What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman 42-inch riding mower shown on this parts page, the model number is 917.271050 (often written without the dot as 917271050). You can confirm it on the model tag and in the owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the tractor
We recommend checking these common locations on Craftsman lawn tractors:
- Under the seat on the frame or fender pan
- On the rear fender area near the seat
- On the left or right side of the frame near the engine
- Near the footrest area on the frame rail
- Inside the hood area on the chassis (less common)
917.271050 vs. “42-inch” (what each means)
The “42-inch” description refers to the mower deck cutting width, not the model number. Your model number identifies the exact tractor configuration for correct parts lookup.
| Item | What it tells you | Example for this tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Exact tractor version for parts | 917.271050 (917271050) |
| Deck size | Cutting width | 42-inch deck |
Why it matters for parts and repairs
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong blade, mandrel, or deck hardware. For example, this model’s 42-inch deck parts list includes items like the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 and the husqvarna lawn tractor mandrel assembly 532130794.
Quick tip when searching parts
When you search or enter the model number:
- Try 917.271050 first
- If a form rejects punctuation, use 917271050
- Match the full model exactly to avoid similar Craftsman 917-series tractors
Last updated: February 2026
How to find Craftsman parts?
For your Craftsman lawn tractor model 917271050, the fastest way to find the right replacement parts is to use the model-specific parts diagrams and parts list, then match the diagram callout to the part name and part ID before ordering. Your owner's manual also lists repair parts sections and key specs.
Best way to look up parts by model number
We recommend using the model number first because it filters parts to what fits Craftsman 917271050.
- Find your model tag (typically under the seat, on the frame, or near the engine area).
- Confirm the full model number is 917271050 (match all digits).
- Use the parts diagrams to identify the exact assembly (mower deck, steering, seat, electrical).
- Match the diagram key number to the part description and part ID.
- Order the part that matches your diagram callout and symptoms.
Common parts customers replace on this model
These are examples of parts available for Craftsman 917271050 that often come up during maintenance and repairs:
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 (blade wear, poor cut)
- Solenoid 532146154 (no-crank or intermittent starting)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (lost or damaged key)
- Lawn tractor deflector shield 532130968 (missing or damaged discharge shield)
- Husqvarna lawn tractor mandrel assembly 532130794 (deck noise, vibration, uneven cut)
Quick troubleshooting: part lookup by symptom
| Symptom | Where to look first | Example part on this page |
|---|---|---|
| Engine clicks but will not crank | Electrical, starting circuit | Solenoid |
| Uneven cut or heavy vibration | Mower deck, blade and mandrel area | Mulching blade, mandrel assembly |
| Key missing or won’t turn | Ignition/key parts | Molded ignition key |
| Grass discharge is unsafe or messy | Deck discharge area | Deflector shield |
Why it matters
Using the diagram callout and the correct part ID prevents ordering a look-alike part that does not fit your deck, transaxle, or electrical harness. That saves time and avoids repeat repairs.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
Craftsman lawn tractor model 917271050 is a 15.5 HP riding mower with electric start and a 42-inch mower deck, as shown in the 917271050 owner's manual. The exact engine manufacturer and engine model are identified by the engine ID label on the engine itself.
How to identify the exact engine (make and model)
Use the engine’s ID tag so you can match tune-up and engine repair parts correctly.
- Locate the engine ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or engine shroud
- Write down the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Use those numbers when selecting spark plug, air filter, fuel filter, carburetor, and starter parts
- Use 917271050 when selecting tractor chassis and deck parts (belts, blades, mandrels)
What we can confirm for model 917271050
These specs help narrow the engine class, but they do not uniquely identify the engine brand.
| Item | What it tells you | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| 15.5 HP | Engine power class | General maintenance intervals and capability |
| Electric start | Starting system type | Battery, solenoid, ignition circuit checks |
| 42-inch deck | Deck size | Blade and mandrel compatibility |
Related parts that often come up with engine and starting questions
If the engine cranks slowly, clicks, or will not crank, these tractor-matched parts are commonly involved.
- Solenoid 532146154 (starter solenoid for click-no-crank symptoms)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (worn key can cause intermittent no-start)
- Ignition harness 532179722 (wiring issues can interrupt start/run circuits)
Why it matters
The tractor model number (917271050) gets you the right deck and chassis parts; the engine ID label gets you the right engine-specific parts. Using both prevents wrong-part returns and repeat starting problems.
Last updated: February 2026





