Who makes Craftsman push mower engines?
Craftsman push mower engines are typically supplied by major small-engine manufacturers; the most common are Briggs & Stratton, with some models using Kohler or Kawasaki engines. For your Craftsman riding tractor model 917276011 specifically, the owner documentation indicates a Kohler-branded engine. See the 917276011 owner's manual for the exact engine identification details.
How to tell who made your Craftsman engine
Use the engine’s ID tag, not the mower deck or tractor model number.
- Look for an engine label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Record the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Match those numbers to the engine maker’s parts lookup (Briggs, Kohler, Kawasaki)
- If the label is missing, check the engine shroud and block for stamped numbers
- Keep the numbers handy before ordering ignition, carburetor, or fuel parts
What we know for model 917276011 (riding tractor)
Your Craftsman 917276011 is a front-engine lawn tractor (25.0 HP, 48-inch mower deck). The manual’s parts/decals section references Kohler engine labeling, which aligns with a Kohler-supplied engine on this tractor.
| Equipment type | Where to confirm engine maker | What you’ll see |
|---|---|---|
| Push mower | Engine ID tag on the engine | Briggs, Kohler, or Kawasaki branding and codes |
| Riding tractor 917276011 | Tractor documentation plus engine ID tag | Kohler references plus engine model/spec |
Why it matters
Engine maker determines the correct tune-up and repair parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel system parts) and the right service procedures. Using the engine’s model/spec numbers prevents ordering the wrong parts even when the mower model number is correct.
Last updated: January 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman model 917276011, the owner’s manual identifies it as a 25.0 HP front-engine garden tractor with a low-emission engine. For the exact engine make and model (such as the engine family and spec number), match the engine ID label on your tractor to the details in the 917276011 owner's manual.
How to identify the exact engine on your 917276011
Use these quick checks so you get the right tune-up and repair parts:
- Look for the engine ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Record the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Compare those numbers to the engine information and service sections in the 917276011 owner's manual
- If the label is dirty, wipe it gently; avoid scraping off the printed numbers
- Use the engine numbers (not just tractor model 917276011) when ordering engine-specific parts
Common engine-related symptoms and what they point to
If you are troubleshooting, the engine ID helps narrow the cause fast.
| Symptom | Often related to | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Hard starting (cold) | Choke/fuel delivery | Choke operation, fresh fuel, fuel line condition |
| Runs rough at idle | Fuel/air/spark | Air filter, spark plug, stale fuel |
| Backfires when shutting off | Throttle setting | Let engine idle at SLOW briefly before OFF |
| Battery goes dead | Charging system/ignition left on | Key position, wiring, regulator/alternator (if equipped) |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors can use different engine manufacturers and spec variations across similar-looking models. Using the engine’s model and spec/code ensures the correct spark plug, air filter, carburetor parts, and charging components for your exact build.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 6.75 lawn mower?
A “Craftsman 6.75” is not one single model; 6.75 typically describes the engine rating used across multiple Craftsman walk-behind mowers. For the Craftsman model page you’re on, the model number is 917.276011 (a front-engine lawn tractor); confirm the exact mower model on the ID label and in the 917276011 owner's manual.
How to identify the correct Craftsman 6.75 mower model number
Look for the model number on the mower’s product ID label, then match it to the correct parts list.
- Check the label on the rear deck (near the bagger opening) or on the side of the deck near the wheels
- Write down the full model number exactly as shown (numbers and dots matter)
- Also note the engine model and type (often on the engine shroud) for tune-up parts
- Use the model number to select the right blade, belt (if self-propelled), and air filter
- If the label is worn, use the diagrams and specs in the manual to confirm configuration
Model number vs. engine rating: what’s the difference?
“6.75” helps describe the engine class, but the mower model number is what determines the correct parts.
| What you see | What it tells you | What to use for parts |
|---|---|---|
| 6.75 on the engine cover | Engine rating/class | Not enough by itself |
| Craftsman model number (example format 917.xxxxxx) | Exact mower/tractor build | Best match for parts diagrams |
| Engine model/type code | Exact engine family | Helpful for filters, spark plug, carb parts |
If you’re actually asking about a 6.75 walk-behind mower
Many Craftsman walk-behind mowers use model numbers in the 917.xxxxxx format. One common example is 917.377911 for a 21-inch 6.75-hp rotary mower, but your mower could be different depending on deck size, drive system, and year.
Why it matters
Using the wrong model number can lead to ordering a blade, belt, or ignition part that does not fit, even when the engine rating looks the same.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding mower like model 917276011, a full engine replacement typically costs about $900 to $3,000 total (engine plus labor). Most shops charge 4 to 8 labor hours for a riding mower engine swap; the engine itself is usually the biggest cost.
What drives the total price
- Engine type and horsepower (single-cylinder vs V-twin, OEM vs aftermarket)
- Labor time (rusted fasteners, wiring condition, accessibility)
- Extra parts you replace “while you’re in there” (belts, pulleys, wiring)
- Pickup/delivery fees if the tractor is hauled to a shop
- Carburetor and fuel system condition (old fuel can add cleanup time)
Typical cost breakdown
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine | $600 to $2,200 | Varies by brand, spec, and availability |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Commonly 4 to 8 hours |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $25 to $200 | Fuel line, clamps, oil, filters, hardware |
| Total installed | $900 to $3,000 | Most common real-world range |
Before you replace the engine, rule out common “no power” causes
Many “needs an engine” symptoms are actually drive or deck issues. The 917276011 manual troubleshooting chart calls out problems like worn belts and frozen pulleys/mandrels that can mimic bigger failures. Use the 917276011 owner’s manual to confirm checks and adjustments.
- Verify the PTO is disengaged and the parking brake is set correctly
- Inspect the deck belt and idlers; a seized idler can stop the system (example: lawn tractor blade idler pulley 532177968)
- Check the blade drive belt condition (example: primary blade drive belt 532174368)
- Look for debris buildup around hot exhaust/engine areas; clean before testing
- If the engine runs but the tractor will not move, inspect the ground drive belt and transaxle linkage
Why it matters
An engine swap can cost close to the value of an older riding mower. Pricing the job with labor hours and the correct engine spec helps you decide whether to repair, repower, or replace the tractor.
Last updated: January 2026





