How to look up Craftsman model number?
For a Craftsman riding mower like model 917272440, we find the model number on the tractor itself (not on the engine). It’s typically printed on a label on the frame under the seat area; confirm the exact location and label format in the 917272440 owner's manual.
Look in these common spots first:
- On the frame directly under the seat (lift the seat to view the label)
- On the underside of the seat pan
- On the rear frame near the hitch plate or drawbar area
- Near the footrest area on the frame rail
- On a vertical frame member under the fender
Record the information exactly as shown on the label.
- Model number (example format: 917.272440, often shown with a dot)
- Serial number (unique to your tractor)
- Any product number or manufacturing code listed on the same tag
Your tractor has more than one ID label. Use the tractor model number for chassis and deck parts.
| Label type | What it identifies | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number (917272440) | The mower/tractor chassis and deck | Belts, blades, steering, frame parts |
| Engine model/type code | The engine only | Engine-specific parts like carburetor and ignition |
The same Craftsman lawn tractor series can use different decks, belts, and steering parts across production runs. Using the exact 917272440 model number helps us match the correct diagrams and parts the first time.
Last updated: February 2026
What year is a Craftsman 917272440 riding mower?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272440 is identified in the documentation by its model number and specifications (20.0 HP, 42-inch mower, automatic), but the manual does not list a single “model year.” For the exact year, we use the product identification label information referenced in the 917272440 owner's manual.
Use the tractor’s product identification label (often under the seat or near the rear fender area) and match what you find to the identification guidance in the manual.
- Locate the model and serial label on the tractor frame (commonly under the seat)
- Write down the serial number exactly as shown
- Check for any date code printed on the label
- Compare the serial/date information to the identification section in the 917272440 owner's manual
- If the label is damaged, clean it gently and take a clear photo before the text fades further
The owner’s manual for Craftsman 917272440 confirms the configuration of this tractor, which helps ensure you are looking up the correct parts and diagrams.
| Item | What the manual shows |
|---|---|
| Equipment type | Lawn tractor |
| Engine rating | 20.0 HP |
| Starting | Electric start |
| Mower size | 42-inch mower |
| Drive type | Automatic |
The exact production year affects parts lookups and compatibility for items like blades, belts, and deck hardware. For example, the 42-inch deck on this model commonly uses a specific mulching blade such as the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149, and confirming the correct model identification helps prevent ordering the wrong replacement.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917272440, a full engine replacement typically costs $260 to $1,800 installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related parts (belts, pulleys, wiring) also need service. Plan on about 6 labor hours for a riding mower engine swap.
- Engine cost: New replacement engines vary widely by horsepower, shaft size, and charging system.
- Labor: Shop rates and minimum charges vary; riding mower engine swaps commonly run several hours.
- Extra parts: Worn drive components often get replaced during the job.
- Fuel system cleanup: Old fuel can require draining the tank and carburetor cleaning.
- Electrical and safety checks: Interlock circuits and wiring issues can add time.
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $200 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; match shaft and mounting specs |
| Labor | $200 to $600 | Often around 6 hours total |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $20 to $200 | Belts, hardware, filters, fuel line, shop supplies |
Even when the engine is the main issue, we often see these items inspected or replaced so the tractor runs correctly afterward:
- Ground drive belt (cracking, glazing, slipping), such as the lawn tractor ground drive belt 532140294
- Engine pulley wear or wobble, such as the husqvarna companion lawn tractor engine pulley 532175410
- Ignition key and switch wear, such as the molded ignition key 532140403
- Loose or damaged wiring (a common no-start contributor)
- Safety interlock operation (seat switch, brake/clutch switch, PTO switch)
A correct engine match and a quick inspection of belts, pulleys, and safety interlocks prevents repeat failures like no-start conditions, poor drive performance, or shutdowns when you release the brake. The safety system on this tractor is designed to prevent starting or running in unsafe conditions.
For model-specific specs and service checks, use the 917272440 owners manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272440 is equipped with a 20.0 HP gas engine with electric start and is paired with a 42-inch mower deck (as shown in the 917272440 owner's manual). For the exact engine brand and model (Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, etc.), use the engine ID tag on your tractor.
Use these checks so you get the right tune-up and repair parts:
- Find the engine ID label on the blower housing, valve cover, or engine shroud.
- Record the engine model, type, and code (or spec number).
- Match the tractor’s 917272440 model tag (often under the seat or on the frame).
- Compare your controls to the manual (throttle, choke, electric start) to confirm configuration.
- Use the deck size (42-inch) to narrow down blade and belt selections.
Once you have the engine model/type, it determines the correct:
- Spark plug
- Air filter
- Fuel filter
- Starter solenoid or starter motor
- Carburetor parts and gaskets
| What to look up | Where you’ll find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model: 917272440 | Frame tag | Ensures chassis and deck parts fit |
| Engine model/type/code | Engine ID label | Ensures tune-up and fuel/ignition parts fit |
| Deck size: 42-inch | Deck shell label or measurement | Ensures blades, mandrels, belts fit |
If you are servicing the cutting system, a common wear item is the blade; this model’s parts list includes the husqvarna lawn tractor mulching blade, 21-in 532134149 (many 42-inch decks use two blades).
The tractor model number gets you to the right diagrams, but the engine ID is what prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and speeds up troubleshooting for hard starting, weak cranking, or poor power.
Last updated: February 2026





