How do I identify my lawn mower engine?
To identify the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273941, locate the engine’s ID label and record the engine model, type, and code (or serial) exactly as shown. Those numbers are what we use to match the correct tune-up and fuel-system parts. See the 917273941 operator’s manual for safety steps before accessing the engine.
On most front-engine riding lawn tractors like model 917273941, the engine identification label is typically on the engine itself, often:
- On top of the engine, near or on the blower housing (under the hood)
- On the valve cover area (often visible from one side)
- Near the starter or above the muffler area (varies by engine brand)
- Sometimes on a metal tag riveted to the engine shroud
If the label is dirty or faded, wipe it gently with a rag and mild cleaner so you can read it.
Write the numbers exactly as printed, including dashes and spaces.
- Engine model number: identifies the engine family
- Type / trim number: identifies the exact configuration
- Code / date / serial: identifies the production run (helps confirm correct parts)
| What you see on the label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model | Finds the correct engine parts group |
| Type/Trim | Matches carburetor, air filter, starter, etc. |
| Code/Serial | Confirms the exact version and production date |
Your tractor model number (917273941) identifies the tractor, but the engine model/type/code identifies the engine. Two tractors in the same series can use different engines, and that can change common maintenance parts like spark plugs, air filters, and fuel filters.
- Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and let the engine cool
- Remove the key and disconnect the spark plug wire before reaching near moving parts
- Take a clear photo of the label for reference when ordering parts
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth repairing a lawn mower engine?
Yes, it’s usually worth repairing the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273941 when the problem is external and serviceable (fuel, spark plug, air filter, battery connections, belts) and the tractor is otherwise in good shape; major internal engine damage typically makes replacement the better value. For model-specific troubleshooting and maintenance intervals, use the 917273941 operator’s manual.
We recommend comparing the total repair cost (parts + labor) to the value of a working tractor and how much you rely on it.
Repair is usually the better choice when:
- The engine cranks but won’t start (often fuel, spark plug, air filter, or safety interlocks).
- The tractor loses power under load (often maintenance-related).
- The mower blades won’t spin because a belt is worn or slipping.
- The issue is a common wear item you can replace yourself.
Replacement is usually the better choice when:
- The engine has low compression, heavy smoking, or internal knocking.
- The crankshaft is bent (often after striking an object).
- The estimate approaches a large share of the tractor’s value.
These are frequent, cost-effective repairs on this Craftsman tractor:
- Replace a worn blade drive belt if blades stop, slip, or squeal.
- Replace a worn ground drive belt if the tractor won’t move or slips.
- Clean corroded battery terminals and tighten loose cable connections.
- Replace damaged battery cables if the insulation is cracked or the cable ends are badly corroded.
If you’re chasing a blade-drive issue, the husqvarna lawn tractor blade drive belt, 5/8 x 145-in 587686701 is one compatible belt listed for this model.
| Symptom on 917273941 | Typical best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| No-start, runs rough, or power loss | Repair | Often maintenance or a single part |
| Blades won’t spin | Repair | Common belt or deck-drive issue |
| Loud knocking, seized engine, low compression | Replace engine/tractor | Internal damage is expensive |
| Multiple major issues at once | Replace | Costs stack quickly |
The 917273941 is designed to be maintained over time; fixing belts and routine engine service can restore performance for far less than replacing the tractor, while internal engine failures usually don’t pencil out.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273941, our operator’s manual identifies a 24.0 HP (gross) gasoline engine with electric start and an automatic transmission. The manual doesn’t list the engine maker or cylinder count, so the sure way to identify the exact engine is the engine ID label.
These details come from the model-specific documentation.
- 24.0 HP (gross) rating (as declared by the engine manufacturer)
- Gasoline engine; regular unleaded fuel (up to E10)
- Electric start (12-volt system)
- Automatic transmission
For the full specifications and maintenance schedule, see the 917273941 operator's manual.
Because engine suppliers and configurations can vary within a model family, we recommend using the engine’s identification tag to confirm the exact engine make and type.
- Look for an ID label on the engine shroud, valve cover, or blower housing
- Write down the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Use those numbers to match tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
- If the label is missing, use the tractor’s product label plus the manual’s maintenance specs to narrow options
| Item | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine ID label | Model/type/code | Confirms engine make and exact replacement parts |
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded (E10 max) | Helps prevent fuel-system problems |
| Starting system | Electric start | Points to battery and safety interlock checks |
The engine ID is the most reliable way to avoid ordering the wrong maintenance parts and to follow the correct service procedures for your specific engine.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding mower engine?
For a Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273941, the exact engine-replacement cost can’t be identified from model-specific information because pricing depends on the exact replacement engine you choose and local labor rates. In practice, the total is usually driven by engine price plus 2–6 hours of labor.
Your operator documentation identifies this tractor as a 24.0 HP, 54-inch mower configuration, which helps narrow engine fitment requirements but does not provide replacement pricing. See the 917273941 operator's manual.
Most engine swaps break down into these buckets:
- Replacement engine (largest cost; varies by brand, horsepower class, crankshaft specs)
- Labor (shop time to remove/install engine, align pulleys, set belt routing)
- Fluids and tune-up items (oil, filter, fuel filter, spark plug)
- Incidental hardware (fuel line clamps, fasteners, wiring repairs)
- Optional “while you’re there” parts (only if worn or damaged)
These ranges are broad on purpose because the engine choice and labor rate vary widely.
| Scenario | What’s included | Typical total budget |
|---|---|---|
| DIY engine swap | Engine + supplies | $700–$1,800 |
| Shop engine swap | Engine + labor | $1,200–$2,800 |
| Engine swap + multiple worn drive items | Engine + labor + extra parts | $1,600–$3,200 |
We don’t recommend replacing parts automatically, but shops often inspect belts and pulleys because they’re easy to access during the job.
- Lawn tractor ground drive or blade drive belt, 1/2 x 92-2/5-in 592855201 (replace only if cracked, glazed, or stretched)
- Blade drive belt (inspect for wear and correct routing)
- Idler pulleys and springs (check for noise, wobble, weak tension)
An engine replacement can approach the value of the tractor, so it’s worth confirming the engine is truly failed (not a fuel issue, weak battery, or safety interlock problem) before you commit.
Last updated: January 2026





