CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 Service Manual

Overview and safety considerations

The CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 is a versatile outdoor power equipment unit designed for reliability in residential settings. This section provides a thorough overview of the machine’s key components, operating principles, and the safety measures that should be observed before, during, and after use. A clear understanding of the safe operating procedures helps prevent personal injury and equipment damage, ensuring a longer service life for the unit. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations when performing maintenance or repairs to maintain both performance and compliance.

Proper safety starts with a prepared work environment. Before any service, remove all power sources, disconnect any battery or electrical connections as applicable, and ensure the unit is on a stable, level surface. Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as eye protection, gloves, and hearing protection when testing or running the engine or powertrain components. Verify that you have adequate lighting, sufficient ventilation, and a clean workspace to avoid slips, trips, and accidental contact with moving parts. Establish a clear plan for disassembly and reassembly to minimize the risk of loose fasteners or misaligned components during service.

Electrical and gasoline handling require cautious practices. When working with fuel or electrical systems, store flammable liquids away from ignition sources and follow the recommended fuel type and mixture ratios if applicable. Grounding and surge protection should be considered for any electrical testing to prevent shock or equipment damage. Always inspect electrical cords, switches, and connectors for wear and damage before connecting power. If any component appears compromised, replace it or consult a qualified technician to avoid catastrophic failures.

Engine and moving parts demand special attention. Regular inspection of the air filter, spark plug, cooling fins, and fuel lines helps maintain peak performance and prevents overheating. When performing maintenance, ensure the engine is completely cool before touching hot surfaces, and use proper tools to avoid stripping bolts or damaging housings. Keep hands and clothing clear of belts, pulleys, and gears, and never bypass safety devices or guards. A systematic approach to lubrication, torque verification, and belt tensioning will extend service life and reduce the likelihood of unexpected shutdowns during operation.

Environmental and operational safety also encompasses storage and disposal. Store the unit and any fluids in approved containers, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Follow local environmental regulations for disposing of old oil, fuel, and contaminated rags. When transporting the machine, secure movable components and protect it from tipping or falling. Regularly review safety decals and manufacturer recommendations to ensure ongoing awareness of hazards and proper operating techniques.

Machine specifications and model information 2.1 The CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 is a compact, consumer-grade outdoor power machine designed for homeowner yard maintenance. This unit integrates a gasoline-powered engine with a belt-driven cutting or accessory platform, depending on the original configuration. Critical specifications include engine displacement, rated horsepower, and the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer. When assessing the machine, verify the model and serial numbers etched on the data tag near the engine mounting area, as these identifiers ensure proper parts compatibility and service procedures. It is essential to record both the model number 247.881733 and any suffix or revision code, since variations between batches can affect torque specs, bolt patterns, and linkage geometry. Ensure the unit is on a stable work surface with the drive wheels chocked and the engine cool before inspecting internal components or performing maintenance. Always consult the owner’s manual for torque values, lubrication intervals, and replacement part numbers to avoid compromising safety or performance. Electrical and fuel system details 2.2 The electrical system for this model includes a spark ignition coil, a flywheel magneto assembly, and a simple charging or starting circuit that relies on a 12-volt or 6-volt battery configuration depending on the version. For starting reliability, inspect the spark plug gap and condition, replacing the plug if you observe heavy fouling, glazing, or signs of wear such as electrode erosion. A clean air-fuel mixture is vital for consistent starting and running; check the air filter for clogging and replace it at the recommended intervals or more frequently in dusty environments. The fuel system requires attention to the carburetor, fuel lines, and the fuel tank, ensuring there are no cracks, leaks, or signs of deterioration. When servicing the fuel system, always relieve fuel pressure and disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental engine start. Use only the specified fuel type and mixture ratio as stated by the manufacturer, and store fuel in approved containers away from heat sources. If you notice symptoms such as hard starting, rough idle, or misfires, perform a systematic inspection of the ignition system and carburetion, checking for air leaks in intake gaskets and ensuring choke operation aligns with engine temperature. Regularly replace fuel filters and inspect the fuel lines for cracks, ensuring clamps are secure to prevent leaks that can cause engine performance issues or starting failures.

Regular preventive maintenance is essential to keep the CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 lawn equipment operating reliably and safely. Establish a consistent schedule that aligns with environmental conditions and usage intensity. Begin with a visual inspection at each use to identify obvious wear, loose fasteners, cracked hoses, or signs of corrosion. Maintain a maintenance log documenting date, performed tasks, and any parts replaced to track trends and plan future service more effectively. A proactive approach reduces the risk of unexpected downtime and extends the lifespan of drive belts, pulleys, and cutting components.

For routine service intervals, refer to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule and tailor it to your workload. Every hundred hours of operation or at least quarterly, perform a thorough inspection of the engine or motor, filter elements, and cooling surfaces. Replace or clean air filters as needed to ensure optimal airflow and combustion efficiency. Check oil levels, fuel quality, and spark plug condition (where applicable), and replace components that show signs of wear or fouling. Tighten all fasteners to the specified torque values and ensure safety shields and guards are secure before operation. A disciplined maintenance routine preserves performance and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs.

Lubrication and belt drive maintenance are critical to sustaining smooth power transmission and efficient operation. Inspect belt tension and alignment regularly, looking for fraying, glazing, or cracking that indicates imminent failure. Adjust tension following the recommended procedure to avoid excessive wear or slippage, and replace belts with OEM parts to maintain proper tracking. Lubricate pivot points, bearings, and external linkages with the correct lubricant type and viscosity as specified in the service manual, taking care not to over-lubricate which can attract dirt and grime. Periodic lubrication reduces friction, extends belt life, and helps preserve overall drive performance.

Additionally, monitor the cooling system and air intake for debris buildup that could cause overheating. Clean cooling fins, shrouds, and intake screens with non-corrosive cleaners and a soft brush, ensuring unobstructed airflow. Inspect hoses and clamps for signs of wear or leaks, replacing damaged components promptly to maintain proper fuel and fluid delivery. Finally, perform a functional test after maintenance to verify that all subsystems respond correctly and that safety features engage as intended. A thorough preventive maintenance routine helps owners maximize uptime and maintain peak operator safety and performance.

Disassembly and inspection procedures

The disassembly process for the CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 begins with ensuring the machine is powered down, disconnected from any power source, and placed on a clean, stable work surface. Before removing any fasteners, document the assembly with photos or notes to assist with accurate reassembly. Use a calibrated set of metric and SAE tools, organizing fasteners by location and size to prevent mixing parts. As you remove components, inspect the exterior for cracks or corrosion that could indicate prior abuse or wear, and store each group of parts in clearly labeled containers to maintain a logical flow for reassembly. Throughout disassembly, maintain a clean environment to prevent dirt ingress into precision areas, and wear eye protection to guard against debris that can be dislodged during removal of shields and covers.

Begin with exterior covers and housings to expose the drive and engine components. Carefully detach protective shields, noting how each shield interfaces with brackets and fasteners. When removing the recoil starter, inspect the rope and pulley assembly for fraying or excessive wear and replace as necessary. Proceed to disconnect the spark plug wire and ground the ignition system to ensure safety while handling the carburetor and intake components. Throughout this stage, handle all parts gently to prevent bending of linkage or damage to the throttle and choke mechanisms, which can alter performance if misaligned during reassembly.

Proceed to removal of the carburetor, intake, and associated fuel lines with particular attention to fuel in the line and float bowl condition. Drain any residual fuel safely into an approved container and dispose of it according to local regulations. When separating the engine from the base or chassis, support the assembly to avoid dropping components and damaging the crankcase or mounting studs. As you withdraw internal components such as the piston, connecting rod, and crankshaft, inspect for scoring, glazing, or oil starvation marks and set aside any parts that show signs of excessive wear for replacement. Re-verify that all seals and gaskets are accounted for, as a missing seal can lead to leaks and degraded performance after reassembly.

Component inspection and wear limits 4.2

After disassembly, conduct a systematic inspection of all major components, beginning with the bearings, seals, and gaskets. Rotate the crankshaft by hand to assess smoothness and listen for any roughness, ticking, or binding that would indicate bearing wear or misalignment. Inspect piston rings for breakage, gaps, or excessive carbon buildup; measure end gaps with a feeler gauge to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s specified limits. Examine the connecting rod for taper, bending, or lateral play, which can compromise engine balance and power output if not addressed. For the carburetor and fuel system, inspect the needle valve, seat, and float for wear or deformation; replace worn components to prevent flooding or lean conditions that can damage the engine. Finally, assess the cooling fins and air passages for obstruction, removing any debris to maintain proper heat dissipation. If any wear limits are exceeded, prepare a parts replacement plan and document it for the repair log to ensure traceability and future maintenance planning.

The CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 service manual section on troubleshooting and diagnostics provides a systematic approach to identifying and resolving issues that affect the performance and reliability of outdoor power equipment. Start with a careful visual inspection to detect obvious issues such as loose hardware, damaged wiring, signs of overheating, or oil and fuel leaks. Document any irregularities observed during inspection and compare them to the fault codes or symptom descriptions listed in the manual. This initial assessment helps narrow down potential causes and guides the subsequent diagnostic steps, reducing downtime and preventing unnecessary part replacements. A methodical, data-driven approach ensures that problems are diagnosed accurately rather than addressed with guesswork, which can extend the lifespan of the equipment and improve safety during operation.

Common electrical and ignition problems can manifest as failure to start, intermittent running, or stalling. Begin by checking battery voltage, connections, and ground points; a weak or corroded connection can mimic more complex faults. Inspect the spark plug for fouling, correct gap, and signs of wear, replacing it if necessary. Verify fuel delivery components such as the fuel filter, lines, and carburetor for blockages or leaks. Use the manufacturer-specified trouble codes as a guide to pinpoint sensor failures or control module issues, and perform resistance and continuity tests on wiring harnesses to identify open or short circuits. When electrical faults are suspected, ensure safety precautions are followed, including disconnecting the spark plug boot when inspecting or working around ignition components.

Mechanical faults often involve the engine, drive system, or cutting components. Listen for unusual noises during operation, which can indicate worn bearings, a failing clutch, or a damaged belt. Check compression to assess engine health and perform a thorough inspection of the air intake and exhaust paths for obstructions. Inspect the mower deck, spindle assemblies, and blades for wear, cracks, or imbalance, and replace any damaged parts. For transmission or drive issues, inspect the gear case, axles, and linkage for wear, proper lubrication, and secure mounting. Document all measurements and compare them to the service limits outlined in the manual to determine whether adjustments or part replacements are required, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Fuel system and exhaust diagnostics require careful scrutiny of the carburetor, fuel pump, and fuel lines for leaks and proper fuel flow. Check for vacuum leaks around gaskets and seals, and verify that the carburetor is delivering the correct fuel-air mixture under idle and loaded conditions. Clean or rebuild the carburetor according to the specified procedures if symptoms persist after basic checks. Examine the exhaust system for restrictions or damaged components, which can cause poor performance and overheating. When diagnosing these subsystems, use controlled test conditions and refer to the service data for expected pressures and flow rates to ensure accuracy and repeatability in your results.

To complete the diagnostic process, perform a structured functional test after any repair or replacement. Reconnect all wiring and assemblies, start the engine, and verify normal operating temperatures, smooth idling, and steady acceleration. Validate any sensor readings with the appropriate scan tools or diagnostic equipment, and confirm that all safety interlocks and shutdowns operate correctly. Maintain a comprehensive service record detailing each test, measured values, and observed behavior to support future troubleshooting and warranty compliance. A disciplined approach to diagnostics not only resolves current issues but also builds a knowledge base that improves efficiency for future maintenance tasks.

Common failure modes and corrective actions 5.2 outlines recurring issues with practical, field-tested remedies. For example, if the engine exhibits hard starting or no start, verify battery health, fuel quality, and ignition timing before proceeding to more invasive repairs. If there is excessive vibration or unusual noise, inspect bearings, pulleys, belts, and mounting hardware for wear or misalignment, replacing components as needed and rechecking torque specifications. For reduced cutting efficiency or deck performance, inspect blade balance, spindle condition, and belt tension, and replace worn parts to restore proper operation. When operating difficulties persist after standard checks, consult the diagnostic flowchart to isolate subsystems and perform targeted tests, ensuring that replacement parts are matched to the exact model and serial number for compatibility and reliability. Regularly revisiting preventive maintenance recommendations helps prevent the recurrence of common failures and extends service life.

Repair procedures and safety reminders

Operational safety serves as the foundation for any maintenance or repair work on outdoor power equipment. Before performing any repair procedures on the CRAFTSMAN 247.881733, ensure the machine is completely powered down, turned off, and the spark plug lead is disconnected to prevent accidental starting. Always remove the battery or disconnect the electrical supply where applicable, and use a properly rated work surface with adequate lighting. Wear protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear, and keep the work area free of obstacles, fuel spills, and ignition sources. If you encounter fuel leaks or damaged components, isolate the unit and consult the service manual for replacement procedures to avoid fire hazards and exposure to hazardous fumes. It is essential to maintain good ventilation in the work area when performing any tasks that may generate fumes or fine dust from cutting, grinding, or sanding operations.

Before disassembly, document the current configuration with photos or notes to facilitate accurate reassembly. Use the correct OEM fasteners and hardware; mismatched screws or bolts can compromise safety and performance. Apply a small amount of appropriate lubricants to moving joints only as specified by the manufacturer, avoiding over-lubrication which can attract dirt and debris. When lifting or supporting the mower deck or heavy components, use a proper jack stand or support device to prevent sudden shifts that could cause injury. Never work under a deck or component supported only by a hydraulic or manually operated lever; always secure with blocks or stands. Keep hands and clothing away from belts, pulleys, and sharp edges during removal and installation to minimize lacerations and entanglement hazards.

During diagnostic procedures, verify electrical continuity, fuel flow, and lubrication paths with the recommended test equipment. Follow the service manual’s guidance for checking diaphragms, gaskets, seals, and carburetor components, ensuring that all measurements conform to specified tolerances. When performing compression tests or valve adjustments, ensure the engine is at the correct temperature and that all safety covers are in place during testing. If any component shows signs of excessive wear, cracking, or heat damage, replace it rather than attempting a questionable repair. Dispose of old gaskets, seals, and fluids in accordance with local environmental regulations to prevent contamination and ensure safe handling practices.

After completing repairs, double-check all fasteners for proper torque according to the specified values and verify that guards and safety devices are correctly reinstalled. Reconnect the spark plug boot, battery, or ignition source only after confirming the absence of fuel leaks or wiring faults. Perform a careful function test in a controlled area, observing for unusual noises, vibrations, or smoke. If the unit fails to start or exhibits abnormal operation, recheck the procedures, refer to diagnostic steps in the manual, and reassemble only after confirming all systems are within specification. Finally, clean the work area and store tools in their proper places to maintain a safe and organized workshop environment.

Reassembly procedures and torque specifications

Reassembly begins with confirming that all components removed during disassembly are clean, undamaged, and properly aligned. Start with securing the engine mounting, ensuring that isolation mounts and brackets are seated correctly to prevent vibration and misalignment. When installing the carburetor, gasket, and intake components, apply a light coating of the specified sealant or gasket adhesive if required by the service manual, then torque the fasteners to the recommended values in a crisscross pattern to promote an even seal. Verify that the air intake system is free of obstructions and that hoses and clamps are arranged to avoid kinked pathways or contact with hot surfaces. Proper routing of wires and hoses reduces the risk of chafing or electrical shorts during operation.

Next, reinstall the cutting deck, drive belts, and pulleys with attention to alignment marks and belt tension. Use a torque wrench to apply the specified torque to all fasteners, following the sequence outlined by the manufacturer to prevent warping or misalignment. When reinstalling the blade, ensure the correct blade orientation and secure the blade nut to the prescribed torque, using a blade wrench to prevent slippage. Balance and test the deck height adjustments to ensure consistent cutting performance and to avoid uneven wear on the blade edge. After the deck and driveline are reassembled, reattach protective guards and shielding, confirming that all latches and safety interlocks engage properly.

For electrical reassembly, reconnect all wiring harnesses with correct polarity and color matching, and install any fuses or circuit breakers as specified. Use dielectric grease on waterproof connections where applicable to improve reliability and corrosion resistance. Refill fluids to the recommended levels, such as engine oil and fuel if applicable, and install any new gaskets or seals as required by the service procedure. Finally, perform a post-reassembly safety check by attempting a controlled start, ensuring there are no leaks, abnormal sounds, or warning indicators, and verify that all safety features engage when the operator present control is released. Document the procedure and any parts replaced, including torque values, for future maintenance references.

CRAFTSMAN 247.881733 Service Manual Appendix and reference materials The Appendix and reference materials provide essential resources for diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing the CRAFTSMAN model 247.881733. This section consolidates the supplemental documents that technicians rely on when performing complex service tasks. It includes compatibility notes, tooling requirements, and approved sources for replacement components. When working with electrical systems, refer to the wiring diagrams and schematic references to verify connections against the original design intent. It is important to keep these reference materials organized and readily accessible in the service shop for quick cross-checks during troubleshooting. Appendix and reference materials 7.1 Appendix and reference materials 7.1 compiles the primary reference documents you will encounter during routine maintenance and more involved repairs. Begin by reviewing the equipment datasheet, which outlines the machine’s rated specifications, allowable tolerances, and safety considerations. This datasheet serves as a baseline when determining whether observed performance deviations are within acceptable limits. The appendix also includes a list of the approved lubricants, sealants, and cleaners that are compatible with the engine, transmission, and chassis components. Keeping an up-to-date inventory of these approved materials helps prevent cross-contamination and extends the service life of critical parts. Documentation procedures are summarized to ensure accurate logging of maintenance actions, parts replacements, and observed anomalies. Proper record-keeping supports warranty claims and future diagnostics by providing a traceable history of service activity. Wiring diagrams and schematic references 7.2 Wiring diagrams and schematic references 7.2 provide a comprehensive map of the electrical and electronic systems embedded in the machine. These diagrams depict harness routing, connector pinouts, fuse and relay locations, and the interconnections between sensors, actuators, and the control module. When diagnosing electrical faults, consult the diagrams to confirm mailbox configurations, wire colors, and gauges, as well as the expected signal paths under normal operating conditions. It is essential to follow the diagrams step-by-step during testing to isolate faulty components without introducing additional damage. In addition to the primary wiring diagrams, the section includes schematic-level representations of critical subsystems, such as the ignition or engine control, charging system, and safety interlocks. Always verify that the wiring integrity is intact after any electrical repair work, and recheck system voltages and continuity to ensure reliable operation before returning the machine to service.