Owner's Manual

ICRRFTSMRN'I4.0 HORSEPOWER20 INCH CUTWHEELEDWEEDTRIMMERModel No.944.360050

• Safety• Assembly• Operation• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

_ILCAUTION:Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructionsbefore operating this equipment.

Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

Warranty ............................................... 2Safety Rules ......................................... 3Assembly .............................................. 5Operation .............................................. 6Maintenance Schedule ........................ 9Maintenance ......................................... 9

Product Specifications .......................... 9Service and Adjustments .................... 12Storage ............................................... 14Troubleshooting ................................. 15Repair Parts ........................................ 16Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN WEEDTRIMMER

For Two years from date of purchase Sears Canada, Inc. will repair or replace at Searsoption free of charge parts which are defective as a result of material or workmanship.COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL USE:

Warranty on Weedtrimmer will be ninety (90) days from date of purchase if used forcommercial or rental purposes.

This Warranty does NOT cover:• Pre-delivery set-up.• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotating lines,

belts, air cleaners and spark plug.• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscontained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman Weedtrimmers only while thisproduct is in use in Canada.

This warranty is in addition to any statutory warranty and does not exclude or limit legalrights you may have but shall run concurrently with applicable provincial legislation.Furthermore, some provinces do NOT allow limitation on how long an implied warrantywill last so the above limitations may not apply to you.

Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

WARNING: This trimmer is equipped with an internal combustion engine and shouldnot be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestermeeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should bemaintained in effective working order by the operator.A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest authorized servicecenterldepartment (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

2

The operation of any trimmer can result in foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safetyglasses or eye shields while operating your trimmer or performing anyadjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety maskover spectacles or standard safety glasses. The safety gogglesprovided with your trimmer may be worn over spectacles.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow allinstructions on the machine and in themanual before starting. Be thoroughly "familiar with the controls and the properuse of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or underrotating parts.

, Keep all parts of your body away frommuffler and spinning line. A hot mufflercan cause serious bums.

• Only allow responsible individuals, whoare familiar with the instructions, tooperate the machine.

• Stay away from breakable objects, suchas house windows, auto glass, green-houses, etc.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., whichcould be picked up and thrown by thespinning lines. "

• Be sure the area is clear of otherpeople before trimming, particularly •small children and pets. Stop machineif anyone enters the area. "

• Wear appropriate clothing such as along-sleeved shirt or jacket. Also wearlong trousers or slacks. Do not wearshorts.

• Do not wear loose clothing which couldget caught in this equipment.

• Do not operate the machine whenbarefoot or wearing open sandals.Always wear work gloves and sturdyfootwear. Leather work shoes or shortboots work well for most people. Thesewill protect the operator's ankles andshins from small sticks, splinters, andother debris, and improve traction.

• Do not pull machine backwards unlessabsolutely necessary. Always lookdown and behind before and whilemoving backwards.

Do not operate the machine withoutproper guards, plates or other safetyprotective devices in place.See manufacturer's instructions for

proper operation and installation ofaccessories. Only use accessoriesapproved by the manufacturer.Never use blades, wire, or flailingdevices. This unit is designed for linetrimmer use only. Use of other accesso-ries or attachments will increase the risk

of injury.Stop the rotating trimmer head whencrossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.Wait for the cutting lines to stop rotating.Stop the engine (motor) whenever youleave the equipment, before cleaning,repairing or inspecting the unit. Be surethe trimmer head and all moving partshave stopped.Operate only in daylight or goodartificial light.Do not operate the machine whileunder the influence of alcohol or drugs.Never operate machine in wet grass.Always be sure of your footing: keep afirm hold on the handle and walk; neverrun,

If the equipment should start to vibrateabnormally, stop the engine (motor)and check immediately for the cause.Vibration is generally a warning oftrouble.

Always wear safety goggles or safetyglasses with side shields when operat-ing machine.

3

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slipand fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. All slopes require extracaution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, donot trim it.

DO:

• Trim across the face of slopes: never upand down. Exercise extreme caution

when changing direction on slopes,• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches orembankments. The operator could losefooting or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.• Do not trim on wet grass. Reduced

footing could cause slipping.

III. CHILDRENTragic accidents can occur if the operatoris not alert to the presence of children.Children are often attracted to the machine

and the trimming activity. Never assumethat children will remain where you lastsaw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming areaand under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and while moving backwards,look behind and down for smallchildren.

• Never allow children to operate themachine.

• Use extra care when approaching blindcorners, shrubs, trees, or other objectsthat may obscure vision.

&IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasolineand other fuels. They are flammableand vapors are explosive,

Use only an approved container.Never remove gas cap or add fuelwith the engine running. Allowengine to cool before refueling. Donot smoke.Never refuel the machine indoors.Never store the machine or fuelcontainer inside where there is anopen flame, such as a water heater.

- Move away from fueling site beforestarting engine.

• Never run a machine inside a closedarea,

• Never make adjustments or repairswith the engine (motor) running.Disconnect the spark plug wire, andkeep the wire away from the plug toprevent accidental starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially trimmerhead and engine bolts, tight and keepequipment in good condition,

• Never tamper with safety devices.Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, orother debris buildup, Clean oil or fuelspillage. Allow machine to cool beforestoring.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if youstrike an object. Repair, if necessary,before restarting.

• Do not change the engine governorsetting or overspeed the engine.

• Clean and replace safety and instruc-tion decals as necessary.

,_Look for this symbol to point out impor-tant salety precautions. It means CAU-TlONf!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOURSAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: In order to prevent acci-dental starting when setting up, transport-ing, adjusting or making repairs, alwaysdisconnect spark plug wire and placewire where it cannot contact spark plug.

_WARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known tothe State of California to cause cancer,birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

4

Read these instructions and this manual in its

entirety before you attempt to assemble oroperate your new trimmer.IMPORTANT: This _mmer is shippedWITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.Your new trimmer has been assembled at thefactory with the exception of those parts leftunassembled for shipping purposes. Air partssuch as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessaryto complete the assembly have been placedin the parts bag. To ensure safe and properoperation of your trimmer, all parts andhardware you assemble must be tightenedsecurely. Use the correct tools as necessaryto ensure proper tightness.

Loose Parts Packed Separately

Safety 20 oz. Trimmer UnesGoggles Bottle of oll (2) Sets

(0,130 diameterx 16.75 inches long)

TO REMOVE TRIMMER FROM CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with trimmer.• Cut down two end comers of carton and

lay end panel down flat.• Remove all packing materials.• Roll trimmer out of carton and check carton

thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOWTO SET UP YOUR TRIMMER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so asnot to pinch or damage control cables.

• Loosen handle knobs enough to allowupper handle to be unfolded from theshipping position.

• Raise upper handle section into place onlower handle and tighten handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holding ldmmerhead control bar to upper handle.

Handle knob

handle

Lift up

Lower handle

5

KNOW YOUR TRIMMER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOURTRIMMER. Compare the iUustra[_onsv_th your trimmer to fami{(ar(ze yourself with the {oca_nof various contr,o_ and adiustments. ' Save _nk manual for future reference. , ,,

symbols may appear on your trimmer or In rfmmturesuppnnd w_fftthe product, Learn and understand

C*%q_ _':_lt_ z_"

F_ST S_OW

i i I

Throttle Control

Trimmer head control bar

rammer head control lever

Starter handle

Handle knob

Enginecover

Primer

Engine oilcap w/dipstick

head

IMPORTANT: This trimmer is shippedWITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.iii I I

Trimmer head control bar - must be held

down to the handle to engage trimmer head.Release to stop the trimmer head.Primer - pumps additional fuel from thecarburetor to the cylinder for use whenstart oa cowengine.

•. Tnmmer line

II I

Throttle control - used for starting andstopping the engine and allows you to selecteither fast or slow enginaspeed.Starter handle - used for start_ the engine.Trimmer head control lever- used toengage trimmer head,

6

The operation of any trimmer can result inforeign objects thrown into the eyes,which can result in severe eye damage.Always wear safety glasses or eye shieldswhile operating your trimmer or perform-ing any adjustments or repairs. Werecommend a wide vision safety maskover spectacles or standard safetyglasses. The safety goggles provided withyour trimmer may be worn over spec-tacles.

HOWTO USEYOURTRIMMER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by athrottle located on the side of the upperhandle. Fast position is for starting andnormal trimming. Slow is for light trimmingand fuel economy. Stop is for stopping theengine.

TRIMMER HEAD DRIVE CONTROL

Your trimmer is equipped with a trimmerhead drive control bar and lever which

requires the operator to be positionedbehind the trimmer handle to operate thetrimmer.

• Trimmer head rotation is controlled byholding the trimmer head control bardown to the handle and pushing thedrive control lever forward until it clicks;then release the lever,

• Trimmer head rotation will stop whenthe control bar is released.

Drivecor_t_ollever

Trimmer headcontrol bar

To engagetrimmer head

Trimmer headdisengaged

7

BEFORE STARTING ENGINEADD OIL

Your trimmer is shipped without oil in theengine.• Be sure trimmer is level and area around oil

fill is clean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the fullline on the dipstick.

NOTE: Allow oi! to settle down into enginefor accurate dipstick reading.

• Engine holds 20 oz. of oil. For type andgrade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" inMaintenance section of this manual.

• Pour oil slowly, Do not over fill.• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if

needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.• To reed proper level, tighten engine oil cap

each time.• Reiostall engine oil cap and tighten.• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may needto change the oil more often under dusty,dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regularunleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.Purchase fuel in quantities that can be usedwithin 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

_WARNING: Experience indicates thatalcohol blended fuels (called gasohol orusing ethanol or methanol) con attractmoisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidicgas can damage the fuel system of anengine while in storage. To avoid engineproblems, the fuel system should beemptied before storage of 30 days orlonger. Drain the gas tank, start theengine and let it run until the fuel linesand carburetor are empty, Use fresh fuelnext season. See Storage Instructions foradditional information, Never use engineor carburetor cleaner products in the fueltank or permanent damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tankfiller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off anyspilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or usegasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline

Engine oil c_p_

8

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer three(3) times before trying to start, Use a firmpush. This step is not usually necessarywhen starting an engine which hasalready run for a few minutes.

• Move throttle control laver to fast position.• Hold upper handle firmly and pull starter

handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope tosnap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, move throttle control leverto stop position.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may benecessary to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer weather overpriming may causeflooding and engine will not start. If youdo flood engine, wait a few minutesbefore attempting to start and do notrepeat priming steps.

Throttlecontrol

Starterhandle

TRIMMING TIPS

• Set the throttle control in the fastposition. If the weeds or grass are talland thick, operate the trimmer at aslower walking speed.

• Frequently clean the underside of thetrimmer to remove any grass build up.Keep top of engine around starter clearand clean of grass clippings and chaff.This will help engine air flow and extendengine life. See TO REMOVE ENGINECOVER in the Maintenance section ofthis manual.

• For best results and longer lasting line,use the ends of the line to do the cutting.This is easily done by moving slowlythrough very thick and heavy weeds,

• Use the left side of trimmer whentrimming along fences, walls, flowerbedsand other such objects.

• If trimmer lines become too short, it willtake longer to complete the job. Iftrimmer lines are worn to less than half

their original length, they should bereplaced. See TO REPLACE TRIMMERLINE in the Maintenance section of thismanual.

• Trimmer head contact with concrete,

asphalt or other hard surfaces maycause premature wear of the ball onbottom of tdmmer head.

MAINTENANCESCHEDULE .,, ____ ___O_,_ _

Check for Loose Fasteners V' I# /T

!R Clean Tdmmer I_ I_I

M Clean Under Engine Cover V'2 t/

M Check ddve belt/pulleys v'

R ChecldRep_ace Trimmer Lines 1_3

Check Engine Oil Level

E Change Engine Oil 1_1,2

GN clean AirFilter I_ 2

I Inspec| Muffler t_'

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug V'

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge id#2

1 - Cha_ge more often when opera_u_Junder a heavy load o_ in high ambient tsnlperatures2 - Service i_ore often when openatmg in dirty or dusty cmld_Jons3 - Replac_ tdln=_ lines wl_e_ they have worn to half theiF_-_ginal k_ngth.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this trimmer does notcover items that have been subjected tooperator abuse or negligence. To receivefull value from the warranty, operator mustmaintain tdmmer as instructed in thismanual.

Some adjustments will need to be madeperiodically to properly maintain your unit.All adjustments in the Service andAdjustments section of this manual shouldbe checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plugand replace air filter element, A newspark plug and clean/new air filterelement assures proper air-fuel mixtureand helps your engine run better andlast longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule inthis manual,

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.• Check for loose fasteners.

• Clean under engine cover.LUBRICATION

To prolong the useful life of your trimmer,change engine oil as recommended inthis section of Owner's Manual.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plasticwheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attractdust and dirt that will shorten the life of the

self- lubricating bearings. If you feel they mustbe lubricated, use only a dry, powderedgraphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Serial No.Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Type:Gasoline Capacity:Oil Type:(API-SF/SG/SH)Oil Capacity:Spark Plug :(Gap: .030")Valve Clearance:

Unleaded Regular1.25 Quarts

SAE 30 (Above 32° F)SAE 5W-30 (Below 32o F)20 Ozs.Champion J19LM

or RJ19LMIntake: .004-.008Exhaust: .004-.008

Trimmer Line Dla.: ,130 inchTrimmer Line Length: 16,75 inches

The model and serial numbers will be found ona decal attached to the rear of the trimmer.Record both serial number and date ofpurchase in space provided above.

9

TRIMMER

Atways observe safety rules when perform-ing any maintenance.TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insectcontrol chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharpobjects and other hazards that may causetire damage.

TRIMMER UNE

For best results, replace trimmer lineswhen they have worn to half their originallength. Use ,130 inch diameter trimmerline. Cut new trimmer line length to t6-3/4inches. After new line is installed on

trimmer head, check all lines so they donot vary more then one (1) inch in length.This is important to make sure the trimmerhead is balanced and will not vibrateabnormally._,WARNING: Use only the specifiedtrimmer line. Do not use other materials

such as wire, string, rope, etc. Wire canbreak off during trimming and become adangerous missile that can cause seriousinjury.

TO REPLACE TRIMMER LINE

• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

• Remove worn tnmmer line from line

carrier plate.• Fold new, cut to length, trimmer line in

half and insert folded end throughcarrier plate opening to back side ofretainer clip.

• With folded end of line at back side of

retainer clip, pull line outward until lineis fully seated under the retainer clip.

• Repeat on other side of carder plate.• Check all lines to be sure they are the

same length.• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Trimmerline

Carrier plateopening

ainerclip

ENGINELUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil ratedwith API service classification SF, SG orSH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity gradeaccording to your expected operatingtemperature.

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting incold weather, these multi-viscosity oilswill result in increased oil consumptionwhen used above 32°F. Check yourengine oil level more frequently to avoidpossible engine damage from runninglow on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours ofoperation or at least once a year if thelawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.Check the crankcase oil level beforestarting the engine and after each five (5)hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plugsecurely each time you check the oillevel.

10

TO CHANGE ENGINE OILNOTE: Before tipping trimmer to drainoil, drain fuel tank by running engineuntil fuel tank is empty.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from sparkplug and place wire where it cannotcome in contact with spark plug.

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on aclean surface.

• Tip trimmer on its side as shown anddrain oil into a suitable container.Rock trimmer back and forth to remove

any oil trapped inside of engine.• Wipe off any spilled oil on trimmer and

on side of engine.• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the

"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOToverfill.

• Replace engine oil cap.• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Container

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly andmay be damaged by using a dirty airfilter.

Replace the air filter every year, moreoften if you mow in very dusty, dirtyconditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by turningclockwise to the stop and pull awayfrom collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.• Clean the inside of the cover and the

collar to remove any dirt accumulation.• Insert new filter into cover.• Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.• Push in on cover and turn counter-

clockwise to tighten.

CollarTurnclockwiseto remove

Air filtercover Turn

counterclockwise totighten

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler asit could create a fire hazard and/ordamage.

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year tomake your engine start easier and runbetter. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,keep trimmer free of built-up grass andtrash. Clean the underside of yourtrimmer after each use.

ACAUTION- Disconnect spark plug wirefrom spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with the sparkplug.• Turn trimmer on its side. Make sure air

filter and carburetor are up. Clean theunderside of your trimmer by scrapingto remove build-up of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash fromaccumulating, A clogged engine runshotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheelsfree of all gasoline, oil,etc.

• We do not recommend using a gardenhose to clean trimmer unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter andcarburetor are covered to keep waterout. Water in engine can result inshortened engine life.

11

CLEAN UNDER ENGINE COVER

Clean under engine cover before eachuse, or more frequently in heavy cuttingor dirty conditions. Engine cover screenand engine air intake screen must bekept free of dirt and chaffto preventengine damage from overheating.

Knob Enginecover

• Unscrew knob on top of cover.• Lift cover up and away from engine.• Clean cover and cover screen thor-

oughly,• Clean top of engine and air intake

screen.• Replace engine cover and tighten

knob securely. Be sure the front tabs ofengine cover are located in the slots inengine housing.

Threaded

Enginecoverscreen

Starterrope

Air intake screen

Housingslots

A, CAUTION: Before performing anyservice and adjustments:

• Stop engine.• Make sure the rotating lines and all

moving parts have completely stopped.• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

plug and place where it cannot come incontact with plug.

TRIMMER

TO REMOVE/REPLACE TRIMMER HEADDRIVE BELT

• Remove screw at front of chassis cover.

• Lift cover up and away from trimmer.• Turn trimmer on its side with carburetor and

fuel cap up.• Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshaft.

• Remove belt from trimmer head pulley.• Remove idler assembly from chassis

and remove belt and idler from trimmer.

• Remove belt from idler assembly byremoving bottom belt keeper and idlerpulleys.

• Assemble new belt, idler pulleys andbottom belt keeper to idler bracket.Tighten pulley bolts securely.

• Be sure belt is inside top belt keeper onidler assembly.

• Position belt and idler assembly intrimmer and assemble idler to chassis.

Tighten securely.• Install bolt around trimmer head pulley

and engine pulley.• Replace chassis cover and tighten screw

securely,• Always use Craftsman replacement parts

to assure proper fit and long life.

12

Chassis

,Screw

Chassis

Enginepulley

Nut

Spa

V-idler

IdlerJracket

Belt

Bolt

Idler

Flatidier

beltkeeper

Flat idler

. Trimmerhead pulley

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.Do not attempt to increase engine speedor it may result in personal injury. If youbelieve that the engine is running too fastor too slow, take your unit to a Sears orother qualified service center for repairand/or adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a nonadjustable fixedmain jet for mixture control. If your enginedoes not operate properly due to sus-pected carburetor problems, take yourunit to a Sears or other qualified servicecenter for repair and/or adjustment.IMPORTANT: Never tamper with theengine governor, which is factory set forproper engine speed. Overspeeding theengine above the factory high speedsetting can be dangerous. If you think theengine-governed high speed needsadjusting, take your unit to a Sears orother qualified service center, which hasproper equipment and experience tomake any necessary adjustments.

13

Immediately prepare your tdmmer for storageat the end of the season or if the unit will not

be used for 30 days or more.

TRIMMER

When lfimmer is to be stored for a period oftime, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt,grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry ares.• Clean entire trimmer (See "CLEANING" in

the Maintenance section of this manual).• Lubncate as shown in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pinsare securely fastened. Inspect movingparts for damage, breakage and wear.Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paintsurfaces; sand lightly before paintJag.

HANDLE

YOUcan fold your trimmer handle for storage,• Loosen handle knobs enough to allow

upper handle to be folded fonNard.IMPORTANT: When folding the handle forstorage or transportation, be sure to fold thehandle as shown or you may damage thecontrol cables.

Upperhandle

Handle knob J

ENGINEFUELSYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gumdeposits from forming in essential fuel systemparts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hoseor tank dunng storage. Also, experienceindicates that alcohol blended fuels ( calledgesohol or using ethanol or methanol) canattract moisture which leads to separation andformation of acids during storage. Acidic gascan damage the fuel system of an enginewhile in storage.• Drain the fuel tank.• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel

lines and carburetor are empty.• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanentdamage may occur.

• Use flesh fuel next season.14

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptablealternative in minimizing the formalion of fuelgum deposits during storage. Add stabilizerto gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizercontainer. Run engine at least 10 minutesafter adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer toreach the carburetor. Do not drain the gastank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.ENGINEOIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace withclean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in theMaintenance section of this manual).CYUNDER

• Remove spark plug.• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through

spark plug hole into cylinder.• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to

distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season toanother.

• Replace your gasoline can if your canstarts to rusL Rust and/or dirt in yourgasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors andcover it to give protection from dust and dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protectivecover that does not retain moisture. Donot use plastic. Plastic cannot bresthewhich allows condensation to form and willcause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover trimmer whileengine and exhaust areas are still warm._,CAUTION: Never store the trimmerwith gasoline in the tank inside a buildingwhere fumes may reach an open flame orspark, Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure,

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

Doesnotsta_ 1. Di_ airfilter.

Loss of power 1.2.

3.4.

Excessive 1.Vibration 2.

3.

Starter rope hard 1.topull

Loss of head 1.drive

I Poortrimming 1.performance

2.

Trimmer head 1.does notretain line 2.

3.

2. Out of fuel.3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire isdisconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.7. Throttle control lever not

in correct position(if equipped).

Dirty air filter.Buildup of grass, leaves,and trash under trimmer.Too much oil in engine.Walking speed too fast.

Lines uneven or broken.Loose nuts or bolts.

Damaged trimmer head.

Bent engine crankshaft.

Belt not driving.

Trimmer line length istoo short.

Throttle control lever notin correct position(if equipped).

Trimmer line not

properly installed.Broken line retainer clip.

Incorrect size oftrimmer line.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.2. Fill fuel tank.3. Drain tank and refill with

fresh clean fuel.4. Drain fuel tank and

carburetor and refill tankwith fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.7. Move throttle lever to FAST

position.

1. Clean/replace air filter.2. Clean underside of trimmer

and trimmer head.3. Check oil level.4. Trim at slower walking

speed.

1. Check trimmer lines.2, Check all hardware,

including engine bolts.3. Check!repair trimmer head.

1. Contact a Sears or otherqualified service center.

1. Put belt on pulleys orreplace belt if broken.

1, If line is worn or broken tohalf original length,replace line.

2. Move throttle lever to FASTposition.

1. Follow instructions inMaintenance section.

2. Replace string carrier plateassembly.

3. Use .130 diametertrimmer line.

15

CRAFTSMAN WEED TRIMMER-- MODEL NO. 944.360050

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CRAFTSMAN WEED TRIMMER-- MODEL NO. 944.360050

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

2 1504063 1697914 STD5025025 1743176 1742747 1740308 169821)(4799 150078

10 169797X47911 13195912 13637616 15363817 STD541025t8 6642619 17144920 17403821 15875522 16978723 15007824 16978925 5714326 16979527 8392328 17403729 17459830 17403231 172221- - 169803. - 174470- - 174682

Engine Model No.143.004018(See Breakdown)Engine Bolt 3/8-16Engine Pulley (Includes setscrew)Setscrew, PulleyEngine Cover w/screenEngine Cover KnobEngine Cover StudLowerHacldleScrew Hx Wshd 5/16-18 x 75UpperHandleHandle BoltHandle KnobRopeGuideLocknut 1/4 x 20WireTireControlBarThrottleControlHex WasherScrewAxle ShaftScrew hex Wshd 5/16-18 x .75Axle SpacerWave WasherWheel 10 x 1.75Hex Flange Lock.nut3/8-16DriveControlDecal. WarningDecal - Engine CoverBracket - Axle SupportSafety Goggles (Not Shown)Owner'sManual (English)Owner'sM anual(French)

17

CRAFTSMAN WEED TRIMMER- - MODEL NO. 944.360050

14V

21

20

2324

5-- 26

I

19 17

0_31

18

CRAFTSMAN WEED TRIMMER-- MODEL NO. 944.360050

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 174024X558 Chassis Assembly2 174040 Line .130 Dia x 16.753 174591 Screw 5/16-18 x 14 169790 BeltV5 172145;<004 Idler Bracket6 166042 IdlerPulley V-Groove7 173716 Hex Bolt3/8-16 x 1.258 751592 Hex Locknut3/8-169 166043 IdlerPulley-Flat

10 160829 Shoulder Bolt11 155552 Locknut5/16-1812 173717 Spacer13 142748 Shoulder Bolt14 145212 Flange Locknut15 173811 Return Spdng16 170552 DebrisShield17 57808 Screw 1/4-20 x 11218 85768 Screw #10*24 x 3/419 169800 Skirt20 169764 Chassis Cover - Top21 149746 Screw #10-24 x 1-31422 STD541137 Nut 318-24UNF23 STD551137 Lockwasher3/824 STD551037 Flatwasher3/825 1697_ Pulley- Driven26 172551 Spacer- Pulley27 174549 Bearing28 172693 Jackshaft29 169766X558 Cover. Bottom30 174543 Spindle Hsg, Asm. (* Includes Upper Beadng Key No. 27)31 174581 RetainingRing 17ram External34 173531 Carder Plate Assembly (Fixed)35 172635 Spacer36 172516 Cover,Bearing37 174580 RetainingRing 40mm Intern al38 172523 MowBall39 172636 Bolt, Mow Ball40 173619 Head Assembly Complete (Includes Key Nos. 22-39)41 174029 Spacer42 751153 LoaknutFlanged 5/16-1843 174510 Decal - Instruction45 174596 BottomBeltKeeper

19

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004018

40O

130

416

/120

119

125

126

46

'72

238 250

2O

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004018

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

KEY PARTNO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1741 37266 Cylinder (thcl, 2,20 & 150) 1782 26727 Dowel Pin 1796 33734 Breather Element 1827 36557 BreatherAss'y. (Incl. 6 & 12A) 18412 36775 Breather Tube 18512A 36556 Breather Cover & Tube (Ind. 12B) 18612B 36694 Breather Tube Elbow 20014 28277 Washer 20615 30589 Governor Rod (Incl. 14) 20716 34839A Governor Lever 20917 31335 Governor Lever Clamp 22318 651018 Screw, Torx T-15, 8.32 x 19164" 22419 37453 Extension Spring 23820 32600 Oil Seal 23930 36797 Crankshaft 24140 40004 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.) 24540 40005 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.010" OS) 25041 36070 Piston & Pin Ass'y. (Std.) (IncL 43) 26041 36071 Piston & Pin Ass'y. (.010" OS) 261

Incl. 43) 26242 40006 Ring Set (Std.) 27542 40007 Ring Set (.010" OS) 27743 20381 Piston Pin Retaining Ring 28545 36777 Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl. 46) 28746 32610A Connecting Rod Bolt 29048 27241 Valve Lifter 29250 37460 Camshaft (Exhaust MCR)

(thc. ref 104) 30030152 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y. 30569 37130 *Mounting Flange Gasket 30670 34311E Mounting Flange 307

(Incl. 72 thru 83,306) 30972 36083 Oil Drain Plug 31075 27897 Oil Seal80 30574A Governor Shaft81 30590A Washer82 30591 Governor Gear Ass'y. (Incl. 81)83 30588A Governor Spool86 650488 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"89 610961 Flywheel Key90 611213 Flywheel92 650815 Belleville Washer93 650816 Flywheel Nut100 34443B Solid State Ignition101 610116 Spark Plug Cover103 651007 Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24 x 15/16"104 37480 Cam Bushing110 36230 Ground Wire119 36787 *Cylinder Head Gasket120 36825 Cylinder Head125 37288 Exhaust Valve (Std.) (Ind. 151)126 37289 Intake Valve (Std.) (lncl, 151)130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"135 35395 Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)156 31672 Valve Spring151 31673 Valve Spring Cap151A40017 Intake Valve Seal169 36783 *Valve Cover Gasket172 36784 Valve Cover

30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"29752 Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-2830593 Retainer Clip6201 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"26756 *Carburetor To Intake Pipe Gasket36785 Intake Pipe36201 Governor Link Spring37134 Control Bracket (Incl. 206)610973 Terminal36200B Throttle Link30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"650451 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"36786 *Intake Pipe Gasket650932 Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"34338 *Air Cleaner Gasket36919 Air Cleaner Collar36905 Air Cleaner Filter37122 Air Cleaner Cover37213A Blower Housing30200 Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"650831 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1/2"36790A Muffler650988 Screw, 1/4-20 x 2-9/32"35000A Starter Cup650926 Screw, 8-32 x 21164"34357 Fuel Line26460 Fuel Line Clamp35586 Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)36246 Fuel Cap35577 Oil Fill Tube36996 *"O°-Ring35499 "O°-Ring650562 Screw, 10-32 x 3/8"35578 Dipstick

313 34080370A36261370C 37318380 640262390 5907394O0 36792B

SpacerLubdcation DecalPdmer Decal (3X)Carburetor (Incl. 184)Rewind StarterGasket Set (IncL Items Marked*)

416 36085 Spark Arrestor Kit(Incl. 417)(Optional)

417 650821 Screw, 10-32 x 1/2" (Optional)420 730225ASAE 30 4-Cycle Engine Oil

(Quart)900 REPLACEMENT ENGINE

750848A.ORDER FROM 71-199

900 REPLACEMENT SHORT BLOCK750612C,ORDER FROM 71-999RPM High 3250 to 3550RPM Low 2450 to 2750

NOTE: This engine could have been built with590702 starter.NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm

21

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004018

27

_37

22

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004018

KEY PARTNO. NO.

----6402621 6316152 6317674 631184 *5 631183 *6 6400707 650506 *

16 63180717 65102516 63076620 64001820A 64020025 63186727 631024 *28 63201929 631028 *30 631021 *31 63102235 64025936 64008036A 63276637 632547 *40 64017544 27110A *47 630748 *48 631027 *60 632760B

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)Throttle Shaft & Lever AssemblyThrottte Return SpringDust Seal WasherDust Seal (Throttle)Throttle ShutterShutter ScrewFuel FittingThrottle Crack Screwlldle Speed ScrewTension SpringIdle Restdctor Screwtdle Restrictor Scrwe Cap (Black)Float BowlFloat ShaftFloatFloat Bowl "O" RingInlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Ind. 31)Spring ClipPrimer Bulb/Retainer RingMain Nozzle TubeCarburetor Tube"(3" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

High Speed Bowl NutBowl Nut WasherWelch Plug, Idle Mixture WellWelch Plug, Atmospheric VentRepair kit (Ind. Items Marked *)

23

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.0040t8

12

II I! -7

KEY PARTNO. NO.

----5907393 5907406 5906167 5906178 590618A11 590638

12 590535

13 59070114 590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind StarterRetainerStarter DogDog SpringPulley & Rewind Spring Ass'yStarter Housing Ass'y (40degree grommet)Starter Rope (Length 98= x 9/64" dia.)Starter HandleSpring Clip

24

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.004018

12 G:>

KEYNO,

1234567811

12

13

PARTNO.

----590702590599A590600590696590601590697590698590699590700590703

590535

590701

O---_4

O--2

DESCRIPTION

Recoil StarterSpring Pin (Incl. 4)

WasherRetainerWasherBrake SpringStarter DogDog SpringPulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y.Starter Housing Ass'y. (40degree grommet)Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/64"dia.)Starter Handle

25

26

27

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174470 Rev.1 04.19.00 VB Pdnted in U.S.A.