Where to find model number on Craftsman tiller?
On a Craftsman front-tine tiller like model 917298351, the model number is usually on an ID label near the engine, most often on or near the recoil starter housing, under the engine shroud, or on the sheet metal close to the muffler or spark plug area. Use that number to match parts correctly.
- Recoil starter housing (pull-start cover) on the engine
- Under the engine shroud (top cover) on the engine
- Sheet metal near the muffler heat shield
- Near the spark plug (on nearby engine tin or a tag)
- Handle frame or transmission housing (less common, but worth a quick look)
- Wipe dirt and oil off the engine with a rag; labels are often hidden by grime.
- Use a flashlight and look for a silver, white, or black sticker or a small metal tag.
- Check both sides of the engine and the rear of the engine facing the handles.
- If the sticker is damaged, look for stamped numbers on nearby metal surfaces.
| What you find | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 917298351 | Matches the correct diagrams and parts list |
| Engine model/type (if shown) | (varies) | Helps when ordering engine-specific parts |
| Serial number | (varies) | Useful for age and production variations |
We use the model number to pull the exact Craftsman parts breakdown for your tiller. Even small model changes can affect items like the clutch cable routing, pulley sizes, and hardware.
If you are replacing or adjusting the clutch cable, the parts list for 917298351 can help you identify the correct cable and related hardware such as the cbl/cltch t 583731701 and lawn & garden equipment cable bracket 532009484.
For more general tiller identification and repair help, use our tiller common questions article.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of oil do you use in a Craftsman tiller?
For the Craftsman tiller model 917298351, we use 4-cycle small-engine oil; SAE 30 is the standard choice for warm-weather tilling, and 10W-30 is a better all-around option when temperatures vary. Fill to the dipstick mark and avoid overfilling.
- Above 40°F: SAE 30
- 0°F to 100°F: 10W-30
- Below 0°F (rare for tilling): 5W-30 (synthetic preferred)
- Park the tiller on level ground and let the engine cool.
- Clean dirt from around the oil fill/dipstick so debris does not fall in.
- Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, then reinsert to get an accurate reading.
- Add oil slowly in small amounts, rechecking the dipstick each time.
- Stop at the FULL mark; do not fill above it.
Exact capacity varies by engine family, but most Craftsman front-tine tillers use a small-engine sump in this range:
| Engine size (typical) | Typical oil fill amount | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Small 4-cycle tiller engine | ~18 to 24 oz | Add gradually and confirm on dipstick |
| Larger 4-cycle tiller engine | ~24 to 32 oz | Use dipstick, not the bottle amount |
Correct oil viscosity helps the engine lubricate properly at startup and under load. The wrong oil, or too much oil, can cause hard starting, smoking, power loss, and faster engine wear.
If you are also troubleshooting performance issues after an oil change, use tiller engine runs rough or misfires to narrow down fuel, spark, and air-flow causes.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine is on a CRAFTSMAN tiller?
On Craftsman tiller model 917298351, the engine is a gasoline small engine; the exact make, model series, and displacement are identified on the engine’s ID label (not on the tiller frame tag). Most front-tine tillers use a 4-cycle, horizontal-shaft style engine that drives the tines through a belt and pulley system.
Look directly on the engine for the manufacturer label or stamped plate. Record these items:
- Engine brand (commonly Briggs and Stratton, Tecumseh, or similar depending on production run)
- Engine model and type
- Code or spec number
- Displacement (cc)
- Serial number
| What you need | Typical location | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model/type | Blower housing, valve cover, or recoil starter shroud | Correct carburetor and ignition parts |
| Code/spec | Same label/plate | Matches the exact engine version |
| Displacement (cc) | Same label/plate | Confirms power class |
Craftsman used different engine suppliers across similar tiller platforms. The engine ID is what ensures tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, carburetor parts) and fuel system components fit correctly.
If the engine starts and revs but tine power is weak or intermittent, check common drive components such as:
- Pulley 592642101 (transfers belt power)
- Idler pad 532109227 (maintains belt tension)
- Cbl/cltch t 583731701 (engages the drive)
For a step-by-step belt procedure, use how to replace a tiller drive belt.
Last updated: February 2026
