Craftsman 247.888301 Operator's Manual page 20

CAUTION
The spark plug must be tightened securely. A loose spark plug can
become very hot and can damage the engine.
LUBRICATION
Gear Shaft
The gear (hex) shaft should be lubricated at least once a season or
after every 25 hours of operation.
1. To prevent spillage, remove all fuel from tank by running engine
until it stops.
2. Carefully pivot the snow thrower up and forward so that it rests on
the auger housing.
3. Remove the lower frame cover from the underside of the snow
thrower by removing the self-tapping screws which secure it.
4. Apply a light coating of engine oil (or 3-in-1 oil) to the hex shaft.
See Figure 21.
NOTE: When lubricating the hex shaft, be careful not to get any oil on
the aluminum drive plate or rubber friction wheel. Doing so will hinder
the snow thrower's drive system. Wipe off any excess or spilled oil.
Wheels
At least once a season, remove both wheels. Clean and coat the axles
with a multipurpose automotive grease before reinstalling wheels.
Auger Shaft
At least once a season, remove the shear pins on auger shaft. Spray
lubricant inside shaft, and around the spacers and flange bearings
found at either end of the shaft. See Figure 22.
SHAVE PLATE AND SKID SHOES
The shave plate and skid shoes on the bottom of the snow thrower are
subject to wear. They should be checked periodically and replaced
when necessary.
NOTE: The skid shoes on this machine have two wear edges. When
one side wears out, they can be rotated 180° to use the other edge.
To remove skid shoes:
1. Remove the two carriage bolts, washers (if equipped), and hex
flange nuts that secure each skid shoe to the snow thrower.
2. Reassemble new skid shoes with the four carriage bolts (two on
each side), washers, and hex flange nuts. Refer to Figure 23.
To remove shave plate:
1. Remove the carriage bolts and hex nuts which attach it to the
snow thrower housing.
2. Reassemble new shave plate, making sure heads of carriage
bolts are to the inside of housing. Tighten securely. See Figure
23.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
NOTE: Augers not shown for clarity.
20
Figure 21
Figure 22
Figure 23