sears craftsman mower manual

The Sears Craftsman Mower is a reliable and durable lawn maintenance tool designed for residential use. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching and bagging capabilities, easy-start technology, and durable steel deck construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Parts Diagram 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Cutting Deck, Handle with Controls, Grass Bag, Wheels, and Safety Key.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful Briggs & Stratton or Craftsman engine for reliable performance
Cutting Deck	Durable steel construction with mulching/bagging/side-discharge options
Cutting Width	21-inch or wider cutting path for efficient mowing
Height Adjustment	Single-lever or individual wheel adjustment for 6 cutting positions
Drive System	Front-wheel or rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Easy Start	Primer bulb and recoil starter for quick engine ignition
Grass Bag	High-capacity fabric or hard-shell bag with easy-empty feature
Safety Key	Removable key to prevent unauthorized or accidental operation
Handle	Adjustable folding handle with ergonomic grips
Wheels	Large rear wheels for better traction and maneuverability

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

Attach the handle: Align handle halves with lower brackets, insert bolts, and tighten securely.
Install the grass bag: Attach bag support frame to deck, then hook bag onto frame.
Attach wheels: Insert axle through wheel hub and secure with retainer clips or nuts.
Add oil and gasoline: Fill engine with recommended oil (SAE 30). Add fresh unleaded gasoline.
Install safety key: Insert into slot near engine control panel.

WARNING! Do not attempt to start engine before adding oil and gasoline. Keep hands clear of cutting blade during assembly.

Safety Precautions

Always follow these safety rules to prevent injury or property damage.

Read manual thoroughly before operation.
Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, toys, and other debris.
Do not mow when children or pets are present.
Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and eye protection.
Do not operate on steep slopes (over 15 degrees).
Stop engine and remove safety key before unclogging deck or performing maintenance.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.
Use only in daylight or good artificial light.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Engine Type: 4-cycle, single-cylinder, air-cooled.
Engine Displacement: 140cc to 190cc (model dependent).
Cutting Width: 21 inches (standard).
Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
Deck Material: Reinforced steel.
Drive Type: Front-wheel drive with variable speed control.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.0 to 1.5 quarts.
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30 recommended).
Weight: Approximately 65 lbs (without bag).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Handle Controls: Drive Control Lever (engage to move), Speed Control (variable), Height Adjustment Lever, Blade Engage Lever (to spin blade).

Engine Controls: Primer Bulb (press 3 times for cold start), Choke Control (use for cold start), Throttle Control, Recoil Starter Handle, Ignition Key Slot.

Starting Procedure: Insert safety key. Move throttle to FAST. Press primer bulb 3 times. Pull recoil starter firmly. After engine starts, adjust throttle as needed.

Stopping: Release Blade Engage Lever. Move throttle to STOP. Remove safety key.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust cutting height to match grass conditions and season.

Stop engine and ensure blade is not spinning.
Locate height adjustment lever near each wheel or single central lever.
Move lever to desired setting (1=lowest, 6=highest). Ensure all wheels are at same height.
For best results: Cut high in summer heat, lower in spring/fall.

Tip: Never remove more than 1/3 of grass blade length in a single mowing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Maintenance Task	Frequency
Check oil level	Before each use
Check for loose bolts/nuts	Before each use
Clean underside of deck	After each use
Sharpen or replace blade	Every 25 hours or when dull
Replace air filter	Every season or 25 hours
Change oil	First 5 hours, then every 50 hours
Replace spark plug	Every 100 hours or annually
Lubricate wheels and height adjusters	Every 25 hours

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance on blade or underside of deck.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting problems.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
Drain gasoline or add fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.
Change oil at end of season.
Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
Store in a clean, dry place, preferably covered.

CAUTION! Never store mower with gasoline in tank indoors or near open flame.

Warranty Information

Craftsman mowers are backed by a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.sears.com/craftsman.

Parts Diagram

Refer to the exploded-view parts diagram for identification and ordering of replacement parts. Common parts include: Blade, Air Filter, Spark Plug, Drive Belt, Wheels, Grass Bag, and Control Cables. Always use genuine Craftsman replacement parts for optimal performance and safety.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gasoline, clogged filter, bad spark plug	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter; check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old gasoline, water in fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gasoline.
Uneven cut	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck clogged	Sharpen or balance blade; check tire pressure; clean deck.
Mower vibrates excessively	Loose blade, bent blade, unbalanced blade	Stop engine, disconnect spark plug, tighten or replace blade.
Mower won't drive	Drive belt loose or broken, control cable disconnected	Inspect drive belt; check drive control linkage.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too low	Mow when grass is dry; clean deck; run engine at full throttle.

Service: For technical support or to locate a service center, call 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.sears.com/craftsman.