Owner’s manual
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What model number is the Craftsman 917273400 riding mower?
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.
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
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.
| 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 |
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
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
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.
- 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
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 |
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.
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
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
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.
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.
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 |
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
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
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
