Owner’s manual
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How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917256660, a full engine replacement typically runs about $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine, labor rates, and whether related fuel or electrical parts also need service. Use the 917256660 owner's manual to confirm engine identification and service guidance.
What drives the total cost
- Engine price: New replacement engines vary widely by horsepower, shaft size, and mounting pattern.
- Labor time: Riding mower engine swaps commonly take around 6 hours of shop time.
- Extra parts and supplies: Oil, filter, fuel line, clamps, spark plugs, and shop materials.
- Root-cause repairs: If the original failure was caused by overheating, low oil, or fuel contamination, additional repairs may be needed.
- Pickup/delivery: Some shops charge transport fees for riding mowers.
Typical cost breakdown (installed)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $200 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; depends on specs and availability |
| Labor | $200 to $600 | Based on local hourly rate and job complexity |
| Fluids and tune-up items | $20 to $150 | Oil, filter, plugs, fuel filter, etc. |
| Misc. hardware | $10 to $75 | Belts, fasteners, wiring repairs if needed |
Before you replace the engine
We recommend ruling out common “no start” causes first; they are often far cheaper than an engine.
- Verify battery condition and cable connections
- Check the fuse and wiring connections
- Inspect the starter/solenoid circuit
- Confirm fresh fuel and a clean air intake
- If the engine cranks but will not start, check ignition and fuel delivery
If the tractor clicks but will not crank, follow riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video for a fast diagnostic path.
Why it matters
An engine replacement can exceed the value of an older tractor. A quick diagnosis first helps you avoid replacing the engine when the real issue is a battery, wiring, starter, or fuel problem.
Last updated: January 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman riding lawn tractor model 917256660 uses a Briggs & Stratton twin-cylinder engine; the owner’s manual lists the engine model as 42A707 (Type 1625-01). For the most accurate match when ordering engine parts, use the engine model and type from the 917256660 owner's manual.
How to confirm the engine on your tractor
We recommend verifying the engine ID on the machine, since the tractor model number and engine model number are different.
- Lift the seat and confirm the tractor model plate shows 917256660.
- Find the engine label on the blower housing.
- Record engine model, type, and code (the code is often the build date).
- Match those numbers when selecting parts like an air filter, carburetor, or starter.
- Use the manual’s parts-ordering section to keep the identifiers consistent.
Engine identification details for model 917256660
Here is what the documentation calls out for this specific tractor:
| Item | What to use | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model | 917256660 | Model plate under the seat |
| Engine model | 42A707 | Engine blower housing |
| Engine type | 1625-01 | Engine blower housing |
Why it matters when buying parts
Many “Craftsman riding mower” parts vary by engine family even when the tractor looks similar. Using the Briggs & Stratton engine model and type helps ensure correct fit for tune-up and starting components.
If you are doing routine maintenance, the manual also covers service items like engine oil, air filter, spark plug(s), and cooling fins. For a quick maintenance overview, use 917256660 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
Who makes Craftsman zero turn mower engines?
Craftsman uses engines from several major small-engine makers; the most common are Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Kawasaki. For Craftsman model 917256660 specifically, the owner's documentation lists a Briggs engine model number, so this tractor is Briggs-powered; see the 917256660 owner's manual for the exact engine identification.
How to identify the engine maker on your Craftsman mower
Use the engine’s own ID information, not just the mower or tractor model number.
- Find the tractor model plate (commonly under the seat area)
- Locate the engine ID on the blower housing/shroud
- Record the engine model and type/spec numbers exactly
- Match maintenance parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter) to the engine ID
- Use the engine ID when ordering carburetor or ignition parts
Common engine suppliers you will see on Craftsman equipment
These manufacturers are widely used across Craftsman riding mowers and zero-turn models.
| Engine maker | What the ID label usually shows | What it helps you match |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Model, type, code | Tune-up parts, carburetor, ignition |
| Kohler | Spec number, serial | Filters, plugs, governor settings |
| Kawasaki | Model, spec, serial | Air filter, fuel system, ignition |
Why it matters
The engine manufacturer determines the correct oil type, spark plug, air filter, and fuel system parts. Ordering by the engine model and type/spec prevents mismatched parts even when two Craftsman mowers share similar deck or chassis components.
Example part you might replace during service
If your 917256660 has the matching Briggs configuration, a common maintenance item is the briggs & statton filter 394358S. Always confirm fit by engine model/type before ordering.
Last updated: January 2026
