Owner’s manual
Are gas lawn mowers being phased out?
Gas walk-behind mowers like the Craftsman 24738903 are being phased down in some areas, mainly through rules that limit new sales of certain gas-powered outdoor equipment. In most places, gas mowers are still legal to own, repair, and use; the biggest change is that electric options are taking more shelf space.
What “phased out” usually means
Most changes target new equipment sales, not the mower you already own. For a gas mower, that typically means:
- You can keep using your Craftsman 24738903 as long as it runs safely.
- Parts support remains important because repairs extend the mower’s life.
- Local rules may affect what retailers stock, not whether you can mow.
- Commercial crews may keep gas longer for runtime and refueling speed.
- Homeowners often switch to battery models for lower noise and simpler upkeep.
How this affects repairs and parts for model 24738903
If you plan to keep your mower, routine maintenance and a few common wear items make the biggest difference.
| What you’re doing | Why it helps | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpen/replace blade | Cleaner cut, less engine strain | 1 to 2 times per season |
| Clean underside of deck | Better airflow and bagging | Every few mows |
| Inspect bagging/discharge parts | Prevents clogs and blowout | Monthly in season |
| Fresh fuel and storage steps | Easier starts next season | End of season |
For model-specific maintenance intervals and safety steps, follow the 24738903 owner's manual.
Parts that commonly matter for bagging and discharge
If performance drops (poor bagging, clumping, blowout), these are frequent culprits:
- Grass bag tears or poor fit: lawn mower grass bag 964-04119
- Side discharge not directing properly: mtd lawn mower side chute deflector 731-07486
- Deck buildup affecting airflow (cleaning and inspection)
- Dull or bent blade (sharpen or replace)
- Wet or overgrown grass (adjust mowing height and pace)
Why it matters
A gradual shift toward electric mainly changes what’s easiest to buy new. Keeping a gas mower running well depends on maintenance, safe operation, and replacing wear parts before they cause bigger problems.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I find out what kind of lawn mower I have?
For a Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 24738903, the fastest way to identify what you have is to find the model and serial label on the mower deck or frame, then match that model number to the correct parts list and manual. Use the exact characters shown on the label.
Where to look for the model label
Most walk-behind mowers place the ID label in one of these spots:
- On the mower deck near a rear wheel (left or right side)
- On the rear of the deck near the discharge opening or rear door
- On the frame near the engine mounting area
- Near the handle mounting brackets (lower handle area)
If the label is dirty or faded, wipe it with a damp rag first; grass dust and oil film can hide characters.
What to write down (and why)
Record these items exactly as printed:
- Model number (example: 24738903)
- Serial number (helps confirm production run)
- Engine model/type/code (engine parts often use the engine ID, not the mower ID)
- Deck size (commonly 21-in on many Craftsman walk-behind mowers)
Quick ID checklist
| Item | Where it’s used | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mower model number | Parts diagrams, chassis parts | Ensures correct fit for deck, handle, wheels |
| Serial number | Version changes | Helps avoid ordering an older/newer variation |
| Engine ID | Engine tune-up parts | Matches air filter, spark plug, carb parts |
Why it matters
Using the correct model number prevents common ordering mistakes, like buying the wrong blade style, bagging parts, or deck hardware. For example, bagging components can vary by model and deck configuration, including the lawn mower grass bag 964-04119.
Next step after you find the model number
Once you confirm the mower model number, use these resources to stay aligned with the correct diagrams and maintenance info:
- Check the 24738903 manual for model-specific identification and maintenance guidance
- Compare your mower’s configuration (mulch, side discharge, rear bag) to the diagrams
- Match parts by description and location on the mower, not by appearance alone
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 24738903 lawn mower?
The model number for this Craftsman walk-behind mower is 24738903. You’ll find it on the mower’s model tag (often on the rear deck, near the height adjuster, or on the handle support); it should match the number shown in the 24738903 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the mower
Check these common locations on Craftsman walk-behind lawn mowers:
- Rear of the mower deck (near the discharge opening or rear door)
- Top or side of the deck near the engine mounting area
- Handle bracket or handle support area
- Under the rear flap or near the grass bag mounting points
- On a sticker or metal tag that also lists a serial number
How to confirm you have the right model number
Use this quick checklist before ordering parts like a blade, wheel, or grass bag.
| What to compare | What it should show | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model tag on mower | 24738903 | Ensures diagrams and parts match your deck and handle setup |
| Manual cover/model listing | 24738903 | Confirms maintenance and adjustment procedures are correct |
| Parts list fit notes | Craftsman 24738903 | Prevents ordering a similar-looking part that mounts differently |
Why it matters
Craftsman model numbers can look similar, but small design changes affect fit. Using 24738903 helps us match the correct walk-behind mower parts (deck components, handle hardware, wheels, and bagging or mulching pieces) for your exact mower.
Last updated: January 2026
