Craftsman 917370583 lawn mower Parts

On the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917370583, the model and serial numbers are printed on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. We recommend writing both numbers down so you can match the correct parts and diagrams in the 917370583 owner's manual.

Where to look on the mower

Check these common spots first (with the engine off and cool):

• Rear of the mower deck or rear housing panel (most common on this model)
• Near the rear wheels on the deck
• On the handle mounting area where the handle brackets attach
• Under the rear door (bagging opening) if your mower has one

What to record (and why)

The decal typically includes more than one identifier. Here is what to capture:

• Model number: identifies the mower platform (used for parts lookup)
• Serial number: identifies the production run (helps confirm correct revisions)
• Date of purchase (if known): useful for maintenance tracking and service history

Item	Example format	What it’s used for
Model number	917.370583	Finding the correct parts diagrams
Serial number	Letters and numbers	Confirming exact version of the mower

Tips if the decal is hard to read

If the label is dirty or faded, these steps usually help:

• Wipe the area with a damp rag and mild soap; dry it fully
• Use a flashlight at an angle to make faint printing easier to see
• Take a close-up photo and zoom in
• Copy the number exactly, including dots and dashes

Why it matters

Walk-behind mowers often share similar-looking parts, but small differences in deck, drive system, or handle hardware can change the correct blade, cable, or transmission parts. Using the exact model number helps ensure the right fit the first time.

Last updated: January 2026

For Craftsman model 917370583, use unleaded regular gasoline. The operator specs list a 1.6-quart fuel capacity and call for unleaded regular, which is the correct everyday fuel for this walk-behind mower engine; see the 917370583 owner's manual.

Recommended fuel (what to buy)

• Use fresh, unleaded regular gasoline.
• Use fuel from a clean, approved gas can.
• Buy only what you will use in 30 days or less to reduce stale-fuel problems.
• Keep the fuel cap area clean so dirt does not fall into the tank.

What to avoid

• Old or stale gas (a common cause of no-start issues).
• Gasoline contaminated with water, rust, or dirt.
• Storing gasoline from one season to the next.

Quick reference

Item	Spec for Craftsman 917370583	Notes
Fuel type	Unleaded regular	Best for normal mowing conditions
Fuel capacity	1.6 quarts	Do not overfill

Why it matters

Correct fuel helps the carburetor and fuel system stay clean, improves starting, and reduces common problems like rough running and “won’t start” symptoms caused by stale fuel.

Last updated: January 2026

On the Craftsman 917370583 walk-behind mower, the flap on the back is the rear deflector (rear door). It helps reduce the chance of rocks, sticks, and grass being thrown out the rear toward the operator, and it must be in place for safe operation. See the Craftsman 917370583 owner's manual.

What the rear flap (rear deflector) does

• Deflects clippings and debris downward to reduce rearward throw.
• Acts as a safety guard when you are mowing without a rear bag installed.
• Helps keep the discharge area covered when the grass catcher is removed.
• Supports safe conversion between mulching, rear bagging, and side discharge setups.

When you should check or replace it

If the rear deflector is damaged, cracked, missing, or does not close normally, replace it before mowing. A damaged flap increases the risk of debris being thrown toward the operator.

Quick inspection checklist

• Flap swings freely and closes fully under its own weight or spring tension
• No cracks, missing chunks, or severe warping
• Hinge points are not loose or broken
• No gaps that expose the rear discharge opening

How the flap relates to mulching, bagging, and side discharge

Your mower’s rear door area is part of the configuration system described in the manual.

Mowing mode	Rear mulcher plug	Grass catcher	Rear door position
Mulching	Installed	Not used	Closed
Rear bagging	Removed	Installed	Closed
Side discharge	Installed	Not used	Discharge deflector installed

For example, if you are mulching, the rear mulcher plug stays installed and the mulcher door stays closed.

Why it matters

The rear flap is a primary safety device. It helps control where clippings go and reduces the chance of objects being thrown into the operator mowing position. It also supports proper operation when switching accessories like a grass catcher or mulching plug.

Last updated: January 2026