The Craftsman 917.388 is a 21-inch self-propelled gas-powered lawn mower featuring a 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (6 positions: 1.25"-3.75"), rear-wheel drive with variable speed control, easy-start system, durable steel deck, and washout port for cleaning. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.
Read all instructions before operating. Failure to follow warnings may result in serious injury or death.
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Rotating Blade | Always disconnect spark plug before inspection, cleaning, or maintenance. Keep hands and feet away. |
| Fuel Safety | Refuel outdoors only when engine is cool. Use approved gasoline container. No smoking. |
| Slope Operation | Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Mow across slopes, not up and down. |
| Debris & Objects | Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, wire, and other objects that could be thrown. |
| Children & Pets | Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, at a safe distance. |
| Hot Surfaces | Avoid contact with muffler and engine; they become extremely hot during operation. |
Unpack all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included: adjustable wrench, screwdriver).
WARNING! Do not start engine until assembly is complete and all fasteners are tight.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.
Steps for safe and effective mowing.
CAUTION! Always mow in daylight with good visibility. Wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Before each use | Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris. |
| Every 8 hours | Check tire pressure (12-15 PSI). Lubricate wheel axles if needed. |
| Every 25 hours | Change engine oil (or annually). Clean or replace air filter. Check spark plug. |
| Every season | Sharpen or replace blade. Clean underside of deck. Check all cables and bolts. |
| As needed | Replace drive belt if worn or cracked. Replace fuel filter. |
Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV Engine Model: 12H802.
WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any engine maintenance.
Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Empty fuel tank, stale fuel, clogged fuel line, dirty air filter, faulty spark plug. | Add fresh fuel, clean/replace filter, check spark plug gap/replace. |
| Engine runs poorly or stalls | Dirty carburetor, water in fuel, clogged air filter. | Drain fuel tank, clean carburetor, replace air filter. |
| Mower vibrates excessively | Damaged or unbalanced blade, loose blade bolt, debris lodged in deck. | Stop engine, disconnect spark plug. Inspect, tighten, or replace blade. |
| Self-propelled drive not working | Drive belt worn or broken, drive cable loose or disconnected, control lever damaged. | Inspect belt and cable. Adjust tension or replace parts as needed. |
| Uneven cutting | Dull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck not level. | Sharpen blade, inflate tires evenly, adjust deck leveling. |
| Grass not discharging properly | Wet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too low, dull blade. | Mow when grass is dry, clean deck, run engine at FAST speed, sharpen blade. |
Craftsman 917.388 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, or use of non-genuine parts. Proof of purchase is required.
For Service: Contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. For engine-specific warranty, refer to the separate Briggs & Stratton warranty documentation.
Note: Performing unauthorized repairs or using non-OEM parts may void the warranty.