stabilizer to a full tank of fresh fuel prior
Storage
to storage.

* Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present. Replace
air cleaner if very dirty.

Always stop engine, allow engine to cool, disconnect spark plug wire, and ground
against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

General Recommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must
maintain the equipment as instructed here.

Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.

All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.

Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

Lubrication

Blade Control
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. This
control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 13.

Engine Maintenance
Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual packed with your mower for a detailed
description of all engine-related service specifications.

Clean Engine

Daily or before every use, clean grass, chaff or accumulated debris from engine.
Keep linkage, spring, and controls clean. Keep area around and behind muffler free
of any combustible debris.

Keeping engine clean allows air movement around engine.

Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of overheating and ignition of
accumulated debris.
Do not use water to clean engine parts. Water could contaminate fuel system. Use
a brush or dry cloth.

Mower Maintenance

Cleaning Deck
Clean underside of the mower deck once a season to prevent build-up of grass
clippings or other debris. Follow steps below for this job.

1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the
engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator's Manual.

2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing, keeping the muffler side down. Hold
mower firmly.
Never tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and do not leave the mower
tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine
causing a starting problem.

3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with
water.

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause
damage to bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and
reduce serviceability.

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground.

Deck Wash (If Equipped)

Your mower's deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck wash
system.
Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside and prevent the
buildup of corrosive chemicals. Complete the following steps AFTER EACH MOWING:

1. Push the mower to a level, clear location on your lawn, near enough for your garden
hose to reach. Remove the grass bag if attached.

Make certain the mower's discharge chute is directed AWAY from your house,
garage, parked cars, etc.

2. Remove the fast attach deck wash nozzle from the mower deck and thread it onto
the end of your garden hose.

3. Attach garden hose with the deck wash nozzle to the water port on your deck's
surface. See Figure 14.
4. Turn the water ON.

5. Start the engine as described in the Operation section.

6. Run the engine for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting
deck to thoroughly rinse.

7. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

8. Turn the water OFF and detach the deck wash nozzle from the water port on your
deck's surface.

After cleaning your deck, restart the mower. Keep the engine and blade running for a
minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly dry

Blade Care

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your
hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign
object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service.

1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the
engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator's Manual.

2. Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are facing
up.

3. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade
adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 15.

4. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.

5. Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance. Balance the blade on a round
shaft screwdriver to check. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances
evenly. When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each
cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high

speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal
injury.

6. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light
oil. Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the
adapter such that the side of the blade marked "Grass Side" (or with part number)
faces the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that the
blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges. See Figure 15 inset.

7. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the blade bell support with
small holes in blade.

8. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in-lb (min.), 600 in-lb (max.).

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct

torque.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

Never store lawn mower with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly ventilated areas
where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or pilot light as on a furnace,
water heater, clothes dryer, or gas appliance.

Preparing The Engine

For engines stored over 30 days:
 To prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on carburetor parts, run engine until it
stops from lack of fuel or add a gasoline additive to the gas in the tank. If you use a
gas additive, run the engine for several minutes to circulate the additive through the
carburetor.

An oil change is not required but if you desire to change the oil then change while the
engine is warm.

Clean engine of surface debris.

Preparing The Lawn Mower

Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the lubrication instructions.

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.

Coat mower's cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.

When handling the cutting blade, protect your hands with a pair of heavy
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Refer to Preparing the Engine for correct engine storage instructions.

Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as
fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage
shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone,
coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower
before storage.

Battery

The battery must be stored with a full charge. Extended storage of a discharged
battery will reduce life and capacity of the battery. For optimal battery life, charge the
battery once per month while in storage.

Remove electric start push key and keep in a safe place out of the reach of children.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent
unintended starting. Before performing any type of maintenance/service,
disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come
to a complete stop. Always wear safety glasses during operation or while
performing any adjustments or repairs.
This section addresses minor service issues. To locate the nearest Service
Center or to schedule service, call the following toll free number: 1-888-331-4569.

Problem Cause Remedy

1. Blade control
disengaged.
1. Engage blade control.
2. Spark plug boot
2. Connect wire to spark boot.
disconnected.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
3. Fuel tank empty
Engine fails or stale fuel. 4. Prime engine as instructed in the Operation
to start section.
4. Engine not primed
(If equipped with 5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
primer).
6. Wait a few minutes to restart.
5. Faulty spark plug.
7. Contact your Parts & Repair Center to have
6. Engine flooded. fuel line cleaned.
7. Blocked fuel line.

1. Spark plug boot 1. Connect and tighten spark plug boot.

loose.
2. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
2. Stale fuel.
3. Clear vent.
Engine runs 3. Vent in gas cap 4. Run engine until it stops from lack of fuel.
plugged.
erratic Refill with fresh fuel.
4. Water or dirt in
5. Refer to Air Cleaner Maintenance in the
fuel system.
Engine Manual.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Contact your Parts & Repair Center to have
6. Blocked fuel line. fuel line cleaned.

Engine 1. Engine oil level

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
low.
overheats
2. Clean area around and on top of engine.
2. Air flow restricted.

Occasional
skips 1. Spark plug gap 1. Adjust gap. Refer to Spark Plug
(hesitates) too close. Maintenance in Engine Manual.
 1. Spark plug fouled, 1. Reset gap or replace spark plug.
Idles poorly faulty, or gap too
wide. 2. Refer to Air Cleaner Maintenance in the
Engine Manual.
2. Dirty air cleaner.

1. Cutting blade
Excessive loose or
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
unbalanced.
vibration
2. Replace blade.
2. Bent cutting
blade.

1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until dry

1. Wet grass. to cut.
Mower will
not mulch 2. Excessively high 2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
grass grass. again at desired height or make a narrower
cutting path.
3. Dull blade.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.

1. Wheels not
1. Adjust cutting height lever on right front and
positioned
Uneven cut right rear wheel to same position.
correctly.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
2. Dull blade.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS, CONTACT US.

1-888-331-4569
WWW.CRAFTSMAN.COM

CRAFTSMAN® is a registered trademark of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., used under
license.
© 2018 CRAFTSMAN U.S. & Canada Only
CRAFTSMAN.com
Documents / Resources

References

Home | CRAFTSMAN

Home | CRAFTSMAN