Craftsman 917.77341 - User Manual

This document is the owner's manual for a Craftsman 4.0 Horsepower 20-inch Cut Wheeled Weed Trimmer, Model No. 917.773410. It provides comprehensive information on the device's function, technical specifications, usage, and maintenance.

Function Description:

The Craftsman Wheeled Weed Trimmer is designed for trimming weeds and grass using rotating lines. Unlike handheld trimmers, this wheeled unit offers greater stability and control, making it suitable for larger areas and tougher vegetation. It features a 4.0 horsepower internal combustion engine, providing ample power for effective trimming. The 20-inch cut width allows for efficient coverage, reducing the time and effort required for yard work. The trimmer is operated by walking behind it, guiding the trimmer head over the areas to be cleared. The trimmer head drive control system ensures that the cutting lines only rotate when the operator is positioned behind the handle and actively engaging the control bar and lever, enhancing safety.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model Number: 917.773410
Horsepower: 4.0 HP
Cutting Width: 20 inches
Trimmer Line Diameter: 0.130 inch
Trimmer Line Length: 16.75 inches (new line)
Engine Type: Internal Combustion Engine (4-cycle)
Gasoline Type: Unleaded Regular (minimum 87 octane)
Gasoline Capacity: 1.25 Quarts
Oil Type: SAE 30 (Above 32°F), SAE 5W-30 (Below 32°F)
Oil Capacity: 20 Ozs.
Spark Plug: Champion J19LM or RJ19LM
Spark Plug Gap: 0.030 inch
Valve Clearance: Intake: 0.004-0.008, Exhaust: 0.004-0.008
Engine Speed (Factory Set): High RPM 3450 to 3750, Low RPM 2000 to 2300

Usage Features:

The trimmer is designed for user-friendly operation with several key features:

Throttle Control: Located on the side of the upper handle, it allows the operator to select fast or slow engine speeds for starting, normal trimming, light trimming, and fuel economy. It also serves as the engine stop control.
Primer: Used to pump additional fuel to the carburetor for starting a cold engine.
Starter Handle: For manually starting the engine.
Trimmer Head Control Bar and Lever: These controls require the operator to hold the control bar down to the handle and push the lever forward to engage the trimmer head. Releasing the control bar stops the trimmer head rotation, acting as a safety mechanism.
Wheeled Design: Provides stability and ease of movement across various terrains, making it less physically demanding than handheld trimmers.
Slope Operation: Emphasizes trimming across slopes, not up and down, with extreme caution. It advises against trimming on excessively steep or wet slopes, or near drop-offs.
Safety Goggles: Included with the trimmer and recommended for use during operation to protect eyes from thrown objects.
Handle Folding: The upper handle can be folded forward for compact storage or transportation, ensuring control cables are not damaged.
Trimming Tips: Suggests operating at a slower walking speed for tall and thick weeds, frequently cleaning the underside of the trimmer, and using the left side of the trimmer for trimming along fences and walls. It also advises replacing trimmer lines when they are worn to less than half their original length.

Maintenance Features:

Regular maintenance is crucial for the trimmer's longevity and safe operation. The manual provides a detailed maintenance schedule and instructions:

Engine Oil: The trimmer is shipped without oil. Users must add 20 oz. of SAE 30 or 5W-30 oil before first use. Oil level should be checked before each use and after every five hours of continuous use. Oil should be changed after every 25 hours of operation or once per season.
Gasoline: The trimmer is shipped without gasoline. Users must add fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane). It explicitly states not to mix oil with gasoline. Instructions are provided for draining the fuel system before storage to prevent gum deposits, especially with alcohol-blended fuels.
Air Filter: Should be cleaned or replaced annually, or more often in dusty conditions. Instructions for removing and replacing the air filter are provided.
Spark Plug: Should be changed annually for easier starting and better engine performance. The spark plug gap should be set at 0.030 inch.
Muffler: Should be inspected and replaced if corroded to prevent fire hazards.
Cleaning: The trimmer should be kept free of built-up grass and trash. The underside should be cleaned after each use. The engine cover screen and air intake screen must be kept clear to prevent overheating.
Loose Fasteners: All nuts, bolts, screws, and pins should be checked for tightness before each use.
Trimmer Line Replacement: Instructions are provided for replacing worn trimmer lines with specified 0.130 inch diameter lines, cut to 16.75 inches. It warns against using other materials like wire or string.
Drive Belt: Instructions are provided for removing and replacing the trimmer head drive belt, including details on idler pulleys and belt keepers.
Carburetor and Engine Speed: The engine speed is factory set and non-adjustable. Users are warned against tampering with the engine governor or attempting to increase engine speed, as this can be dangerous and may result in personal injury. Any carburetor or engine speed issues should be addressed by a qualified service center.
Storage: Detailed instructions for preparing the trimmer for storage, including cleaning, lubricating, draining the fuel system (or using fuel stabilizer), and proper storage location. It warns against storing the trimmer with gasoline in the tank near open flames or sparks.
Troubleshooting Chart: A comprehensive chart helps diagnose common issues like "Does not start," "Loss of power," "Excessive Vibration," "Starter rope hard to pull," "Loss of head drive," "Poor trimming performance," and "Trimmer head does not retain line," along with their causes and corrections.