Craftsman 917273755 lawn tractor Parts

The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273755 uses an 18.0 HP engine (as listed in the model’s documentation). For the exact engine manufacturer, model family, and service specs (oil type, spark plug, tune-up settings), use the 917273755 owner's manual.

How to identify the exact engine on your tractor

Even within the same tractor model, the engine brand and full engine model are best confirmed from the engine ID label.

• Lift the hood and locate the engine data tag (often on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter)
• Write down the engine model, type, and code (or serial number)
• Match that information to the engine section in the 917273755 owner's manual
• Use the engine model when ordering engine-specific parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter)
• If the label is dirty, wipe it clean; avoid spraying water directly into electrical connectors

What we can confirm from the manual (and what it means)

The manual for model 917273755 identifies the tractor as an “18.0 HP 42" mower” with electric start and a 6-speed transaxle. That horsepower rating helps you choose correct maintenance intervals and operating settings.

Item	What to expect on 917273755	Where to confirm
Horsepower rating	18.0 HP	Tractor documentation and decals
Engine make/model	Varies by engine tag	Engine ID label and manual
Deck size	42-inch mower deck	Manual and deck decals

Why it matters

Using the exact engine model (not just the tractor model) prevents wrong-part orders and helps with troubleshooting issues like hard starting, rough running, or poor cutting performance.

Last updated: January 2026

Yes, it’s worth replacing the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273755 when the tractor chassis, mower deck, and drive system are still solid and you plan to keep the machine for several more seasons. If the engine repair total approaches the cost of a comparable replacement tractor, putting that money toward a new mower is the better value.

How we decide if an engine swap makes sense

Use these practical checkpoints before you buy an engine or commit to a rebuild:

• The mower deck is structurally sound (no major cracks, severe rust-through, or bent housing)
• The tractor drives and stops correctly (brake operation and transaxle feel normal)
• You can keep up with routine maintenance (oil level checks, annual tune-up items)
• You have the tools and time for a multi-hour project
• The total engine cost is well under the price of a replacement tractor

For model-specific maintenance expectations and safety rules (including not making repairs with the engine running), use the 917273755 owner’s manual.

Cost and effort comparison

Option	Typical parts cost	Time/skill	Best when
Repair existing engine	Low to medium	Medium	One clear failure (starter, carburetor, ignition)
Replace engine (complete)	Medium to high	High	Tractor is in great shape and you want long-term reliability
Replace short block	Medium	High	Bottom-end damage but you can reuse external components
Replace tractor	High	Low	Multiple worn systems or you want minimal downtime

Quick checks before you spend money

These checks help you avoid replacing an engine when the real issue is elsewhere:

• Verify battery and cable connections are clean and tight
• Confirm safety interlock switches are working (seat, brake, PTO)
• Check that the engine turns freely by hand (with spark plug removed)
• Inspect belts and blades for heavy wear that could overload the engine
• Review tune-up basics (spark plug, air filter, fresh fuel)

If the engine clicks or cranks but won’t start, follow riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video to narrow it down first.

Why it matters

An engine replacement can extend the life of a good tractor, but it only pays off when the rest of the machine is worth keeping. The manual also calls for regular checks like brake operation and seasonal wear inspections (blades and belts), which directly affect whether the tractor is a good candidate for an engine swap.

Last updated: January 2026

On the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273755, the engine system is made up of fuel, air, ignition, and lubrication components that work together to create combustion and deliver power to the drivetrain and mower deck. For the exact component locations and service notes, use the 917273755 owner's manual.

Main engine parts (what they do)

• Fuel tank and fuel line: stores and delivers gasoline to the engine.
• Fuel filter: traps debris before it reaches the carburetor.
• Carburetor: mixes fuel and air for combustion.
• Air filter: keeps dirt out of the intake so the engine can breathe.
• Spark plug and ignition coil: create the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture.
• Flywheel: helps keep engine rotation smooth and supports ignition timing.
• Crankcase and oil: houses internal moving parts and provides lubrication.
• Muffler: reduces exhaust noise and directs hot exhaust away.

Related parts you may service during “engine” problems

Many “engine” complaints on a riding mower are caused by items around the engine, not internal engine damage.

• Battery and cables (starting power)
• Starter/solenoid (cranking)
• Safety interlock switches (seat, brake, PTO)
• Throttle/choke controls (starting and power)

Quick symptom-to-part guide

Symptom	Most common engine-related checks	What to do first
Loss of power	Air filter, spark plug, fuel quality, fuel filter, oil level	Clean/replace air filter; check oil level
Excessive vibration	Blade condition, mandrel condition, loose hardware	Inspect blades and deck hardware
Runs rough or stalls	Stale fuel, dirty fuel filter, carburetor adjustment	Drain old fuel; replace fuel filter

Why it matters

Knowing which system is involved (fuel, air, ignition, lubrication) helps you troubleshoot faster and avoid unnecessary parts replacement. The manual also emphasizes safe fueling and safe servicing practices, especially around hot engines and sharp blades.

Last updated: January 2026

Replacing the engine on a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917273755 typically costs $600 to $2,500+ total (engine plus labor). The biggest cost drivers are engine type/horsepower, whether the wiring and pulleys transfer cleanly, and shop labor time.

What makes the price go up or down

• Engine cost: Most replacement riding mower engines fall roughly $300 to $1,800 depending on brand, horsepower, and shaft specs.
• Labor time: Many shops book 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap (removal, transfer parts, alignment, test run).
• Extra parts: Belts, pulleys, keys, and hardware often get replaced during the job.
• Fuel system cleanup: Old fuel, clogged filter, or carb issues can add time.
• Electrical and safety checks: Interlock and operator-presence systems must work correctly after the swap.

Typical cost breakdown (what you are paying for)

Cost item	Typical range	Notes
Replacement engine	$300 to $1,800	Varies by horsepower and crankshaft specs
Labor	$300 to $900	Often 4 to 8 hours depending on shop rate
Misc. parts/fluids	$25 to $250	Oil, filter, fuel filter, hardware, belts
Total installed	$600 to $2,500+	Higher if multiple worn parts are found

Before you replace the engine, check these common “not an engine” issues

We see many no-start or no-crank complaints caused by maintenance or starting-system problems, not a failed engine.

• Battery weak or cables corroded
• Safety interlock not made (seat switch, brake pedal, PTO disengaged)
• Starter/solenoid issue (clicks but no crank)
• Old fuel or clogged fuel filter
• Dirty air filter or fouled spark plug

For model-specific operating and safety interlock behavior, use the 917273755 owner’s manual.

Parts that are commonly replaced during related repairs

If you are already doing major service, these parts are often inspected or replaced as needed:

• V-belt 532138255 (ground drive belt)
• Molded ignition key 532140403 (if the key is worn or missing)
• Blades and deck hardware if the mower has vibration or poor cut quality

Why it matters

A full engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Confirming the starting system, fuel delivery, and safety interlocks first can prevent spending engine-level money on a fix that only needed a battery, wiring repair, or tune-up.

Last updated: January 2026