Should I use 87 or 91 gas for lawn mower?
For the Craftsman lawn mower model 917374542, use regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline; higher octane (like 91) does not add power or protection in a mower engine. Also, use fuel with no more than 10% ethanol (E10) as noted in the 917374542 owner's manual.
Use these fuel guidelines to prevent hard starting, surging, and carburetor issues:
- Use fresh, clean unleaded gasoline (87 octane).
- Use E10 or less (up to 10% ethanol); avoid E15/E85.
- Buy only what you will use in 30 days (or treat with stabilizer).
- Keep the gas can clean and rust-free; dirt and rust cause fuel system problems.
- If the mower has been sitting, drain old fuel and refill with fresh gas.
Higher octane mainly resists knock in high-compression engines; most walk-behind mower engines are designed for regular fuel.
| Fuel choice | Works in 917374542? | Best use case | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87 octane (regular) | Yes | Everyday mowing | Correct choice for normal operation |
| 91 octane (premium) | Yes, but unnecessary | None for typical mowing | Costs more; does not improve cutting or starting |
| E10 (up to 10% ethanol) | Yes | Common pump gas | Acceptable per manual |
| Over E10 (E15/E85) | No | Never | Can cause running issues and is not recommended |
Using the right fuel helps your Craftsman mower start easier, run smoother, and reduces varnish buildup that can clog the carburetor and shorten engine life. Fuel quality is also a common cause of “won’t start” and “runs rough” symptoms.
If you are already doing seasonal maintenance, follow the storage and fuel-handling guidance in the 917374542 owner's manual so you do not carry old gas from one season to the next.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917374542?
The model number is 917.374542; it identifies the Craftsman rotary, power-propelled 22-inch multi-cut gas walk-behind mower shown on the product label and in the documentation. For model-specific parts lists and diagrams, use the 917374542 owner's manual.
We recommend confirming the model number directly on the mower before ordering parts.
- Check the model tag on the mower deck (typically near the rear or side of the deck)
- Look for a label that lists Model No. 917.374542
- Match the model number exactly; even one digit off can change the blade, belt, or control cable
- Use the manual parts diagrams to cross-check assemblies like the handle, drive system, and discharge door
Many Craftsman walk-behind mowers share similar-looking components, but the mounting pattern and fit can differ.
| What you are replacing | Why the model number matters | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Blade | Deck size and center hole pattern must match | Husqvarna lawn mower 22-inch deck 3-in-1 blade 532421825 |
| Drive belt | Length and width must match the drive system | Lawn mower ground drive belt (varies by model) |
| Control cables | Cable length and end fittings must match the handle controls | Engine zone control cable (varies by model) |
- Model number: 917.374542
- Brand: Craftsman
- Product type: Gas walk-behind lawn mower
- Common description: 22-inch, power-propelled, multi-cut mower
Using the correct model number helps us match the right Craftsman mower parts the first time, especially for high-fit items like the mower blade, drive control assembly, and discharge components.
Last updated: January 2026
What year is Craftsman Model 917374542?
Craftsman model 917374542 is a 2011 walk-behind mower. The most reliable way to confirm the exact build date is to match the mower’s product identification label information with the date-code guidance in the 917374542 owner's manual.
We use the model number to identify the correct parts and documentation, but the manufacture date is typically tied to the product label or engine date code, not the model number alone.
- Find the product identification label on the mower deck or rear housing area.
- Write down the serial number and any date code shown.
- Compare the format to the date-code explanation in the manual.
- If your mower has a Briggs & Stratton engine, also check the engine label for its date code.
- Use the date code to confirm whether your unit was built early or late in 2011.
Different components can use different formats. Here are the most common ones we see on walk-behind mowers:
| Where you find it | What it usually tells you | What to do with it |
|---|---|---|
| Mower product label | Mower build date or production run | Use it as the primary “mower year” |
| Engine label | Engine build date | Use it to cross-check the mower’s timeframe |
| Parts tags (cables, bags, handles) | Part production batch | Helpful for troubleshooting fit issues |
Knowing the correct year helps you avoid ordering the wrong blade, belt, or drive parts when Craftsman made mid-year design changes. For example, the correct blade and drive components for model 917374542 include items like the husqvarna lawn mower 22-inch deck 3-in-1 blade 532421825 and the drive belt listed for this model.
Last updated: January 2026





