Craftsman 917273812 tractor Parts

For Craftsman riding mower model 917273812, the owner’s manual identifies it as an 18.5 HP, 42-inch mower with electric start and a 6-speed transaxle; the manual also notes it uses a low-emission engine. For the exact engine make and model (such as Briggs & Stratton), match the engine ID label on your tractor to the specifications in the owner's manual.

How to identify the exact engine on your 917273812

We use the engine’s ID label to confirm the manufacturer and model because the same tractor platform can be built with different engine variants.

• Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and remove the key
• Let the engine cool completely before reaching near the muffler
• Lift the hood and look for an engine label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
• Write down the engine model, type, and code (or serial number)
• Compare those numbers to the engine section/specifications in the owner's manual

What we can confirm from the manual (model-specific)

The documentation for Craftsman 917273812 calls out these core powertrain details.

Item	What the manual indicates for 917273812
Engine output class	18.5 HP
Mower deck size	42-inch
Starting system	Electric start
Drive type	6-speed transaxle
Emissions note	Low-emission engine (operates differently than older designs)

Why it matters

Knowing the exact engine make and model ensures you get the right tune-up parts and service specs (spark plug, air filter, oil type/quantity, and governor settings). It also helps when diagnosing starting issues, especially if you’re testing the starting circuit and components like the solenoid with brass plunger 532146154.

Last updated: February 2026

The model number for this Craftsman riding mower is 917.273812 (commonly written without the dot as 917273812). You’ll see it listed on the tractor’s parts diagrams and in the owner's manual for identification when ordering parts or looking up wiring and deck components.

Where to confirm the model number on the tractor

Use these common ID locations on Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors:

• Under the seat on the frame (often on a sticker or metal tag)
• On the rear fender pan near the seat
• On the frame rail near the engine compartment
• Near the transaxle area on the chassis

Why the dot matters (917.273812 vs 917273812)

Both formats refer to the same tractor. Many manuals and diagrams show the dot, while parts listings often remove it.

You might see it as	What it means	When it’s used
917.273812	Same model number	Manuals, diagrams, some ID tags
917273812	Same model number	Parts lookup, ordering, search

Why it matters for parts and diagrams

Using the exact model number helps match the correct assemblies and hardware for your tractor, such as mower deck and electrical components.

• The 42-inch mower deck parts list for this model includes blade options like the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 and the lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971
• Electrical diagrams for this model reference items like the ignition key and starter solenoid
• Deck and mandrel components vary by deck type and configuration, so model accuracy prevents wrong-part returns

Ordering tip

When you search for parts, enter 917273812 exactly as shown in the model field. If you’re shopping beyond the parts list for this model, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Why it matters

The model number is the fastest way to get the right Craftsman tractor parts (blades, mandrel parts, solenoid, deck hardware) and the correct diagrams for troubleshooting.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Craftsman riding mower like model 917273812, the model number is typically on an ID label on the frame under the seat or on the underside of the seat itself. Once you have the full model number, you can match the correct diagrams, parts list, and maintenance specs in the owner's manual.

Where to look on model 917273812

Check these common label locations first:

• On the frame directly under the seat (lift the seat and look at the top of the frame rails)
• On the underside of the seat pan
• Near the rear fender area close to the seat mounting points
• On the frame near the battery box area

What to write down (and why)

Record the information exactly as printed so you get the right Craftsman lawn tractor parts:

• Model number (example format: 917.273812 or 917273812)
• Serial number (helps confirm production run and correct part variations)
• Any product number or additional ID codes on the same label

Quick ID checklist

Item on label	What it’s used for	Tip
Model number	Finds the correct parts diagrams	Copy every digit exactly
Serial number	Confirms the correct version	Take a clear photo
Engine model/type (if listed)	Helps with engine-specific parts	Write it down separately

Why it matters

Craftsman tractors often share similar looks across multiple years, but parts like blades, mandrel components, and electrical items can vary by model and serial range. Using the exact model number helps ensure you order the correct replacement part the first time from the parts list on this page or through Sears PartsDirect.

Related parts you may need once you identify the model

If you are looking up parts after finding the model number, these are common wear or service items for this tractor:

• Mower blade options such as the lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971
• Ignition items such as the molded ignition key 532140403
• Starting circuit parts such as the solenoid with brass plunger 532146154

Last updated: February 2026

For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917273812, a full engine replacement (parts plus labor) typically costs about $260 to $1,800, with around 6 labor hours for the swap. Use the owner's manual to confirm engine specs and service steps before pricing parts.

What drives the total cost

Engine replacement pricing varies mainly by engine type and how much related work is needed.

• Engine brand and horsepower (higher output engines cost more)
• Whether you’re replacing the complete engine or repairing components
• Extra parts needed (belts, pulleys, wiring, battery cables, hardware)
• Shop labor rate and diagnostic time
• Condition of the mower deck and drivetrain (worn parts add time)

Typical cost breakdown (what you’re paying for)

Cost item	Typical range	Notes
Replacement engine	$200 to $1,400	Biggest variable; depends on engine family and output
Labor	$200 to $600	Often about 6 hours for a riding mower engine
Misc. parts and supplies	$20 to $200	Fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, fasteners, etc.

Before you replace the engine: quick checks that can save money

Many “needs an engine” symptoms are actually starting, fuel, or safety-interlock issues.

• Verify the battery and cable connections are clean and tight
• Check safety interlock operation (seat switch, brake switch, PTO switch)
• Confirm the engine cranks at normal speed (slow crank points to battery/cables)
• Inspect for blown fuse or damaged wiring
• Make sure the throttle is set correctly and follow proper shutdown and restart practices

If the engine clicks or spins but won’t start, our DIY video guide riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video helps narrow it down.

Why it matters

An engine swap is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. A short diagnosis first helps you avoid replacing an engine when the real issue is electrical, fuel delivery, or an interlock circuit.

If you decide to move forward, you can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 917273812 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes; replacing the engine on your Craftsman 917273812 front-engine lawn tractor is worth it when the deck, steering, and chassis are solid and the total swap cost is clearly less than replacing the tractor. Use the owner's manual to review maintenance and adjustment steps before you commit.

When an engine replacement makes sense

An engine swap pays off when the tractor is structurally sound and you can keep up with routine maintenance that protects the new engine.

• Deck shell is straight (not rusted through) and can be leveled for an even cut
• No recurring vibration after blade inspection and tightening hardware
• Brakes and steering feel safe and consistent
• Electrical basics are reliable (key switch, wiring, charging)
• You already do annual tune-up items (spark plug, air filter, blade and belt checks)

When it is usually not worth it

If multiple major systems need work, an engine replacement often turns into a full rebuild.

• Deck damage or chronic uneven cut even after leveling
• Persistent vibration from bent blades or a worn mandrel
• Ongoing electrical problems (poor connections, charging issues)
• Worn brake or steering components that also need repair
• Several big assemblies needed at once (deck, chassis, hood)

Quick decision checklist

What you are evaluating	Replace the engine	Replace the tractor
Deck and cut quality	Levels correctly; cuts evenly	Damaged deck; cut stays uneven
Repair scope	Mostly engine-related	Engine plus deck, steering, electrical
Maintenance history	Regular oil and tune-ups	Years of neglected maintenance

Why it matters

A new engine only delivers value if the tractor can mow safely and correctly. The manual stresses routine checks like oil level, brake operation, and tire pressure, plus seasonal items like spark plug and air filter service.

Parts that can mimic “engine problems”

If the issue is poor cut or vibration, these deck parts are common culprits:

• Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971
• Husqvarna lawn tractor mandrel assembly 532130794

You can order parts from the list for model 917273812, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026