How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917276351, a complete engine replacement typically costs about $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related items (belts, pulleys, wiring) also need service. Use the 917276351 owner's manual to confirm your exact engine and drive setup before ordering.
What drives the total price
Engine swaps vary widely because the job often includes more than the engine itself.
- Engine brand and horsepower class (single-cylinder vs V-twin)
- Whether the replacement is new, rebuilt, or used
- Labor time and shop rate (mobile service usually costs more)
- Extra parts needed (belts, pulleys, clutch, hardware)
- Condition of the tractor (rusted fasteners, damaged wiring, worn mounts)
Typical cost breakdown
These ranges help you estimate the full project cost.
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine (part only) | $200 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; depends on specs and availability |
| Labor (installed) | $200 to $700 | Riding tractors take longer than walk-behinds |
| “While you’re in there” parts | $20 to $350 | Belts, pulleys, electrical switch, hardware |
Parts that commonly get checked during an engine swap
If the tractor had drive or deck issues before the engine failed, we recommend inspecting these items so you do not reinstall worn components.
- PTO engagement and deck drive; a failing switch can mimic clutch issues (see switch.pto 582107601)
- Electric clutch operation and pulley alignment
- Ground drive belt routing and condition
- Blade drive belt, idlers, and keepers (belt routing details are shown in the manual)
- Battery cables and charging circuit connections
Why it matters
A riding mower engine replacement is a major repair; if the deck drive belt, idler pulleys, or electric clutch are worn, the tractor can still run poorly after the new engine is installed. Confirming the correct configuration in the manual helps prevent ordering the wrong engine or missing required hardware.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman model 917276351, the owner’s manual identifies it as a 25.0 HP garden tractor with a low-emission engine; the manual does not call out a specific engine brand on the cover page. For the exact engine make and model, use the engine identification label and the specs section in the 917276351 owner's manual.
How to identify the exact engine on your 917276351
Use these quick checks to match the correct engine parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel parts) and service specs:
- Look for the engine model and type label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Write down the model, type, and code (common on Briggs and similar engines)
- Compare those numbers to the engine section in the 917276351 owner's manual
- If the label is dirty, wipe it gently; avoid spraying water directly into electrical connectors
- Confirm whether your tractor has electric start (the manual cover indicates electric start)
What we can confirm from the manual (and what it means)
The manual cover provides the baseline configuration for this tractor.
| Item | What the manual shows | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor type | Garden tractor | Helps narrow parts diagrams and service procedures |
| Horsepower class | 25.0 HP | Guides expectations for deck size and load capability |
| Emissions | Low-emission engine | Some tuning and starting behavior differs from older engines |
| Starting | Electric start | Battery, solenoid, and ignition switch checks apply |
Related parts that often come up during engine and starting issues
If you are troubleshooting “won’t start” or “dies when engaging blades,” these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (lost or worn key can cause intermittent starting)
- Switch.pto 582107601 (PTO safety and blade engagement circuit)
- Lawn tractor electric clutch 532414737 (blade drive engagement on many deck setups)
Why it matters
Craftsman riding mowers can use different engine families across similar-looking tractors. Using the engine’s model/type/code prevents ordering the wrong tune-up parts and ensures you follow the correct oil, choke, and adjustment guidance.
Last updated: February 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 is not a single model number. The correct model number is the full 9-digit number printed on your mower’s ID label; for this Craftsman riding tractor, the model number is 917276351 (see the 917276351 owner's manual).
How to find the model number on a Craftsman 6.75 walk-behind mower
Check the mower’s product ID label, then copy the model number exactly.
- Look on top of the mower deck near the rear handle mounting area
- Check the side of the deck near a rear wheel
- Look behind the engine, on the deck surface
- Check the underside of the deck lip (wipe grass off first)
- Use the model number from your purchase paperwork if the label is missing
Model number vs. engine numbers (what to use for parts)
Use the mower model number first; use the engine model/type code only for engine-specific parts.
| Identifier you see | Example | Best used for |
|---|---|---|
| Engine rating | 6.75 | General description only |
| Mower model number | 917.xxxxxx | Correct parts diagrams for the mower |
| Engine model/type code | Briggs and Stratton or Kohler code | Carburetor, air filter, spark plug selection |
Why it matters
Many Craftsman mowers can say “6.75” but use different blades, blade adapters, drive belts, and control cables. The full model number is what matches the exact build.
Last updated: February 2026





