This document is an operator's manual for a 22" Craftsman rotary lawnmower, model number C459-36023. It provides instructions for safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Function Description:
The Craftsman 22" rotary lawnmower is designed for the primary purpose of mowing grass. It features a rotating blade that cuts grass and can be used for mulching clippings back into the lawn or bagging them with a grass catcher. The mower is equipped with a blade control handle, which is a safety device that must be depressed to operate the unit and released to stop the engine and blade.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number: C459-36023
- Cutting Width: 22 inches (indicated by "22" Lawn Mower" on the cover)
- Engine: Internal combustion engine (requires gasoline and oil, serviced as per a separate engine manual). Certified to comply with California and federal EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment).
- Blade Control: Safety device that stops the engine and blade when released.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: Levers on each wheel allow adjustment of cutting height. All four levers must be at the same position for a uniform cut.
- Slope Operation Limit: Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet).
- Average Useful Life: Seven (7) years or 140 hours of operation, as per CPSC and EPA.
Usage Features:
- Assembly: The manual details steps for handle setup, including adjusting height and securing with star knobs. It also covers the installation of an optional mulching baffle.
- Starting: The engine is started by depressing the blade control handle and pulling the recoil starter rope. The manual warns against rapid retraction (kickback) of the starter cord.
- Stopping: Releasing the blade control handle immediately stops the engine and blade.
- Mulching: The mower can be used as a mulcher by installing the mulching baffle. For effective mulching, it's recommended not to cut wet grass or grass taller than four inches.
- Safety Features:
- Blade Control Handle: Prevents accidental blade rotation.
- Trail Shield: Located at the rear of the mower to protect the operator from flying debris.
- Discharge Cover/Grass Catcher: Must be in place during operation to prevent thrown object injuries.
- Safety Glasses: Recommended during operation and maintenance.
- Footwear: Sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts are recommended.
- Bystander Zone: Keep children, bystanders, helpers, and pets at least 75 feet away from the mower during operation.
- Slope Guide: A visual guide is provided to determine safe operating slopes, emphasizing mowing across slopes, not up and down.
- Spark Arrester: The engine may be equipped with a spark arrester for use in forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered lands.
Maintenance Features:
- General Service:
- Regular inspection of blade and engine mounting bolts for tightness and damage.
- Replacement of blade with original equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) parts only.
- Keeping all nuts, bolts, and screws tight.
- Regular checking of safety devices for proper operation.
- Thorough inspection for damage after striking foreign objects.
- Cleaning the underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent grass clipping build-up.
- Engine Maintenance:
- Refer to the separate engine manual for specific instructions on oil, air cleaner, and spark plug maintenance.
- Regular cleaning of the engine and cooling system.
- Do not modify the engine or tamper with the governor setting, as this can lead to unsafe speeds and void the warranty.
- Blade Care:
- Periodic inspection of the blade adapter for cracks.
- Sharpening and balancing the blade, ensuring metal is removed equally from each cutting edge.
- Lubricating the engine crankshaft and blade adapter.
- Checking the blade bolt for correct torque (450-600 in. lbs.).
- Lubrication:
- Lubricate pivot points on the blade control handle at least once a season.
- Lubricate ball bearing wheels (if equipped) or axle bolts and inner wheel surfaces.
- Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodically.
- Off-Season Storage:
- Clean and lubricate the mower thoroughly.
- Refer to the engine manual for correct engine storage instructions.
- Coat the cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.
- Store in a dry, clean area, away from corrosive materials and open flames/sparks.
- Rust-proof equipment with light oil or silicone if stored in a poorly ventilated or metal shed.
Troubleshooting:
The manual includes a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as engine failure to start, erratic running, overheating, occasional skips, poor idling, excessive vibration, and uneven cut, providing potential causes and remedies for each.
Warranty:
Craftsman products are warranted against defects in materials or workmanship for a specific period. For this lawnmower, the warranty period is 2 years for non-commercial, non-professional, non-institutional, or non-income-producing use. Exclusions include normal wear, abuse, misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, and unauthorized alterations. Repairs conducted within the warranty period are warranted for 90 days. Proof of purchase is required for warranty coverage.
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