Should I use 87 or 91 gas for lawn mower?
For the Craftsman walk-behind mower model 917376730, use fresh regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane); 91 octane does not improve power or reliability in this type of small engine and can add unnecessary cost. Follow the fuel and storage guidance in the 917376730 owner's manual.
What to use (and what to avoid)
- Use 87 octane regular unleaded from a clean, approved gas can.
- Buy fresh fuel; old fuel is a common cause of no-start and rough running.
- Avoid fuel that has been sitting in a can for long periods.
- Keep dirt and rust out of the tank; contaminated fuel leads to starting and performance problems.
- Do not store gasoline from one season to the next.
Quick comparison: 87 vs 91 for this mower
| Fuel choice | Best for | What you should expect |
|---|---|---|
| 87 octane (regular) | Normal mowing and everyday use | Correct performance and easiest starting |
| 91 octane (premium) | Not needed for typical mower engines | No meaningful benefit for power or durability |
Why it matters
Using the right fuel is less about octane and more about freshness and cleanliness. Stale fuel and water or debris in fuel are frequent causes of “does not start” complaints, along with basic tune-up items like the air filter and spark plug.
Fuel storage tips (prevents hard-start issues)
- Use a clean, non-rusting fuel can.
- If your can is rusting, replace it; rust and dirt in gasoline cause problems.
- Store the mower only after the engine cools down.
- For off-season storage, follow the steps in the 917376730 owner's manual so fuel-related issues do not show up next season.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917376730?
The model number for this Craftsman walk-behind gas lawn mower is 917.376730 (often written without the dot as 917376730). You’ll see it printed on the mower’s model label and on the cover page of the 917376730 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the mower
Look for the model label in common walk-behind mower locations:
- On the rear of the deck near the discharge opening
- On the back plate behind the engine
- Near the height adjuster area on the deck
- On a sticker or metal tag that also lists the serial number
Why the dot matters (917.376730 vs 917376730)
Both formats refer to the same mower; the dot is just a formatting style used in some manuals and parts diagrams.
| You see this | Use this when | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 917.376730 | Reading the owner’s manual or diagrams | Same model, formatted with a dot |
| 917376730 | Searching parts online or entering a model field | Same model, no punctuation |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number helps us match the correct parts list and diagrams for your Craftsman mower, especially for items like the drive system, wheels, and cutting components.
- Helps prevent ordering the wrong blade, wheel, or cable
- Ensures parts diagrams match your deck and handle configuration
- Speeds up troubleshooting and maintenance lookups
Last updated: January 2026
Where is Craftsman's model number?
On a Craftsman walk-behind mower like model 917376730, the model number is typically printed on the mower’s identification label on the deck housing (the metal body above the blade area) or near the rear discharge/bagging area. Your 917376730 owner's manual also lists the model number on the cover.
Where to look on the mower
Check these common spots first (wipe off grass and dirt so the label is readable):
- Top of the mower deck, usually near the engine or toward the rear
- Rear of the deck near the bagger opening or rear door area
- Side of the deck close to a wheel height adjuster
- Handle support area where the handle brackets mount to the deck
What the label usually shows
Most Craftsman mower ID labels include more than just the model number. Use this quick guide so you know what to copy down.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Finds the correct parts diagrams and manuals | 917.376730 |
| Product number | Helps narrow exact configuration | Varies |
| Engine info | Helps match engine parts (separate from mower model) | Briggs & Stratton series info |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number (and copying it exactly as printed) helps us match the right blade, drive parts, and hardware for your mower, especially for items like the lawn mower mulching blade 532406707 or drive system components.
Tip for faster parts matching
When you find the label, write down:
- Model number (for example, 917.376730)
- Any product number or serial number shown
- Engine brand and series (often Briggs & Stratton)
Last updated: January 2026





