What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 247270400 uses a gasoline, low-emissions engine; the exact engine make and model is listed on the engine identification label and in the engine operator’s manual referenced by the tractor’s documentation. Use the 247270400 operator’s manual to confirm the correct engine details for your specific unit.
How to identify the exact engine on your 247270400
Look for the engine ID information on the engine itself (not on the mower frame). Common label locations include the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the starter.
- Turn the key off and let the engine cool completely
- Lift the hood and locate the engine identification label
- Write down the engine model, type, and code (or serial)
- Match that information to the engine operator’s manual listed in your documentation
- Use the engine ID when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter if equipped)
What we can confirm from the manual (and what it means)
The operator’s manual for this tractor family states it has a low emission engine and that you should read both the tractor operator’s manual and the engine operator’s manual before operation. That is important because oil type, oil capacity, spark plug type, and maintenance intervals are engine-specific.
Quick reference: where to look
| What you need | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine brand and series | Engine ID label | Ensures correct replacement parts |
| Oil type and capacity | Engine operator’s manual | Prevents engine damage |
| Spark plug spec and gap | Engine operator’s manual | Helps starting and smooth running |
| Air filter type | Engine operator’s manual | Protects engine from dirt ingestion |
Why it matters
Using the correct engine identification prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and helps you follow the right oil-check and service steps, which protects power and durability over the life of your Craftsman riding mower.
Related DIY help: how to tune up a riding lawn mower video
Last updated: January 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman engines are made by several engine manufacturers, depending on the specific tractor and engine option. For Craftsman lawn tractors in the 247.27040* family (including model 247270400), the operator’s manual directs you to use the separate engine operator’s manual for engine-specific details, which is where the engine brand and service specs are identified.
How to identify the engine maker on model 247270400
Use these quick checks to confirm whether your engine is Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki, or another supplier used on Craftsman riders:
- Look for the engine ID label on the blower housing or valve cover (it lists the engine brand and model).
- Check the emissions label; it often names the engine manufacturer.
- Match the engine model number to the engine operator’s manual that came with the tractor.
- Use the tractor model and serial number to cross-reference the correct engine documentation.
- Verify the correct oil type, oil capacity, and spark plug spec in the engine manual before servicing.
For model-family coverage and operating guidance, use the 247270400 operator’s manual.
Common engine suppliers you may see on Craftsman riders
Craftsman has sourced engines from multiple well-known manufacturers across different riding mower and tractor lines. Here is what that typically looks like:
| What you have | What it means | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Engine brand label says Briggs & Stratton | Briggs built the engine | Engine ID tag and engine manual |
| Engine brand label says Kohler | Kohler built the engine | Engine ID tag and engine manual |
| Engine brand label says Kawasaki | Kawasaki built the engine | Engine ID tag and engine manual |
Why it matters
The engine maker determines the correct maintenance parts and specs (oil type, oil filter, air filter, spark plug, valve clearance, and tune-up intervals). Using the wrong spec can cause hard starting, poor performance, or engine damage.
If you are troubleshooting a no-start or clicking issue
Engine-brand identification helps, but these checks apply to most Craftsman riding mowers:
- Confirm the battery is fully charged and terminals are clean and tight.
- Make sure the brake pedal is fully depressed and PTO is disengaged.
- Check the seat switch and other safety interlocks.
- Listen for a starter solenoid click versus a starter motor spin.
For step-by-step troubleshooting, see riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Last updated: January 2026
What year was Craftsman 247270400 made?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 247270400 is part of the 247.27040* series covered by an Operator’s Manual dated November 27, 2017, so this model family was in production by 2017. For the exact build year of your specific tractor, match the serial number to the date code in the 247270400 operator’s manual.
How to pinpoint the exact build year (fastest method)
We use the tractor’s serial number because model numbers often span multiple production years.
- Find the model and serial number label (typically under the seat, on the frame, or near the engine area)
- Write down the full serial number exactly as shown
- Use the manual’s identification section to interpret the serial/date code
- If your tractor uses Smart Lawn features, the app setup may also prompt for model and serial
What we can say from the documentation
The Operator’s Manual that covers 247.27040* (the family that includes 247270400) shows a publication/form date of November 27, 2017. That date is a reliable indicator of the timeframe for this model series.
| Item | What it tells you | What it does not tell you |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (247270400) | The tractor series and parts family | The exact build date |
| Serial number | The specific unit’s production timing | Nothing about compatible options |
| Manual date (Nov 27, 2017) | When the series documentation was issued | The exact year your unit was assembled |
Why it matters
Getting the correct year (via serial number) helps us match the right parts and service procedures for your Craftsman tractor, especially for items that change mid-series like the ignition system, wiring, deck hardware, and maintenance parts.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
Replacing the engine on a Craftsman riding mower like model 247270400 typically costs about $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, whether you reuse the existing pulleys and wiring, and local labor rates. Most riding mower engine swaps take around 6 labor hours.
What drives the total replacement cost?
- Engine price (new, remanufactured, or used)
- Labor time (engine removal, transfer parts, belt alignment, test run)
- Extra parts often replaced at the same time (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter, belts)
- Fuel system cleanup if old fuel caused starting issues
- Electrical or safety switch diagnosis if the original “no-start” problem was not the engine
Typical cost breakdown
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part only) | $200 to $1,400 | Varies by horsepower, crankshaft size, and brand |
| Labor | $200 to $600 | Often based on ~6 hours for a rider |
| Fluids and tune-up items | $20 to $150 | Oil, filter, spark plug, air filter |
| Optional add-ons | $0 to $300 | Battery, starter, deck belt, blades (as needed) |
Before you replace the engine (quick checks)
We recommend ruling out common no-start causes first because they can look like “bad engine” symptoms.
- Verify the battery is charged and terminals are clean and tight
- Listen for clicking vs. cranking (starter/solenoid vs. fuel/ignition)
- Check engine oil level before each use (low oil can cause damage and shutdowns)
- Inspect the air filter and spark plug (dirty or fouled parts can cause poor running)
- Confirm safety interlocks (brake, seat, PTO) are operating correctly
For model-specific operating and maintenance guidance, use the 247270400 owner’s manual.
Why it matters
An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. A short diagnosis first often saves money and prevents replacing the engine when the real issue is the battery, starter circuit, fuel delivery, or a safety interlock.
Last updated: January 2026





