Owner’s manual
What model number is the Craftsman 917254701 riding mower?
The model number for this Craftsman riding mower is 917.254701 (often printed on the tractor as 917.25470 on the ID label and in the documentation). For parts lookup and ordering, use Craftsman 917254701 as the full model number.
Where to find the model number on the tractor
We recommend checking the tractor’s model/serial label and matching it to the documentation in the owner's manual. Common places to look include:
- Under the seat pan or seat bracket area
- On the frame near the rear wheels
- Under the hood near the engine compartment
- On the fender or footrest area
- In the manual’s cover page and model identification section
917.25470 vs. 917254701: what’s the difference?
On many Craftsman tractors, the manual and ID tag may show a shortened, dotted version of the model. Use this quick guide:
| What you see | What it means | What to use for parts |
|---|---|---|
| 917.25470 | Base/series model shown in the operator’s manual | 917254701 |
| 917254701 | Full model number used for parts lists and diagrams | 917254701 |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number ensures you get the correct diagrams and compatible parts for your mower deck, electrical system, and drivetrain. For example, model-specific parts like the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350 and lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 can vary by series.
Last updated: February 2026
How many horsepower is a 917254701 engine?
The Craftsman lawn tractor covered under model 917254701 is rated at 17.5 HP (as rated by the engine manufacturer). You’ll see this listed on the cover of the 917254701 owner's manual.
Where the horsepower rating comes from
In the documentation for Craftsman 917254701, the tractor is identified as:
- 17.5 HP
- 42-inch mower deck
- Electric start
- 6-speed transaxle
That 17.5 HP figure is the advertised engine power rating for this tractor model.
Quick spec snapshot (from the manual)
| Spec | What you’ll typically see for 917254701 |
|---|---|
| Engine power | 17.5 HP |
| Mower deck size | 42 in. |
| Drive type | 6-speed transaxle |
| Starting | Electric start |
Why it matters
Horsepower helps you match the tractor to the job (deck load, grass height, hills) and also helps when you’re comparing tune-up parts and drivetrain components. For example, if you’re chasing a no-start or click-no-crank issue, the starting circuit parts (battery, wiring, solenoid, ignition switch) matter more than the HP rating.
Related parts and troubleshooting tips
If the tractor is slow to crank or won’t start, these checks usually save time:
- Confirm the battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight.
- Make sure the brake pedal is fully depressed and the PTO is disengaged (safety interlocks).
- Listen for a single click (often solenoid) versus rapid clicking (often low battery).
- Inspect wiring connections at the starter and solenoid for corrosion.
- If the key feels loose or intermittent, the switch can be the issue.
If you need common starting-circuit replacement parts for this model, we list options such as the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 and the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350.
Last updated: February 2026
How to find Craftsman riding mower serial number?
On your Craftsman riding mower model 917254701, the serial number is printed on the same model and serial number badge as the model number. Find that badge, record both numbers exactly, and use the model number to match the correct parts and manual.
Where to look on model 917254701
Most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors place the model and serial number badge in an easy-to-see spot on the tractor frame.
Check these common locations:
- Under the seat on the seat pan or rear fender area
- On the frame rail near the engine (left or right side)
- Near the rear hitch plate or rear frame crossmember
- Under the hood area on the chassis (not on the engine itself)
What to write down (and why)
Record the information exactly as shown on the badge.
- Model number (for this page: 917254701)
- Serial number (unique to your tractor)
- Any extra code on the label (sometimes a product number or date code)
Quick guide
| Number on the badge | What it does | When you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (917254701) | Identifies the tractor design and parts list | Ordering parts, looking up diagrams |
| Serial number | Identifies your exact unit | Confirming production run details, matching small variations |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors can have small part changes across production runs. Using the correct model number plus your serial number helps us match the right deck parts (like blades and mandrel components), electrical parts, and hardware for your exact tractor.
Helpful next step
Once you find the badge, use the maintenance and safety sections in the 917254701 owner's manual to confirm the correct operating and service procedures before you work around the deck, belts, or blades.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman engines are made by several different engine manufacturers, depending on the specific tractor or mower model and production run. For the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917254701, the operator’s manual identifies it as a 17.5 HP tractor but does not name the engine manufacturer; use the engine ID label on the engine itself to match the correct parts and service specs in the owner's manual.
How to identify who made the engine on a Craftsman 917254701
Look for the engine identification label, then use the maker and model information to confirm tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter) and service procedures.
- Open the hood and locate the engine ID sticker or metal tag (often on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter)
- Record the engine brand (commonly Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or Kawasaki on many Craftsman riders)
- Record the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Compare those numbers to the engine section in the owner's manual
- Use the engine ID when ordering electrical parts if starting is an issue (for example, a solenoid or ignition switch)
Common engine makers you will see on Craftsman riding tractors
Craftsman has used multiple suppliers over the years. These are the most common engine brands found on Craftsman riding mowers and tractors.
| Engine brand | Where you’ll confirm it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Engine ID label | Tune-up parts and carburetor specs vary by code |
| Kohler | Engine ID label | Different oil capacity, filters, and ignition parts |
| Kawasaki | Engine ID label | Different fuel system and maintenance intervals |
Related parts that affect starting (not the engine maker, but often confused with it)
If the tractor clicks or will not crank, the issue is often in the starting circuit, not the engine manufacturer.
- Battery condition and cable connections
- Starter solenoid (a common failure point) such as the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802
- Ignition switch such as the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350
- Safety interlock switches (brake, PTO, seat)
- Starter motor and engine ground
Why it matters
The tractor model number 917254701 tells us the chassis and mower deck configuration, but the engine ID tells us the exact engine family and spec. That is what ensures you get the right maintenance parts and correct troubleshooting steps.
Last updated: February 2026
