Table Of Contents; Safety Rules; General Operation; Slope Operation - Craftsman 944.361361 Owner's Manual

Safety Rules ......................................... 2-3
Warranty ............................................... 4-5
Product Specifications ........................... 5
Assembly/Pre-Operation ......................... 6
Operation ............................................ 7-11
Maintenance Schedule .......................... 12
Maintenance ..................................... 12-15
Service and Adjustments .................. 16-17
Storage ............................................. 17-18
Troubleshooting ................................ 18-19
Repair Parts ...................................... 20-29
Sears Service .......................... Back Cover
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
ALook for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
A WARNING: In order to prevent ac-
cidental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot come in contact
with plug.
A CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions on the machine and in the manua!(s)
before starting. Be thoroughly familiarwith
the controls and the proper use of the ma-
chine before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the instructions, to oper-
ate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could
be picked up and thrown by blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when barefoot
or wearing open sandals. Always wear
substantial foot wear.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while moving
backwards.
• Never direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material
against a wall or obstruction. Material
may richochet back toward the opera-
tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel
surfaces.
• Do not operate the mower without proper
guards, plates, grass catcher or other
safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for proper
operation and installation of accessories.
Only use accessories approved by the
manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the
mower or unclogging the chute.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until
the blade comes to complete stop before
removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Al-
ways be sure of your footing: keep a firm
hold on the handle; walk, never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism
or drive clutch on mowers so equipped
before starting the engine.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operating
mower.
Ii. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall
accidents which can result in severe injury.
All slopes require extra caution. If you feel
2 uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.