How to look up Craftsman model number?
For a Craftsman riding mower or tractor like model 917310-0650B, we look up the model number by finding the model and serial tag on the machine first, then using that exact model number to pull the correct engine and drivetrain (transaxle) parts list. If the tag is dirty or worn, cleaning it usually makes the numbers readable.
Most Craftsman riding mowers place the model and serial label in one of these common spots:
- On the frame under the seat (lift the seat and look on the top of the frame rails)
- On the underside of the seat pan
- Near the rear fender area close to the seat mounting points
- Occasionally near the footrest area on the frame (depending on chassis)
Once you have the model number, match it exactly (including dashes and suffix letters). For example, 917310-0650B is not the same as 917310-0650.
- Enter the full model number to pull the correct diagrams for the transaxle and drivetrain
- Use the diagrams to identify the exact part you need by location and description
- Order by the listed part ID or part number to avoid fit issues
| Part type | What it affects | Common symptom when failing |
|---|---|---|
| Axle oil seal | Keeps transaxle oil in | Oil leak at wheel, wet dirt buildup |
| Bearing | Supports shafts/gears | Growling noise, wobble, overheating |
| Actuating arm | Controls engagement/linkage | Won’t move, won’t shift, inconsistent drive |
If you are chasing an oil leak at the wheel, the husqvarna lawn tractor transaxle wheel axle oil seal 142961 is a common wear item in the drivetrain area.
Using the exact Craftsman model number ensures we show the correct engine and drivetrain breakdown for your mower. That prevents ordering the wrong transaxle seal, bearing, or linkage part and saves time during repair.
You can order replacement parts from the parts list for model 917310-0650B, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman-branded engines are made by multiple manufacturers, depending on the specific mower or tractor model and engine family. For many gasoline-powered Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors, the engine is commonly supplied by Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or Kawasaki; the exact maker is tied to the engine model number on your unit.
Use the engine ID information on the engine itself (not the tractor model number 917310-0650B) to confirm who built it.
- Find the engine data label or stamped plate on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Write down the engine model, type/spec, and code/serial numbers
- Match the format:
- Briggs & Stratton often uses model-type-code (for example, 31XXXX-XXXX-XX)
- Kohler often uses a model like Courage/Command series with a spec number
- Kawasaki often uses an FH/FR/FS series model with a spec code
- If you are shopping parts, use the engine numbers to avoid ordering the wrong carburetor, ignition coil, or air filter
Your Craftsman 917310-0650B page focuses on engine and drivetrain related chassis parts (transaxle and linkage items). Those parts fit the tractor configuration even when the engine supplier varies.
Here are examples of drivetrain parts that are selected by tractor build, not by engine brand:
| Part type | What it affects | Example on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Axle seal | Prevents transaxle oil leaks at the axle | Husqvarna lawn tractor transaxle wheel axle oil seal 142961 |
| Actuating arm | Controls engagement or linkage movement | Actuating arm 583156301 |
| Bearing | Supports rotating shafts/gears in the drivetrain | Bearing 532122745 |
If you are troubleshooting a riding mower that will not move or leaks oil near a rear wheel, focus on transaxle and linkage parts first.
- Oil on the inside of a rear wheel: axle seal is a common fix
- Grinding or rumbling from the rear: bearing wear is common
- Poor engagement or inconsistent drive: linkage or actuating arm issues are common
For ordering, we recommend using the parts list for model 917310-0650B first, then using Sears PartsDirect to search by your engine model number if you need engine-specific parts.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman model 917310-0650B, the engine type is not determined by the engine and drivetrain (transaxle) parts list alone. Most Craftsman riding mowers in this family use a single-cylinder gasoline engine (commonly Briggs & Stratton), and the exact engine model is confirmed by the engine ID label on your mower.
We recommend matching the engine by its engine model, type, and code (or spec number) from the engine label. Check these common locations:
- On the blower housing (top or side of the engine)
- Near the starter or valve cover
- On the engine shroud close to the muffler heat shield
- Stamped on a metal tag or printed on a durable sticker
With the engine model/type/code in hand, you can accurately select tune-up and repair parts (air filter, spark plug, carburetor parts, starter, fuel shutoff, and gaskets).
- Use the model number 917310-0650B to stay in the correct mower family
- Use the engine label numbers to match engine-specific parts
- Order drivetrain-related parts from this page when the issue is in the rear drive system
- For broader parts lookup by model number, use Sears PartsDirect
Because this is an engine & drivetrain parts section for a transaxle-style drive, these parts are often involved when you see oil leaks, slipping, or loss of drive:
| Symptom | Common drivetrain area | Part on this page that may apply |
|---|---|---|
| Oil leaking at wheel area | Axle seal | Husqvarna lawn tractor transaxle wheel axle oil seal 142961 |
| Won’t shift or linkage feels loose | Shift/brake linkage | Actuating arm 583156301 |
| Grinding or rough axle movement | Internal support | Bearing 532122745 |
Using the correct engine identification prevents ordering the wrong ignition, fuel, or tune-up parts. Using the correct transaxle parts prevents repeat leaks and premature drivetrain wear, especially if the mower is operated on slopes or with heavy towing.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read Craftsman serial number?
For a Craftsman riding mower like model 917310-0650B, the serial number is typically read as a date code: MMDDYY (month, day, year). For example, 072811 reads as July 28, 2011; this helps you match the correct engine and drivetrain parts.
On most Craftsman riding mowers and tractors, the serial number is on an ID label in one of these spots:
- Under the seat on the seat pan or fender deck
- On the frame rail near the rear wheels
- Near the engine compartment (side of frame)
- On the mower deck housing (less common for tractor serial)
Many Craftsman-built riding mowers use a 6-digit date-style serial number.
| Serial number example | Month | Day | Year | Build date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 072811 | 07 | 28 | 11 | July 28, 2011 |
| 031905 | 03 | 19 | 05 | March 19, 2005 |
- If the label shows more than 6 digits, look for a 6-digit block that matches MMDDYY.
- If the first two digits are greater than 12, it is not a month; use the model number to confirm you are on the right parts list.
- If your label includes letters, use the full model number 917310-0650B to match parts instead of relying only on the serial.
The build date helps narrow down which transaxle and drivetrain components fit your mower, especially when there were mid-year changes. When you are chasing leaks or axle play, common drivetrain wear items include:
- Axle oil seals (leaks at the wheel hub)
- Bearings (growling noise, wobble, heat)
- Linkage parts (poor engagement or inconsistent drive)
If you are repairing a leak at the transaxle axle, the husqvarna lawn tractor transaxle wheel axle oil seal 142961 is one of the parts commonly used in this drivetrain group. You can also order parts from the list for model 917310-0650B, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does a Craftsman 917310-0650B riding lawn mower weigh?
The Craftsman 917310-0650B is a riding mower/tractor platform, and most machines in this class weigh about 400 to 600 lb depending on deck size, engine, and whether the transaxle is manual or hydrostatic. For the most accurate number, match the weight to your exact configuration and installed attachments.
We recommend confirming weight based on what is actually installed on your 917310-0650B (deck, battery, tires, and any accessories). Use these checks:
- Look for a product label under the seat or on the frame that lists model and build details.
- Note the cutting deck size (larger decks add weight).
- Check whether you have added a bagger, bumper, weights, or a snow attachment.
- Weigh the mower on a vehicle scale (CAT scale) by driving on slowly and recording the reading.
- If weighing at home, weigh front and rear axles separately using heavy-duty platform scales.
These ranges help you plan for transport, ramps, and trailer capacity.
| Riding mower type | Typical weight (lb) | What changes it most |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn tractor (most Craftsman units) | 400 to 600 | Deck size, transaxle type, tire size |
| Garden tractor (heavier-duty) | 600 to 900 | Frame strength, larger engine, attachments |
| Zero-turn mower | 500 to 900 | Deck width, engine size, drive system |
Knowing the weight helps prevent trailer overload, ramp failure, and turf damage. It also helps when diagnosing drivetrain issues because an overloaded mower can accelerate wear in the transaxle, axle seals, and bearings.
If you are seeing oil around the wheel hubs or drivetrain, these model-related parts are common checks:
- Husqvarna lawn tractor transaxle wheel axle oil seal 142961 (helps stop gear oil leaks at the axle)
- Bearing 532122745 (supports rotating shafts; wear can cause noise and play)
- Actuating arm 583156301 (links controls to drivetrain mechanisms)
For ordering, use the parts list for model 917310-0650B, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026