Fix Up This Old Craftsman Mower - More Than a Tune-up

How to tune-up and fix some safety issues on this old 21" Craftsman mower # 917.388741 with a Briggs and Stratton 6.75 Quantum Engine. They don't make these mowers like they used to. This old mower still has a lot of life left. These tune up and maintenance procedures are the same for other push mowers made by Toro, Troy-Bilt, Poulan, MTD, Yard Machines, Lawn-Boy, Husqvarna, Cub Cadet, and many others.

Briggs # 491588S Air Filter: https://amzn.to/3ARciSy
Champion RJ19LM Spark Plug: https://amzn.to/3uh3yDY
Magnetic Spark Plug Socket Set: https://amzn.to/3AP0xMj
Briggs SAE 30W Small Engine Oil: https://amzn.to/3ulQmxH
Tri-Flow Super Lubricant: https://amzn.to/3gdXzrc

00:00 I'm not Norm
00:32 Tune-up overview
01:48 Lubricate wheels and leveling mechanism
02:34 Spark plug check
03:10 Oil level check
03:30 Drain engine oil
05:01 Replace air filter
06:45 Check cylinder head bolt torques
07:52 Replace and gap new RJ19LM spark plug
09:13 Replace drain plug and engine oil
11:24 Lubricate and inspect brake cable
12:55 The money shot

The tools I like and use most often:
My absolute favorite tester - Spark Check'r : https://amzn.to/453axCG
Mityvac MV8500 Vacuum/Pressure tester: https://amzn.to/4iN2YDj
Mityvac Small Engine Compression Tester: https://amzn.to/4jGC1CA
Magnetic spark plug socket set: https://amzn.to/3CzmpvO
Tachometer: https://amzn.to/3sHibiH
Vessel Megadora JIS screwdriver set: https://amzn.to/363RFqO
Channellock Bent Needle-nose pliers: https://amzn.to/3I5DbnA
Long 1/4 Quick-connect Torx Driver Bits: https://amzn.to/3HUNgnm
Another Spark Tester I like: https://amzn.to/3CxW2qi
OTC Leak-down Test Kit: https://amzn.to/3CyUhJn

Wear your safety glasses, or you'll shoot your eye out. Try on some gloves. Take off that spark plug boot. Clean your room. Open the windows, those fumes are nasty. Just 'cause I do it, don't think it's the end all, be all solution. There's plenty more ideas out there, I can't take responsibility if you slice off a few fingers after watching my videos. And don't just pour that toxic stuff down the sewer or in the ditch, dispose of waste responsibly. Just be safe, OK?

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Titles, opening graphics, and music by AbleVFX.

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Disclaimer: The content of this video is purely for my entertainment, and is available to you for informational and educational purposes only. It's not substitute advice from small engine mechanics with professional training and certifications, nor does it create any kind of relationship between the The Lawnmower Lady and you. Your situation may be different, and the The Lawnmower Lady makes no warranties, express or implied, as to the fit, accuracy, or applicability of the information shown in this video, and implies no guarantee of results. The Lawnmower Lady and any sponsors of this video are not liable for any damages of personal injury, property damage or loss of any kind that may result from the use or reliance on this video and/or any parts and procedures represented in this video. You are using the information presented in this video solely at your own risk.

#craftsman #lawnmower #tune-up #917.388741 #smallenginerepair #DIY