How to find Craftsman parts?
For your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272068, the most reliable way to find the correct replacement part is to use the model-specific parts diagrams and parts list, then match the part name and part ID to what is installed on your tractor. Your 917272068 owner's manual helps confirm deck size and maintenance items.
- Start with the full model number 917272068.
- Use the parts diagrams to pinpoint the exact section (mower deck, steering, wheels, electrical).
- Match by part ID when ordering; it prevents mix-ups when similar parts exist.
- Confirm deck and wear-item details in the manual (this model uses a 42-inch mower deck).
- Order from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Here are examples of parts shown for model 917272068 that are often replaced due to normal wear or loss:
| What you need | Example part on this model | When it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Deck blade (mulching) | Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 | Poor cut quality, bent blade, mulching setup |
| Ground drive belt | Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 | Slipping drive, loss of forward motion under load |
| Ignition key | Molded ignition key 532140403 | Lost key, worn key, intermittent starting |
- Compare the old part’s markings (numbers, length, hole pattern) to the listing.
- For deck parts, confirm you have the 42-inch deck before buying blades, mandrel parts, or belt-driven components.
- For wheels and tires, verify front vs. rear sizing; the manual’s parts list shows different tire and rim part numbers.
- If the tractor has been modified (aftermarket deck or non-original components), match the replacement to the installed part, not only the tractor model.
Using the model-specific diagrams for Craftsman 917272068 prevents fit issues, especially for wear items like blades, belts, mandrel assemblies, and wheel hardware where small differences can stop a repair.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell year of Craftsman lawn tractor?
For a Craftsman lawn tractor, the most reliable way to identify the year is by using the model number and the product identification label information listed in the owner's manual. For model 917272068, the manual confirms the exact model family and specifications (16.0 HP, 42-inch mower), which you can match to the ID tag on the tractor.
On most Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors, the identification label is located in an easy-to-see spot on the frame. Common locations include:
- Under the seat pan (lift the seat)
- On the rear fender pan near the seat
- On the frame rail near the engine
- Near the steering column or dash area
Once you find the label, write down the model number and any serial/date code shown.
Many Craftsman-built tractors use a 6-digit date format on the label or on a component tag:
- First 2 digits: month
- Next 2 digits: day
- Last 2 digits: year
| Code | Interprets as | Build date |
|---|---|---|
| 072811 | 07 / 28 / 11 | July 28, 2011 |
If your label uses a different format, use the model number (917272068) and the parts diagrams to confirm the correct production family.
Knowing the year helps us match the correct parts and specifications for your Craftsman 917272068 lawn tractor, especially for wear items like blades, belts, and deck hardware. For example, this model uses a 42-inch mower deck assembly, and common deck-related replacements include the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 and the lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294.
- Match the full model number exactly: 917272068
- Compare the deck size listed in the manual (42-inch) to your deck decal
- Replace fasteners you remove if they are worn (lock nuts are designed to resist loosening)
- Order by model from the parts list for your tractor, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
What brand engine does Craftsman use?
Craftsman lawn tractors can use engines from several manufacturers depending on the specific tractor model and production year. For Craftsman model 917272068, the owner documentation identifies it as a 16.0 HP tractor with a low-emission engine; use the 917272068 owner's manual to confirm the exact engine brand and service details for your unit.
We recommend verifying the engine maker using the engine ID label and the tractor’s documentation, since Craftsman tractors were built with different engine suppliers.
- Look for the engine data tag on the engine shroud or valve cover area
- Record the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Match those numbers to the engine section in the 917272068 owner's manual
- Check the hood and frame decals for engine HP and emissions notes
- Use the engine model number when ordering tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter)
Across Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors, these are the most common engine suppliers you will see:
| Engine brand | How it’s usually labeled | Typical clue on the tag |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | “Briggs & Stratton” | Model-type-code format |
| Kohler | “KOHLER” | Command/Courage/7000 series style spec |
| Kawasaki | “Kawasaki” | FR/FS/FX series style model |
The engine brand determines the correct maintenance parts and specs (oil type/amount, spark plug, air filter style, and tune-up intervals). Using the right engine identification also helps when troubleshooting starting issues or poor performance.
If you are doing general tractor maintenance while you identify the engine, these model-related items are commonly replaced on the mower itself:
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (no-start due to a lost or damaged key)
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 (loss of drive or slipping)
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 (poor cut quality)
For additional replacement parts beyond what’s listed for this model, we also support searching by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor with a 42-inch mower deck on this page, the model number is 917272068. You can confirm it on the identification information in the 917272068 owner's manual, which lists the tractor as a 16.0 HP, 42-inch mower model.
We recommend verifying the model number before ordering parts like a ground drive belt or mulching blade.
- Check the model label under the seat or on the frame near the rear fender area
- Match the model number exactly (use all digits): 917272068
- Confirm the deck size is 42 inches (often shown on a deck decal)
- Use the parts diagrams for this model when identifying hardware and assemblies
- Cross-check the manual cover page for the model number
The documentation for model 917272068 identifies a 42-inch mower deck and lists related deck components.
| Item | What you should see for this model | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 917272068 | Ensures correct parts lookup |
| Deck size | 42-inch mower deck | Confirms deck-related parts fit |
| Example deck part | Mower deck assembly (42-inch) | Validates you are in the right diagram |
Once you confirm 917272068, you can order the correct replacement parts from the list for this model or search by model on Sears PartsDirect. Common examples on this model include:
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 (blade selection depends on deck setup)
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 (belt routing and length are model-specific)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (key style varies by ignition switch)
Craftsman tractors can share a 42-inch deck size across multiple model numbers, but the belt routing, mandrel parts, and chassis components can differ. Matching 917272068 prevents ordering parts that look similar but do not fit.
Last updated: February 2026





