Are gas lawn mowers being phased out?
Gas walk-behind mowers like the Craftsman 917383310 are not being phased out everywhere at once, but new gas mower sales are gradually tightening in some areas as battery-electric options grow. For most homeowners, gas mowers will remain serviceable for years because parts and routine maintenance support continue.
Most changes focus on new equipment sales, not on owning or repairing an existing mower.
- Some states and cities restrict or plan to restrict sales of certain new gas-powered outdoor equipment.
- Many retailers are expanding electric mower shelf space because demand is rising.
- Existing gas mowers can typically still be used, maintained, and repaired.
- Commercial and heavy-duty use often transitions more slowly than residential mowing.
Keeping a gas mower reliable is mostly about fuel care, blade/deck upkeep, and making sure the height adjuster hardware stays tight.
- Use fresh fuel and avoid long-term storage with untreated gas.
- Change oil on schedule and keep the air filter clean.
- Sharpen or replace the blade as needed; a dull blade strains the engine.
- Inspect the height adjuster for looseness; replace worn hardware such as the selector knob 532701037.
- Check fasteners periodically; vibration can loosen screws, washers, and clips.
| Feature | Gas mower | Battery mower |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Higher (fuel, oil, tune-up items) | Lower (battery care, blade) |
| Runtime | Refill and keep going | Limited by battery capacity |
| Noise and exhaust | Louder, produces exhaust | Quieter, no exhaust at use |
| Long-term parts support | Strong for common models | Strong, but battery platform matters |
If your area changes rules for new sales, it does not make your current mower obsolete. The practical question is whether your Craftsman 917383310 still meets your needs for cut quality, runtime, and upkeep cost; if it does, maintaining it is usually the most economical path.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does a 72 inch mower weigh?
A 72-inch mower deck is typically found on commercial zero-turn riders, not on the Craftsman 917383310 20" rotary walk-behind mower. Most 72-inch zero-turn mowers weigh about 1,326 to 1,445 lb (601 to 655 kg), depending on engine, frame, and deck build.
A “72-inch mower” weight varies because the deck size is only one factor. The biggest drivers are:
- Mower type: zero-turn rider vs. tractor vs. tow-behind finish mower
- Engine size: larger V-twins add significant weight
- Frame and deck thickness: commercial fabricated decks weigh more than stamped decks
- Fuel capacity: full tanks add noticeable weight
- Attachments: bagger, mulch kit, striping kit, hitch, etc.
| Item | Typical deck size | Typical weight range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72-inch zero-turn rider | 72 in | 1,326 to 1,445 lb | Commercial-grade machines are heaviest |
| Craftsman 917383310 walk-behind | 20 in | 50 to 90 lb | Varies by engine and drive system |
Weight affects trailer selection, ramp angle, tie-down points, turf compaction, and storage flooring. If you are transporting a 72-inch zero-turn, plan for the mower weight plus fuel, accessories, and trailer capacity.
If your Craftsman walk-behind feels hard to adjust or won’t hold cutting height, the height adjuster hardware is a common place to inspect. Check for worn or missing pieces such as the selector knob 532701037 and related fasteners.
- Confirm all height adjusters move freely
- Look for bent brackets or seized pivots
- Tighten loose hardware evenly side-to-side
- Replace worn knobs, clips, or spacers as needed
Last updated: January 2026
What is the best gas mower under $300?
For most homeowners shopping under $300, the best gas walk-behind mower is the one that matches your yard size and the features you will actually use: a 20 to 21 inch deck, easy height adjustment, and dependable starting. If you already own a Craftsman 917383310 20" rotary lawn mower, keeping its cutting height system working smoothly often delivers the best value.
- Deck size: 20 to 21 inches is the sweet spot for small to medium lawns.
- Height adjustment: Choose a mower with a simple, solid adjuster that holds position.
- Engine size: Most budget gas mowers run roughly 140 to 170 cc; prioritize easy starting and steady power.
- Bagging and mulching: Pick the setup you will use most (bag, mulch, or side discharge).
- Serviceability: Common fasteners and readily available parts reduce downtime.
| Feature | Best for | What to prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| 20 to 21 inch cutting width | Typical suburban lawns | Faster mowing without being hard to push |
| Multiple cutting heights | Mixed grass types | A knob or lever that does not slip |
| Steel deck | Durability | Corrosion resistance and solid feel |
| Standard hardware | DIY maintenance | Easy access to screws, washers, clips |
If your mower is cutting unevenly or the height keeps changing, focus on the height adjuster hardware first. Worn knobs, clips, or loose fasteners can make a good mower feel “cheap” even when the engine is fine.
- Inspect the height adjuster for looseness or missing retainers
- Tighten hardware and replace stripped fasteners
- Replace worn adjuster pieces such as the selector knob 532701037
Under $300, small differences in height adjustment and deck stability show up as uneven cut quality, scalping, and extra passes. A mower that holds its cutting height consistently usually outperforms a “more powerful” mower that will not stay adjusted.
Last updated: January 2026
