Are gas lawn mowers being phased out?
Gas walk-behind mowers like the Craftsman 917376040 are not being phased out everywhere at once, but new gas mower sales are trending downward as some states and cities tighten emissions and noise rules and more homeowners switch to battery-electric models. Gas mowers will remain common for years, especially for larger yards and heavy cutting.
Most changes affect new equipment sales, not the mower you already own.
- Some areas restrict or plan to restrict new gas-powered outdoor equipment sales.
- Many places still allow gas mower sales with no special restrictions.
- Existing gas mowers are typically still legal to own, use, and repair.
- Parts support often continues long after sales slow down.
- Commercial crews may keep gas longer due to runtime and refueling speed.
If you plan to keep your mower running, the practical focus is maintenance and wear parts.
- Keep the blade sharp and balanced for cleaner cuts and less engine load.
- Replace worn drive and deck components when performance drops.
- Use fresh fuel and proper storage practices to avoid carburetor issues.
| What you notice | Likely area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Poor cut quality, vibration | Blade and adapter | Lawn mower blade 532406713, lawn mower blade adapter 581547901 |
| Mower will not self-propel | Drive system | Belt 532157769 |
| Uneven height or wobble | Wheels and height hardware | Lawn mower wheel assembly 532180775, height spacer 532401629 |
Regulations and retailer trends can influence what is easiest to buy next, but they do not stop you from maintaining a reliable gas rotary lawn mower. Keeping the cutting system and drive system in good shape protects the engine and improves mowing results.
For blade upkeep steps, we recommend how to sharpen a lawn mower blade.
Last updated: January 2026
How to identify a lawn mower model?
To identify your Craftsman rotary lawn mower model, start with the mower’s model tag and record the full model number (for this unit: 917376040). If the tag is missing or unreadable, use the engine’s model and code numbers stamped on the engine to match the correct parts.
Most walk-behind mowers have a model/serial label on the mower deck or handle area. Check these common spots:
- Rear of the deck near the discharge chute
- Top of the deck behind the engine
- Near the height adjuster area on the deck
- On the handle support or handle bracket
- Under the rear flap (if equipped)
The engine often has its own identification numbers stamped or printed on metal. Common locations include:
- Blower housing (recoil starter shroud)
- Muffler heat shield
- A few inches above the spark plug
- Fuel tank area
- Base of the engine block
| What you find | What it identifies | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Mower model number (example: 917376040) | The mower and its chassis parts | Wheels, deck parts, drive parts, handle hardware |
| Engine model/type/code | The engine itself | Carburetor, ignition parts, recoil starter parts |
Use these checks before you buy parts like a blade, wheel, or belt:
- Write the model number exactly as shown (all digits matter)
- Clean the label area and engine stamping with a dry rag before reading
- Match the part to the mower system (deck/drive/handle) versus engine system
- If you are replacing cutting parts, confirm whether you need a blade adapter too
- Compare your old part’s shape and mounting points to the replacement listing
If you are working on the cutting system, the lawn mower blade 532406713 is a common model-matched part to verify against your existing blade.
The mower model number (917376040) controls fit for Craftsman deck, drive, and handle parts, while the engine numbers control fit for engine components. Using the correct identifier prevents mismatched blades, belts, wheels, and hardware.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the best gas mower under $300?
For under $300, the best gas mower is the one that fits your yard size and is easy to maintain; for most homeowners, a 21- to 22-inch walk-behind mower with a reliable OHV engine and simple height adjustment delivers the best value. If you already own a Craftsman model 917376040, keeping the blade and drive system in top shape usually beats replacing the mower.
- Deck size: 21 to 22 inches is the sweet spot for most small to medium lawns.
- Cut options: mulching (and bagging if you want cleaner cleanup).
- Height adjustment: single-lever or easy multi-position adjusters.
- Drive type: push is simplest; self-propelled helps on slopes and thicker grass.
- Serviceability: easy access to blade, wheels, and belt/drive cover.
| Feature | Best for | What to choose |
|---|---|---|
| Deck width | Faster mowing | 21 to 22 in |
| Engine style | Easy starting, steady power | OHV gas engine |
| Drive | Hills and larger yards | Self-propelled |
| Maintenance | Lower long-term cost | Common blade and wheel parts |
A “best” mower often becomes “your mower after a tune-up.” These are the most common value repairs:
- Replace a worn or bent blade with the correct OEM-style blade such as the lawn mower blade 532406713.
- Fix poor cutting or vibration by checking the blade adapter such as the lawn mower blade adapter 581547901.
- If it will not roll smoothly or the height will not hold, inspect the lawn mower wheel assembly 532180775 and height hardware.
- If self-propel feels weak or slips, inspect the belt and cover area (common wear items include the belt 532157769 and lawn mower drive cover 582952501).
Choosing the right deck size and drive type prevents bogging, uneven cuts, and premature wear. On an existing mower, a sharp blade, solid blade adapter, and smooth-rolling wheels are the fastest way to restore cut quality and reduce strain on the engine.
Last updated: January 2026
