Owner’s manual
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What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273143 uses a 17.0 HP low-emission gasoline engine (as specified in the model’s documentation). For the exact engine make, model, and service details, use the 917273143 owner's manual.
What we can confirm for model 917273143
From the documentation for this specific Craftsman riding mower, we can rely on these core specs:
- Engine output: 17.0 HP
- Engine type: low-emission gasoline engine
- Starting system: electric start
- Mower deck size: 42-inch mower
- Drive type: automatic transmission
Where to find the engine brand and model number
On riding mowers, the engine manufacturer (often Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or similar) is typically listed on the engine shroud or on an engine ID label. The fastest way to match parts correctly is to record the engine’s model and type codes.
- Look for an engine ID sticker on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Write down the engine model, type, and code (or spec number)
- Cross-check those numbers in the 917273143 owner's manual
- Use the engine ID when ordering tune-up parts like air filters, spark plugs, and fuel filters
Quick comparison: “engine type” vs “drive type”
| Item | What it means | Why you care |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (17.0 HP, low-emission) | Powerplant that spins the crankshaft and mower blades | Determines tune-up parts and engine service procedures |
| Automatic transmission | How the tractor transfers power to the wheels | Affects drive troubleshooting and belt routing |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors in the 917 model family can use different engine makes across production runs. Using the engine ID (not just the tractor model number) prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and helps you follow the correct starting and service procedures.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman 42-inch riding mower covered by this parts page, the model number is 917.273143 (often written without the dot as 917273143). You can confirm it on the ID label and in the 917273143 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the tractor
Check these common locations on Craftsman riding mowers:
- Under the seat on the seat pan or frame
- On the rear fender pan near the seat
- On the left or right side of the frame near the engine
- Near the steering column or dash area
- In the paperwork that came with the tractor (manual and purchase documents)
Model number vs. deck size (what “42” means)
A “42” Craftsman riding mower usually refers to the 42-inch mower deck cutting width, not the model number. For model 917.273143, the owner’s manual identifies it as a lawn tractor with a 42-inch mower.
| Item | What it tells you | Example for this tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Exact tractor version for parts lookup | 917.273143 (917273143) |
| Deck size | Cutting width | 42-inch |
| Part number / part ID | Exact replacement part identifier | Blade 134149 / 532134149 |
Why it matters
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong parts. For example, this 42-inch deck uses specific blades such as the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 and the lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971, which are matched to the deck and mandrel setup shown for model 917.273143.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman engines are made by several engine manufacturers, depending on the specific tractor and production run. For the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917.273143, the owner’s manual confirms it uses a low-emission internal combustion engine, but the engine brand is identified on the engine itself (not by the tractor model number alone); use the 917273143 owner's manual to match the correct engine family and service parts.
How to identify who made your engine
Check these common locations on your Craftsman riding mower engine:
- Engine shroud or valve cover decal (often shows Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or Kawasaki)
- Engine model, type, and code tag (usually near the starter, valve cover, or blower housing)
- Emissions label (lists engine family and displacement)
- Stamped ID on the engine block (varies by manufacturer)
- Tractor hood or frame tag (helps confirm the tractor model, not the engine maker)
What you will typically see on Craftsman lawn tractors
Craftsman riding mowers commonly use engines supplied by major manufacturers. Which one you have depends on the exact configuration.
| Engine maker (common) | What to look for on the engine | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | “Briggs & Stratton” label plus model/type/code | Tune-up parts and carburetor kits vary by engine code |
| Kohler | “Kohler” label plus spec number | Correct filters and ignition parts depend on spec number |
| Kawasaki | “Kawasaki” label plus model (example: FR/FS series) | Different oil filters, plugs, and air filters by series |
Why it matters
The tractor model 917273143 helps us find chassis and deck parts (blades, belts, mandrels), but engine service parts must match the engine’s model and code. That prevents ordering the wrong air filter, spark plug, starter, or fuel system parts.
Related parts you might replace during maintenance
If you are servicing the mower deck while you identify the engine, these model-matched parts are common wear items:
- Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971 for bagging and strong lift
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 for mulching setups (verify deck/blade style in your manual)
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 if the tractor slips or loses drive
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917273143, a full engine replacement typically costs about $800 to $2,500 total (engine plus labor), depending on the engine brand, horsepower, and whether you replace related wear items at the same time. Use the 917273143 owner's manual to confirm engine specs and service procedures.
Typical cost breakdown
Costs vary most by engine type and shop labor rate.
- Replacement engine: $500 to $1,800
- Labor (riding mower): 4 to 8 hours
- Shop supplies and disposal: $20 to $75
- Optional add-ons (belts, pulleys, wiring): $25 to $250
- Pickup and delivery (if needed): $50 to $200
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (new) | $500 to $1,800 | Biggest variable; match crankshaft size and mounting pattern |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Based on 4 to 8 hours at local rates |
| Extras | $25 to $250 | Common to replace drive belt, idlers, or hardware while it is apart |
What can increase the price
These are the most common reasons an “engine swap” turns into a bigger repair.
- Incorrect engine match (crankshaft diameter/length, PTO setup)
- Damaged wiring or safety interlock issues during reassembly
- Worn drive components; for example a slipping motion/ground drive belt
- Deck and blade system wear (mandrels, pulleys, blades)
- Fuel system cleanup if old fuel caused varnish in the carburetor
Parts you may replace at the same time
If the tractor already has drive or cutting issues, bundling parts can save labor.
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 if the tractor has loss of drive or belt wear
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mandrel assembly, 5-point star 532130794 if blades are noisy, wobble, or bind
- Blades if cut quality is poor (common on 42-inch decks)
Why it matters
A correct engine match and a quick inspection of belts, pulleys, and mandrels helps prevent repeat failures after installation. On this model, the manual troubleshooting guidance also points to belt and mandrel problems as common causes of drive and blade-rotation complaints.
Last updated: February 2026
