Owner’s manual
View engine
How to find Craftsman model number?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 917272248, the model number is typically on an ID label on the frame under the seat (or on the underside of the seat). Once you have the full model number, use it to match the correct parts list and diagrams in the owner's manual.
Where to look on model 917272248
Check these common label locations first:
- On the frame directly under the seat
- On the underside of the seat pan
- Near the rear fender area under the seat (around the seat mounting hardware)
- On the chassis rail close to the battery tray area
What to write down (and why)
Record the information exactly as printed.
- Model number (for this tractor, it appears as 917.272248 in the manual)
- Serial number (helps confirm production run and correct fit)
- Engine model/type (the manual references a Kohler engine family for this tractor)
Quick ID checklist
| Item on label | Example for this tractor | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 917.272248 | Matching the correct Craftsman parts diagrams |
| Serial number | Varies | Verifying exact configuration |
| Engine model/type | Varies | Ordering engine-specific parts |
If the label is missing or unreadable
Use these practical workarounds:
- Check your owner's manual cover and first pages for the model number
- Look for a stamped or printed number on the frame under the seat area
- Match key components (deck size, drive type) to the parts diagrams for 917272248
Why it matters
Craftsman lawn tractor parts can look similar across models, but belt routing, deck components, and electrical parts can differ. Using the exact model number helps you avoid ordering the wrong items, such as a ground drive belt or PTO switch.
Last updated: February 2026
What year did Craftsman make the 917272248?
Craftsman model 917272248 does not map to one single “model year”; it was produced across a run, and the exact build date is identified from the tractor’s serial number/date code on the unit. Use the date code format shown in the 917272248 owner's manual to confirm the specific manufacturing date for your tractor.
How to find the exact build date on your tractor
We use the tractor’s ID/serial label to pinpoint the manufacturing date.
- Look under the seat area first; many Craftsman riding mowers place the product label there.
- Also check the frame rail near the rear wheels, or under the hood near the dash tower.
- Write down the model number (917272248) and the serial number exactly as shown.
- Look for a date code embedded in or printed near the serial number.
- If the label is damaged, clean it gently and use a flashlight to read stamped characters.
What the model number tells you (and what it does not)
The manual confirms the tractor model number and parts breakdowns (for example, chassis, ground drive, and mower deck sections) for 917272248, but the model number itself is not a reliable “year” indicator. The serial number/date code is what ties your specific tractor to a manufacturing date.
Quick reference
| Identifier | Where you’ll find it | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number: 917272248 | Product label | Correct parts diagrams and manuals |
| Serial number/date code | Product label | Determine the tractor’s build date |
Why it matters
Knowing the exact build date helps us match the right version of parts that can change during a production run, especially wear items and drive components such as the lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294 and electrical controls like the pto switch 582107601.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272248, a full engine replacement typically costs about $800 to $3,000+ installed, depending on the engine type, labor rates, and whether related drive or PTO parts also need service. Use the owner's manual to confirm maintenance checks before committing to an engine swap.
What drives the total cost
Engine replacement pricing is mostly parts cost plus labor time, with a few common add-ons.
- Engine price: new replacement engines commonly run $500 to $2,000+
- Labor time: many shops book 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap
- Shop supplies and fluids: oil, filter, fuel line clamps, etc.
- Extra parts found during teardown: belts, pulleys, wiring, battery cables
- Pickup and delivery (if used)
Before you replace the engine: quick checks that can save money
We recommend ruling out common “no start” or “no crank” causes first, because they can look like a bad engine.
- Verify battery condition and clean/tighten terminals
- Check operator presence and safety interlock circuits
- Confirm the engine turns freely by hand (spark plug removed)
- Inspect for loose fasteners and obvious wiring damage
- Make sure the throttle is set correctly when starting and stopping
If the engine clicks but will not turn over, follow riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Typical cost ranges (installed)
| Scenario | What it usually includes | Typical total cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic engine swap | Engine + labor + fluids | $800 to $2,500 |
| Engine swap plus drive/PTO work | Engine + belt/pulley/clutch related repairs | $1,200 to $3,000+ |
| Major refresh | Engine + multiple worn chassis/deck items | $2,000 to $4,000+ |
Related parts that often get inspected during an engine job
Even if you are replacing the engine, worn drive components can still cause poor performance.
- Ground drive belt (cracking, glazing, stretching): lawn tractor ground drive belt, 1/2 x 82-in 532140294
- PTO engagement issues (intermittent power to clutch): pto switch 582107601
- Deck drive drag/noise (bearing wear): idler pulleys and mandrel pulleys
Why it matters
A riding mower engine replacement is a big investment; confirming the problem first helps you avoid paying for an engine when the real issue is a battery, safety switch, belt, or PTO electrical problem.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
The Craftsman lawn tractor model 917272248 uses a Kohler CV624 engine; the engine identification in the manual lists model CV624 with type number 65578. Use the engine ID tag on the blower housing or valve cover to match the exact engine model and type before buying tune-up or repair parts; see the owner's manual.
How to confirm the exact engine on your tractor
Use these checks so you match maintenance specs and engine parts correctly:
- Find the engine ID label and record CV624 and the type number.
- Verify the tractor model tag reads 917272248 (commonly under the seat or on the frame).
- Compare your engine controls and shrouds to the engine section diagrams in the manual.
- If the tractor has been repowered, rely on the engine tag, not the tractor model number.
Parts and systems commonly tied to engine operation
Many “engine” complaints are caused by starting, safety, or PTO circuits rather than the engine itself:
- Battery and cables (slow crank, clicking)
- Safety interlock switches (no crank, dies when shifting or releasing brake)
- Fuel delivery and air filter (starts then stalls, surging)
- PTO engagement circuit (blades will not engage)
If you are diagnosing blade engagement on this model, the pto switch 582107601 is one of the common electrical parts involved.
| What you’re checking | Where to look | What it helps you choose |
|---|---|---|
| Engine model and type | Engine ID label | Correct Kohler service parts and specs |
| Tractor model number | Frame/seat tag | Correct tractor diagrams and chassis parts |
| PTO switch operation | Dash control and wiring | Correct PTO electrical parts |
Why it matters
Kohler engine model and type determine the correct oil capacity, spark plug, air filter, and carburetion settings. Confirming the engine ID first prevents ordering the wrong parts and speeds up troubleshooting.
Last updated: February 2026
