Owner’s manual
Where is the model number on a chainsaw?
On the Craftsman chainsaw model 917353771, the model number is printed on the model plate located below the “ON-OFF” switch. We recommend writing down both the model number and serial number so you have them ready when ordering parts or looking up service information in the owner's manual.
How to find it quickly
- Turn the chainsaw off and let it cool completely.
- Engage the chain brake.
- Look on the housing area directly below the ON-OFF switch.
- Check for a model plate (often a small metal plate or durable label).
- Record the model number and serial number exactly as shown.
What the model plate typically includes
| Item on plate | What it’s used for | Example for this unit |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts diagrams and lists | 917353771 |
| Serial number | Identifying production run details | Varies by unit |
| Brand/series info | General identification | Craftsman 3.7 chainsaw |
Why it matters
Using the correct model number helps us match you to the right parts for your exact chainsaw configuration. That is especially important for cutting system items like the chain, sprocket, and sharpening tools, where small spec differences can affect fit and performance.
Parts you may match by model number
If you are shopping for common wear items for model 917353771, these are examples of parts that are often selected by model:
- Chain 20BPX074G (18-in chain)
- Sprocket 11891 (0.325-in sprocket)
- File 23577 (5/32-in round file)
Last updated: February 2026
How to look up chainsaw serial number?
On the Craftsman 917353771 gas chainsaw, you can look up the serial number by finding the model plate and reading the serial number printed on it. For this model, the model plate is located below the ON-OFF switch; record both the model and serial numbers for parts lookup.
Where to find the serial number on Craftsman 917353771
Use this quick checklist to locate and read the model plate:
- Look directly below the ON-OFF switch for the model plate
- Wipe off oil, sawdust, and residue so the numbers are readable
- Copy the serial number exactly as shown (including any leading zeros)
- Record the model number 917353771 with the serial number
- Store the information somewhere safe for future reference
The identification note and location callout are shown in the 917353771 owner's manual.
How to use the serial number for parts lookup
The model number gets you to the correct diagrams and parts list; the serial number helps confirm the correct production version when parts changed over time.
- Use the model number to select the correct parts breakdown
- Use the serial number to match the correct version if a part was revised
- When ordering, provide the part description plus the part number/ID when available
If you are replacing common wear items, examples include the chain 20BPX074G and the sprocket 11891.
Quick reference: model number vs. serial number
| Item | What it identifies | What you use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (917353771) | The chainsaw design | Pulling the correct parts diagrams |
| Serial number | Your specific unit | Confirming the correct production run |
Why it matters
Using the correct serial number helps prevent wrong-part orders, especially for cutting system parts where fit matters (chain pitch/length, sprocket compatibility, and sharpening tools).
Last updated: February 2026
Should I use 40 1 or 50 1 fuel for a chainsaw?
For the Craftsman 917353771 gas chainsaw, use the fuel and oil mix ratio listed in the 917353771 owner's manual. Many newer 2-cycle saws use 50:1, but this model’s manual provides the correct ratio and mixing steps to prevent poor lubrication and engine damage.
What to use for model 917353771
Follow the manual’s fuel instructions for gasoline type and the exact gasoline-to-oil ratio. The manual also emphasizes safe mixing practices and not mixing fuel in the saw’s tank.
- Use fresh regular-grade gasoline
- Mix fuel in a clean, approved container (not in the chainsaw)
- Mix in a well-ventilated area, away from heat or flame
- Prepare only enough fuel for 1 to 2 days of cutting
- Tighten the fuel cap securely; wipe up spills and keep handles dry
40:1 vs 50:1: how to decide
Use this as a quick guide, then match it to the ratio printed in your manual.
| Mix ratio | Oil per 1 gallon gas | Typical use case |
|---|---|---|
| 50:1 | 2.6 oz | Common on many modern 2-cycle engines |
| 40:1 | 3.2 oz | Used on some older or higher-lube designs |
If you use the wrong ratio
Using too little oil (a “lean” mix) is the bigger risk; it reduces lubrication and can overheat and score the piston and cylinder. Using too much oil can increase smoke, carbon buildup, and spark plug fouling.
- Lean mix symptoms: surging, high idle, loss of power, overheating
- Rich mix symptoms: heavy smoke, oily muffler, plug fouling
- Best practice: drain and replace with the correct mix if you are unsure
Why it matters
On a 2-cycle chainsaw like the Craftsman 917353771, the oil in the fuel is the engine’s primary lubrication for bearings, piston, and cylinder. The correct ratio protects performance and extends engine life.
For chain maintenance while you are at it, keeping cutters sharp reduces load and heat; a correctly sized round file such as the file 23577 helps maintain proper cutter shape.
Last updated: February 2026
