Owner’s manual
View engine
What is the cheapest time of year to buy a lawn mower?
For a Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 917371623, the cheapest time to buy is typically late fall through winter (roughly September through February) when retailers clear out seasonal inventory; the best selection is usually early spring (around March to May), but prices are higher.
Best times to shop (price vs. selection)
- September to October: end-of-season markdowns as stores make room for fall items
- November (Black Friday/Cyber Week): strong promotions, especially on remaining inventory
- December to February: clearance pricing and fewer shoppers; selection is limited
- March to May: widest selection of new models and features; fewer deep discounts
What to look for so the “deal” is actually a good buy
Even at a low price, we recommend checking these basics so you do not end up buying a mower that needs immediate repairs:
- Engine starts easily and runs smoothly at full speed
- Blade and blade adapter are not bent (impact table damage is common)
- Wheels roll straight and height adjusters hold position
- Self-propel drive engages consistently (if equipped)
- Handle hardware is tight and folds/locks correctly for storage
Quick comparison: when to buy
| Time of year | Typical price level | Typical selection | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep to Oct | Lowest | Medium | Best overall value |
| Nov | Low | Medium to low | Holiday promotions |
| Dec to Feb | Lowest | Low | Clearance hunters |
| Mar to May | Highest | Highest | Specific features/model choice |
Why it matters
A mower is a seasonal product, so pricing follows inventory cycles. Buying during clearance can save money, but buying in spring can save time because you are more likely to find the exact deck size, drive type, and bagger setup you want.
For model-specific operating and maintenance details (fuel, oil type, blade bolt torque, storage steps), use the 917371623 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917371623?
The model number for this Craftsman walk-behind lawn mower is 917.371623 (often written without the dot as 917371623). You’ll see it printed on the mower’s model tag and on the cover page of the 917371623 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the mower
Check these common locations first (clean off grass and dirt so the tag is readable):
- Rear of the deck near the discharge opening
- Top of the deck near the engine mounting area
- Behind the engine, near the recoil starter housing
- On the handle support or rear frame area
- On a sticker or metal plate that also lists serial information
Why the dot matters (917.371623 vs 917371623)
Both formats refer to the same mower; the dot is a formatting style used on many Craftsman tags and manuals.
| You might see | What it means | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| 917.371623 | Same model number with dot formatting | Reading the model tag or manual |
| 917371623 | Same model number without the dot | Searching parts diagrams and parts lists |
Why it matters when ordering parts
Using the exact model number helps us match the correct parts diagrams and avoid ordering the wrong blade, belt, or drive components.
- Confirms the correct deck and drive system version
- Helps match parts like the V-belt and drive control cable
- Reduces returns caused by look-alike Craftsman mower models
If you’re ordering drive parts for this model, common items include the belt 532157769 and the lawn mower drive control cable 532194653.
Last updated: January 2026
Where is Craftsman's model number?
On the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917371623, the model number is printed on the mower’s identification label and also shown on the cover page of the 917371623 owner's manual. If you are looking for an engine model number, that is on the engine itself, not on the mower deck.
Where to look on the mower
Check these common spots first (wipe off grass and dirt so you can read the label):
- Rear of the mower deck near the discharge opening or rear door
- Top of the deck near the engine mounting area
- Near the height adjuster area by a wheel
- On the handle support area (lower handle brackets)
Mower model number vs. engine model number
These are different identifiers, and they are used for different parts.
| What you are identifying | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mower model number (917371623) | On the mower ID label | Ensures you get the correct deck, wheel, and drive parts |
| Engine model/type/code | Stamped or labeled on the engine shroud or metal | Needed for engine-specific parts like carburetor or ignition |
Why it matters
Using the correct model number helps us match the right walk-behind mower parts for your exact build, such as the lawn mower 22-in deck mulching blade 532406713 or drive system components.
Quick tip for faster part matching
When you write down the number, copy it exactly and include punctuation if shown on the label.
- Use 917371623 for mower parts diagrams and chassis parts
- Use the engine’s model/type/code for engine tune-up and fuel system parts
- If the label is worn, compare your mower’s handle and deck style to the diagrams in the manual
Last updated: January 2026
