How to look up Craftsman model number?
To look up the model number for your Craftsman riding mower, we start by finding the model and serial tag on the tractor itself; on model 917272083, it’s typically on the frame under the seat or on the underside of the seat. Use that full model number to match the correct parts list and manual.
Check these common locations on Craftsman lawn tractors:
- On the frame directly under the seat (lift the seat and look down at the frame rails)
- On the underside of the seat pan
- Near the rear fender area, close to the seat mounting hardware
- On a sticker or metal plate that lists model and serial
For diagrams and model-specific identification details, use the 917272083 owner's manual.
After you locate the tag, use the model number exactly as shown (including dots or dashes if present) to:
- Confirm you are viewing the correct Craftsman parts breakdown
- Choose compatible maintenance parts (blades, belts, tires)
- Verify deck size and configuration (for example, many setups for this model family use a 42-inch deck)
- Cross-check part descriptions before ordering
| Item | Example (what it looks like) | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 917.272083 | Matches the correct parts diagrams |
| Serial number | Varies | Helps confirm production run details |
| Product description | Lawn tractor, 42-inch deck | Helps avoid wrong-fit parts |
Craftsman tractors often share similar styling across multiple years, but parts like a ground drive belt, mandrel assembly, or ignition key can differ by model number. Using the exact model number prevents ordering a blade, rim, or tire that does not fit.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272083 uses a 17.0 HP gas engine (a low-emission design) paired with electric start and an automatic transmission. For the exact engine manufacturer, displacement, and tune-up specs, use the 917272083 owner's manual.
From the model-specific documentation, this tractor is identified as:
- 17.0 HP, 42-inch mower configuration
- Electric start system (battery-powered starting)
- Automatic transmission (motion control lever for forward and reverse)
- Low-emission engine that may operate differently than older designs
Engine brand and model details are typically listed on the engine label and in the specifications section.
- Check the engine shroud label (usually near the recoil housing or valve cover area)
- Match the engine model/type code when ordering ignition or fuel parts
- Use the specifications and maintenance sections in the 917272083 owner's manual
- Record the engine model before buying tune-up items (spark plug, air filter, oil filter)
| What you need | Where to look | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine manufacturer and model | Engine label and manual specs | Ensures correct parts fit |
| Horsepower rating | Manual cover/specs | Confirms performance class |
| Starting system | Manual and wiring/battery setup | Helps diagnose no-start issues |
| Emissions type | Manual notes | Affects choke and warm-up behavior |
Using the correct engine identification prevents wrong-part returns and speeds up troubleshooting for common issues like hard starting, poor cutting power, or stalling under load.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917272083?
The model number for this Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor is 917.272083 (often written without the dot as 917272083). You can confirm it in the tractor’s parts diagrams and electrical section of the 917272083 owner's manual.
We typically see the model number on the product identification label. Common locations include:
- Under the seat pan or near the seat bracket
- On the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Under the hood area near the dash tower
- Near the rear fender or footrest area
- On a sticker or metal tag with the serial number
Both formats refer to the same tractor model.
| How it may appear | What it means |
|---|---|
| 917.272083 | Standard Craftsman format with a dot |
| 917272083 | Same model number without punctuation |
Using the exact model number helps us match the correct parts list and diagrams for your mower deck, electrical system, and chassis. That prevents ordering the wrong items such as an ignition key, ground drive belt, or deck components.
If you are replacing a common wear item, match by model first, then confirm the part ID. For example, the molded ignition key 532140403 is listed for this model.
Last updated: February 2026
What year did Craftsman make the 917272083?
Craftsman model 917272083 was made in the early 2000s era; the exact build year is identified by the product identification label (typically under the seat or on the frame) and the date code information shown in the 917272083 owner's manual.
Use these checks on your Craftsman riding mower to pin down the precise production date:
- Look for the model and serial label under the seat, on the rear fender pan, or on the frame rail.
- Record the serial number exactly as printed (letters and numbers).
- Check the manual’s product identification section for where the label is located.
- If your tractor has a Kohler engine, also record the engine model information; the manual lists a Kohler CV490-series engine for this model family.
- Match the serial and engine information when ordering parts to avoid fit issues.
The documentation for this model confirms the tractor model number and key assemblies, which helps narrow the production timeframe even when the exact year is not printed in the parts list pages.
| Item | What to look for | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number | 917272083 on the ID label | Confirms the exact Craftsman platform |
| Engine family | Kohler CV490-series listing in the manual | Narrows engine-era and compatible tune-up parts |
| Deck size decals | 42-inch deck decal references in the manual | Helps confirm deck configuration |
Craftsman tractors can share similar-looking chassis across multiple years. The exact year and serial range determine the correct wiring harness, ignition parts, belts, and deck components, so confirming the ID label prevents ordering the wrong replacement parts.
Last updated: February 2026





