Owner’s manual
Who makes Craftsman engines?
For the Craftsman riding tractor model 917258591, the engine manufacturer depends on the specific engine installed; the tractor has its own model number and the engine has its own separate model number. We use the engine model number to identify who made it and which parts fit.
Use the engine model number (not the tractor model number) to determine the manufacturer.
- Lift the seat and confirm the tractor model plate shows 917258591.
- Locate the engine model number on the blower housing (engine shroud).
- Write down the full engine model and type/spec numbers.
- Match that engine model to the correct parts list and tune-up items.
- Use the 917258591 owner's manual to confirm label locations and ordering guidance.
Craftsman has used multiple engine suppliers across different tractor lines and years. On riding tractors, the most common manufacturers include:
- Briggs & Stratton
- Kohler
- Kawasaki
| What you have | What it tells you | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model 917258591 | Which Craftsman tractor platform you own | Use it to find chassis, deck, steering, and drive parts |
| Engine model on blower housing | Who made the engine and exact engine parts | Use it to find filters, plugs, carb parts, and engine diagrams |
Engine parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel system parts, muffler, and tune-up specs) are selected by engine model, while tractor parts (deck, belts, steering, wheels) are selected by tractor model. Using the wrong identifier is the fastest way to order the wrong part.
Last updated: January 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman riding mower model 917258591 uses a gas, internal-combustion engine, and the exact engine model is identified on the engine blower housing (the tractor model tag is under the seat). For the correct engine specs and tune-up parts, match that engine model number to the 917258591 owner's manual.
Use these quick checks so you get the right spark plug, air filter, and fuel filter:
- Find the tractor model plate under the seat (confirms you have model 917258591).
- Find the engine model number on the blower housing (this is the key identifier).
- Write down the full engine ID (model, type, and code if shown).
- Compare the engine ID to the engine section in the manual and parts diagrams.
- If decals mention an engine brand, treat decals as a clue only; the blower-housing ID is the match.
Many Craftsman tractors in this series were built with single-cylinder OHV engines; the manual also references a 16 HP electric start configuration for this model family. Use the engine tag to confirm what you have.
| What you need | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number (917258591) | Under the seat | Ensures chassis and deck parts match |
| Engine model number | Blower housing | Ensures engine parts and specs match |
| Deck size reference | Deck label/parts list | Helps match blades, belts, and deck parts |
Engine identification prevents wrong-part returns and saves time during maintenance like oil changes, air filter service, and spark plug replacement. It also helps when troubleshooting no-start or hard-start symptoms.
If you are already servicing the tractor, these are common wear items to check:
- Drive belt condition and routing (cracks, glazing, slipping)
- Mower deck idlers and pulleys (noise, wobble)
- Battery health and connections (corrosion, weak cranking)
- Tires and wheel hardware (leaks, loose fasteners)
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917258591, a full engine replacement typically costs $800 to $2,500 installed (engine plus labor). The engine alone often runs $500 to $1,800, and labor is commonly 4 to 8 hours, depending on wiring, fuel system, and deck access.
- Engine type and horsepower (OEM replacement vs compatible engine)
- Labor time (rusted fasteners, seized pulleys, wiring repairs)
- Extra parts needed (belts, pulleys, fuel lines, battery, tune-up items)
- Shop rates in your area (typical small-engine labor rates vary widely)
- Why the engine failed (overheating, low oil, fuel contamination)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part only) | $500 to $1,800 | Biggest variable; match crankshaft size and mounting pattern |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Often 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap |
| Misc. parts and fluids | $25 to $200 | Oil, filter, clamps, hardware, belts as needed |
| Estimated total | $800 to $2,500 | Higher if additional drivetrain or electrical issues exist |
Many tractors get quoted for an engine when the real issue is starting, fuel, or safety interlocks. We recommend checking:
- Battery condition and cable connections
- Fuse, ignition switch, solenoid, and starter circuit
- Spark plug and spark plug wire connection
- Fuel quality, fuel filter, and carburetor condition
- Safety switches (seat switch, brake switch, PTO/attachment clutch switch)
If the engine clicks but will not crank, use riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video. If it cranks but will not start, use riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.
An engine replacement can cost close to the value of an older tractor. A quick diagnosis first helps you avoid paying for an engine when a battery, solenoid, fuel issue, or safety interlock is the real problem. For model-specific maintenance and safety steps (including disconnecting the spark plug wire before service), follow the 917258591 manual.
Last updated: January 2026
