What Craftsman lawnmower do I have?
You have a Craftsman riding lawn tractor; the most reliable way to identify it is to match the model number on the tractor’s product identification label to the model shown in the 917287250 owner's manual. For this page, the model number is 917287250 (manual cover may show 917.28725).
Where to find the model number label
On Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors like model 917287250, the product identification label is commonly found in these areas:
- Under the seat (lift the seat and look on the frame or underside)
- On the fender pan near the seat
- On a frame rail near the engine compartment
- Near the footrest area on the chassis
What numbers to match (and why they look different)
Use the model number on the label as your primary identifier; the manual and parts diagrams are organized around it.
| Location you’re checking | How it may appear | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor ID label | 9-digit number | Match 917287250 exactly |
| Manual cover | Number with a decimal | 917.28725 is the same model family identifier |
| Parts diagrams | Model-based lookup | Use 917287250 to avoid wrong-fit parts |
Quick checks before ordering parts
Once you confirm the model number, use these steps to stay on the correct parts list:
- Write down the full model number and serial number from the label
- Compare the manual cover model format (decimal) to your label number (no decimal)
- Use the diagrams to identify the exact part location before ordering
- For common wear items, match by diagram callout, not by appearance alone
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors can look nearly identical across model numbers, but parts such as blades, belts, ignition components, and deck hardware can differ. Using the exact model number ensures the correct diagrams and compatible replacements.
If you’re buying parts after confirming the model, order from the parts list for 917287250 or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917287250, the operator manual identifies it as a 24.0 HP tractor with a low-emission engine. The manual focuses on operation and safety; for the exact engine make and model, use the engine identification label and the specifications section in the 917287250 owner's manual.
What we can confirm for model 917287250
From the documentation for this specific tractor, we can rely on these engine-related details:
- Rated power: 24.0 HP
- Engine type note: low-emission engine (may operate differently than older designs)
- Starting system: electric start
- Controls tied to engine operation: throttle/choke control, choke control, ignition switch
How to identify the exact engine brand and model on your tractor
Many Craftsman tractors in this series were built with engines from common suppliers; the sure way is to read the engine tag on your unit.
- Lift the hood and look for an engine data label on the blower housing or valve cover area
- Record the engine model, type, and code (or serial) exactly as shown
- Match that information to the specs and maintenance guidance in the 917287250 owner's manual
- Use your tractor model number 917287250 when ordering tractor-specific parts
Quick reference: “engine type” vs “tractor model”
| Item | What it tells you | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model (917287250) | Which Craftsman tractor you own | Model tag on tractor frame; manual cover |
| Engine model/type/code | Exact engine manufacturer and build | Engine label under hood |
| HP rating (24.0 HP) | Power class used for this tractor | Manual cover/spec section |
Why it matters
The tractor model number helps you get the right chassis, deck, and control parts, while the engine model number is what you use for engine-specific maintenance items and tune-up specs (oil type, spark plug, air filter, and adjustments).
If you are shopping for common wear items for the mower deck and drive system, you can also search by model and part ID on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What year is the Craftsman 917287250?
The Craftsman 917287250 is a model series that was produced across multiple years; the operator’s manual for this tractor identifies it as Model No. 917.28725 (same series), so the exact build year is determined by the manufacturing date code on your tractor’s product/serial label, not by the model number alone. Use the date code format shown in the 917287250 owner's manual to match your unit.
How to find the exact year on your tractor
We recommend checking the product/serial label (commonly under the seat or on the frame near the rear fender area). Once you locate it:
- Write down the serial number and any date code printed on the label
- Look for a month/day/year style code (often shown as MM/DD/YY or similar)
- If the label includes a manufacture date, use that as the tractor’s year
- If the label is worn, clean it gently and use a flashlight to read stamped characters
- Keep the serial information with your maintenance records for future parts lookups
Quick guide: model number vs. build year
| Item | What it tells you | What it does not tell you |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (917287250) | Tractor family and parts system | Exact manufacturing year |
| Serial/date code label | Your tractor’s specific build date | Deck size or engine brand by itself |
| Operator’s manual | Operating, maintenance, and safety info | The exact year of every unit sold |
Why it matters
The build year affects small but important variations in parts and setups (deck hardware, belt routing, electrical connectors, and safety interlock switches). Confirming the year from the label helps us match the correct blade, belt, and electrical parts the first time.
Parts that commonly vary by production run
If you are ordering parts after you identify the year, these are frequent match points:
- Deck components such as the lawn tractor mandrel housing 587819701
- Blade style and lift profile such as the lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971
- Drive and deck belt length such as the husqvarna lawn tractor belt, 1/2 x 101-1/6-in 592855001
- Starting circuit parts such as the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802
- Key switch and harness connections such as the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350
You can order replacement parts from the parts list for model 917287250, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





