Owner’s manual
Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Yes. Craftsman model 917256522 uses a Briggs & Stratton engine; the parts list in the manual identifies the engine as Briggs & Stratton model 28N707 (type 0173-01). Craftsman mowers can use different engine brands by model, so the model number is the key.
How to confirm what engine your Craftsman mower has
Use these quick checks on your tractor:
- Check the tractor model plate (on this model, it is located under the seat).
- Check the engine model information on the blower housing.
- Match what you find to the engine section in the 917256522 owner's manual.
- When ordering parts, use the tractor model number and the engine model number.
What this means for parts and maintenance
Knowing the engine brand and model helps you get the right tune-up and repair parts (spark plug, air filter, starter parts, carburetor parts).
| Item you need | Use this identifier | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor parts (deck, belts, steering) | Craftsman 917256522 | Tractor model plate under the seat |
| Engine parts (ignition, carburetor, gaskets) | Briggs & Stratton 28N707 (type 0173-01) | Engine blower housing and manual |
Why it matters
Craftsman riding mowers are built with different engine suppliers across model years. Confirming the exact engine model prevents ordering the wrong air cleaner cartridge, spark plug, or carburetor kit and speeds up troubleshooting.
Last updated: January 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917256522, a full engine replacement (engine plus labor) typically runs about $260 to $1,800 installed, with labor commonly around 6 hours depending on shop rates and any extra repairs found during the swap. See the 917256522 owner's manual for the engine model identification you will need when pricing engines.
What drives the total cost
- Engine type and horsepower (OEM vs aftermarket, short block vs complete engine)
- Labor rate (local shop hourly rate times the job time)
- Extra parts discovered during removal (belts, pulleys, wiring, fuel line issues)
- Shipping and core charges (common with engines)
- Tune-up and setup after installation (governor/throttle, charging system check)
Typical cost breakdown (what you are paying for)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $200 to $1,500+ | Biggest variable; depends on exact engine model and condition (new vs rebuilt) |
| Labor | $200 to $600+ | Often based on ~6 hours for a riding mower engine swap |
| Misc. parts/fluids | $20 to $200 | Oil, filter, fuel filter, clamps, hardware |
Before you buy an engine, confirm these details
The tractor model number is 917256522, but the engine has its own model number. We recommend confirming the engine ID from the blower housing and matching it when you shop.
- Verify the engine model/type code listed for your tractor (the manual shows an engine model reference)
- Check whether your tractor has a charging/alternator output and confirm it matches the replacement engine setup
- Inspect common wear items that can mimic “bad engine” symptoms:
- Ground drive belt (example: v-belt 532138255)
- Blade drive belt (example: lawn tractor drive belt 532144200)
- Muffler restrictions or damage (example: lawn tractor muffler 532137352)
Why it matters
An engine is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Confirming the exact engine identification and checking related systems (belts, wiring, charging) helps prevent buying the wrong engine or missing a simpler fix.
Last updated: January 2026
What year was Craftsman 917256522 made?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917256522 is most commonly associated with the mid-2000s era (about 2004 to 2006) in the Craftsman LT-series lineup. For the most accurate confirmation for your exact unit, match the model and any date/serial details shown in the 917256522 owner's manual.
How to confirm the build timeframe on your tractor
We recommend using the identification information on the tractor itself to narrow the year range.
- Locate the tractor model plate (commonly under the seat area on many Craftsman riders).
- Confirm the model number reads 917256522 exactly.
- Record any serial number or additional ID codes on the plate.
- Compare those identifiers to the model information and parts listings in the 917256522 owner's manual.
- If the engine has its own model plate, record that too; engine model details can help date the powerplant even when the tractor year is unclear.
Quick reference: what “year made” can mean
Different sources use “year made” differently. This table helps you pick the right target.
| What you want to know | What to look for | Where it’s used |
|---|---|---|
| Model production era | Model number family and features | Parts compatibility, general specs |
| Your tractor’s build date | Serial/date code on the tractor ID plate | Warranty history, exact age |
| Engine build date | Engine model and code on blower housing | Engine parts and tune-up specs |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct production era helps you order the right Craftsman riding mower parts (like belts, blades, and steering components) and avoid mismatches caused by mid-year design changes.
Last updated: January 2026
