How much does it cost to replace a riding mower engine?
Replacing the engine on a Craftsman riding mower such as model 247273270 typically costs $800 to $2,500 total (engine plus labor), depending on engine size, whether it is a direct bolt-in match, and how much related work is needed (belts, wiring, fuel system, and tune-up items). Use the 247273270 owner’s manual to confirm engine specs and mounting details before ordering.
Typical cost breakdown (engine replacement)
- Engine (new): $500 to $1,800
- Labor (shop install): $250 to $900
- Pickup/delivery (if used): $0 to $200
- Extra parts and supplies: $50 to $300 (fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, spark plug, hardware)
| Scenario | What you’re paying for | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| DIY swap | Engine + fluids + small parts | $550 to $2,100 |
| Shop swap | Engine + labor + supplies | $800 to $2,500 |
| “While you’re in there” refresh | Engine + labor + belts/pulleys/wiring fixes | $1,000 to $3,000 |
What can raise the price on model 247273270
- Engine is not a direct replacement (shaft size, mounting pattern, wiring connectors)
- Electrical issues found during install (starter circuit, safety interlocks)
- Deck drive components are worn and need attention after the swap
- Fuel system contamination (old fuel, dirty tank, clogged lines)
- Battery is weak and causes slow cranking after installation
Parts that are commonly addressed during engine work
Even when the engine is the main issue, we often see related wear items that affect starting and mowing performance:
- Lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153 if you get clicking/no-crank symptoms
- Lawn tractor wire harness 725P04432P if wiring is brittle, melted, or corroded
- Deck drive belt and pulleys if the mower deck loads the engine heavily
Why it matters
An engine replacement can make sense when the tractor frame, transmission, and mower deck are in good shape. If multiple systems are worn, the total repair cost can approach the price of a replacement tractor, so it helps to price the engine plus the most likely supporting parts up front.
Last updated: February 2026
How to find Craftsman model number?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 247273270, we typically find the model number on an ID label on the tractor frame under the seat, or on the underside of the seat itself. Once you have the full model number, you can match the correct diagrams, parts, and maintenance specs in the 247273270 owner's manual.
Where to look on the tractor
Check these common label locations first:
- Under the seat on the frame or seat pan (lift the seat and look down at the chassis)
- Underside of the seat (flip the seat up and look for a sticker or metal tag)
- Rear frame area near the hitch plate (some units place the tag toward the back)
- Near the engine compartment on the frame rail (less common, but worth a quick look)
What to write down (and why)
Record the full information exactly as shown on the tag.
| Item on tag | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 247273270 | Ensures the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Varies | Helps confirm production run and compatible revisions |
| Product name | Riding mower/tractor | Helps narrow category when searching |
Tips if the label is hard to read
A faded or dirty tag is common on lawn tractors.
- Wipe the label gently with a damp cloth; avoid harsh solvents
- Use a flashlight at a low angle to make stamped numbers easier to see
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in to read small characters
- Copy every digit and dash; one missing character can pull the wrong parts
Why it matters
The model number is the fastest way to get the right Craftsman parts (belts, switches, electrical parts, and deck components) and the right service procedures. For example, troubleshooting a no-crank condition often depends on the correct safety interlock wiring and switch style shown for your exact model.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Replacing the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 247273270 is worth it when the tractor is in solid overall condition and the engine is the only major failure; if the repair total approaches half the cost of a comparable replacement tractor, putting that money toward a new unit is typically the better value.
Quick decision checklist
- The deck, steering, and transmission are in good shape (no major leaks, grinding, or excessive play).
- The frame is solid (no cracks, severe rust-through, or bent mounting points).
- You can confirm the correct engine spec and mounting details in the 247273270 owner’s manual.
- The tractor still meets your needs (cut width, attachments, terrain).
- You are not also facing big add-on repairs (deck housing, wiring, tires, battery).
Cost and value: a simple way to compare
Use this rule of thumb to keep the decision practical.
| What you compare | What to include | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Engine swap total | Engine, shipping, tax, shop labor (or your time), new oil/filter, incidentals | Your real out-the-door cost |
| Tractor replacement cost | A similar new or used riding mower | Your alternative option |
| 50% guideline | If engine swap is near or above 50% of replacement cost | Replacement usually makes more sense |
When an engine replacement usually makes sense
- You maintain the tractor well and want to extend its service life.
- The mower deck is cutting evenly and the spindles are quiet (no rumble).
- The electrical system is healthy; if you are already chasing no-crank issues, start with basics like the lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153 and safety switches.
When it usually does not make sense
- The transmission is slipping or noisy.
- The deck is heavily worn (cracked housing, multiple failing mandrels).
- You need several high-cost parts at the same time (engine plus major deck or wiring repairs).
Why it matters
An engine swap can restore reliability, but it does not reset wear on the rest of the tractor. Comparing total repair cost to replacement cost helps you avoid investing heavily in a machine that still has multiple end-of-life components.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 247273270, the engine type depends on the exact engine family installed on your tractor (it can vary by production run). The fastest way to identify it is to match the engine brand and model numbers shown on the engine ID label to the specifications in the 247273270 owner's manual.
How to identify the engine on model 247273270
Look for an engine identification label (usually a sticker or metal tag) on the engine shroud, valve cover area, or near the starter.
- Find the engine brand (commonly Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or similar)
- Write down the engine model, type, and code/spec numbers
- Compare those numbers to the engine section in the manual
- Use the engine numbers when ordering tune-up parts (air filter, spark plug, fuel filter)
- If the label is dirty, wipe it gently and take a photo before the numbers fade
What “kind of engine” usually means (and what you can expect)
Most Craftsman front-engine riding mowers in this class use a gasoline, 4-cycle, single-cylinder or V-twin vertical-shaft engine designed for lawn tractor duty.
| Engine detail | What you’ll typically see on a front-engine tractor |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Cycle | 4-cycle |
| Cylinders | Single-cylinder or V-twin |
| Shaft orientation | Vertical shaft |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact engine brand and model helps you get the right maintenance parts and troubleshoot correctly. For example, a no-crank symptom often points to the starting circuit, where a failed lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153 is a common fix after the battery and connections check out.
Related DIY help
If the engine clicks but will not crank, follow the step-by-step checks in riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 6.75 lawn mower?
A “Craftsman 6.75” lawn mower does not have one universal model number; the model number is specific to the exact mower, and it is printed on the mower’s model tag. For example, one common Craftsman 6.75 mower model is 917.377911 (often shown as 917377911).
Where to find the model number on your mower
We use the model number to match the correct parts diagrams, blade, air filter, and carburetor parts.
- Check the model tag on the rear of the deck near the discharge chute
- Look under the handle mounting area on the deck
- Check near the engine mounting plate (top of deck, behind the engine)
- If you have it, confirm the number in the 247273270 owner's manual format for your mower (model-specific manuals list the exact tag location)
What the model number usually looks like
Most Craftsman walk-behind mowers use a 9-digit model number that starts with 917.
| What you see | What it means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 917.XXXXXX | Craftsman mower model format | 917.377911 |
| 917XXXXXX | Same model without the dot | 917377911 |
| 247.XXXXXX | Often used on MTD-built equipment | 247273270 |
Quick checks to avoid ordering the wrong parts
These details help us narrow down the correct parts list when “6.75” is the only info available.
- Measure cutting width (commonly 21 inches)
- Confirm whether the mower is self-propelled or push
- Check blade mount style (star, bow-tie, or round center)
- Note engine brand on the shroud (Briggs and Stratton, Honda, etc.)
- Record the full model tag text, including any prefix/suffix
Why it matters
“6.75” is an engine power label, not a unique identifier. The correct model number ensures the right maintenance parts and repair parts fit your specific Craftsman mower.
Last updated: February 2026





