Are gas lawn mowers being phased out?
Gas walk-behind mowers like the Craftsman 917376405 are still widely used and supported with parts and service, but new gas mower sales are gradually shifting toward battery-electric in some areas due to emissions rules and consumer demand. Your best move is to maintain what you have and keep key wear parts on hand.
What “phased out” usually means
Most changes happen in new product sales, not in parts support for existing mowers.
- Some states and cities restrict or plan to restrict new sales of certain gas-powered outdoor equipment.
- Retailers may stock fewer gas models as electric demand grows.
- Repair parts, blades, wheels, and cables typically remain available for many years.
- Commercial and heavy-duty use often keeps gas equipment in service longer.
What to do if you plan to keep your 917376405
Use the maintenance schedule and safety guidance in the 917376405 owner’s manual. Keeping the cutting system and drive system in good shape makes the mower feel “newer” even as the market changes.
- Change engine oil on schedule (many walk-behind mowers use SAE 30 in warm weather).
- Keep fresh fuel and use stabilizer for storage.
- Clean grass buildup under the deck and around drive wheels.
- Inspect the blade for bends, cracks, and dull edges.
- Check that the operator presence control bar stops the engine when released.
Common “keep it running” parts for this model
| Part | What it affects | When to replace |
|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna lawn mower 22-inch deck 3-in-1 blade 532421825 | Cut quality, bagging, mulching | Dull, bent, or damaged |
| Cable assembly 587326601 | Operator control engagement | Stretched, frayed, or sticking |
| Lawn mower transmission assembly 589600601 | Self-propel drive | Slipping, no drive after checks |
Why it matters
If your area tightens rules on new gas mower sales, a well-maintained Craftsman 917376405 can stay reliable for years. Routine blade care, clean drive wheels, and proper storage reduce breakdowns and extend mower life.
Last updated: January 2026
Should I use 87 or 93 for lawn mower?
For the Craftsman 917376405 gas walk-behind mower, we recommend using fresh, clean regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane (AKI). Using 93 octane is not necessary for normal operation and will not improve power or cut quality.
What to use (and what to avoid)
- Use 87 octane (AKI) or higher regular unleaded gas.
- Use fresh fuel; small-engine fuel can start degrading in about 30 days.
- Avoid old gas from a can that has been sitting since last season.
- Avoid mixing in additives unless the label specifically says it is safe for small engines.
- If you store fuel, use a stabilizer and rotate your supply.
Quick comparison: 87 vs 93
| Fuel choice | Works in Craftsman 917376405? | Best for | What you will notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87 octane (regular) | Yes | Everyday mowing | Normal starting, power, and run quality |
| 93 octane (premium) | Yes | Only if required by a specific engine condition | Typically no performance change |
Why it matters
Using the right fuel helps your mower start easier, run smoother, and reduces carburetor and fuel-system issues caused by stale gasoline. Octane is mainly about preventing knock; most walk-behind mower engines are designed to run correctly on regular 87.
Where to confirm fuel guidance for your mower
Your mower’s operating and maintenance details are listed in the 917376405 owner’s manual. Use it to confirm fuel handling, storage steps, and routine tune-up intervals.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the cheapest time of year to buy a lawn mower?
For a Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 917376405, the cheapest time to buy a lawn mower is typically late fall through winter (especially September through November) when retailers clear out seasonal inventory; you usually get the lowest prices then, while early spring offers the best selection.
Best times to shop (price vs. selection)
- Late season clearance (Sep to Nov): deepest markdowns as stores make room for snow and holiday items
- Off-season (Dec to Feb): fewer models on the floor, but strong discounts on remaining stock
- Early spring (Mar to Apr): widest selection of new models, usually higher prices
- Holiday promotions: Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday can be good, but clearance is often better
Quick comparison
| When you buy | Typical price level | Typical selection | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep to Nov | Lowest | Limited to remaining inventory | Best deal hunters |
| Dec to Feb | Low | Very limited | If you already know what you want |
| Mar to Apr | Highest | Best | If you want the newest features |
What to check before you buy
- Deck size and cut quality: a sharp, correct blade matters as much as the mower itself
- Bagging and mulching setup: confirm the mower includes the bag and mulch/discharge hardware you want
- Wear items cost: blades, air filters, and spark plugs are normal maintenance items
- Parts availability: confirm common parts are easy to get for your model
- Warranty terms: understand what is and is not covered
If you already own this mower and want to refresh cut performance instead of replacing the whole unit, the Craftsman 917376405 owner’s manual covers maintenance intervals, and a new husqvarna lawn mower 22-inch deck 3-in-1 blade 532421825 is a common upgrade when the blade is worn.
Why it matters
Buying in the off-season can save real money, but selection is tighter. If you want a specific deck style, bagging setup, or self-propelled configuration, shopping earlier can prevent settling for the “last one left.”
Last updated: January 2026





