Owner’s manual
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Does Craftsman use Kohler engines?
Yes. Craftsman uses Kohler engines on some riding mowers and lawn tractors, and the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917274660 is equipped with a Kohler SV590 engine (type 0002) per the model’s documentation.
What this means for parts and service
When your tractor has a Kohler engine, you typically identify engine-specific parts (starter, ignition module, stator, spark plug, oil filter, gaskets) by the Kohler engine model and type, not only by the tractor model.
Common engine ID details to use:
- Tractor model: 917274660
- Engine brand: Kohler
- Engine model: SV590
- Type number: 0002
How to confirm what engine your Craftsman tractor has
We recommend confirming the engine ID from the engine label and matching it to the documentation.
- Look for the engine ID decal on the blower housing or valve cover area
- Record the engine model and type (both matter)
- Match those numbers to the engine section in the 917274660 owner's manual
- Use the engine model and type when ordering ignition, charging, and starting-system parts
Quick reference: tractor model vs. engine model
| What you’re identifying | Example for this tractor | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number | 917274660 | Matches chassis, deck, steering, belts, and safety switches |
| Engine model and type | Kohler SV590, type 0002 | Matches carburetion, ignition/electrical, starter, and internal engine parts |
Why it matters
Using the correct engine model and type prevents wrong-part issues, especially for Kohler ignition/electrical and lubrication components that can vary by spec even within the same SV-series family.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917274660, a full engine replacement typically runs about $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related drive components (belts, pulleys, wiring) also need service. For model-specific procedures and safety steps, use the 917274660 owner's manual.
What drives the total cost
- Engine price: new replacement engines vary widely by horsepower, shaft size, and charging system.
- Labor time: riding mower engine swaps commonly take around 6 hours in a shop.
- Extra parts: worn belts, hardware, or electrical connectors often get replaced during the job.
- Condition issues: oil leaks, damaged wiring, or a bent pulley can add time and parts.
- Pickup and delivery: some shops charge transport fees for riding mowers.
Typical cost breakdown (what you may see on an estimate)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part only) | $200 to $1,500 | Biggest variable; depends on specs and availability |
| Labor | $200 to $700 | Often based on hourly rate times job time |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $20 to $200 | Fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, hardware |
| Total installed | $260 to $1,800 | Common real-world range |
Before you replace the engine, check these common “no-start” causes
We recommend ruling out simpler problems first because the manual’s troubleshooting steps often point to battery, wiring, or safety interlocks.
- Battery charge and cable connections
- Fuse and wiring condition
- Ignition switch and starter/solenoid operation
- Fuel quality (stale fuel or water in fuel)
- Air filter condition and engine oil level
If the engine clicks but will not crank, use riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video to narrow it down.
Why it matters
An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Confirming the real failure (engine internal damage vs. electrical, fuel, or safety circuit issues) helps you avoid paying for an engine when a battery, switch, or wiring repair would restore operation.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I find the model number on my 917274660?
The model number for your Craftsman riding mower is printed on the tractor’s identification decal or plate; for this unit, it will read 917.274660. Use the location diagrams in the 917274660 owner's manual to match the decal location on your tractor.
Where to look on the tractor
Check these common ID-label spots used on Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors:
- Under the seat pan or on the seat support
- On the rear fender pan (near the seat)
- On the frame rail, usually left side
- Under the hood near the dash tower
- Near the engine compartment or battery area
What you should write down
For ordering the correct parts (belts, blades, switches), record the full ID information:
- Model number (example format: 917.274660)
- Product number (often on the same decal)
- Serial number
- Any engine model/type/code (engine tag is separate from the tractor tag)
Quick ID check: tractor vs. engine
The tractor model number identifies the chassis and deck; the engine tag identifies the engine parts.
| Label type | What it identifies | Used for ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model decal | Tractor, deck, steering, drive system | Belts, blades, deck parts, chassis parts |
| Engine tag/plate | Engine only | Spark plug, carburetor, starter parts |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors can look similar across years, but parts like the 42-in deck components and drive belts vary by model. Using the exact model number helps you avoid mismatched parts and installation issues.
Last updated: March 2026
