Where is the model number on a Craftsman rear tine tiller?
On a Craftsman rear-tine tiller like model 917293970, the model number is typically on a printed label or metal tag mounted to the frame. We most often see it on the tine shield/guard area, near the engine, or on the front frame section.
Common places to check on model 917293970
Look for a sticker, foil label, or riveted tag in these spots:
- On the tine guard (rear shield near the tines)
- On the main frame rail near the engine mounting area
- Near the belt or pulley guard area (side of the unit)
- On the front of the frame, behind or below the handlebar support
- Near the transmission or gear case housing
What the label usually looks like
Most Craftsman tiller ID labels include a few key fields. Use the model number for parts lookup.
| Label field | What it means | Example you might see |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact tiller version | 917.293970 or 917293970 |
| Serial number | Unique ID for your specific unit | Varies |
| Engine info | Engine model/type (separate from tiller model) | Varies |
Tips to find it fast (and avoid mix-ups)
- Wipe dirt and oil off the frame with a rag; labels are often hidden under grime.
- Use a flashlight and check the inside edges of guards and shields.
- Write the number exactly as shown; include all digits.
- Do not use the engine model number to order tiller drive or transmission parts.
Why it matters
Craftsman rear-tine tillers can look similar across years, but parts like the drive belt, clutch cable, and chain can differ by model. Using 917293970 helps match the correct diagrams and replacement parts, such as the husqvarna rear-tine tiller drive belt 591372401.
You can order replacement parts for Craftsman 917293970 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the bar on the back of a tiller for?
On a Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 917293970, the bar at the back is typically the depth stake (drag bar). We use it to control how deep the tines dig, help keep the tiller from “running away” in hard soil, and steady the machine so it tills evenly.
What that rear bar does
- Sets tilling depth: raising or lowering the stake changes how aggressively the tines bite.
- Controls forward speed: more drag slows the tiller so the tines can work the soil.
- Stabilizes the tiller: reduces bouncing and helps keep straight passes.
- Helps in hard or rocky ground: limits sudden surges when the tines hit resistance.
- Improves finish: makes it easier to get a consistent seedbed.
How to adjust it for common jobs
| Job | Typical setting | What you will notice |
|---|---|---|
| First pass in hard soil | Higher drag (shallower) | Better control, less hopping |
| Breaking new ground | Moderate drag | Steady bite without stalling |
| Deep tilling | Lower drag (deeper) | Slower travel, deeper churn |
| Final seedbed pass | Moderate to shallow | Smoother, more level soil |
Quick checks if the bar will not hold position
If the depth stake slips, rattles, or will not stay where you set it, check for worn or missing retaining hardware.
- Inspect the pin and retainer area for wear or bending
- Replace a missing clip/retainer so the setting does not change while tilling
- Verify the stake pivots freely (no packed mud or rust binding it)
Helpful parts we commonly see involved in “won’t stay adjusted” issues include the spring retainer 532003146 and a retainer ring 812000028.
Why it matters
Depth control affects everything: traction, soil texture, and how hard the engine and drive system work. If the tiller is hard to handle, adjusting the depth stake is usually the first and fastest fix before chasing belt, clutch cable, or chain problems.
For model 917293970 parts and diagrams, order from the parts list for your tiller or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with lawn tillers?
Common problems with lawn tillers (including the Craftsman 917293970 gas rear-tine tiller) are hard starting, stalling, weak tine drive, and poor shifting. Most issues trace back to fuel quality, ignition, or worn drive components such as belts, cables, and chains.
Most common symptoms and likely causes
- Won’t start or starts then dies: stale fuel, clogged fuel filter, dirty carburetor, fouled spark plug
- Runs rough or surges: partially clogged carburetor jets, air leak, dirty air filter
- Tines won’t turn or slip under load: worn or loose drive belt, misadjusted clutch cable, worn pulleys
- Poor shifting or won’t go into gear: linkage out of adjustment, worn shift parts, internal gear case wear
- Excess vibration or noise: loose hardware, damaged tines, worn bearings, chain wear
Quick checks we recommend (fast, no teardown)
- Fuel: drain old gas and refill with fresh fuel; check for water or debris in the tank.
- Spark: inspect the spark plug; replace if fouled, cracked, or heavily worn.
- Airflow: clean or replace the air filter; confirm the choke is operating normally.
- Drive engagement: with the engine off, check belt condition and tension; look for glazing or cracking.
- Controls: confirm the clutch cable moves smoothly and returns fully.
Parts that commonly fix “no drive” or weak tine power
If your tiller runs but the tines do not pull or dig well, these model-matched parts are frequent fixes:
- Husqvarna rear-tine tiller drive belt 591372401
- Tiller clutch cable 532110675
- Pulley 592642101
- Tiller chain, #25-50 532102134
| Symptom | What to inspect first | Common fix |
|---|---|---|
| Tines don’t move | Belt condition and routing | Replace drive belt |
| Tines slip in soil | Cable adjustment and belt tension | Adjust or replace clutch cable/belt |
| Grinding/clicking | Chain and sprocket area | Replace worn chain |
Why it matters
A rear-tine tiller depends on solid power transfer from the engine to the transmission and tine shaft. Catching a worn belt, stretched cable, or loose chain early prevents extra wear on pulleys, bearings, and gear case components.
For model-specific replacement parts and diagrams for Craftsman 917293970, use the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Why are the tines not engaging on my tiller?
On your Craftsman 917293970 gas rear-tine tiller, tines that will not engage usually point to a drive issue: the tine drive belt is loose, worn, off a pulley, or the clutch cable is out of adjustment or damaged. Start by checking belt condition and clutch lever travel.
Quick checks (most common causes)
- Shut the engine off and remove the spark plug wire before inspecting moving parts.
- Inspect the belt for glazing, cracking, fraying, or oil saturation.
- Confirm the belt is routed correctly and seated in the pulley grooves.
- Check that the clutch lever fully tightens the belt (you should feel firm resistance).
- Look for a stretched, kinked, or broken cable, and verify the cable housing is anchored.
- If you hear belt squeal or smell burning rubber, belt tension is typically too low.
Parts that commonly fix “tines not engaging”
If inspection shows wear or loss of tension, these model-matched parts are the first place we look:
What to do based on symptoms
| Symptom | What it usually means | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Engine runs, tines never move | Belt not driving or cable not applying tension | Belt condition and routing; cable adjustment |
| Tines move only when you lift/hold lever “just right” | Cable stretched or out of adjustment | Cable ends, anchors, and free play |
| Squealing, burning smell, or belt dust | Belt slipping from low tension or worn belt | Belt wear; pulley alignment |
| Tines engage, then stop under load | Belt slipping or pulley/drive wear | Belt; pulley grooves; linkage |
Why it matters
A slipping belt or misadjusted clutch cable does more than stop the tines; it accelerates belt wear, can damage pulley surfaces, and makes the tiller harder to control in soil.
Ordering the right replacement
We recommend ordering by model number (917293970) and matching the part ID to your diagram and symptom. You can order the parts listed for this model from the parts list, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
