Owner’s manual
What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman riding mower on this page, the model number is 917.28955 (often written without the dot as 917289551 on parts lists). Use the model number from your tractor’s ID tag and match it to the parts diagrams for the most accurate fit.
Where to find the correct model number on your mower
Check the product identification label (ID tag) on the tractor; it’s commonly located:
- Under the seat pan or seat area
- On the frame near the rear fender
- Near the engine compartment or hood area
- On the left or right side of the frame rail
For label location and how the number is formatted, use the owner's manual.
Why you may see two “versions” of the number
Craftsman tractor model numbers are often shown in different formats depending on where you’re looking.
| Where you see it | Typical format | Example for this tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Operator’s manual cover | With a dot | 917.28955 |
| Parts list / model page | No dot, longer string | 917289551 |
Why it matters (parts fit and troubleshooting)
Using the exact model number helps us match the right diagrams and parts for your deck, steering, and electrical system.
- Deck parts (mandrel, pulleys) can vary by deck size and configuration
- Steering parts can differ by axle style and production run
- Electrical parts (switches, solenoids, harnesses) must match the wiring layout
If you’re diagnosing a no-start or click-no-crank issue, the riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video is a good next step.
Last updated: February 2026
What year did Craftsman make the 917289551?
Craftsman model 917289551 was made in the model series shown in the operator documentation as Model No. 917.28955; the exact build year is identified by the product identification label on the tractor. Use the 917289551 owner's manual to confirm where to find the model and serial information.
How to find the exact year on your tractor
Check the product identification label (often under the seat, on the frame rail, or near the rear fender pan). Record both the model and serial number.
- Lift the seat and look for a sticker or metal tag on the seat pan or frame
- Check the left or right frame rail near the engine or transmission
- Wipe dirt and grass off the label so the serial characters are readable
- Write down the full serial number exactly as shown (letters and numbers)
- Match the model format in the manual (917.xxxxx) to confirm you are reading the correct tag
What we can confirm from the documentation
The operator manual for this tractor family identifies it as a Craftsman gas riding tractor with a 26.0 HP engine rating and a 54-inch deck, and it lists the model as 917.28955 (the same model family as 917289551). That confirms the correct product line, but the build year is tied to the serial number on your specific unit.
| Item | What it tells you | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (917289551) | The exact configuration family | Product ID label and manual cover |
| Serial number | The specific production run and build date coding | Product ID label on the tractor |
| Engine model/type | Engine-specific date codes (not the tractor year) | Engine shroud label |
Why it matters
The build year affects parts lookups and compatibility for common repairs like PTO electrical issues, starting problems, and deck drive components. When you pair the model and serial number, we can match the correct diagrams and replacement parts for your Craftsman riding mower.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Craftsman engines?
Craftsman riding mowers and lawn tractors can be equipped with engines supplied by major small-engine manufacturers; for the Craftsman 917289551 tractor, the engine is rated by the engine manufacturer (as noted in the owner's manual), and the specific maker is identified on the engine’s ID label.
How to identify the engine manufacturer on your 917289551
Look directly on the engine for the identification label; it lists the maker and the exact engine model/type.
- Open the hood and locate the engine shroud or valve cover area.
- Find the engine ID label (often a sticker or stamped plate).
- Record the engine brand, model/type, and code/serial.
- Match that information when ordering tune-up or ignition parts.
- Keep the numbers with your tractor model number 917289551 for future reference.
Common engine suppliers you may see on Craftsman tractors
Across Craftsman lawn tractors, the most common engine brands are:
- Briggs & Stratton
- Kohler
- Kawasaki
These vary by tractor model and production run, so the engine label is the fastest way to confirm what you have.
Quick comparison: where to look for the ID
| What you need | Where to find it | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number (917289551) | Tractor frame tag (usually under seat or on frame) | Ensures chassis and deck parts match |
| Engine manufacturer and model | Engine ID label on shroud/cover | Ensures engine service parts match |
| Engine code/serial | Same engine label | Helps confirm exact spec within a model |
Why it matters
Engine suppliers use different ignition, fuel, and starting components. Confirming the engine maker and engine model prevents ordering the wrong electrical parts, such as a lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 or husqvarna lawn tractor ignition harness 532401104, when you are troubleshooting a no-crank or no-start condition.
Last updated: February 2026
