Craftsman 917388940 lawn mower Parts

For the Craftsman lawn mower model 917388940, we recommend using fresh regular unleaded gasoline; in most walk-behind mower engines, E10 (up to 10% ethanol) is the right choice, while premium high-octane fuel is unnecessary.

Use fuel that matches these basics:

• Regular unleaded gasoline
• E10 or less (up to 10% ethanol)
• Fresh fuel (best within about 30 days, or stabilized for storage)
• Clean, water-free gas from a sealed container

For any model-specific notes (fuel grade, storage guidance, or special cautions), follow the 917388940 owner's manual.

Avoid fuel choices that commonly cause hard starting, surging, or carburetor issues:

• Old gasoline (stale fuel is a top cause of no-start)
• Higher-ethanol blends (often labeled E15, E20, E85)
• Gas contaminated with water or dirt
• Mixing oil into the gas (this model is typically a 4-cycle mower; oil goes in the crankcase, not the fuel tank)

Correct fuel helps the engine start easily and run smoothly, and it reduces varnish buildup that can clog the carburetor and fuel passages during storage.

If fuel issues show up as hard starting or repeated stalling, use our how to keep lawn mower gas from going bad tips to prevent stale-fuel problems.

Last updated: January 2026

The model number is 917388940. On this Craftsman walk-behind gas lawn mower, you’ll typically find that number on the mower’s model and serial tag; match it exactly when ordering parts or using the 917388940 owner's manual.

Look for a sticker or metal tag in one of these common spots:

• Rear of the deck near the discharge opening
• Top of the deck behind the engine
• Near the handle mounting brackets
• On the rear door or bagging area (if equipped)
• Under the deck lip (wipe grass and dirt off first)

Use these quick checks before you buy parts like a blade adapter or wheel:

• The model number should read 917388940 (no extra letters or spaces)
• Record the serial number too; it helps identify production variations
• Compare the tag to the model number shown on the 917388940 owner's manual
• If the tag is worn, clean it gently and use a flashlight at an angle

Craftsman walk-behind mowers often have multiple versions that look similar. The exact model number ensures the correct fit for items like the zone control cable, mulcher door, discharge guard, and 21-in deck blade.

Last updated: January 2026

On a Craftsman walk-behind mower, the model number is typically on the mower’s main ID label (not the engine) and is easiest to find on the deck housing near the rear or side. For this mower, the model number you’ll use for parts is 917388940.

Check these common label locations first:

• Rear of the mower deck, near the height adjuster or rear wheels
• Left or right side of the deck, just above the cutting height positions
• Under the rear discharge door or near the bagging opening
• On the handle bracket area where the handle mounts to the deck
• Near the engine mounting area on the deck (label is on the deck, not stamped into the engine)

For diagrams and the exact label callouts used on this model, use the 917388940 owner's manual.

Your mower has two sets of identifiers: one for the mower and one for the engine. Use the mower model number for chassis parts like wheels, handles, and discharge components.

Use these practical workarounds:

• Clean the deck with a damp rag and mild cleaner; grass film can hide the print
• Look for a second sticker location on the opposite side of the deck
• Match parts by diagrams using the mower model number 917388940
• If you are replacing common hardware, confirm size and thread before ordering

If you are working on the discharge area, the discharge guard 589482402 is a common model-matched part to reference when confirming fit.

Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong Craftsman walk-behind mower parts, especially for deck-mounted items like the blade adapter, wheels, and handle brackets where small design changes affect fit.

Last updated: January 2026