How to find Craftsman snowblower model number?
On a Craftsman snow thrower like model 247881730, the model number is printed on the product identification label. We most often see that label on the rear of the unit between the wheels, or on the side of the frame near the auger housing; confirm the exact label location using the 247881730 operator's manual.
Where to look on model 247881730
Check these common label locations first:
- Rear of the snowblower between the wheels (near the axle area)
- Side of the frame near the auger housing
- Near the handle support area or control panel (less common)
- On the engine shroud (sometimes shows engine model, not the snowblower model)
What to write down (and why)
Record both the model and serial information so we can match the correct parts list and diagrams.
| Item to record | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number (example: 247881730) | Identifies the exact Craftsman snowblower design |
| Serial number | Helps narrow production changes within the same model |
| Date of purchase (if known) | Useful for maintenance history and service planning |
Tips to avoid mix-ups
- Use the snowblower model number for parts; the engine may have a different model number.
- If the label is dirty or iced over, wipe it clean and use a flashlight at an angle to read stamped text.
- If the label is worn, compare the control layout and decals to the diagrams in the 247881730 operator's manual.
Why it matters
Craftsman snowblower parts can vary by model and even by serial range. Using the correct model number helps ensure you get the right belts, decals, and other components the first time.
Last updated: January 2026
What happens if you don't drain gas from a snowblower?
If you don’t drain (or properly stabilize) fuel in your Craftsman 247881730 snow thrower before storage, the gasoline can oxidize and form varnish-like deposits that clog the carburetor and fuel passages. That often leads to hard starting, rough running, or a no-start condition next season.
What typically goes wrong (and what you’ll notice)
When fuel sits, especially ethanol-blended gas, it can absorb moisture and leave deposits as it ages. Common symptoms include:
- Engine won’t start after storage
- Engine surges or runs uneven (hunting)
- Loss of power under load
- Fuel smell, sticky residue, or discolored fuel in the tank
- Plugged carburetor jets or restricted fuel flow
Best practice for the Craftsman 247881730 before storage
Our model’s operator guidance is to prevent fuel deterioration during storage by running the engine until it stops from lack of fuel (emptying the fuel system). See the off-season storage section in the Craftsman 247881730 operator’s manual.
Quick storage checklist
- Run the engine until it stops from lack of fuel
- Change engine oil (helps reduce corrosion during storage)
- Clean snow and debris off the unit and around the muffler area
- Store in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources
Why it matters
Old fuel problems are one of the most common reasons a snowblower won’t start after sitting. Draining the fuel system helps protect the carburetor, reduces downtime, and avoids the need for fuel-system cleaning.
Fuel storage options (comparison)
| Storage approach | Good for | Risk level next season |
|---|---|---|
| Run engine until it stops (fuel system empty) | Seasonal storage 30+ days | Low |
| Leave fuel in tank untreated | Short gaps only | High |
| Use fresh fuel plus stabilizer (then run engine) | Frequent winter use with breaks | Medium to low |
For more seasonal care tips, use how to store a snowblower.
Last updated: January 2026
Can you use 10W30 instead of 5W30 in a snowblower?
Yes; for Craftsman model 247881730, the operator’s manual specifies 5W-30 engine oil, so that is what we recommend using for normal winter operation and cold starts. Using 10W-30 can make starting harder in freezing temperatures because it flows slower when cold.
What the manual says for model 247881730
In the 247881730 operator’s manual, the engine oil type is listed as 5W-30, and the engine oil capacity is 20 oz. Staying with the specified viscosity helps protect the engine during cold-weather starts.
Quick comparison
| Oil grade | Cold-start flow | Best use case in a snowblower | What we recommend for 247881730 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5W-30 | Better | Typical winter snow clearing | Yes (specified) |
| 10W-30 | Worse | Milder temps, less extreme cold starts | Only if temps stay relatively warm |
If you already have 10W-30 in the engine
If you filled with 10W-30 and the snowblower starts and runs normally, it typically will not cause immediate problems, but we still suggest switching back to 5W-30 before the coldest part of the season.
- Check oil level on a level surface with the engine off
- Avoid overfilling (overfill can cause smoking, hard starting, or spark plug fouling)
- If starting becomes difficult in cold weather, drain and refill with 5W-30
- Change oil on schedule (after the first 5 hours, then once a season or every 50 hours)
Why it matters
Snowblower engines see the most wear at startup. In cold weather, the right viscosity (5W-30 for this model) helps oil circulate faster, which improves starting and reduces friction on internal engine parts.
Last updated: January 2026
How many years should a snowblower last?
A Craftsman 247881730 gas snowblower should last about 15 to 20 years with normal residential use and consistent maintenance. In addition, the operator’s manual lists an average useful life of 7 years or 60 operating hours as a safety inspection benchmark, not a hard “end of life.” See the Craftsman 247881730 operator's manual.
What “average useful life” means for this model
The manual’s “average useful life” guidance is mainly about when to start annual safety inspections (controls, auger/impeller system, fasteners, wear items), especially if the machine is used heavily.
- 7 years or 60 hours: plan for annual inspections and closer attention to wear
- 15 to 20 years: typical real-world lifespan with good care
- Heavy, wet snow and poor storage can shorten lifespan significantly
What most affects lifespan (and what to do)
We see snow throwers last longest when owners stay ahead of fuel, oil, and wear-item maintenance.
- Change engine oil on schedule (first 5 hours, then each season or every 50 hours)
- Use fresh fuel and avoid storing fuel for long periods
- Keep the machine clean and dry after use (prevents rust and freeze-up)
- Check belts, skid shoes, shave plate, and shear pins for wear each season
- Store it in a clean, dry area during the off-season
Quick lifespan guide
| Usage pattern | Expected lifespan | What usually ends it first |
|---|---|---|
| Light residential (few storms/year) | 15 to 20 years | Belts, friction wheel rubber, rust from storage |
| Moderate residential | 12 to 18 years | Fuel system issues, belts, auger wear items |
| Heavy use (many storms, deep/wet snow) | 7 to 12 years | Drive system wear, auger/impeller strain, corrosion |
Why it matters
Knowing the difference between “average useful life” and true lifespan helps you plan: you can keep your Craftsman 247881730 reliable for many winters by treating year 7 as a maintenance milestone, not a replacement deadline.
Last updated: January 2026





