What brand engine does Craftsman use?
Craftsman uses engines from multiple manufacturers, depending on the specific mower or tractor. For Craftsman model 917276021, the most reliable way to confirm the engine brand is to read the engine identification label and cross-reference it with the specifications section in the 917276021 owner's manual.
Across Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors, these engine makers are the most common:
- Briggs & Stratton
- Kohler
- Kawasaki
- Other OEM suppliers on select models and years
Use the engine’s own ID tag, not the tractor model tag. On most 25 HP class riders, the label is under the hood on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter.
- Lift the hood and locate the engine ID label
- Write down the engine brand plus the model and spec/type numbers
- Use those engine numbers when ordering engine-only parts (air filter, oil filter, spark plug, carburetor parts)
- Use 917276021 when ordering tractor parts (deck, steering, belts, electrical)
The manual notes this tractor has a “mowemission” engine; that wording indicates an emissions-compliant engine configuration, not a specific engine brand.
Correct identification prevents wrong-part returns: engine numbers match engine parts, while the tractor model number matches chassis and deck parts.
| What you’re replacing | Use this identifier | Example items |
|---|---|---|
| Engine components | Engine model/spec from the engine label | Filters, plugs, carb parts |
| Tractor and deck components | Craftsman model 917276021 | Belts, blades, switches |
If the deck will not engage, a failed PTO switch is a common cause; the tractor uses a dedicated switch such as switch.pto 582107601.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman riding mower model 917276021 uses a 25.0 HP mower-emissions gasoline engine on a 48-inch mower deck tractor with electric start and an automatic transmission. For the exact engine make and model (Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, etc.), use the engine ID label and the specs section in the 917276021 owner's manual.
These model-specific details identify the engine setup and tractor configuration:
- Horsepower rating: 25.0 HP
- Emissions family/type: mower-emissions engine (outdoor power equipment compliant)
- Starting system: electric start
- Drive system: automatic transmission
- Mower deck size: 48-inch
The engine manufacturer and model code are printed on the engine itself; that is the definitive identifier for parts and service.
- Look on the engine shroud/blower housing for a sticker or stamped tag
- Check near the valve cover or starter area for a model-type code
- Record the model, type, and code (or spec number) exactly as shown
- Match that information to the engine specifications and maintenance sections in the manual
| What you mean by “kind” | What to look for | Why it’s used |
|---|---|---|
| Engine manufacturer and model | Engine ID label | Correct tune-up and repair parts |
| Cylinder configuration (single vs V-twin) | Visual inspection, engine label | Power feel, vibration, service differences |
| Fuel and emissions system | Manual specs, engine label | Proper fuel, choke/throttle use |
Engine make and model control which air filter, spark plug, fuel filter, and service procedures fit your Craftsman 917276021. Using the engine ID prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and helps keep starting and mowing performance consistent.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917276021?
The model number for this Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor is 917.276021 (often written without the dot as 917276021). You can confirm it on the cover and parts lists in the 917276021 owner's manual.
You will typically see the model number on the product identification label. Check these common spots:
- Under the seat pan or near the seat bracket area
- On the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Near the rear fender or footrest area
- On the dash or steering column support area
Both formats refer to the same tractor; the dot is just a formatting style used in manuals.
| How it may appear | What it means |
|---|---|
| 917.276021 | Manual and parts list format |
| 917276021 | Label, ordering, and search format |
Using the exact model number 917276021 helps us match the correct Craftsman parts diagrams and ensure you get the right replacement parts (for example, electrical items like the ignition key and PTO switch can vary by model).
These are examples of parts called out in the model documentation and parts list:
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (ignition key)
- Switch.pto 582107601 (PTO switch)
- Ignition harness 583169601 (ignition harness)
Last updated: February 2026





