Owner’s manual
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Where can I find my lawn mower engine model number?
On the Craftsman 917255440 lawn tractor, the tractor model/serial tag is on a plate under the seat; the engine model number is on the engine itself, typically on the blower housing/shroud or on a label near the muffler or spark plug. Use the 917255440 owner's manual to confirm the tractor ID tag location.
Where to look on the tractor vs. on the engine
The tractor and the engine have different identification labels. Check both so you can order the correct parts.
- Tractor model/serial: under the seat on a plate (Craftsman 917255440)
- Engine model/type/code: stamped or printed on the engine (varies by engine brand)
- Deck model/serial (if present): sometimes on the mower deck shell
- Transaxle tag (if present): on the transmission housing
Common engine model number locations (most engines)
Engine makers place the model/type label where it stays readable but protected from heat and debris.
- On the blower housing / engine shroud (top or side)
- On the sheet metal near the muffler
- Near the spark plug area
- On or near the recoil starter housing (if equipped)
- Stamped into the valve cover or a flat machined pad (some engines)
Quick ID checklist
Use this to capture the information we typically need for engine parts.
| What to record | Example format | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine model/type/code | 3-part ID | Ensures correct carburetor, ignition, gaskets |
| Tractor model number | 917255440 | Ensures correct chassis, deck, steering parts |
| Serial number | Varies | Helps match production changes |
Why it matters
Many Craftsman tractors (including 917255440) were built with engines from different manufacturers over time. The engine model number is the fastest way to match tune-up and fuel-system parts correctly.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917255440, the engine is a 12.5 horsepower gasoline engine (internal combustion). The model-specific manual lists the horsepower and key tune-up specs, but it does not identify the engine brand or engine model number.
What we can confirm for model 917255440
From the specifications in the 917255440 owner's manual, we can confirm these engine-related details:
- Horsepower: 12.5 HP
- Fuel: unleaded regular gasoline
- Gasoline capacity: 5 quarts
- Oil type: SAE 30 (above 32°F) or SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
- Spark plug type: Champion RJ-19LM
Why the engine brand may not be listed
On many riding mowers, the tractor model number (like 917255440) identifies the tractor platform, while the exact engine brand/model is identified on a separate engine label. That is why the tractor manual can list horsepower and service specs without naming the engine manufacturer.
How to identify the exact engine on your tractor
Use this quick checklist to find the engine make and model on your specific unit:
- Look for an engine ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Record the engine model, type, and code (common on Briggs & Stratton engines)
- Match the engine label info to the engine parts section in the manual
- Use the tractor’s model and serial plate under the seat for tractor identification
Tractor vs. engine identification (quick reference)
| Item | Where to find it | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model/serial | Plate under the seat | Tractor platform and compatible tractor parts |
| Engine model/type/code | Label on the engine | Exact engine manufacturer and engine-specific parts |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact engine identification helps you buy the correct maintenance parts (like spark plugs, filters, and fuel system parts) and follow the right tune-up settings for reliable starting and smooth mowing.
Last updated: January 2026
Who makes Craftsman lawn mower engines?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917255440, the owner’s manual lists engine maintenance specs (like oil type and spark plug) but does not identify the engine manufacturer by name. The engine maker is confirmed from the engine’s ID label, not from the tractor brand.
How to identify the engine maker on model 917255440
Use the engine’s identification tag, then match that brand and model to parts and service information.
- Look for an ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Write down the engine brand and the full model/type code from that label
- Cross-check maintenance specs in the 917255440 owner’s manual
- Use the engine model/type code when selecting tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
- If the label is missing or unreadable, use the tractor’s under-seat model/serial plate plus clear engine photos to help identify the engine
What we can and cannot confirm from the manual
The manual supports maintenance and operation, but it is not intended to be the definitive source for “who made the engine.”
| Source | What it typically shows | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Engine ID label | Manufacturer + engine model/type code | Confirms who made the engine |
| Tractor model plate | Craftsman model 917255440 | Identifies the tractor platform |
| Owner’s manual | Oil type, capacities, spark plug spec, adjustments | Guides maintenance and safe operation |
Why it matters
Craftsman is the tractor brand; the engine manufacturer and engine model/type code determine the correct engine parts and service procedures. Confirming the engine label helps prevent ordering the wrong maintenance parts.
Last updated: January 2026
