You’ve inherited a Craftsman lawn mower from your grandfather, or maybe you just picked up a used one at a garage sale. It looks sturdy, but you’re curious: just how old is this machine? Knowing the age of your Craftsman mower can help you determine its value, assess its condition, and even figure out where to find replacement parts. This article will guide you through different methods to uncover the age of your trusty lawn mower, from deciphering model numbers to recognizing vintage features.
In short, there is no one single method to find the exact age of a Craftsman lawn mower. However, with some research and a bit of detective work, you can usually get a good estimate.
Deciphering Model Numbers: Your First Clue
The first place to look for clues is the model number. This is typically found on a metal plate or sticker somewhere on the mower deck, often near the engine.
Understanding the Code
Craftsman model numbers can be complex, but they usually follow a pattern. Here’s a breakdown:
- First Digit: Represents the product category (e.g., 9 = Lawn & Garden, 5 = Outdoor Power Equipment)
- Second Digit: Identifies the sub-category (e.g., 2 = Lawn Mowers, 3 = Tillers)
- Following Digits: Indicate specific model variations within the sub-category.
For example, a model number like 917.375070 might indicate a Craftsman lawn mower. The “9” suggests a lawn and garden product, the “17” designates a lawn mower, and the remaining digits denote a specific model.
Consulting Online Databases
Once you have the model number, you can search online databases to gather information. Here are some useful resources:
- Craftsman Website: While the Craftsman website might not have a dedicated database for older models, their support section may offer helpful information or allow you to contact customer service for assistance.
- Online Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities dedicated to lawnmower enthusiasts, vintage tools, or Craftsman products can be invaluable sources of information. Many users have experience with deciphering model numbers and identifying specific models.
- eBay and Craigslist: Browse listings for similar Craftsman mowers, paying close attention to model numbers and descriptions. Sellers often include details about the year of manufacture or mention if the mower is vintage.
Examining the Mower for Visual Clues
If the model number doesn’t offer a clear indication of age, you can look for clues based on the mower’s design and features.
Features to Look For:
- Engine: Consider the type and brand of the engine. Older Craftsman mowers often featured Briggs & Stratton or Tecumseh engines.
- Material: Craftsman mowers used to be built with heavier-duty materials like cast iron for the deck and steel for the frame. Later models may utilize lighter aluminum or plastic components.
- Safety Features: Features like blade brakes, safety switches, and adjustable cutting heights were introduced gradually. Older models may lack these safety features.
- Design: Look for distinctive design elements like the shape of the handle, the placement of the control levers, and the overall aesthetic. Vintage Craftsman mowers often had a classic, utilitarian design that differed from modern models.
Comparing with Known Models:
You can also compare your mower with images and descriptions of known Craftsman models. Look for vintage catalogs, old advertisements, or websites that specialize in vintage lawnmower information.
Consulting the Experts:
If you’ve exhausted all other options, you can always seek expert assistance.
Local Antique Shops or Vintage Tool Dealers:
Antique shops or vintage tool dealers may have experience with identifying the age of old lawn mowers. They may even have reference materials or resources that can help determine the age of your Craftsman mower.
Vintage Lawn Mower Enthusiast Clubs:
Online forums or clubs dedicated to vintage lawnmower enthusiasts are often a goldmine of information and expertise. Experienced collectors can often identify models and estimate their age based on subtle details.
The Importance of Maintenance:
Once you’ve determined the age of your Craftsman mower, remember that proper maintenance is crucial for extending its lifespan.
Regular Servicing:
Regularly service your mower by changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the blade. This will help maintain performance and prevent costly repairs.
Parts Availability:
For older models, finding replacement parts might be challenging. Online retailers specializing in vintage lawn mower parts can be helpful.
Consider a Restoration:
If your Craftsman mower is a vintage model in good condition, restoring it to its former glory can be a rewarding experience. Restoration involves cleaning, repairing, and possibly repainting the mower to its original condition.
Conclusion:
While finding the exact age of your Craftsman lawn mower may be a bit of a mystery, with some research and detective work, you can usually get a good estimate. Understanding the age of your mower can help you appreciate its history, make informed decisions about its care and maintenance, and even discover its value. So, put on your detective hat, and start your quest to uncover the secrets of your Craftsman lawn mower’s past!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I find the age of my Craftsman lawnmower?
The easiest way to determine the age of your Craftsman lawnmower is to locate its model number and serial number. You can find these on a sticker or plate, typically located on the mower’s frame or engine. Once you have these numbers, you can contact Craftsman customer service or search online for a resource that provides age information based on model and serial numbers. This information can help you understand the age of your mower and potentially identify any parts or maintenance needs.
2. Where can I find the model and serial numbers?
The model and serial numbers of your Craftsman lawnmower are usually located on a sticker or plate attached to the mower’s frame or engine. Look for a rectangular sticker or metal plate with the words “Model” and “Serial” followed by a set of numbers. The sticker or plate might be located on the side, bottom, or rear of the mower. It is important to note that the exact location of these numbers may vary depending on the specific model of your lawnmower.
3. What if the sticker or plate is missing?
If the sticker or plate with the model and serial numbers is missing, you can still try to determine the age of your Craftsman lawnmower. First, check for any other markings or tags on the mower that might provide information about the model or year of manufacture. You can also look for clues like the design and materials of the mower, as well as the type of engine it uses, to get an estimate of its age.
4. How can I identify the model number and serial number?
Model and serial numbers are usually a combination of letters and numbers. The model number is often a longer sequence that identifies the specific type of Craftsman lawnmower. For example, it might include the engine size, cutting width, and features. The serial number is typically a shorter sequence that uniquely identifies your mower. It’s helpful to note down both numbers for any future reference.
5. What can I do with the model and serial numbers?
Once you have the model and serial numbers of your Craftsman lawnmower, you can use them to access a wealth of information. You can use the numbers to look up your mower’s user manual, parts diagrams, and repair information online. You can also contact Craftsman customer service with the model and serial numbers to get assistance with repairs, maintenance, or parts ordering.
6. Why is knowing the age of my lawnmower important?
Knowing the age of your Craftsman lawnmower can help you determine the best course of action for its maintenance and repair. Older mowers may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, while newer mowers may have specific parts or features that require specialized knowledge. Knowing the age of your mower can also help you estimate its remaining lifespan and whether it’s time to consider replacing it.
7. Where can I find resources for Craftsman lawnmower information?
You can find resources for Craftsman lawnmower information online and through various other channels. The Craftsman website and customer service line can provide information about parts, repairs, and product history. Additionally, there are numerous online forums and communities dedicated to lawnmower enthusiasts where you can find information and advice from experienced users.