Craftsman 917288110 tractor Parts

For the Craftsman 42-inch riding mower shown on this model page, the model number is 917.28811 (also written without the dot as 917288110 on parts listings). You’ll see “Model No. 917.28811” on the tractor’s ID label and in the owner's manual.

Where to find the model number on the tractor

We recommend confirming the model number from the tractor itself before ordering parts, because Craftsman tractors can look similar across model families.

• Check the model/serial tag under the seat or on the rear fender pan
• Look on the frame rail near the engine compartment
• Match the tag to the “Model No.” format shown in the manual
• Use the full model number when searching parts diagrams (all digits matter)

917.28811 vs. 917288110: what’s the difference?

These two formats refer to the same tractor; one is the manual-style model number and the other is the parts-site style model number.

Where you’ll see it	Format	Example
Operator’s manual and ID label	Dotted model number	917.28811
Parts listings and searches	Full numeric string	917288110

Why it matters

The correct model number ensures you get the right deck parts and electrical parts for your exact 42-inch setup, such as a blade, belt, or ignition components.

If you’re ordering, start with the parts list for model 917288110 on this page; you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman 917288110 tractor is worth it when the rest of the machine (deck, chassis, steering, transmission) is in solid shape and the engine problem is truly internal. In many cases, a “bad engine” symptom is caused by fuel, ignition, safety interlocks, or maintenance issues you can correct first using the 917288110 owner's manual.

Quick decision checklist (repair first vs. replace engine)

We recommend troubleshooting and basic service first when you see hard starting, stalling, or poor power.

• Confirm fresh fuel; drain stale gas and refill with clean gasoline
• Check the air filter, spark plug, and oil level/condition
• Inspect wiring for looseness or damage (especially around the ignition circuit)
• Verify the mower deck is clean underneath; heavy buildup can overload the engine
• If the engine clicks or cranks slowly, test the battery and starting circuit

Common “engine failure” symptoms that are often fixable

Your manual’s troubleshooting chart points to several non-engine causes for poor performance (dirty air filter, stale fuel, low/dirty oil, faulty spark plug, dirty/clogged muffler, loose wiring, carburetor adjustment). Addressing these items often restores normal operation without an engine swap.

If it will not crank or only clicks

A weak battery or starting circuit issue is common. For this model, the starting circuit parts you may end up replacing include the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 or the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350.

Cost and value comparison

Use this as a practical way to decide where your money goes.

Option	Best when	Typical outcome
Tune-up and troubleshooting	Starts poorly, runs rough, lacks power	Lowest cost; often fixes the issue
Replace key starting parts	Clicking, intermittent crank, no crank	Restores reliable starting
Replace engine	Low compression, severe smoke/knocking, repeated failures	Extends tractor life if the rest is solid
Replace tractor	Deck/chassis/transmission also worn out	Avoids stacking major repairs

Why it matters

An engine replacement only pays off when it solves the root problem. If the real issue is fuel quality, airflow, ignition, or safety-related shutdown behavior, you can spend a lot and still have the same symptoms. Following the maintenance and troubleshooting steps in the manual helps you confirm the engine is truly the problem.

Getting the right parts

We list model-matched parts for Craftsman 917288110 on this page; for broader parts lookup by model number, use Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

The Craftsman riding mower model 917288110 uses a 20.0 HP engine (as rated by the engine manufacturer) and is identified in the operator documentation as a low-emission engine. For the exact engine family and service details, use the specifications section in the 917288110 owner's manual.

What we can confirm for model 917288110

From the operator documentation for this tractor, the key engine-related details are:

• Engine power rating: 20.0 HP (manufacturer-rated)
• Engine type: low-emission engine (operates differently than older designs)
• Starting system: electric start
• Mower deck size: 42-inch mower deck

Where to find the exact engine make and model

On riding mowers like this Craftsman tractor, the engine brand and model are typically listed in a few places:

• The Product Specifications section of the 917288110 owner's manual
• The engine label (usually on the blower housing or valve cover area)
• The tractor ID plate (model and serial information; engine details may be separate)
• The parts list for engine-related components (starter, ignition, fuel system)

Quick checklist before ordering engine-related parts

• Match the tractor model number: 917288110
• Record the engine model/type/code from the engine label
• Confirm whether you are replacing an electrical start component or a fuel/air component

Common engine-related parts customers replace

If the tractor cranks poorly or will not start, these parts are often involved:

Symptom	Common area to check	Example part on this model page
Key turns, no crank	Starting circuit	Lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802
Intermittent crank or no power to start	Ignition switch and wiring	Lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350
Key turns, dash powers but starter does not engage	Harness/connection issue	Lawn tractor ignition harness 532401098

For ordering beyond the parts shown for this model, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Why it matters

The exact engine make and model determines the correct tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter) and the right troubleshooting steps for a low-emission design. Using the correct engine ID also prevents ordering the wrong starter or ignition components.

Last updated: February 2026

For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917288110, a full engine replacement (parts plus labor) typically runs $260 to $1,800 installed, with labor commonly around 6 hours depending on shop rates and any extra repairs needed. Exact totals vary by engine type, condition of wiring/fuel system, and whether the mower deck drive components also need service.

What drives the total cost

• Engine choice: OEM-equivalent vs. aftermarket, horsepower class, and whether it includes accessories (starter, charging system).
• Labor time and shop rate: Riding mower engine swaps are more involved than walk-behind mowers.
• Extra parts discovered during teardown: worn belts, pulleys, wiring, or fuel components.
• Deck and drivetrain condition: if the mower has poor cut quality or blade drive issues, you may address those at the same time.
• Season and availability: peak mowing season can increase turnaround time and labor minimums.

Typical cost breakdown (installed)

Cost item	Typical range	Notes
Engine (part)	$200 to $1,400	Biggest variable; depends on spec and brand
Labor	$200 to $600	Often based on ~6 hours total time
Misc. parts and supplies	$20 to $200	Fuel line, clamps, oil, filters, hardware
Estimated total	$260 to $1,800	Common real-world range

When replacement makes sense vs. repair

Replacement is usually the better call when

• The engine has low compression or internal damage.
• The crankshaft is bent (often from blade impact).
• The engine smokes heavily even after basic service.

Repair is usually the better call when

• The engine cranks but will not start (often fuel, spark, or safety interlock related).
• The engine clicks but will not turn over (battery, solenoid, wiring).
• The mower runs but cuts poorly (deck leveling, blades, belt drive).

If your tractor will not crank, a common electrical fix is replacing the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 or the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350 after confirming battery and wiring condition.

Why it matters

An engine swap is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Pricing it correctly helps you decide whether to invest in the tractor, or put that budget toward other maintenance items (blades, belts, deck components) that restore performance.

For model-specific operating and safety guidance before any service, use the owner's manual. For parts ordering beyond the list for this model, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Craftsman model 917288110 was produced across multiple years (it is not a single-year model). The most accurate way to pin down your tractor’s exact build year is to use the manufacturing date information tied to your tractor’s serial number and compare it with the identification details shown in the owner's manual.

How to find the exact year on your tractor

Look for the product identification label (commonly under the seat, on the rear fender pan, or near the frame). Once you find it, use these checks:

• Record the model number (should read 917288110).
• Record the serial number exactly as printed.
• Look for a date code or manufacture date printed on the label.
• If the label is worn, clean it gently and use a flashlight to read stamped characters.
• Match the tractor’s configuration to the manual cover details (20.0 HP, 42-inch mower, electric start, 6-speed transaxle).

What the manual tells you (and what it doesn’t)

The operator’s manual confirms the tractor family and configuration (Model No. 917.28811, 20.0 HP, 42-inch mower, electric start, 6-speed transaxle). That helps verify you have the correct manual and parts diagrams, but the manual itself is not a build-date certificate.

Quick verification table

Item to check	Where you’ll see it	What it confirms
Model number 917288110	ID label, manual cover	Correct model family
Serial number	ID label	Your exact unit identity
Date code/manufacture date	ID label (if present)	Exact year (and often month/day)

Why it matters

The production year affects parts compatibility for common wear items like blades, belts, and electrical components (for example, an ignition switch or starter solenoid revision). Confirming the year using the ID label helps ensure you order the right replacement parts the first time.

If you’re ordering parts, start with the parts list for model 917288110 on this page; for broader model searches, use Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026