Owner’s manual
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Where can I find the Craftsman mower model number?
On the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917376153, the model and serial numbers are printed on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. We recommend writing both numbers down so you can match the correct parts and diagrams in the 917376153 owner's manual.
Where to look on the mower
Check these common label locations first (starting with the most likely for this model):
- Rear of the mower deck housing (back side of the cutting deck)
- Near the rear discharge door area (if equipped)
- On the deck near the wheel height adjuster area
- On the handle support bracket close to the deck
What to record (and why)
The decal typically includes more than one identifier. Capture all of these if you see them:
- Model number (example format: 917.376153)
- Serial number
- Date of purchase (helpful for maintenance tracking)
Why it matters
Parts can vary by model series, even when two Craftsman mowers look similar. Using the exact model and serial number helps us match the correct blade, drive parts, and hardware for your specific mower.
Quick ID guide
| What you see on the decal | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Selecting the correct parts diagrams and part listings |
| Serial number | Confirming production variation when parts changed |
| Date of purchase | Warranty and maintenance schedule reference |
If the decal is missing or unreadable
Use these practical options to identify the mower:
- Check for an imprint outline or adhesive residue on the rear of the deck where the decal used to be
- Look for a second label on the deck or handle bracket
- Use the parts list and diagrams in the 917376153 owner's manual to match major assemblies (drive control, wheels, handle)
Last updated: January 2026
Should I use 87 or 91 gas for lawn mower?
For the Craftsman lawn mower model 917376153, use 87-octane unleaded regular gasoline. Higher octane (like 91) does not add power or improve reliability in this mower; the key is using clean, fresh fuel and the correct oil type listed in the 917376153 owner's manual.
What to use (and what to avoid)
- Use: 87 octane (unleaded regular)
- Avoid: Old or stale gasoline (it can cause hard starting and rough running)
- Avoid: Fuel contaminated with water or debris
- Do: Store fuel properly and use fresh gas, especially after storage
Quick comparison: 87 vs 91 in this mower
| Fuel choice | Works in 917376153? | What you gain | What matters more |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87 octane (regular) | Yes (recommended) | Correct fuel type for this engine | Freshness and cleanliness |
| 91 octane (premium) | Yes (but unnecessary) | No performance benefit | Freshness and cleanliness |
If the mower is hard to start after sitting
Stale fuel is one of the most common causes. We follow the manual’s guidance for fuel-related no-start symptoms:
- Drain or run out old fuel (do this outdoors)
- Refill with fresh, clean gasoline
- Check the spark plug connection and condition
- Inspect the air filter and replace if dirty
Why it matters
Using the correct fuel type helps the engine start easier, run smoother, and reduces fuel-system problems caused by stale gas. For this model, fuel freshness has a bigger impact than octane rating.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the cheapest time of year to buy a lawn mower?
For a Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 917376153, the cheapest time to buy is typically late summer through fall and into early winter (roughly September through November), when retailers clear out seasonal lawn and garden inventory.
Best times to shop (and why)
- Late summer to fall (Sep to Nov): end-of-season clearance on gas walk-behind mowers
- Early winter: fewer shoppers looking for outdoor power equipment, so discounts can deepen
- Right after new models arrive: older inventory is often marked down to make room
What to compare before you buy
Even at a great price, we recommend checking a few basics so you do not end up paying more later for repairs or missing accessories.
- Deck size and blade type (mulching vs bagging)
- Self-propelled drive feel and wheel traction
- Parts availability for common wear items (blade, wheels, drive components)
- Warranty terms and what counts as “expendable” wear items
Typical seasonal pricing pattern
| Time of year | Typical pricing | What you will see most often |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar to May) | Highest | Full selection, fewer discounts |
| Summer (Jun to Aug) | Medium | Occasional promos |
| Fall (Sep to Nov) | Lowest | Clearance, closeouts |
| Winter (Dec to Feb) | Low to medium | Limited selection, remaining stock |
Why it matters
Buying during clearance season can save money up front, and it also leaves room in your budget for maintenance items that wear during normal use (for example, mower blades). For operating and maintenance guidance on this Craftsman mower, use the 917376153 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
Are gas lawn mowers being phased out?
Gas walk-behind mowers like the Craftsman 917376153 are still widely used and supported, but some states and cities are restricting the sale or use of certain new gasoline-powered outdoor equipment. The practical impact depends on where you live and what rules apply locally.
What “phased out” usually means
Most policies focus on new equipment sales (or certain government and commercial use), not forcing you to stop using a mower you already own.
Common scenarios we see:
- Restrictions on new sales of gas-powered outdoor equipment starting on a specific date
- Rules that apply only to commercial landscaping fleets or government agencies
- Local noise or emissions ordinances that limit when or where equipment can be used
- No change at all in many areas; gas mowers remain common for homeowners
What to do if you own a Craftsman 917376153
Keeping your mower running well reduces smoke, hard starting, and performance issues, which matters most in areas with tighter rules.
Recommended upkeep (typical for this model type):
- Use fresh unleaded regular gas; don’t store old fuel over the off-season
- Change oil on schedule (this model family commonly uses SAE 30 above 32°F and SAE 5W-30 below 32°F)
- Replace the spark plug at least yearly or about every 100 hours
- Clean under the deck after each use to prevent heavy buildup
- Keep the blade sharp and balanced for cleaner cuts and less engine strain
For the exact maintenance schedule and specs for your mower, use the 917376153 owner’s manual.
Parts support and common wear items
Even if new gas mower sales change in some areas, parts availability and maintenance are what keep an existing mower useful.
Here are examples of model-matched parts customers commonly replace:
| Part | What it affects | When to consider replacing |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn mower blade 532406713 | Cut quality, vibration | Nicks, bends, heavy wear, poor cut |
| Lawn mower drive control cable 583261801 | Self-propel engagement | Slipping drive, stretched cable |
| Lawn mower wheel 581009202 | Traction, drive performance | Worn tread, wobble, damage |
Why it matters
If your area tightens rules on new gas equipment, a well-maintained mower can stay reliable for years and help you avoid an unnecessary replacement. Routine tune-ups also reduce starting problems and extend engine life.
Last updated: January 2026
