Help Me with engage blade that is disengaging on its own.

10 years ago

Hi guys,

I wanted to see if I can get some help with my craftsman lawnmower with a Honda Engine. The problem I am having is that when I pull down the 'blade engage' lever (picture attached), the engage lever engages, but then disengages on its own. The only way I can consistently cut my grass is is to hold the lever down with some cable. Mode number for my mower is 917.377795.

I suspect that the problem is in the black housing in that picture. How can I fix this so mechanism in the housing to enjoy my mower again? Thanks!

Comments (3)

tomplum
10 years ago
The problem is usually in the control yes. If you can verify that there is a slight amount of slack in the cable, then it would be in the control I'd think too. When the mechanism has enough debris that prevents the clutch arm from returning all the way, then the dog inside the control doesn't grab the tab securely enough and can release with the slightest jolt. From the pic you've posted, I would guess you have looked up the part but gulped at the 40-50$ cost. You could pull the control, split it and have a look. Maybe a tab had broken inside that you can Macgyver up w/ some super glue or chewing gum!
tele gram
Original Author
10 years ago
Does it mean that this steel cable can stretch a produce a slack? What is the significance of this slack? How does the presence of slack cause this kind of issue? I guess I am lost in the interplay between slack and dirt in that housing.

Secondly, if there is a slack, how do I ammend that and where?

I really appreciate your response and help thus far. Thank you.
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tomplum
10 years ago
No. I am saying that if the clutch arm is not returning fully below -that the mechanism inside the control may not securely grab and that COULD be a reason for the failure in operation. You could try removing the lower end of the cable and checking it that way.