Craftsman 917258900 tractor Parts

For the Craftsman riding mower covered on this page, the model number is 917.258900 (often written without the dot as 917258900). You can confirm it on the tractor’s model plate and in the owner's manual.

Where to find the model number on the mower

We use the tractor model number (not the engine model number) to match the correct parts list.

• Check the model plate under the seat (common location for this Craftsman tractor series).
• Write the number exactly as shown; it may appear as 917.258900 or 917258900.
• Do not use deck size (42-inch) alone to identify the mower.
• Do not use the engine model number when ordering tractor parts.

42-inch deck vs. this model’s deck size

Deck size is a feature, not a model identifier. The documentation for model 917.258900 describes a 50-inch mower deck, so a “Craftsman 42 riding mower” can refer to a different model.

Identifier	What it tells you	Use it to order parts?
Tractor model number (example: 917.258900)	Exact tractor configuration	Yes
Deck size (42-inch, 50-inch)	Cutting width only	No
Engine model number	Engine-specific ID	Only for engine parts

Why it matters

Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong belts, steering parts, or electrical components. For example, parts like the pto switch 582107601 and starter solenoid 532146154 must match the tractor model and wiring setup.

Last updated: February 2026

Craftsman model 917258900 does not map to a single “model year”; it was produced across a run, and the exact build date is identified from the tractor’s serial number and date code on the unit. Use the identification label and the date-code format shown in the owner's manual to pin down the specific month and year.

How to find the exact build date on your tractor

Check the tractor’s product identification label (commonly under the seat or on the frame near the rear fender area). On many Craftsman 917-series tractors, the label includes a serial number and sometimes a date code.

Use these quick checks:

• Look for a sticker or metal tag that lists MODEL 917258900 and a serial number.
• Write down the full serial number exactly as shown.
• If a date code is present, record it as well (some labels include a month/day/year style code).
• Compare what you find to the identification information section in the owner's manual.
• If the label is damaged, clean it gently and use a flashlight to read faint printing.

What we can confirm from the model documentation

The documentation we have for this tractor is a parts and service manual for MODEL NUMBER 917.258900, including detailed repair parts breakdowns (electrical, chassis, engine, lift assembly). That confirms the model family and configuration, but the manual itself is not a “year of manufacture” certificate.

Model-specific clues shown in the manual

The manual’s engine breakdown lists a Kohler engine specification:

Item	What it tells you
Kohler model CV22 PS-67515	Helps identify the engine family used on this tractor
Repair parts lists and diagrams	Confirms component groupings used for 917258900

Why it matters

Craftsman tractors often share the same model number format across multiple production runs. The exact build date helps ensure you get the right parts (belts, pulleys, electrical switches, and steering components) and follow the correct adjustment specs.

Parts examples that can vary by production run

When you are matching parts, always use the model and the diagrams:

• Starter solenoid 532146154 (starting circuit)
• Switch.pto.3 582107601 (PTO engagement)
• Lawn tractor lawn mower secondary v-belt 532137153 (ground drive)

Last updated: February 2026

For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917258900, the mower deck shown in the parts list is a 50-inch deck, not a 42-inch deck. To get the correct belt size, match the belt by deck size and belt type (primary vs. secondary) using the belt listing and routing diagram in the 917258900 owner's manual.

Confirm your deck size first

Before ordering a belt, verify whether you truly have a 42-inch deck or the 50-inch deck used on model 917258900.

• Check the deck shell for a stamped size (often near the discharge chute)
• Measure blade tip to blade tip across the cutting path (approximate deck size)
• Compare your deck layout to the deck diagram in the 917258900 owner's manual
• If your deck has two blade spindles, it is commonly a 42-inch style
• If your deck has three blade spindles, it is commonly a 50-inch style

Which belt do you need?

This tractor’s deck drive system uses two deck belts in the mower deck parts list:

• Mower primary V-belt: transfers power into the deck drive
• Mower secondary V-belt: routes around deck pulleys and mandrels
• Ground drive belt (different system): drives the tractor’s transmission, not the blades

Quick symptom guide

Symptom	Most likely belt/system	What to check next
Blades do not spin or slip	Deck belt (primary or secondary)	Belt routing, idlers, mandrels
Tractor will not move	Ground drive belt	Drive pulleys, belt guides

Related parts that affect belt fit and belt life

A worn idler pulley or misrouted belt can shred a new belt quickly.

• Inspect the deck idler pulley for wobble or noise; see lawn tractor idler pulley 532139245
• Check belt keepers and guides for bends or missing hardware
• Make sure the PTO engagement is operating smoothly

Why it matters

Belt length and width are tied to the exact deck configuration. Using a 42-inch belt on a 50-inch deck (or mixing up primary vs. secondary) causes slipping, thrown belts, and poor cutting performance.

Last updated: February 2026