Craftsman 917273400 lawn tractor Parts

The model number for this Craftsman riding mower is 917273400. You’ll see it printed on the cover page of the owner's manual, and it’s the number you should use when looking up parts diagrams, blades, belts, and other replacement parts for this lawn tractor.

Where to confirm the model number on the tractor

We recommend matching the tractor’s ID label to the manual so you order the correct parts.

• Check the product identification label on the tractor frame (commonly under the seat area or near the rear fender)
• Match the model number exactly, including all digits
• Record the model number before ordering blades, belts, or steering parts
• Use the model number when referencing parts diagrams and exploded views

Why the model number matters for parts fit

Many Craftsman lawn tractors look similar but use different deck components, drive belts, and hardware. For model 917273400, the manual parts list shows a 42-inch mower deck and lists compatible blade types.

Examples of model-matched parts on this page

Part type	Example part on this model page	What it affects
Mulching blade	Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149	Cut quality and mulching performance
High-lift blade	Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971	Bagging and side discharge airflow
Ground drive belt	Lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294	Forward and reverse drive performance

Quick tip if you’re comparing to another number

Sometimes you’ll see other identifiers (like engine numbers or retail item numbers). For parts and diagrams, 917273400 is the correct Craftsman model number to use.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273400 is worth it when the tractor’s deck, chassis, and drive system are still solid and the total swap cost stays well below the cost of replacing the whole machine. Use the owner's manual to confirm maintenance and safety checks before investing.

Quick decision checklist

• The mower deck is not rusted through and the spindles are not wobbling
• The transmission and ground drive still pull strongly (no slipping or loss of motion)
• Steering and frame are straight (no major crash damage)
• You can still get common wear parts (blades, belts, electrical)
• The engine failure is major (thrown rod, no compression) rather than a tune-up issue
• The engine swap cost is clearly less than replacing the tractor

Cost and effort: what to compare

Engine replacement makes the most sense when you treat it like a full system refresh: engine plus the wear items that protect it and the drivetrain.

Item to compare	Replace engine	Replace tractor
Upfront cost	Medium to high	High
Time/effort	High (DIY labor)	Low
Risk of surprises	Medium	Low
Best when	Rest of tractor is strong	Multiple systems are worn

Before you commit: rule out common “no-start” causes

Many “dead engine” complaints are actually starting or fuel issues. The troubleshooting guidance in the manual points to basics like battery condition, wiring, spark plug, fuel filter, and safety interlocks.

• Recharge or replace the battery; clean battery terminals
• Check wiring connections and fuses
• Verify the brake is depressed and the attachment clutch is disengaged
• Inspect the spark plug and spark plug wire connection
• Refresh old fuel; replace the fuel filter if flow is restricted

If you’re hearing a click but no crank, the starting circuit is a prime suspect; a common replacement is the solenoid with brass plunger 532146154.

Why it matters

An engine swap only pays off if it extends the tractor’s useful life. If the deck and drivetrain are healthy, a new engine can restore reliability; if the deck, mandrels, or belts are already failing, you can end up chasing repairs after the swap.

Last updated: February 2026

Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273400 uses a low-emission 18.0 HP engine with a 42-inch mower deck, electric start, and an automatic transmission. To identify the exact engine make and model installed on your tractor, use the engine ID numbers shown in the 917273400 owner's manual.

How to identify the exact engine on model 917273400

Look for the engine identification label (commonly on the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the starter) and record:

• Engine model number
• Type/specification number
• Code or date number
• Emissions label or family number

Use those numbers to match the correct tune-up parts and service settings for your specific engine.

What we can confirm for this model

The manual for model 917273400 lists these tractor-level specs.

Spec	917273400 (tractor spec)
Engine rating	18.0 HP (low-emission)
Deck size	42 in
Starting	Electric start
Transmission	Automatic

Why the engine ID matters

Craftsman tractors can have engine variants within the same tractor model; the engine ID ensures the right maintenance parts and adjustments.

• Correct spark plug type and gap
• Correct air filter and fuel filter
• Correct starter and charging components
• Correct carburetor linkage and settings

Related starting-system part (common no-crank fix)

If you hear a click but the engine will not crank, the starter solenoid is a common check item.

• Inspect battery cables and terminals for corrosion
• Verify safety interlock switches (seat, brake, PTO) are working
• Test the solenoid for voltage in and out
• Replace the solenoid if it fails testing: solenoid with brass plunger 532146154

Why it matters

Using the correct engine identification prevents ordering the wrong engine parts and speeds up troubleshooting for no-start or poor-running symptoms.

Last updated: February 2026