How to find Craftsman model number?
On Craftsman riding lawn tractor model 917289104, the model number is found on the tractor’s product identification label, most often on the frame under the seat or on the underside of the seat. In the documentation, the same model may appear in a dotted format (for example, 917.28910).
Start with the most common label locations:
- Lift the seat and check the frame directly under it
- Check the underside of the seat pan
- Look near the rear fender area by the seat mounting points
- Check the frame rail near the battery area (if a label is present)
For model-specific illustrations and operating details, see the 917289104 owner's manual.
Record the information exactly as printed on the label:
- Model number (it may be shown as 917289104 or 917.28910)
- Serial number
- Any product number or manufacturing code listed
| Label item | What we use it for | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching diagrams and parts lists | Ensures correct fit |
| Serial number | Confirming production variations | Some parts change by run |
| Engine model/type/code | Engine-specific parts lookup | Often needed for tune-up parts |
Craftsman tractors can look alike across different series, but deck, belt routing, and steering components can vary. Using the exact model number format shown on your label helps us match the correct parts diagrams and replacement parts.
Last updated: January 2026
What are the parts of a tractor engine?
On the Craftsman 917289104 front-engine lawn tractor, the engine is a 20.0 HP gasoline engine; key service-related engine components include the air intake, fuel delivery, ignition (spark plug), lubrication (oil fill/drain), and exhaust. For model-specific specs like fuel capacity, oil type, and spark plug, use the 917289104 operator's manual.
These are the main mechanical parts found in most single-cylinder lawn tractor engines:
- Cylinder block and cylinder head
- Piston and piston rings
- Connecting rod
- Crankshaft and crankcase
- Camshaft and valves (valve train)
- Flywheel
These parts and systems are what you typically inspect, clean, adjust, or replace during maintenance:
- Fuel system: fuel tank, fuel line, carburetor, fuel cap
- Air intake: air filter and air screen
- Ignition: spark plug and ignition coil
- Lubrication: oil fill/dipstick, oil drain, oil sump (oil filter if equipped)
- Cooling airflow: blower housing and cooling fins
- Exhaust: muffler and muffler guard
| Item | Craftsman 917289104 specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel type and capacity | Unleaded regular gasoline; 1.50 gallons |
| Recommended oil viscosity | SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W30 (below 32°F) |
| Spark plug | Champion RC12YC; gap 0.030 in |
Knowing which system a symptom points to helps you troubleshoot faster. For example, hard starting often relates to fuel delivery, air intake restriction, or the spark plug, while overheating often relates to cooling fins and airflow.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman model 917289104, the operator’s manual identifies it as a 20.0 HP riding lawn tractor with a low-emission gasoline engine; the manual does not specify the engine brand or exact engine model. For the most accurate identification, we recommend matching the engine’s model-type-code on the engine shroud to the tractor’s documentation in the 917289104 operator's manual.
Most riding mower engines have an ID label or stamping on the blower housing (shroud) or valve cover. Look for a model, type, and code (or similar).
- Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and remove the key
- Let the engine cool completely before touching the muffler or shroud
- Locate the engine ID label (often near the starter, valve cover, or shroud)
- Write down the full engine identification (model-type-code)
- Use that engine ID when ordering engine-specific parts (filters, plugs, carburetor items)
Based on the model 917289104 manual text, these are the model-specific specs we can confirm:
| Item | Model 917289104 specification |
|---|---|
| Engine rating | 20.0 HP (as rated by engine manufacturer) |
| Fuel | Unleaded regular; 1.50-gallon capacity |
| Spark plug | Champion RC12YC; 0.030 in gap |
| Transmission | Automatic (manual references purging procedure) |
Craftsman riding mowers are commonly equipped with engines from major small-engine makers. Depending on production run and configuration, you may see:
- Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder
- Kohler single-cylinder
- Briggs & Stratton V-twin
- Kohler V-twin
The engine ID label is the only reliable way to confirm what your specific tractor has.
Engine brand and model determine the correct maintenance parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter if equipped) and the right tune-up specs. Using the engine ID helps avoid ordering parts that fit the tractor chassis but not the engine.
Last updated: January 2026





