Owner’s manual
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How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
Replacing the engine on a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917288132 typically costs $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related items (battery cables, belts, pulleys) also need service. Plan on about 6 hours of labor for a full engine swap.
What drives the total price
- Engine cost (new vs. remanufactured vs. used)
- Labor rate at the shop and local availability of small-engine service
- Extra parts needed during the swap (fuel line, clamps, wiring repairs)
- Condition of the tractor (rusted fasteners, damaged harness, worn pulleys)
- Tune-up needs after installation (fresh fuel, filter, spark plug, oil)
Typical cost breakdown
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part only) | $200 to $1,400 | Varies by horsepower and crankshaft specs |
| Labor | $200 to $600 | Often 4 to 8 hours total |
| Fluids and small supplies | $20 to $80 | Oil, fuel filter, clamps, shop supplies |
| Optional related repairs | $0 to $400+ | Belts, pulleys, wiring, battery |
Before you replace the engine, confirm it is the real problem
Many “won’t start” complaints are caused by the starting or safety circuits, not a failed engine. The troubleshooting chart in the 917288132 owner’s manual points to checks like battery condition, wiring, ignition switch, and solenoid/starter.
- Recharge or replace the battery
- Clean and tighten battery terminals
- Check all wiring connections
- Check or replace the ignition switch
- Check or replace the starter solenoid or starter
If the engine clicks but won’t crank, use our steps in riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Why it matters
An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Verifying the battery, solenoid, and safety interlock circuits first can prevent spending engine-level money on an electrical or control issue.
Last updated: January 2026
What motor is in a Craftsman 917288132?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917288132 is equipped with a 20.0 HP engine (as rated by the engine manufacturer) paired with a 46-inch mower deck and electric start. For the exact engine identification numbers used on your tractor, use the 917288132 owner's manual.
How to identify the exact engine on your tractor
Even within the same tractor model, the most reliable way to confirm the exact engine model and type is to read the engine’s ID label.
- Lift the hood and look for the engine label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Record the engine model, type, and code (or serial) numbers
- Compare those numbers to the engine information section in the manual
- If the label is dirty, wipe it clean; do not scrape off printed numbers
- Use the recorded numbers when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
What we can confirm from the manual
The operator’s manual for this tractor family calls out the key engine rating and configuration.
| Item | What you’ll typically see for this model family |
|---|---|
| Engine rating | 20.0 HP (manufacturer-rated) |
| Starting system | Electric start |
| Deck size | 46 in |
| Tractor type | Front-engine lawn tractor |
Why it matters
The tractor model number (917288132) helps match chassis and deck parts, but engine model/type/code is what ensures you get the correct maintenance parts and any engine-specific components.
Last updated: January 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman lawn tractors like model 917288132 are typically built with engines supplied by major small-engine manufacturers (most commonly Briggs & Stratton, and on some models Kohler or Kawasaki). The exact engine maker for your tractor is confirmed by the engine ID information listed in the 917288132 owner's manual.
How to identify the engine manufacturer on your tractor
Use the engine’s ID tag, not the hood decal. On most front-engine riding mowers, the tag is on the engine shroud, valve cover area, or near the starter.
- Find the engine model and type/spec numbers (or “spec” code)
- Write down the serial number
- Match the format:
- Briggs & Stratton often uses Model-Type-Code
- Kohler often uses Model-Spec
- Kawasaki often uses Model-Code
- Use those numbers when ordering tune-up parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter)
What we mean by “Craftsman engine”
Craftsman is the equipment brand; the engine is commonly sourced from an engine manufacturer. Your 917288132 operator’s manual notes the tractor has a low-emission engine and that horsepower is as rated by the engine manufacturer, which is a strong clue that the engine is a supplied component rather than built by Craftsman.
Quick comparison: common engine suppliers you may see
| Supplier | Where you’ll see it | What to look for on the ID tag |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Many Craftsman riding mowers | Model-Type-Code format |
| Kohler | Some mid to higher tier tractors | Model and Spec numbers |
| Kawasaki | Some performance-oriented tractors | Model and Code numbers |
Why it matters
Knowing the engine manufacturer helps you get the right maintenance parts and specs (oil type/amount, spark plug, air filter, and tune-up intervals). It also speeds up troubleshooting when the tractor cranks, clicks, or will not start.
Last updated: January 2026
