Owner’s manual
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What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273660 uses a 25.0 HP engine (a low-emission design) as shown in the 917273660 owner's manual. This model is a front-engine lawn tractor with electric start and automatic transmission.
How to confirm the exact engine on your tractor
Even within the same tractor model, the engine family and spec code are best confirmed from the engine ID label.
- Lift the hood and look for an engine label on the blower housing or valve cover
- Record the engine brand (commonly Briggs & Stratton or Kohler on many Craftsman tractors)
- Record the model, type, and code (or spec number)
- Match that information when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
- Use the tractor model number 917273660 to confirm chassis and deck parts
What the manual tells us about this model
The manual identifies the tractor configuration and horsepower rating.
| Item | What you can expect on 917273660 |
|---|---|
| Engine output | 25.0 HP |
| Engine style | Low-emission engine |
| Starting | Electric start |
| Drive | Automatic transmission |
Why it matters
The engine’s model/type/code determines the correct maintenance parts and settings (spark plug, air filter, fuel system parts, and carburetor adjustments). Using the tractor model number alone is perfect for deck, steering, and drive components, but engine service parts often key off the engine label.
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273660 is worth it when the tractor’s deck, transmission, steering, and frame are still solid and you want more years of service. It is usually not worth it when the engine cost plus labor approaches about half the price of a comparable replacement tractor.
Quick decision checklist
- The mower deck is not rusted through and still cuts evenly after leveling
- The transmission drives smoothly (no slipping, no loss of motion when hot)
- The wiring and safety interlock system are intact and working
- You can do the work yourself or have a shop you trust
- The engine failure is major (thrown rod, low compression) rather than a tune-up issue
Cost and effort: what to compare
Engine swaps vary a lot by brand and horsepower, but the decision is usually about total cost and downtime.
| Option | Typical total cost | Time/effort | Best when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repair existing engine (carb, starter, charging) | Low to medium | Low to medium | It cranks but runs poorly or won’t start |
| Replace engine (complete) | Medium to high | Medium to high | Engine is worn out or has internal damage |
| Replace tractor | High | Low | Multiple systems are worn (engine + drive + deck) |
Before you commit: rule out common “not an engine” problems
Many “bad engine” symptoms are caused by starting, safety, or belt issues. We recommend checking these first:
- Battery cables and terminals (clean and tight)
- Safety interlock switches (seat, brake, PTO) and related wiring
- Fuel quality and air filter condition
- Deck and drive belts for wear or damage (a worn belt can mimic power loss)
- PTO engagement problems (if blades will not rotate, check for belt and pulley issues)
If the tractor clicks but won’t crank, follow riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video. If it cranks but won’t fire, use riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.
Why it matters
A replacement engine can extend the life of a good chassis, but it does not fix worn steering, weak brakes, or a tired transmission. Your 917273660 owner's manual maintenance schedule (brakes, belts, blades, battery, and fasteners) helps you judge whether the rest of the tractor is worth investing in.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917273660, a complete engine replacement typically costs $800 to $2,500 installed (engine plus labor). The engine itself is usually the biggest cost; labor commonly runs 4 to 8 hours depending on wiring, pulley alignment, and belt routing.
What drives the total cost
- Engine price: Most riding mower engines fall roughly $500 to $1,800 depending on horsepower and brand.
- Labor time: Commonly 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap.
- Extra parts: Belts, pulleys, wiring repairs, and hardware often add cost.
- Shop rates: Local labor rates vary widely.
- Condition of the tractor: Rusted fasteners, damaged mounts, or worn driveline parts increase time.
Typical cost breakdown
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine | $500 to $1,800 | Varies by spec and availability |
| Labor | $300 to $1,200 | Often 4 to 8 hours |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $25 to $250 | Belts, hardware, fuel line, oil |
| Estimated total | $800 to $2,500 | Most common real-world range |
Parts that are commonly replaced “while you’re in there”
If the engine failed due to heat, vibration, or belt issues, we often see these items addressed at the same time:
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 (if worn, glazed, or cracked)
- Lawn tractor engine pulley 532174607 (if bent, grooved, or wobbling)
- Lawn tractor blade idler pulley 532177968 (if noisy or loose)
- Battery cables, fuse, and wiring connections (especially if starting problems were present)
Why it matters
An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Comparing the installed cost to the tractor’s overall condition (deck, transmission, steering, and electrical) helps you decide whether replacing the engine is the best value.
Helpful reference
For model-specific safety and service cautions (including avoiding adjustments with the engine running and checking safety devices), follow the 917273660 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
