Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Yes; many Craftsman mowers and lawn tractors use Briggs & Stratton engines, and others use different engine brands depending on the specific model and production run. For Craftsman model 917273810, confirm the exact engine make and model using the tractor’s documentation and the engine ID label; see the 917273810 owner's manual.
How to identify the engine on Craftsman 917273810
We use the engine’s ID tag to match the correct tune-up and repair parts.
- Locate the engine ID label (often on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter)
- Write down the engine model, type, and code exactly as shown
- Compare that information to the engine section in the tractor documentation
- Use 917273810 for tractor, deck, and chassis parts lookups
- Use the engine model/type for engine-only parts (carburetor, starter, gaskets)
What engine brands Craftsman commonly uses
Craftsman is the equipment brand; the engine is supplied by an engine manufacturer. These are common on Craftsman riding mowers and tractors:
- Briggs & Stratton
- Kohler
- Honda
- Kawasaki
| You’re replacing | Match it to | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Engine components | Engine model/type/code | air filter, spark plug, carburetor, starter |
| Tractor and deck components | Tractor model number 917273810 | blades, belts, mandrel parts, deck hardware |
Common tractor and deck parts for this model
If you are maintaining the cutting system or fixing drive issues, these model-matched parts are commonly replaced:
- Lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971 (cutting performance and bagging lift)
- V-belt 532138255 (ground drive belt for slipping or squealing)
- Molded ignition key 532140403 (if the key is worn or missing)
Why it matters
Engine parts are not universal across Craftsman equipment. Confirming the engine ID first prevents ordering the wrong carburetor, starter, or gasket set, while using 917273810 ensures deck and chassis parts fit correctly.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917273810, a full engine replacement typically costs $600 to $2,500 installed, depending on the engine brand/HP, whether it is a direct-fit swap, and how much labor and extra parts (belts, pulleys, wiring) are needed.
Typical cost breakdown
- Engine (new): $400 to $1,800
- Labor: $200 to $700 (often 3 to 6 hours)
- Extra parts and supplies: $0 to $300 (fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, hardware)
- Pickup/delivery (if used): $0 to $200
| Scenario | What you are paying for | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| Direct-fit engine swap | Minimal modifications, reuse most parts | $600 to $1,500 |
| Engine swap plus “while you’re in there” parts | Belts, pulleys, battery cables, tune-up items | $900 to $2,100 |
| Major retrofit or multiple worn systems | Extra fabrication, wiring, deck/drive issues found | $1,500 to $2,500+ |
What changes the price the most
- Engine match and mounting pattern: A true direct replacement is faster and cheaper.
- Condition of the drive and deck systems: If the tractor has belt, pulley, or mandrel wear, labor time climbs.
- Shop rate and region: Labor rates vary widely.
- Hidden “no-start” causes: Many tractors need a battery, starter circuit repair, or fuel system service instead of an engine.
Before you replace the engine (quick checks)
We recommend ruling out common issues first because they can mimic a “bad engine”:
- Verify the battery and cable connections are clean and tight.
- Check for safety interlock problems (seat, brake, PTO switch).
- Confirm fresh fuel and a clean air filter.
- Inspect for a seized deck component that can overload the engine when the PTO is engaged.
- Review the troubleshooting steps in the 917273810 owner’s manual.
Why it matters
An engine is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Spending a few minutes diagnosing starting, charging, and deck-load problems first helps you avoid replacing a good engine and can get your Craftsman tractor back to mowing faster.
Last updated: February 2026
How to look up Craftsman model number?
To look up the model number on your Craftsman riding mower, check the ID label on the tractor frame under the seat area. For the Craftsman lawn tractor model 917273810, the model number is shown in the 917273810 owner's manual.
Where to find the model and serial number label
On most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors, the label is in one of these spots:
- On the frame directly under the seat (lift the seat to view)
- On the underside of the seat pan
- Near the rear fender or seat bracket area
- On the frame rail close to the transmission area
How to use the model number once you find it
Use the model number exactly as printed (including dots or spaces if shown on the label) to match the correct parts diagrams and maintenance specs.
- Enter the full model number when searching for parts
- Use the model number to confirm deck size and drive system (for example, 42-inch deck, transaxle type)
- Use the serial number to identify production variations when ordering parts
- Keep a photo of the label for future reference
Quick reference: what each number is for
| What you found | What it helps with | Example for this tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Correct parts list and diagrams | 917273810 |
| Serial number | Build/run changes and service history | Varies by unit |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors often share similar looks across multiple model numbers, but belts, blades, and deck hardware can differ. Using the exact model number helps ensure you get the right replacement parts the first time.
Last updated: February 2026
What year is a Craftsman 917273810 riding mower?
The Craftsman riding mower model 917273810 does not have one single “model year” printed in the parts listing; the build date is tied to the serial number on your tractor’s ID tag. Use the 917273810 owner's manual to confirm where to find the identification information and match parts correctly.
How to find the build date on your tractor
Use the tractor’s ID tag information (model and serial) to determine the manufacturing date range:
- Look for the model and serial number label under the seat, on the frame near the seat, or on the rear fender area.
- Record the model exactly as shown; it may appear as 917.273810 or 917273810.
- Write down the serial number and any date code printed on the tag.
- Keep that information with your maintenance records; it is the fastest way to confirm correct replacement parts.
- If the tag is missing or unreadable, compare key components (deck type, steering, transaxle style) to diagrams in the manual.
Specs you can use to confirm you have the right model
The owner’s manual for Craftsman 917.273810 identifies the tractor platform as:
| Spec area | What’s shown for 917.273810 |
|---|---|
| Engine rating | 18.5 HP (low-emission engine noted) |
| Deck size | 42-inch mower deck |
| Starting | Electric start |
Transmission note (important for accuracy)
Craftsman 917.27xxx tractors were sold with different drive systems across the series. For 917273810, confirm the drive type by checking your ID tag and the drivetrain section of the 917273810 owner's manual rather than assuming a specific transmission.
Why it matters
The year and serial range affect parts compatibility and running changes. Even on a 42-inch deck, blade and deck components can vary; for example, the lawn tractor 42-in deck high-lift blade 532138971 is a common 42-inch deck blade style used for bagging or side discharge when it matches your deck setup.
Last updated: February 2026





