Craftsman 917257480 38" 18-hp riding garden tractor Parts

For the Craftsman riding tractor covered by this page, the model number is 917.257480 (often written without the dot as 917257480). We confirm this in the owner's manual, which identifies the tractor as model 917.257480.

We recommend checking the tractor’s model plate first, then matching it to the manual.

• Look under the seat for the model plate (common location for this Craftsman tractor)
• Match the number to 917.257480 or 917257480
• Record the full model number before ordering belts, pulleys, or switches
• Note that the engine has its own model number (separate from the tractor model)
• Use the tractor model number when selecting chassis and deck parts

This model is identified in the manual as a 38-inch mower deck tractor, not a 42-inch deck.

Deck size and model number directly affect parts fit. For example, a 38-inch deck commonly uses a different blade drive belt than a 42-inch deck. If you are replacing a belt on this tractor, match by model first; a common wear item is the lawn tractor blade drive belt 532106085.

Last updated: February 2026

For your Craftsman riding mower, the fastest way to find the right replacement part is to match the exact model number (917257480) to the parts diagrams and parts list, then confirm the part number and description before ordering. Your tractor’s model number is typically found on the model plate under the seat; the engine model number is on the blower housing (both are used for accurate parts lookup). See the owner's manual for model-number location and parts-ordering details.

• Confirm the full tractor model number: 917257480 (check the plate under the seat).
• Identify whether you need a tractor part or an engine part (engine model is on the blower housing).
• Use the parts diagrams to locate the component and note the callout number.
• Match the callout to the part number and part description in the list.
• Cross-check size and application (for example, belt length and width) before you buy.

If you are not sure where to start, these are frequent wear items for a 38-inch, 18-hp lawn tractor:

Craftsman tractors often have multiple similar-looking parts across close model numbers. Using the exact 917257480 model number and the correct diagram prevents ordering the wrong belt, pulley, switch, or hardware and saves time during repair.

Last updated: February 2026

Craftsman model 917257480 is a model number, not a date code; the year is not encoded in the model number itself. To identify the year for your specific tractor, we use the serial number from the ID plate under the seat and match it to the identification details in the owner's manual.

On Craftsman riding tractors like model 917257480, the key identifiers are on a plate under the seat.

• Lift the seat and locate the model/serial plate
• Record the serial number exactly as shown
• Record the date of purchase if you still have it
• Use the serial number to confirm production timeframe when ordering parts
• Keep the information with your maintenance records

Some online videos describe date decoding from certain tags or numbers, but Craftsman tractors commonly require the serial number (and sometimes the purchase date) to pin down the year accurately. For model 917257480, the manual focuses on recording the model and serial numbers for future reference rather than stating a model-year.

Getting the year right helps us match the correct repair parts and diagrams for your Craftsman 38-inch, 18 HP riding tractor, especially for items that can vary by production run (belts, pulleys, switches, and steering parts).

Last updated: February 2026

On Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors like model 917257480, the model number is typically on a product ID label under the seat or on the frame near the rear wheels. Once you have the full model number, you can match it to the correct parts diagrams and specifications in the 917257480 owner's manual.

Check these common label locations first (wipe dirt and grass off the area so the tag is readable):

• Under the seat pan or on the seat support bracket
• On the frame rail near the rear tires
• Near the engine compartment on the frame (side rail)
• Around the steering column area on the chassis
• Near the mower deck hanger area (less common)

For accurate parts lookup, record the information exactly as shown on the label.

• Model number (example: 917257480)
• Product number (if listed)
• Serial number (helps confirm production run)
• Any engine model/type/code numbers (useful for engine-specific parts)

These issues cause the most wrong-part orders:

• Mixing up a deck size (38-inch) with the model number
• Using only the first few digits (you need the full model number)
• Reading a number off the engine shroud instead of the tractor ID label
• Confusing a part number stamped on a bracket with the model number

Craftsman tractors often share similar frames and decks across multiple model numbers, but belt routing, pulleys, and safety switches can differ. Using the exact model number ensures you get the right diagrams, maintenance specs, and replacement parts for your tractor.

Last updated: February 2026