Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Yes. The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273390 uses a Briggs engine; our owner’s manual lists the engine as Briggs model 31H777, type 0297-E1. Craftsman mowers can use different engine brands by model, so the engine ID in the manual is the reliable way to confirm.
How to confirm the engine on your specific Craftsman mower
Use the engine identification on the tractor and match it to the documentation.
- Check the engine shroud label for the model and type numbers.
- Compare those numbers to the engine listing in the owner's manual.
- If the label is dirty or missing, clean the shroud area and look near the starter or valve cover.
- Use the tractor model number 917273390 when ordering parts to avoid mismatches.
What we know for model 917273390
The manual for this tractor identifies the engine as Briggs.
| Item | What to look for | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model | 917273390 | Identifies the exact Craftsman tractor configuration |
| Engine brand | Briggs | Engine manufacturer used on this model |
| Engine model/type | 31H777 / 0297-E1 | The exact engine build used for parts and service |
Why it matters
Craftsman used multiple engine suppliers across different mower lines and years. Confirming the exact engine model and type prevents ordering the wrong ignition, carburetor, starter, or tune-up parts, and it helps troubleshooting steps match your engine’s design.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273390, the owner’s manual lists an 18.0 HP gas engine (a low-emission design) paired with a 42-inch mower deck and an electric start system. For the exact engine make and model, use the engine ID label and confirm it in the owner's manual.
What you can confirm on your tractor
Use these quick checks to identify the engine type on your specific 917273390:
- Look for the engine model/type/code sticker on the blower housing or valve cover area
- Match that ID to the engine section and specifications in the owner's manual
- Confirm it is a single-cylinder style engine (common on 18 HP lawn tractors)
- Verify it is a gasoline engine (this model is not an electric riding mower)
- Note the tractor features tied to the engine system: electric start and battery charging at full throttle
Engine-related features called out for model 917273390
The manual highlights these key powertrain and operating details:
| Item | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| 18.0 HP rating | Power level for mowing and light towing tasks |
| Low-emission engine | May run differently than older designs; follow starting and warm-up guidance |
| Electric start | Uses a battery, starter, and solenoid circuit |
| 6-speed transaxle | Shift only after a complete stop to protect the transaxle |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact engine identification helps you buy the right maintenance and starting-system parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter, starter components) and follow the correct tune-up specs. If your tractor clicks but will not crank, the starting circuit is often the first place to check; the solenoid with brass plunger 532146154 is one of the common service parts in that circuit.
Last updated: February 2026
What year was Craftsman 917273390 made?
Craftsman lawn tractor model 917.273390 was sold across multiple production runs, so there is not one single “made year” tied to the model number alone. We use the product identification/serial number label on your tractor to pinpoint the exact build date; the 917273390 owner's manual shows the model number and parts breakdowns used for identification.
How to find the exact year on your tractor
Check the product identification label (commonly under the seat or on the frame near the seat pan). Record the serial number and any date code shown.
- Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and remove the key
- Tilt the seat forward and look for a white or silver ID label
- Write down the full model number (917.273390) and the serial number
- If the label includes a date code, use that as the build date
- If the label is missing or unreadable, use the parts diagrams in the manual to confirm you have the correct model family
What you can use as a practical age estimate
Many Craftsman 917-series tractors were produced over several years with small running changes. A reliable way to narrow the timeframe is to compare your tractor’s configuration to the illustrated parts lists.
| What to compare | Where to look | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical layout | Electrical parts diagram | Helps match harness, switches, and solenoid style |
| Seat style and brackets | Seat assembly diagram | Helps confirm the correct chassis generation |
| Deck and blade setup | Mower deck/blade diagrams | Helps match deck size and spindle/mandrel design |
Why it matters
The exact year affects parts compatibility for items like the ignition key, solenoid, deck blades, and mandrel components. Matching by serial number and diagram prevents ordering a part that looks right but mounts differently.
Common parts that vary by production run
- Ignition key and switch style
- Starter solenoid and wiring harness
- Deck mandrel/spindle components
- Blade type (mulching vs. high-lift)
Last updated: February 2026





