What are the parts of a riding lawn mower called?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 917276320, the “parts” are typically grouped by what system they belong to: cutting (mower deck), drive, steering, engine, and electrical. Common names include belts, blades, pulleys, spindles (mandrels), switches, and hardware. For the exact terminology used on your tractor, use the 917276320 owner's manual.
Common riding mower part names (by system)
- Mower deck (cutting system): blades, mandrel (spindle) assemblies, idler pulleys, deck belt, deck lift linkage
- Drive system: motion drive belt, drive pulleys, transmission, freewheel control
- Steering/front axle: drag link, wheel hubs, bearings, axle caps
- Electrical/controls: ignition switch and key, PTO (attachment clutch) switch, light switch, wiring, fuse
- Hardware: lock nuts, washers, bolts, clips, springs
Examples of real part names you will see for model 917276320
These are common “catalog names” used when ordering parts:
- Switch.pto 582107601 (PTO switch that engages the mower blades)
- Lawn tractor blade idler pulley 532177968 (deck idler pulley)
- V-idler pulley 532193195 (V-idler pulley)
- Husqvarna lawn tractor drag link 532175572 (steering linkage)
Quick glossary (what the names mean)
| Term you see | What it does | Where it is |
|---|---|---|
| PTO switch (attachment clutch switch) | Turns mower deck blades on/off | Dash/control panel |
| Idler pulley | Maintains belt tension and routing | Mower deck or drive system |
| Mandrel (spindle) | Holds blade and lets it spin | Under the mower deck |
| Motion drive belt | Transfers power for driving | Engine to transmission area |
Why it matters
Using the correct part name helps you match the right diagram and order the right replacement. It also speeds up troubleshooting, for example “blades will not rotate” often points to a worn deck belt or a frozen idler pulley.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman garden tractor model 917276320, the tractor is equipped with a low-emission gasoline engine; the exact engine make, model, and type code are identified on the engine label and in the 917276320 owner's manual. Using that ID is the correct way to match tune-up parts and service specs.
How to identify the exact engine on model 917276320
Use the engine’s identification label (usually on the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the muffler) and record the full information.
- Find the engine manufacturer name (commonly Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or similar)
- Write down the engine model, type, and code (or spec number)
- Match those numbers to the engine section in the manual for maintenance specs
- Use the engine ID when ordering filters, spark plugs, and fuel system parts
What the manual tells you about this tractor
The model-specific manual describes the tractor as a Craftsman garden tractor with:
- Electric start
- Automatic transmission
- A low-emission engine that can operate differently than older designs
Quick reference: where to look
| What you need | Where to find it | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Engine make and model/type code | Engine ID label | Correct tune-up and carburetion parts |
| Operating and maintenance specs | Owner’s manual | Oil type, service intervals, adjustments |
| Deck and drive component IDs | Parts diagrams/manual | Matching belts, pulleys, and hardware |
Why it matters
“Kind of engine” is more than horsepower; the engine make and model/type code determine the correct oil, spark plug, air filter, and fuel system settings, especially on low-emission engines.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 6.75 lawn mower?
“6.75” is an engine rating used on many Craftsman walk-behind mowers, so it does not point to one single model number. For the correct model number, read the model tag on your mower itself; for the riding tractor covered by this page, the model number is 917276320 (shown in the 917276320 owner's manual).
How to identify the right model number
Use the model number from the mower’s product ID tag, not the engine decal. The ID tag is what matches the correct parts diagrams for blades, belts, wheels, and controls.
- Look for a model number that starts with 917. or CMX (varies by era)
- Write down the full model number and any serial number
- Match the model number to the correct parts list before ordering
- Use the engine model only for engine-specific parts (carburetor, air filter, spark plug)
Where to find the model tag (by mower type)
Craftsman uses different tag locations depending on whether you have a walk-behind mower or a riding tractor.
| Equipment type | Typical model tag location | Example model format |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-behind mower | On the mower deck housing (often near the rear, side, or under the bag door area) | 917.XXXXXX |
| Riding lawn tractor | Under the seat, on the rear fender pan, or on the frame near the seat | 917.XXXXXX |
Why “6.75” is not enough
Many different Craftsman mower decks and drive systems used 6.75-rated engines. Parts that must match the mower configuration include:
- Blade and blade adapter
- Drive belt or traction cable
- Wheels, hubs, and height adjusters
- Deck hardware and guards
Why it matters
Using the exact product model number prevents ordering parts that fit the engine but do not fit the mower deck or drive system.
Last updated: January 2026





