Craftsman 917273020 tractor Parts

The Craftsman riding mower model 917273020 uses a gas-powered, single-cylinder riding mower engine (commonly a Briggs & Stratton-type setup on many Craftsman tractors of this era). For an exact match, we identify the engine by the engine’s model-type-code stamped on the engine shroud.

How to identify the exact engine on model 917273020

Look for the engine ID label or stamping on the blower housing (top/side of the engine). Record all three fields.

• Model (engine family)
• Type (configuration)
• Code (build date)
• If the label is missing, check the valve cover area and starter housing for stamped numbers
• Use the engine ID to match tune-up parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter) and service specs

Quick checks that help confirm you have the right engine family

These clues do not replace the engine ID, but they help narrow it down when ordering parts.

What you see	What it usually indicates	Why it helps
Single spark plug	Single-cylinder engine	Confirms basic engine type
Overhead valve cover	OHV design	Helps match common tune-up parts
Mechanical PTO engagement via dash switch	Electric PTO clutch system	Points to PTO switch and wiring style

Related parts that affect starting and blade engagement

If you are troubleshooting a no-start or PTO issue while identifying the engine, these model-matched parts are often involved:

• Molded ignition key 532140403 (missing or worn key can prevent reliable starting)
• Switch.pto.3 582107601 (failed PTO switch can stop blade engagement and can affect safety circuits)
• Battery and cable connections (loose or corroded terminals cause clicking or no-crank)

Why it matters

The engine brand and horsepower can vary across similar Craftsman tractors, but the engine model-type-code is what ensures you get the correct maintenance parts and settings (oil type, plug gap, governor speed) for your exact mower.

Last updated: January 2026

Craftsman engines are made by multiple manufacturers, depending on the specific mower or tractor. For Craftsman riding tractors like model 917273020, you will commonly see engines supplied by Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or Kawasaki, based on the exact engine family and production run.

How to identify who made your engine (fast and accurate)

Check the engine itself, not just the hood decal. On most riding mowers and tractors, the engine maker is easiest to confirm from the engine ID tag.

• Look for an engine label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
• Write down the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
• Match the brand name on the label (Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki)
• Use the engine numbers when ordering tune-up parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter)
• If the label is missing, use the tractor model (917273020) plus the engine numbers you can find stamped into the shroud

What this means for parts and repairs

The tractor is Craftsman, but many maintenance and engine parts are selected by the engine manufacturer and spec number. Chassis and operator-control parts are still Craftsman-fit parts.

What you are replacing	Usually matched to	Example on this model page
Engine tune-up parts	Engine model/spec	Filters, plugs (engine-specific)
Starting and safety controls	Tractor model	Molded ignition key 532140403
Mowing engagement control	Tractor model	Switch.pto.3 582107601

Why it matters

Using the correct engine maker and spec numbers prevents wrong-part returns and fixes common issues faster, especially for no-start, hard-start, and PTO engagement problems.

For common tractor troubleshooting steps, we recommend starting with riding mower and tractor common questions.

Last updated: January 2026

For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917273020, a full engine replacement (parts plus labor) typically runs about $260 to $1,800, depending on the engine type, whether you reuse accessories, and local shop rates. Most shops book around 6 labor hours for a riding mower engine swap.

What drives the price up or down

• Engine type and horsepower: OEM-style replacements usually cost more than aftermarket.
• What gets transferred: Carburetor, muffler, wiring, pulleys, and brackets may be reused or replaced.
• Fuel system condition: Old fuel, varnish, or a damaged tank can add parts and labor.
• Electrical and safety circuits: A no-start issue can look like “bad engine” when it is actually a switch or wiring problem.
• Shop labor rate and pickup/delivery: These vary widely by area.

Before you replace the engine, confirm it is the real failure

Many “needs an engine” diagnoses are actually starting or interlock problems. We recommend checking these first:

• Battery charge and cable connections
• Starter solenoid and starter operation
• Safety interlock switches (seat, brake, PTO)
• Fuel delivery (fresh gas, clean lines, no leaks)
• Compression and spark (basic engine health)

A common culprit on riding mowers is the PTO circuit; if the PTO switch is faulty, the tractor may not crank or may stall when engaging blades. For this model, the correct replacement is the switch.pto.3 582107601.

Typical time and cost ranges

Item	Typical range	Notes
Engine (part only)	$200 to $1,500	Varies by brand, shaft size, and spec match
Labor (riding mower)	4 to 8 hours	Many shops estimate about 6 hours
Total installed	$260 to $1,800	Most common real-world range

Why it matters

An engine swap is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Verifying the starting system, PTO switch, and fuel system first helps you avoid paying for an engine when a smaller part (like a switch, belt, or wiring repair) solves the problem.

For more troubleshooting steps, use our riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.

Last updated: January 2026

For a Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 917273020, replacing the engine is worth it when the tractor’s chassis, mower deck, steering, and drive system are still solid and the total engine swap cost stays well below the cost of a comparable new tractor (a common cutoff is about 50%).

Quick decision checklist

• The deck shell is not rusted through and the spindles turn smoothly.
• The transmission and ground drive still pull strongly (no slipping or whining).
• Steering is tight enough to mow safely (no severe play in tie rods or drag link).
• You can source the correct engine and any required pulleys, wiring, and exhaust parts.
• The total cost (engine + incidentals + your time) is comfortably under a replacement tractor.

What to inspect before you spend money

A “bad engine” diagnosis is often fuel, ignition, or safety-interlock related. Before committing to an engine, we check these common items:

• Battery and cables (clean, tight connections)
• Fuel quality and fuel delivery (old gas, clogged lines)
• Spark and ignition key condition
• PTO and brake safety circuits (a failed switch can mimic engine problems)

Helpful DIY guidance: riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video

Cost comparison (typical)

Option	Upfront cost	Time/skill	Best when
Repair what’s failing (fuel/ignition/safety)	Low	Low to medium	Engine cranks but won’t start, or intermittent stalling
Replace engine	Medium to high	Medium to high	Tractor is in great shape and you want more years of service
Replace tractor	High	Low	Multiple major systems are worn or repair cost is near new price

Why it matters

An engine swap can extend the life of a good Craftsman tractor for years, but it does not fix worn steering, deck, or drivetrain parts. Confirming the rest of the machine is healthy prevents sinking money into a tractor that still won’t mow reliably.

Parts that commonly come up during “engine won’t run” troubleshooting

• Molded ignition key 532140403 (worn key can cause intermittent ignition issues)
• Switch.pto.3 582107601 (PTO switch problems can prevent starting or kill the engine)
• Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 84-1/2-in 532140218 (not an engine part, but a common “it won’t move” complaint)

Last updated: January 2026