How to find Craftsman model number?
On the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917388460, the model and serial numbers are printed on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing (rear of the deck). Use those numbers when ordering parts or looking up specifications in the 917388460 owner's manual.
Check these common spots on this Craftsman rear-discharge deck:
- Rear of the deck, centered near the back edge
- Rear panel area between the lower handle mounts
- Flat metal surface on the rear housing where a decal can stick cleanly
- Areas that are less exposed to grass buildup and abrasion
The decal typically includes both identifiers. Write them down exactly as shown.
| What you need | What it’s used for | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts diagrams and specs | 917.388460 (may appear with a dot) |
| Serial number | Identifying production run details | Letters and numbers |
A faded or grass-stained decal is common on walk-behind mowers. Try this:
- Brush off dry debris first
- Wipe with a damp rag and mild soap
- Use a flashlight at an angle to make faint printing easier to see
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in to read worn characters
- Copy the number exactly, including any dots or dashes
Using the correct model number (like 917388460) prevents ordering the wrong Craftsman parts, especially for deck, handle, and blade-related items where similar mowers use different hardware.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917388460?
The model number is 917.388460 (often written without the dot as 917388460) for this Craftsman walk-behind gas lawn mower. You can confirm it on the model tag and in the 917388460 owner's manual, where it appears on the cover and in the parts diagrams.
We recommend checking these common locations so you match the correct parts list and manual:
- On the rear of the mower deck near the discharge area
- On the deck housing close to the engine mounting area
- Near the handle mounting brackets
- On a sticker or metal plate that also lists engine details
Both formats refer to the same mower model; the dot is just a formatting style used on some labels and manuals.
| You might see it as | What it means |
|---|---|
| 917.388460 | Model number as printed in the manual/model tag |
| 917388460 | Same model number without punctuation (common in parts lookup) |
For Craftsman model 917388460, the manual also identifies key specs that can help you avoid mismatches:
- Mower type: rotary, 21-inch rear-discharge
- Engine family: Briggs & Stratton 550 Series
- Engine model shown in the manual: 10T802-1086-B1
Using the exact model number ensures you get the right blade, blade adapter, control cable, and handle hardware for your specific deck and engine setup. Even small model-number differences can change fit, hole patterns, and cable lengths.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the average lifespan of 917388460?
A Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 917388460 typically lasts 8 to 12 years with normal residential use and routine maintenance (oil changes, blade care, clean deck, and proper storage). Consistent upkeep is the biggest factor in reaching the high end of that range.
- Engine maintenance: clean oil, correct oil level, clean cooling fins
- Fuel care: fresh gas, stabilizer for storage, clean carburetor
- Blade and deck condition: a sharp, balanced blade reduces vibration and engine load
- Drive and control cables: smooth operation prevents premature wear and safety issues
- Storage: dry storage and end-of-season prep prevents corrosion and fuel problems
Use the maintenance schedule and specs in the owner's manual for the exact intervals and procedures for 917388460.
| Task | Typical interval | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Change engine oil | Every season or 25-50 hours | Prevents internal engine wear |
| Sharpen or replace blade | 1-3 times per season | Cleaner cut, less strain |
| Clean underside of deck | Every few mows | Better airflow and bagging |
| Inspect cables and fasteners | Monthly | Prevents control problems |
Replacing wear items on time keeps the mower cutting cleanly and reduces stress on the engine and handle controls.
- Lawn mower blade 532406712 (replace if bent, cracked, or badly worn)
- Lawn mower blade adapter 581547901 (replace if the blade won’t stay tight or the adapter is rounded)
- Walk-behind lawn mower engine cable 532176556 (replace if the control bar feels sticky or doesn’t fully engage)
A mower that is maintained to spec runs cooler, vibrates less, and starts more reliably; that directly increases engine life and reduces costly repairs over time.
Last updated: March 2026





