This document is the Owner's Manual for a CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER, specifically Model No. 917.370431. It features a 675 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine, is power-propelled, and has a 22" Multi-Cut cutting deck.
Function Description:
The Craftsman Rotary Lawn Mower is designed for cutting grass in residential lawns. It is a walk-behind, power-propelled unit, meaning the engine not only powers the blade but also assists in moving the mower forward. The "Multi-Cut" feature suggests it can perform various cutting operations, including mulching, rear bagging, and side discharging, allowing users to choose the best method for their lawn conditions. The mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar, a safety feature that stops the engine when released, minimizing the risk of blade contact injury.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Engine: 675 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine.
- Cutting Width: 22" Multi-Cut.
- Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular). Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable; exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
- Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F).
- Oil Capacity: 18 Ounces (initial fill), 20 Ounces (when changing oil).
- Spark Plug (Gap): .020" (Champion RJ2YXLE).
- Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. lbs.
- Safety Compliance: Meets CPSC Safety Requirements, conforming to safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
- Spark Arrester: The engine's exhaust system should be equipped with a spark arrester if used on unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land, as required by law in California and potentially other states/federal lands.
Usage Features:
- Power-Propelled: The mower is power-propelled, reducing the effort required to push it. The drive control bar engages the forward motion, and the speed can be varied by how close the bar is pulled to the handle.
- 22" Multi-Cut Deck: This allows for versatile cutting options:
- Mulching: The mower is shipped ready for mulching. A special mulching blade recuts grass clippings into fine pieces that disperse into the lawn, providing nutrients.
- Rear Bagging: To convert, the rear door is lifted, and the grass catcher frame hooks are placed onto the grass bag brackets.
- Side Discharging: To convert, the mulcher door is opened, and a discharge deflector is installed under the door.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Wheels can be raised for a low cut or lowered for a high cut, with a medium position recommended for most lawns. Adjustments are made by squeezing an adjuster lever toward the wheel and moving the wheel up or down. All wheels should be set to the same height.
- Automatic Choke System: The engine is equipped with an automatic choke, eliminating the need for priming or choking before starting.
- Handle Adjustment: The handle has three height positions for user comfort. It can also be folded for storage or transportation.
- Water Washout Feature: A fitting on the housing allows for quick and easy cleaning of the underside of the mower by connecting a garden hose.
Maintenance Features:
- Engine Oil: The mower is shipped without oil. Users must add oil before first use. Oil level should be checked before each use and changed after every 25 hours of operation or once per season. Overfilling should be avoided.
- Gasoline: Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane). Fuel stabilizer is recommended for storage longer than 30 days to prevent gum deposits. The fuel tank should be emptied before storage if not using a stabilizer.
- Blade Care: The blade should be kept sharp and replaced if bent or damaged. The manual provides instructions for removing and replacing the blade, including recommended torque for the blade bolt. Sharpening instructions are also provided, emphasizing balance.
- Air Filter: The air filter cartridge should be replaced every 100 hours or every season, or more often in dusty conditions. Cleaning involves gently tapping the cartridge; petroleum solvents or pressurized air should not be used.
- Muffler: Inspect and replace if corroded to prevent fire hazards.
- Spark Plug: Replace at the beginning of each mowing season or every 100 hours.
- Grass Catcher: Check often for damage and deterioration. It can be hosed off but must be dry before use.
- Drive Wheels: Check for free movement before each mow. Clean any trash or grass cuttings from the drive wheel area if necessary.
- Drive Belt: Instructions are provided for removing and replacing the drive belt.
- General Cleaning: Keep the mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean the underside of the mower after each use. Clean the engine frequently to prevent debris accumulation.
- Storage: Detailed instructions are provided for preparing the mower for storage, including cleaning, lubrication, fuel system preparation (emptying or using stabilizer), and proper handle folding.
- Warranty: A 2-year full warranty covers defects in material and workmanship, excluding expendable parts, damage from user modification, or improper maintenance. Commercial use voids the warranty.
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