What kind of oil do you use in a Craftsman tiller?
For the Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 917293310, use SAE 30 engine oil in warm weather (above 40°F) and SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 in cooler weather (below 40°F). The engine oil capacity is 19 oz; confirm fill and change steps in the 917293310 owner’s manual.
Oil type and temperature chart
Use the viscosity that matches your typical starting temperature.
| Temperature range | Recommended oil | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Above 40°F | SAE 30 | Best for warm-weather operation |
| Below 40°F | SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 | Helps cold starting; check level more often |
How we recommend filling the oil (quick steps)
- Park the tiller on a level surface and let the engine cool.
- Clean around the oil fill cap/plug so dirt cannot fall into the crankcase.
- Add oil slowly, then pause to let it settle.
- Recheck the level and top off until it reaches the correct mark/overflow point described in the manual.
- Tighten the oil cap/plug securely before starting.
Oil change interval (what to follow)
For model 917293310, the manual guidance is:
- Change engine oil every 50 hours of operation, or at least once per year.
- Check the oil level before starting and after each 5 hours of continuous use.
Why it matters
Using the correct oil viscosity and keeping the level full helps prevent hard starting, overheating, and accelerated engine wear on your Craftsman tiller, especially when tilling hard soil under load.
Last updated: January 2026
What tiller is made in the USA?
For the Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 917293310, the country of manufacture is not identified in the model-specific information we use for parts and service. If you need a tiller that’s made in the USA, you’ll typically need to confirm it by brand and the exact model’s product labeling or manufacturer statement.
How to check “made in USA” for a specific tiller model
We recommend verifying using more than one source, because assembly location and parts sourcing can vary by model year.
- Check the product data plate or decal on the tiller frame (often near the engine mount or handle column)
- Look for “Made in …” wording on the carton, hang tag, or original paperwork
- Confirm with the manufacturer using the exact model number and serial number
- Use the model’s documentation for identification and labeling locations: see the 917293310 owner’s manual
Brands commonly associated with USA manufacturing (general guidance)
Some brands market certain models as designed and manufactured in the USA. For example, Mantis has stated that its tillers are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the U.S.A.
| What you want to confirm | Where to verify | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Country of manufacture | Data plate / decals | “Made in USA” or country name |
| Assembly vs. components | Manufacturer statement | “Assembled in” vs. “Made in” |
| Model-specific claim | Brand support | Claim tied to your exact model |
Why it matters
“Made in USA” claims can differ from “assembled in USA,” and they can change between model revisions. Verifying by the exact model number helps you avoid buying a tiller that does not meet your preference.
Last updated: January 2026
How to grease a tiller?
For the Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 917293310, most routine “greasing” is simple lubrication of the external pivot points (not filling the transmission). The transmission on this model is sealed and typically only needs lubrication if it’s serviced; follow the lubrication points shown in the 917293310 owner’s manual.
What to lubricate on model 917293310
Use clean engine oil for the lube points shown in the manual’s lubrication chart.
- Shut the engine off, let hot parts cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire
- Wipe dirt off fittings and pivot areas before lubricating
- Apply a few drops of oil to pivot points (do not soak belts or pulleys)
- Wipe off excess to reduce dirt buildup
- Recheck for free movement of controls after lubricating
Common lubrication points called out for this model include:
- Wheel hubs
- Throttle control linkage/pivot
- Idler bracket pivot
- Depth stake pin
- Leveling shield hinges
What not to “grease” (important for this model)
The transmission is sealed on the Craftsman 917293310; we do not recommend trying to pack grease into the gearcase unless you are performing a transmission service procedure.
Quick guidance
| Area | What to use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| External pivots/hinges | SAE 30 or 10W-30 engine oil | Light application, wipe excess |
| Transmission/gearcase | Not routine | Sealed; service only if opened |
If you’re servicing the drive system
If you’re removing guards or working near the belt and idler, inspect belt condition and tension while you’re there. A worn belt can mimic “needs lubrication” symptoms (slipping, poor drive).
- Look for cracking, glazing, or fraying
- Keep oil/grease off the belt and pulleys
- Replace the belt if it’s worn: husqvarna rear-tine tiller drive belt 591372401
Why it matters
Proper lubrication reduces control stiffness, helps prevent premature wear on pivots and hubs, and keeps your tiller operating smoothly without attracting excess dirt that can accelerate wear.
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the model number on a Craftsman tiller?
On Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 917293310, the model number is printed on the product ID label attached to the tiller. For this model, the owner’s documentation identifies it as Model No. 917.293310; use the same number when matching parts and diagrams in the 917293310 owner’s manual.
Where to check on the tiller (most common spots)
- On the tine shield/guard area near the rear tines
- On the main frame near the transmission/gearcase
- Near the engine mounting area and fuel tank
- On the front frame area (near bumper or counterweight)
- Along a frame rail where dirt and oil collect (wipe clean to reveal the label)
What you should match (format matters)
The manual shows the model as 917.293310 (with a dot). Many labels and parts lookups also show it as 917293310 (no dot). For this tiller, those formats refer to the same model.
| Where you see it | Example format | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Tiller ID label | 917293310 or 917.293310 | Ordering Craftsman tiller parts |
| Owner’s manual cover and parts lists | 917.293310 | Confirming the exact model in diagrams |
| Engine label (separate) | Engine model/type/code | Ordering Briggs and Stratton engine parts |
Why it matters
We use the exact model number to match the correct diagrams and replacement parts for your Craftsman tiller, especially drive and transmission items like the husqvarna rear-tine tiller drive belt 591372401.
If the label is missing or unreadable
- Compare your tiller’s controls and shields to the illustrated parts sections in the 917293310 owner’s manual
- Record any numbers stamped into the frame or on decals (even partial)
- Use the engine’s model information only for engine-specific parts, not the tiller chassis
Last updated: January 2026



