Owner’s manual
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman riding lawn mower model 917.273080 uses a Kohler CV22 series engine (model CV22-75534) rated at 22.0 HP with electric start. You can confirm the exact engine identification and maintenance specs in the 917.273080 owner's manual.
How to identify the engine on your 917.273080
We recommend matching the engine family and model number on the engine label to what’s listed for this tractor.
- Look for the engine ID label on the engine shroud or valve cover area.
- Confirm the engine is Kohler CV22 and the model is CV22-75534.
- Verify it’s a twin-cylinder setup (the manual references 2-plug/twin-cylinder wiring).
- Use the manual’s maintenance section for oil type, spark plug gap, and service intervals.
- If the label is missing or unreadable, use the tractor model number 917.273080 to cross-reference parts and engine diagrams.
Key engine-related specs we can confirm for this model
These are tractor-level specifications called out for model 917.273080.
| Spec | What to use on 917.273080 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 22.0 HP |
| Starting | Electric start |
| Gasoline | Regular unleaded; 3.5-gallon capacity |
| Spark plug gap | 0.030 in |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact engine (Kohler CV22, CV22-75534) helps you buy the correct tune-up parts (spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter) and follow the right oil and maintenance schedule so the tractor starts reliably and runs at full power.
Last updated: January 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
For Craftsman model 917273080, the engine manufacturer is Kohler; the owner’s manual identifies it as Kohler CV22, Type 75534. Craftsman-branded tractors can use engines from different makers depending on the exact model and production run, so the model number is the key.
What this means for Craftsman 917273080
Your tractor’s engine is a Kohler V-twin (CV22 series). When you’re buying tune-up parts or looking up specs, use the engine identification from the 917273080 owner’s manual.
- Engine maker for this model: Kohler
- Engine family shown in the manual: CV22
- Type number shown in the manual: 75534
- Typical engine-related items you’ll match by engine ID: spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, starter, carburetor parts
Why Craftsman engines vary by model
Craftsman is a brand; the tractor and engine are sourced from manufacturers. Two Craftsman tractors that look similar can have different engines, so “Craftsman engine” is not one single manufacturer.
Common engine makers you may see on other Craftsman tractors
| Craftsman tractor model | Engine maker (varies) | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| 917273080 | Kohler | 917273080 owner’s manual |
| Other Craftsman models | Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki (varies) | Engine shroud label and that model’s manual |
Why it matters
Using the correct engine maker and model (Kohler CV22, Type 75534 for 917273080) helps you avoid ordering the wrong maintenance parts and speeds up troubleshooting when the tractor won’t start, runs rough, or loses power under load.
Last updated: January 2026
Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Yes, some Craftsman mowers use Briggs & Stratton engines, but Craftsman model 917273080 does not. This specific front-engine lawn tractor uses a Kohler CV22 engine (22.0 HP) rather than a Briggs & Stratton engine; see the engine identification details in the 917273080 owner’s manual.
What engine is on Craftsman 917273080?
For model 917273080, the engine listed is:
- Brand: Kohler
- Model: CV22
- Type number: 75534
- Horsepower class: 22.0 HP
You can also confirm this on the engine itself by checking the engine ID label (typically on the blower housing or near the valve cover area).
Why Craftsman engines vary by model
Craftsman has used multiple engine suppliers across different mower and tractor lines. Even within the same brand, engine choice can change by:
- Tractor series and deck size
- Production year and supplier availability
- Emissions family and configuration
- Horsepower rating and intended use
- Retail channel and package options
Quick comparison: Briggs & Stratton vs Kohler (what it means for parts)
| Item you’re shopping for | Briggs & Stratton engine models | Kohler CV-series (like CV22) |
|---|---|---|
| Tune-up parts | Often engine-model specific | Often engine-model specific |
| Filters and plugs | Vary by engine family | Vary by engine family |
| Belts and deck parts | Usually tractor-model specific | Usually tractor-model specific |
| Best way to match parts | Engine model + spec code | Engine model + type number |
Why it matters
Using the correct engine manufacturer and model is critical when ordering maintenance parts (spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters) and when following service procedures. For Craftsman 917273080, engine-related parts and specs should be matched to the Kohler CV22 identification.
Last updated: January 2026
