Where can I find my lawn mower engine model number?
On Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272860, the engine model information is listed in the tractor documentation and on the engine itself. In the parts manual, the engine is identified as a Briggs & Stratton model 407777 with type 0174-E1; use that exact model and type when ordering engine parts or looking up specs in the 917272860 owner's manual.
Check these common locations first (wipe dirt and oil off the area so the stamping is readable):
- On the engine shroud or blower housing near the recoil/starter area
- On the valve cover area (often on one side of the V-twin)
- On a metal tag or stamped pad near the cylinder head
- Near the muffler or heat shield area (use a flashlight)
- Under the hood, along the top or side of the engine
For engine parts lookup, we use the engine identifiers in this format:
| Identifier | Example for this tractor | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine model | 407777 | Identifies the engine family |
| Type number | 0174-E1 | Matches the exact build configuration |
| Code/date | Varies | Helps match production changes |
- Write down the full engine model and type exactly as shown
- Include any dashes (for example, 0174-E1)
- If the stamping is faint, rub chalk or a pencil sideways over it to make characters stand out
- Use the tractor model number 917272860 when browsing chassis and deck parts
- Use the engine model and type when browsing Briggs & Stratton engine breakdown parts
Many riding mower engines share similar sizes, but small differences in carburetor parts, ignition components, and gaskets depend on the exact model and type. Using the correct engine ID prevents mismatched parts and repeat repairs.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman lawn tractor engines are commonly sourced from major engine manufacturers such as Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Kawasaki, depending on the specific tractor and production run. For your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272860, the exact engine manufacturer is identified in the engine information section of the owner's manual.
Use these quick checks (no disassembly needed):
- Look for the engine ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter
- Record the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Match those numbers to the engine maker’s format (the manual shows where to find them)
- Confirm the horsepower and deck size listed for this tractor (22.0 HP, 42-inch mower deck)
- Use the engine numbers when ordering tune-up and starting-system parts
Different Craftsman riding mowers and tractors use different engine brands. Here is what we see most often across the category:
| Engine brand | Where you’ll usually find it | What the ID tag helps with |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Many Craftsman lawn tractors | Correct spark plug, air filter, carb parts |
| Kohler | Some mid to higher tier tractors | Correct fuel system and ignition parts |
| Kawasaki | Some premium models | Correct filters and service parts |
The tractor model number (917272860) tells us the chassis and deck family, but the engine model number is what ensures you get the right maintenance and repair parts (filters, spark plugs, starter components). If your tractor only clicks or will not crank, the engine and starting system IDs help narrow it down fast.
If the starter clicks but the engine will not turn, follow the steps in riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
If you are chasing a no-crank or intermittent start, these parts are commonly involved:
- Battery cables and connections (clean and tighten)
- Starter solenoid (a frequent click-no-crank cause), see solenoid with brass plunger 532146154
- Ignition key and switch circuit, see molded ignition key 532140403
- Safety interlock switches (brake, PTO, seat)
- Ground connections at the frame and engine
You can order replacement parts for Craftsman 917272860 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman lawn tractor like model 917272860, a full engine replacement typically runs $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related wear items (belts, pulleys, wiring) also need attention. Use the 917272860 owner's manual to confirm safety steps and service checks before any major repair.
- Engine price: new, rebuilt, or used engines vary widely.
- Labor time: riding mower engine swaps commonly take around 6 hours.
- Extra parts: you may need a belt, pulley, solenoid, or hardware replaced during the job.
- Root cause: overheating, fuel issues, or electrical problems can mimic “bad engine” symptoms.
- Shop minimums and pickup fees: some service providers add transport or diagnostic charges.
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $150 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; depends on brand/specs |
| Labor | $100 to $600 | Often based on hourly rate times ~6 hours |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $10 to $200 | Belts, fasteners, wiring repairs, fluids |
Many “engine is bad” complaints are caused by starting, safety interlock, or fuel delivery issues. We recommend checking these first:
- Battery condition and cable connections
- Safety interlock operation (seat switch, brake pedal, attachment clutch)
- Fuel quality (stale fuel, water in fuel) and fuel filter flow direction
- Air intake and cooling fins for blockage (overheating can cause major damage)
- Spark plug condition and gap (per the specifications in the manual)
If the engine clicks but will not turn over, follow the steps in riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video to narrow it down before committing to an engine.
If you find the issue is electrical or drive-related instead of a failed engine, these parts are commonly involved:
- Solenoid with brass plunger 532146154 (starter solenoid)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (key and ignition system basics)
- Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 (loss of drive symptoms)
An engine replacement is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Spending a little time on troubleshooting and safety checks (especially the interlock system) helps you avoid replacing a good engine and restores reliable starting and mowing performance.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272860 is equipped with a 22.0 HP engine and a 42-inch mower deck (per the model’s documentation). The manual also notes it uses a low-emission engine design; for operating and service details, use the 917272860 owner's manual.
From the model-specific manual, this tractor is identified as:
- Craftsman lawn tractor 917272860
- 22.0 HP engine
- 42-inch mower deck
- Electric start
- Low-emission engine (operates differently than older designs)
Some owners describe this style of drive as “automatic” because you don’t shift gears like a manual. On this tractor, the drive is controlled by forward and reverse pedals, which is the typical setup for a hydrostatic (automatic-style) drive.
| Term you may hear | What it usually means on a lawn tractor | What you do as the operator |
|---|---|---|
| Gear drive | Fixed speeds, shift lever | Select a gear, then drive |
| Hydrostatic | Variable speed via pedal | Press pedal more or less to change speed |
The tractor model number tells us the chassis and deck; the engine’s own ID tag tells us the exact engine family for tune-up parts.
Check these common locations for the engine label:
- Top of the engine shroud/blower housing
- Valve cover area
- Near the muffler heat shield
- Side of the engine block (stamped plate)
Write down the engine model, type, and code exactly as shown.
Correct engine identification prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts (air filter, spark plug, carburetor parts) and helps you follow the right service intervals and oil recommendations.
If you’re diagnosing a click-no-crank issue while identifying the engine, use riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video. You can also order model-matched parts from the parts list for 917272860, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





