Owner’s manual
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What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman riding mower model 917273022, the owner’s manual identifies it as a Craftsman tractor and includes an engine decal reference for a Kohler Pro 20 series; that points to a Kohler single-cylinder engine family used on this tractor. For the exact engine model and spec label, use the 917273022 owner's manual.
We recommend verifying the engine by reading the engine ID label on the engine shroud or valve cover area, then matching it to the manual’s parts and decal information.
- Park on a flat surface, set the parking brake, and remove the key
- Lift the hood and locate the engine model and spec tag (often on the blower housing)
- Write down the engine model, spec, and serial numbers
- Compare what you wrote down to the engine-related decals and parts listings in the manual
- Use those numbers when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter)
The manual excerpt for 917273022 includes a decal listing that references “Koh Pro 20”, which is a strong indicator of the Kohler Pro 20 engine series used on this tractor. The manual also provides operating and maintenance specs (oil type, oil capacity, spark plug type), which align with typical single-cylinder lawn tractor engines.
| Item | Manual spec (917273022) |
|---|---|
| Oil type (above 32°F) | SAE 10W-30 (API SF/SG/SH) |
| Oil type (below 32°F) | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil capacity | 4.2 pints with filter; 3.7 pints without filter |
| Spark plug | Champion RC12YC; gap .040 in |
The exact engine model and spec number determine the correct ignition parts, filters, and carburetor settings. Using the engine tag prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts even when the tractor model number is correct.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917273022, a complete engine replacement (parts plus labor) typically runs $260 to $1,800 installed, with labor commonly around 6 hours depending on shop rates and how much transfer work is needed. For model-specific service procedures, use the 917273022 owner's manual.
Engine replacement cost varies mainly by engine type and how much has to be moved over from the old engine.
- Engine brand and horsepower (single-cylinder vs V-twin)
- Whether the replacement is a complete engine or a short block
- Condition of the wiring, fuel system, and mounting hardware
- Extra parts needed (belts, pulleys, battery cables, fuel line)
- Shop labor rate and pickup or delivery fees
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $200 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; depends on spec and availability |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Often about 6 hours total |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $20 to $200 | Fuel filter, clamps, oil, hardware |
Many “needs an engine” symptoms are caused by starting, fuel, or safety interlock issues.
- Confirm the clutch/brake is fully depressed and PTO is disengaged (interlock system)
- Check for stale fuel or water in fuel; drain and refill with fresh gasoline
- Inspect and replace the spark plug; verify the plug wire is tight
- Clean or replace the air filter and clear debris from engine cooling fins
- Verify battery condition and cable connections
If the engine clicks or cranks but will not start, follow riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.
Replacing the engine is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. A quick diagnosis first helps you avoid paying for an engine when the real issue is fuel delivery, ignition, battery, or the operator presence system.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman riding mower on this page, the model number is 917.273022 (often written without the dot as 917273022). You can confirm it on the ID label and in the 917273022 owner's manual.
Check these common locations on Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors:
- Under the seat on the frame or seat pan
- On the left or right side of the frame near the engine
- Near the rear fender area
- On a sticker or metal tag that also lists the serial number
“42-inch” usually refers to the mower deck cutting width, not the tractor model number. For model 917.273022, the manual cover identifies it as a 46-inch mower deck tractor, so a “Craftsman 42” listing you saw online can be a different machine with a different model number.
| Item | What it means | Example for this page |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact tractor for parts and diagrams | 917.273022 (917273022) |
| Deck size | Cutting width of the mower deck | 46-inch deck |
| Serial number | Identifies the specific unit built | Varies by tractor |
Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong parts for steering, ground drive, and mower deck components. Even small differences (like a 42-inch vs 46-inch deck) can change belts, blades, and mandrel parts.
If you are working on the mower deck drive, one common wear item for this model is the riding lawn mower blade drive belt 532148763.
Last updated: February 2026
