Craftsman 917370540 lawn mower Parts

On Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917370540, the serial number label identifies your unit, but it typically does not decode into a clear “build date” you can read directly. We use the serial number to confirm the correct parts and documentation, then match it to the right production information.

Where to find the serial number on model 917370540

The model and serial numbers are on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing (rear of the deck). Use the layout shown in the 917370540 owner's manual.

• Look on the rear of the mower housing, not the engine shroud
• Wipe the decal clean so every digit is readable
• Record both the model number and serial number exactly as printed
• If the decal is damaged, check for a second ID label nearby on the deck

How we use the serial number to determine “age”

For this Craftsman mower, the most reliable way to estimate age is to pair the serial number with your purchase information and the correct parts breakdown.

• Compare the serial number to your receipt or service records (best date reference)
• Use the serial number to ensure you are ordering the correct blade, drive parts, and hardware
• Confirm the correct manual and parts list for your exact configuration
• If you are troubleshooting, use the serial number to avoid mismatched assemblies

Quick guide: what you can and cannot learn from the serial number

What you want to know	Best source	What to do
Exact purchase date	Receipt or card statement	Match to your records
Approximate age	Purchase date plus usage	Estimate seasons of use
Correct replacement parts	Model + serial	Use the model/serial from the decal
Engine build date	Engine model/type code	Check the Briggs & Stratton engine tag

Why it matters

Knowing the correct model and serial number prevents ordering the wrong Craftsman parts (blade adapter, drive control, wheels, fasteners) and helps you follow the right maintenance specs like oil type, spark plug type, and blade bolt torque.

Last updated: January 2026

On the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917370540, we set the cutting height so the deck is slightly higher in the back than the front (front lower). This helps the blade cut cleanly without repeatedly re-cutting clippings, which can reduce performance.

Recommended deck pitch (what to aim for)

A small forward pitch is the goal; you do not want an extreme tilt.

• Front of deck: slightly lower
• Rear of deck: slightly higher
• Keep left and right sides even (same wheel setting)
• Recheck after changing wheels or servicing the blade
• If the mower bogs down, raise the cutting height and clean the underside of the deck

How to set it on model 917370540

This mower uses wheel height adjusters; the manual calls out keeping all wheels at the same setting for an even cut.

1. Park on a flat, hard surface and shut the engine off.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety.
3. Set all four wheels to the same notch using the adjuster levers (the manual notes the adjuster plate tab should seat correctly).
4. If you want a slight front-lower pitch, move the rear wheels one setting higher than the front (small change only), then test-cut.

Quick comparison

Setup	What you may notice	Best use
Front slightly lower than rear	Cleaner cut, less re-cutting	Most lawns, normal mowing
Level front to back	More drag in heavy grass	Light mowing only
Front higher than rear	Ragged cut, clumping	Not recommended

Why it matters

Deck pitch affects airflow and how long clippings stay under the deck. A slight front-lower setup reduces load on the engine and helps prevent uneven cutting, especially when grass is thick.

For wheel-setting details and cutting-height adjustment steps, use the 917370540 owner's manual.

Last updated: January 2026

The model number is 917.370540 (often written without the dot as 917370540) for this Craftsman walk-behind gas lawn mower. You’ll see it printed on the mower’s model tag and on the cover of the 917370540 owner's manual.

Where to find the model number on the mower

Check these common locations on Craftsman walk-behind mowers like model 917370540:

• On a model and serial number label on the rear of the deck
• Near the handle mounting area
• On the side or back of the mower housing
• Printed on the original paperwork or manual cover

Model number vs. engine model number (common mix-up)

This mower uses a Briggs & Stratton engine, and the engine has its own separate model number. That engine number is used for engine-specific parts (carburetor, ignition, gaskets), while 917370540 is used for mower-specific parts (blade, wheels, drive system).

What you’re identifying	Example on this mower	Used for ordering
Mower model number	917.370540 (917370540)	Deck, wheels, drive, controls
Engine model number	122T05-3846-EA	Engine internal and fuel/ignition parts

Why it matters

Using the correct model number helps us match the exact Craftsman parts diagrams and the right replacement parts for your mower’s deck and drive system. Using only the engine number can lead to ordering the wrong mower hardware.

Last updated: January 2026