Where to find model number on Craftsman tiller?
On a Craftsman tiller like model 917298160, you’ll usually find the model number on a sticker or metal tag on the engine area or the main frame. Common spots include the recoil starter housing, under the engine shroud, or near the spark plug.
Look for a label that lists MODEL (and often SERIAL) and check these areas first:
- Recoil starter housing (pull-start cover)
- Under the engine shroud (sheet metal near the muffler)
- Near the spark plug area on the engine
- On the tiller frame near the handle mount or tine shield
- Near the transmission housing (on some front-tine designs)
The tag typically includes a few identifiers. Record them exactly as shown.
| Label item | What it means | Why we need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The exact tiller version | Ensures correct parts match |
| Serial number | Your unit’s unique ID | Helps confirm production run |
| Engine model/type/code (if shown) | Engine identifiers | Helps match engine-specific parts |
If the sticker is worn off, we recommend these practical next steps:
- Clean the area with a rag and mild degreaser; labels are often hidden under dirt
- Use a flashlight and take a close-up photo; zooming in can reveal faint printing
- Check multiple locations; some units have both an engine label and a frame label
- If you’re replacing hardware while you search, match what you remove to known parts (for example, a fastener like the gripco nut 596322601)
Craftsman tillers can look similar across model families, but small differences in controls, reverse drive, and tine/transmission hardware change the exact replacement parts. Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong belt, cable, or fastener.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I buy Craftsman replacement parts?
You can buy replacement parts for your Craftsman 917298160 front-tine tiller directly from the parts list for this model on Sears PartsDirect. Ordering by model number helps ensure the part fits your 6-hp tiller with reverse.
- Match your model number exactly: 917298160.
- Use the parts diagram and parts list to identify the exact part name and ID.
- Compare the old part to the listing (shape, mounting holes, and hardware size).
- Order common wear items early if you rely on reverse or heavy tilling.
These are examples of parts we show available for Craftsman 917298160:
| Part type | Example part on this model | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Belt | Tiller reverse drive belt 599385301 | Reverse drive function and power transfer |
| Hardware | Gripco nut 596322601 | Securing assemblies and brackets |
| Pins | Tiller clevis pin 532443676 | Linkage and attachment connections |
| Cable-related | Lawn & garden equipment cable bracket 532009484 | Supporting and routing control cables |
Tillers often have small variations by model and production run; ordering by Craftsman 917298160 reduces returns and downtime, especially for drive components like belts, pins, and cable hardware.
- Look for the failed part’s location (handle controls, reverse drive area, tine drive area).
- Note symptoms (reverse slipping, control cable not returning, loose linkage).
- Check for missing fasteners, worn holes, or stretched springs before ordering.
Last updated: February 2026
Are Craftsman tillers any good?
Yes. Craftsman tillers are a solid choice for typical home garden work because they’re built to break up soil efficiently and have widely available replacement parts. For the Craftsman 917298160 6-hp tiller with reverse, long-term “good” performance mainly comes down to routine belt, cable, and hardware upkeep.
A tiller is doing its job when it:
- Starts reliably and holds steady engine speed under load
- Pulls forward smoothly and backs up without slipping (reverse drive)
- Keeps tine engagement consistent (no sudden stopping or surging)
- Tracks straight without excessive handle flex or vibration
- Doesn’t eat belts, pins, or fasteners prematurely
Craftsman tillers are generally praised for power and soil-turning ability, especially when the tines are sharp and the drive system is adjusted correctly. The most common frustrations are usually maintenance-related: belt wear, cable stretch, and small hardware loosening over time.
| What you notice | Most common cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Reverse slips or won’t pull | Worn or glazed reverse belt | Inspect/replace the tiller reverse drive belt 599385301 |
| Tines stop under load | Loose linkage or worn pin/retainer | Check fasteners and linkage pins |
| Handle feels loose/wobbly | Loose hardware or worn washers | Tighten and inspect washers/nuts |
| Controls feel “mushy” | Cable stretch or misadjustment | Inspect cable routing and bracket |
- Re-tension and inspect the reverse belt each season; replace if cracked, shiny, or stretched
- Recheck handle and tine hardware after the first hour of use each season (vibration loosens fasteners)
- Keep control cables routed cleanly and secured; a bent bracket can change engagement
- Avoid forcing the machine; take shallow passes in hard or rocky soil
- Clean soil buildup from moving parts after use to reduce wear
A front-tine tiller’s “quality” shows up in the drive and engagement system. When the belt and linkage are in spec, the 917298160 feels strong and predictable; when they’re worn or loose, it can feel underpowered even with a good engine.
Last updated: February 2026
