How much oil does a Craftsman 917 take?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273130, the engine oil capacity is 4.0 pints with the oil filter and 3.75 pints without the oil filter. We list both because the amount changes slightly depending on whether you replace the filter during the oil change (see the 917273130 owner's manual).
Oil capacity for Craftsman 917273130 (quick reference)
| Oil change type | Capacity | Approx. in quarts |
|---|---|---|
| With oil filter | 4.0 pints | 2.0 qt |
| Without oil filter | 3.75 pints | 1.875 qt |
How we recommend filling it (avoid overfilling)
- Park the tractor on level ground and let the engine cool slightly.
- Add oil slowly, then check the dipstick.
- Stop at the FULL mark; do not fill above it.
- If you changed the filter, expect it to take closer to 4.0 pints.
- Run the engine briefly, shut it off, wait a minute, then recheck the level.
Oil type guidance for this model
The 917273130 manual lists these common viscosity choices:
- SAE 10W-30 for temperatures above 32°F
- SAE 5W-30 for temperatures below 32°F
- Use a quality detergent oil meeting API SF-SJ
Why it matters
Using the correct oil capacity helps prevent low-oil wear (too little oil) and foaming or seal leaks (too much oil). Keeping the level at the dipstick’s FULL mark is one of the simplest ways to extend engine life on a Craftsman riding mower.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273130, the engine is a Kohler CV490 single-cylinder engine (type 27508). This model is a front-engine tractor with electric start and a 42-inch mower deck; see the 917273130 owner's manual for operating and maintenance details.
Engine details for model 917273130
From the model-specific parts and manual information, this tractor uses:
- Brand/series: Kohler CV490
- Configuration: Single-cylinder, gasoline
- Charging system: 15 amps @ 3600 RPM
- Starting: Electric start
- Deck size (mower): 42-inch
How to confirm the engine on your tractor
If you want to verify what is installed on your specific unit (especially if an engine was swapped), we recommend:
- Check the engine ID label on the blower housing or valve cover area
- Match the engine model family to the manual and parts listings
- Compare key service items (spark plug type, oil capacity) to the specs in the manual
Quick spec snapshot (model 917273130)
| Item | Spec |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Kohler CV490 (type 27508) |
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Oil type (typical) | SAE 10W30 above 32°F; SAE 5W-30 below 32°F |
| Spark plug | Champion RC12YC (gap .040") |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact engine model helps you buy the correct tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter), follow the right oil and maintenance schedule, and troubleshoot starting or power issues accurately.
Last updated: January 2026
What are all the parts on a lawn mower?
On the Craftsman 917273130 front-engine lawn tractor, the “parts” include the engine and fuel system, the mower deck cutting system, the drive and steering systems, and the safety and electrical controls. For the complete model-specific breakdown, use the diagrams and lists in the 917273130 owner's manual.
Major systems and common parts
Here are the main assemblies you’ll typically see on this Craftsman tractor:
- Engine and fuel: fuel tank, fuel line, carburetor, air intake/air filter, muffler
- Starting and electrical: battery, ignition switch/key, solenoid/starter, fuse, wiring harness, headlights
- Mower deck (cutting): deck housing, blades, mandrels/spindles, idler pulleys, blade drive belt, deflector shield
- Ground drive: transaxle, motion drive belt, idlers/keepers, clutch/brake pedal linkage
- Steering and chassis: steering wheel/shaft, drag link/tie rod, front axle, wheels/tires, frame/hood
- Safety/interlocks: seat switch (operator presence), attachment clutch interlock, brake/neutral start logic
Examples of model-matched parts (what they do)
If you’re identifying parts on the cutting deck, these are common wear items for model 917273130:
- Lawn tractor v-belt 532144959: transfers power to spin the mower blades
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mandrel assembly 532130794: supports the blade shaft and bearings under the deck
- Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971: blade option designed to improve discharge and lift
Quick reference: “lawn mower” vs “lawn tractor” parts
| Item | Walk-behind mower | Craftsman 917273130 lawn tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Drive system | self-propel belt/gearbox (if equipped) | transaxle + motion drive belt |
| Cutting system | single deck + blade | 42-inch deck with mandrels + belt-driven blades |
| Controls | handle controls | seat, pedals, gearshift, attachment clutch |
Why it matters
Knowing the system a part belongs to helps you troubleshoot faster (for example, “blades won’t spin” usually points to the deck belt, idler, or mandrel, not the transaxle). It also helps you choose compatible replacement parts for your exact model.
Last updated: January 2026





