Craftsman 917378493 gas walk-behind lawn mower Parts

On a Craftsman mower like model 917378493, the year is typically encoded in the serial number or date code on the product label; many Craftsman labels use a MMDDYY-style date (month, day, year) so the last two digits indicate the year.

Where to find the serial number or date code

Look for a sticker or stamped tag on the mower. Common locations include:

• Rear of the deck near the discharge opening
• Top of the deck near the engine mounting area
• On the handle support or rear frame area
• Near the height adjuster brackets
• Under the grass bagger mounting area

For model-specific label locations and diagrams, use the 917378493 owner's manual.

How to read the year from the code

Many Craftsman mower labels use a 6-digit date format that reads as MMDDYY.

• First 2 digits = month (01 to 12)
• Next 2 digits = day (01 to 31)
• Last 2 digits = year (00 to 99)

Example

If the code is 072811, it reads as:

Digits	Meaning	Value
07	Month	July
28	Day	28
11	Year	2011

Quick checks to avoid misreading the year

• If the label shows multiple numbers, use the one explicitly labeled “Serial” or “Date”.
• If the code is longer than 6 digits, the date is often embedded within it.
• If the mower has a replacement engine, the engine date may not match the mower’s build date.

Why it matters

Knowing the build year helps us match the correct Craftsman parts (blade, drive belt, control cable, wheels) and avoid ordering look-alike parts that do not fit your exact 917378493 configuration.

Last updated: January 2026

On your Craftsman walk-behind mower, the model number is typically on the mower’s ID label (often on the rear of the deck near the wheels or on the handle support). For this unit, the model is 917.378493; you can confirm it in the 917378493 owner's manual.

Where to look on the mower

Check these common spots first (wipe off grass and dirt so the label is readable):

• Rear of the mower deck, near the discharge opening or rear door
• Top or side of the deck near a rear wheel
• Handle bracket or handle support area
• Under the rear flap (bagging door) area
• Near the engine mounting area on the deck (label may face downward)

Model number vs. engine numbers (important)

Many customers find an engine model and assume it is the mower model. They are different.

What you found	What it identifies	When it matters
Mower model number (example: 917.378493)	The whole Craftsman mower	Ordering deck, drive, wheel, handle, and bagger parts
Engine model/type/code	The engine only	Ordering engine-specific parts like carburetor, ignition, or recoil starter

Tips to read the label correctly

• Write down the full model number exactly as shown (include dots if present).
• If the label is worn, take a photo and zoom in to read it.
• If you are ordering drive parts, match the mower model first, then confirm the specific part.

Why it matters

Using the correct mower model number (917.378493) ensures you get the right parts for the deck size, drive system, and handle hardware. For example, the self-propelled system uses a specific ground drive belt such as the lawn mower ground drive belt, 3/8 x 33-9/16-in 532169778.

Last updated: January 2026

For the Craftsman gas walk-behind lawn mower model 917378493, we recommend using fresh regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Higher octane (like 91) does not add power or protection in a mower engine; fuel freshness and proper storage matter far more. See the fuel and storage guidance in the 917378493 owner's manual.

What to use (and what to avoid)

• Use 87 octane regular unleaded from a busy station (fresher fuel).
• Avoid old fuel; stale gas is a top cause of no-start and rough running.
• Avoid leaving fuel sitting in the mower for long periods.
• Use caution with ethanol-blended fuel; it can attract moisture during storage.
• Never pour engine or carburetor cleaner products into the fuel tank.

Storage rule that prevents most fuel problems

The manual warns that ethanol or methanol blends can attract moisture, leading to fuel separation and acids during storage. For storage 30 days or longer, empty the fuel system: run the engine until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty, then refill with fresh fuel next season.

Quick fuel-storage checklist

• If storing 30+ days: empty tank and run it dry.
• Store gasoline only in a clean, approved gas can.
• Replace a rusting gas can; rust and dirt cause fuel system problems.
• Let the engine cool before storing the mower indoors.

87 vs 91: simple comparison

Fuel choice	Best use case	What you gain
87 octane (regular)	Normal mowing and everyday use	Correct performance for typical mower engines
91 octane (premium)	Not needed unless your engine specifically calls for it	Usually no benefit in a walk-behind mower

Why it matters

Using the right fuel is less about octane and more about preventing varnish, moisture contamination, and carburetor issues. Fresh gas and correct off-season storage help your 917378493 start easier and run cleaner.

Last updated: January 2026