Craftsman 917276012 garden tractor Parts

The Craftsman garden tractor model 917276012 uses a 25.0 HP engine (as specified in the tractor’s documentation). For the exact engine manufacturer, model, and service details, use the engine identification information in the 917276012 owner's manual.

How to identify the exact engine on model 917276012

We recommend matching the engine by its ID tag, not by horsepower alone.

• Open the hood and look for an engine label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
• Record the engine model, type, and code (or serial number)
• Compare those numbers to the engine section in the manual and the parts diagrams
• Use the engine ID when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
• If the tractor has a “low emission” engine, follow the manual’s starting and adjustment guidance

What we can confirm from the documentation

The owner’s manual for Craftsman 917276012 identifies the tractor as a 25.0 HP, 48-inch mower configuration.

Item	What to use for ordering parts	Where to find it
Tractor identification	Tractor model number 917276012	Tractor frame tag and manual cover
Engine identification	Engine model/type/code (varies by engine)	Engine label on the engine
Mower deck size	48-inch deck	Manual and deck decals

Why it matters

Craftsman tractors in the 917-series can be built with different engine suppliers over time. Using the engine’s model/type/code prevents ordering the wrong ignition parts, carburetor parts, or fuel system components.

Last updated: January 2026

Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman 917276012 garden tractor is worth it when the mower deck, frame, steering, and drive system are still solid and you want to extend the tractor’s life; it is usually not worth it when the total repair cost approaches about half the price of a comparable replacement tractor.

Quick decision checklist

• The deck shell is not rusted through and the mandrels spin smoothly
• The transmission/drive works normally (no slipping, no loss of ground speed)
• Wiring and safety switches are in good shape (or you are willing to repair them)
• You can do the swap safely (or have a shop do it)
• The engine failure is internal (low compression, thrown rod) rather than a simple fuel/ignition issue

Cost and effort: what to compare

Use this simple comparison to decide where your money goes.

Option	Typical cost	Time/effort	Best when
Replace engine	Higher	Medium to high	Chassis and deck are excellent and you want long-term reliability
Repair engine (fuel/ignition/cooling)	Lower	Low to medium	Problem is overheating, clogged fuel flow, spark, or wiring
Replace tractor	Highest	Low	Multiple major systems are worn (deck, steering, drive, electrical)

Before you commit: rule out common “engine is bad” causes

Our experience is that many no-start or poor-running complaints come from maintenance issues the manual calls out.

• Check for overheating causes: blocked grass screen, dirty cooling fins, or missing cooling shrouds (overheating can damage the engine)
• Replace the spark plug on schedule (often each season or about every 100 hours)
• Replace the in-line fuel filter once each season; a clogged filter restricts fuel flow
• Inspect wiring and connections; damaged wiring can mimic engine failure
• If the engine backfires when shutting off, set the throttle between half and full speed before stopping

For model-specific maintenance intervals and procedures, use the 917276012 owner's manual.

Why it matters

An engine swap only pays off if the rest of the Craftsman 917276012 is safe and dependable. If the deck is packed with debris or the cooling system is restricted, a new engine can be damaged the same way as the old one.

Last updated: January 2026

For a Craftsman riding mower like model 917276012, a full engine replacement typically costs about $800 to $3,000 installed (engine plus labor). The biggest cost drivers are engine type/horsepower, whether the replacement is a direct-fit, and the labor time to swap and set up controls.

What makes the price go up or down

• Engine cost: Most replacement riding mower engines land in the $500 to $2,000 range.
• Labor time: Commonly 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap.
• Extra parts: Belts, pulleys, wiring, fuel parts, and hardware often get replaced during the job.
• Shop vs. DIY: DIY can save labor, but you still need correct setup and safety checks.
• Condition of the tractor: Rusted fasteners, damaged wiring, or worn drive components add time.

Typical cost breakdown (installed)

Cost item	Typical range	Notes
Replacement engine	$500 to $2,000	Varies by spec and availability
Labor	$300 to $1,200	Based on hourly rate and hours
Misc. parts/fluids	$25 to $250	Oil, filter, clamps, hardware
Estimated total	$800 to $3,000	Most common real-world range

Before you replace the engine, check these common “no-start” causes

We see many tractors that need a repair, not a full engine. Your 917276012 uses safety interlock logic; the engine should only crank/start with the brake fully depressed and the attachment clutch disengaged.

• Verify brake pedal fully depressed and parking brake set correctly
• Make sure the PTO/attachment clutch is disengaged (a faulty switch can prevent starting)
• Inspect battery cables and grounds for corrosion or looseness
• Check for blown fuse and damaged wiring
• Confirm the operator presence (seat) switch is working as designed

Helpful reference: 917276012 owner's manual

Parts that are often replaced during engine-related repairs

If the issue is actually in the starting or PTO circuit, these model-matched parts can matter:

• Switch.pto 582107601 (PTO switch)
• Ignition harness 583169601 (wiring harness)
• Molded ignition key 532140403 (key)

Why it matters

An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Doing a quick interlock, wiring, and PTO-start circuit check first can prevent spending on an engine when the real problem is electrical or safety-switch related.

Last updated: January 2026