Owner’s manual
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How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman lawn tractor like model 917273373, a full engine replacement typically runs $800 to $2,500 installed (engine plus labor). The biggest cost drivers are engine brand/horsepower, whether the replacement is a direct-fit, and the shop labor rate.
What makes the price go up or down
- Engine type and horsepower: higher HP and premium brands cost more.
- Direct replacement vs. retrofit: retrofits can require extra brackets, wiring, or exhaust changes.
- Labor time: most riding mower engine swaps take about 4 to 8 hours.
- Extra parts discovered during the job: worn belts, pulleys, or deck hardware often get replaced at the same time.
- Pickup/delivery fees: common if you do not transport the tractor.
Typical cost breakdown
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (new) | $500 to $1,800 | Varies by brand/HP and availability |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Based on 4 to 8 hours and local rates |
| Misc. parts/fluids | $25 to $200 | Fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, hardware |
| Total installed | $800 to $2,500 | Most common real-world range |
Before you replace the engine, check these common “no-start” causes
We see many tractors that need a battery, starter, or safety switch fix instead of a full engine.
- Verify the battery is fully charged and cables are clean/tight
- Confirm the PTO/blade switch is off and the brake/clutch is fully engaged
- Check for fresh fuel and a clean fuel path
- Inspect the spark plug and ignition lead
- Review the starting and safety checks in the 917273373 owner’s manual
Why it matters
An engine replacement can cost close to the value of an older riding mower. Pricing the job first, and ruling out simple starting problems, helps you avoid paying for an engine when a smaller repair would restore reliable operation.
Last updated: January 2026
How to look up Craftsman model number?
To look up the model number on a Craftsman riding mower like model 917273373, we check the ID label on the tractor frame under the seat or on the underside of the seat itself; once you have that number, you can match the correct parts and diagrams in the 917273373 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number label
On most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors, the model and serial tag is placed where it stays protected but still readable.
- Lift the seat and look on the frame rails directly under the seat
- Flip the seat up and check the underside of the seat pan
- Wipe dirt and grass dust off the label so every digit is readable
- Write down the full model number and the serial number (both matter)
- Take a clear photo of the label for future parts orders
How to use the model number to get the right parts
Use the model number to confirm fit before ordering common wear items like blades, belts, and deck hardware.
| What you’re looking up | What to match | Example for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Mower deck blade | Deck size and blade style | Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971 |
| Ground drive belt | Belt length and width | V-belt 532138255 |
| Ignition key | Key style for the switch | Molded ignition key 532140403 |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors often have similar-looking frames and mower decks across multiple years; using the exact model number (like 917273373) prevents ordering a blade, V-belt, or mandrel part that mounts differently.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 917273373 engine?
On the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273373, the engine model number is not the same as the tractor model number and is typically found on the engine’s ID label (not on the hood or mower deck). Use the 917273373 owner's manual to confirm the exact label location and recording format.
Where to find the engine model number
Look for an engine identification label or stamped tag on the engine itself. Common locations include:
- On the blower housing (recoil or fan shroud area)
- Near the valve cover on the side of the engine
- On the engine block close to the starter or muffler
- Under the air filter cover or near the carburetor area
- On a metal tag riveted to the engine shroud
What the engine number usually looks like
Most riding mower engines list multiple identifiers. Record all of them so you can match parts correctly.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Example format (varies by engine) |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Identifies the engine family | “31P777” or similar |
| Type/Spec | Narrows exact build | “xxxx-xx” |
| Code/Serial | Production date/sequence | Long numeric string |
Why this matters for parts and repairs
The tractor model 917273373 helps us find chassis, deck, steering, and drive parts, but engine parts (carburetor, starter, ignition, air filter, fuel system) are matched to the engine model and spec. Using the wrong engine ID can lead to incorrect tune-up or starting-system parts.
Related tip for starting and ignition issues
If you are chasing a no-start or no-crank problem, confirm you have the correct key and that it is not worn. For this model, a common replacement is the molded ignition key 532140403.
Last updated: January 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273373, the exact engine make and model is listed on the engine ID label and in the documentation; most units in this class use a single-cylinder gasoline engine in the 17 to 20 HP range. Use the 917273373 owner's manual to confirm the original engine family and service specs.
How to identify the engine on model 917273373
Check these locations first (engine must be off and cool):
- Engine shroud/blower housing: look for a sticker or stamped tag with model, type, and code
- Valve cover area: some engines place the ID plate near the rocker cover
- Frame rail near the engine: sometimes the tractor data plate references engine info
- Under the hood: look along the top and sides of the engine for a barcode label
- Owner documentation: engine maintenance section often references the engine family
What to write down (so you get the right parts)
Record the engine ID exactly as shown:
| What you see on the label | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Engine brand (example: Briggs & Stratton) | Determines tune-up parts and service procedures |
| Engine model/type/code | Identifies the exact carburetor, starter, and ignition parts |
| Displacement/HP family | Helps match belts, pulleys, and deck load expectations |
Why it matters
The engine brand and model control key maintenance items like the air filter, spark plug, fuel filter, and starter. It also affects troubleshooting steps when the mower clicks, cranks, or will not start.
Related parts you may replace during engine or deck service
These common wear items are often serviced around the same time as engine maintenance:
- V-belt 532138255 (ground drive belt)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (starting and security)
- Blades for cut quality (mulching vs. high-lift)
| Cutting style | Common choice for a 42-in deck |
|---|---|
| Mulching | Husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 |
| Bagging/side discharge | Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971 |
Last updated: January 2026
