How to find Craftsman mower parts?
To find the right parts for your Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 917276120, match the model number from the ID label to the parts diagrams and part list, then confirm the exact part by location and description in the 917276120 owner's manual. You can order from the parts list for this model or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Where to find the model number on the tractor
On Craftsman riding mowers and tractors like 917276120, the model/serial label is typically on the rear frame between the wheels. Once you have the model number, use it exactly as printed.
Tips for reading the label:
- Wipe off grass and dirt so all digits are visible.
- Copy the full model number (all digits) exactly.
- If the label is damaged, check for a duplicate label under the seat or near the frame rails.
How we recommend matching the correct part
Use the model-specific diagrams first, then verify the part’s function and mounting location.
- Identify the system: mower deck, steering, ignition, fuel, or wheels
- Use the diagram callouts to confirm the part position
- Match the part description to your symptom (noise, vibration, poor cut, no start)
- Replace worn fasteners when required (nuts, lock nuts, retainers)
- Follow safety guidance: never adjust or repair with the engine running; let the tractor cool before servicing
Common parts customers look up for this model
These are frequently needed items for deck and starting-related repairs on 917276120:
| What you’re fixing | Part to check | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Rough cut, vibration, deck noise | Mandrel and pulley area | Lawn tractor mandrel housing 587819701 |
| Blades will not engage | PTO switch or clutch circuit | Switch.pto 582107601 |
| Key lost or worn | Ignition key | Molded ignition key 532140403 |
| Deck belt slipping or broken | Blade drive belt | Lawn tractor blade drive belt 584451901 |
Why it matters
Using the exact 917276120 model number prevents ordering look-alike parts that do not fit your deck weldment, mandrel stack-up, or ignition system. It also helps you follow the correct maintenance and safety steps listed in the manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman 917276120 front-engine lawn tractor is worth it when the tractor is otherwise solid (deck, transaxle, steering, and frame) and the engine problem is truly internal. Many “engine failure” symptoms are actually maintenance or fuel issues you can correct using the owner's manual.
When engine replacement makes sense
We recommend an engine replacement when you have confirmed internal damage or chronic issues that keep returning after a proper tune-up.
- Low compression, heavy smoke, or loud knocking that persists after basic service
- Severe overheating history (blocked cooling fins or shrouds) that led to engine damage
- Repeated loss of power after you have addressed air filter, oil, spark plug, and fuel quality
- The rest of the tractor is in good condition and you plan to keep it for several seasons
Quick cost-benefit checklist
| What you’re evaluating | Replace the engine | Replace the tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Deck and mandrels | Deck is solid; spindles serviceable | Deck is rusted, cracked, or worn out |
| Drive and steering | Transaxle pulls strong; steering tight | Transaxle slips; steering has major play |
| Parts availability | Common wear parts are available | Multiple major assemblies are failing |
| Your usage | You mow regularly and want reliability | You mow rarely and want minimal upkeep |
Rule out common “engine is bad” problems first
Your manual’s troubleshooting guidance points to several fixable causes of power loss and poor running. Before pricing an engine, we check these items in order:
- Clean grass and debris buildup under the mower deck and around the engine cooling intake areas
- Replace stale fuel; drain water-contaminated fuel if present
- Replace the fuel filter if fuel flow is restricted (the manual calls for seasonal replacement)
- Service the ignition system (spark plug condition and wire connection)
- Change dirty oil and correct a low oil level
If you are seeing vibration along with performance issues, inspect the deck hardware and blade system; a worn mandrel can mimic “engine strain.” The lawn tractor mandrel housing 587819701 is a common deck component tied to blade support and smooth operation.
Why it matters
A misdiagnosed engine replacement costs more than fixing the real cause. Keeping cooling fins, screens, and shrouds clean prevents overheating damage, and routine fuel and ignition maintenance restores power on many tractors.
If you decide to move forward, you can order model-matched replacement parts from the parts list for Craftsman 917276120, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 917276120, a full engine replacement typically costs $800 to $2,500 installed (engine plus labor). Total cost depends on engine type, whether the replacement is a direct-fit, and how much related work is needed while the tractor is apart.
What drives the total price
- Engine cost: Most of the bill; direct-fit engines cost less than conversions.
- Labor time: Riding mower engine swaps commonly run 4 to 8 hours depending on access, rusted fasteners, and wiring.
- Extra parts and supplies: Belts, fuel line items, clamps, oil, filter, and hardware often add up.
- Deck and drive condition: If the mower deck or drive system has wear, it is smart to address it during the swap.
- Shop rates in your area: Labor rates vary widely.
Typical cost breakdown (installed)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine | $500 to $1,800 | Biggest variable; direct-fit vs conversion matters most |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Often 4 to 8 hours |
| Fluids, tune-up items, misc. hardware | $50 to $250 | Oil, filter, spark plug, clamps, etc. |
| Estimated total | $800 to $2,500 | Most common real-world range |
When replacement makes sense (and when it does not)
Engine replacement is usually the right call when the tractor is otherwise solid (good transaxle, steering, deck shell). If the tractor also has major deck or drive wear, total repair cost can climb quickly.
A quick check we use before committing:
- Compression is low or the engine has internal knock (replacement favored)
- Wiring and safety interlocks are intact (reduces labor surprises)
- Deck spindles and pulleys spin smoothly (avoids stacking repairs)
Parts you may replace at the same time
While the engine is out, these common wear items are easier to inspect and service:
- Lawn tractor blade drive belt 584451901 (if cracked, glazed, or stretched)
- Switch.pto 582107601 (if the PTO is intermittent)
- Lawn tractor mandrel housing 587819701 (if a spindle is noisy or wobbly)
Why it matters
A riding mower engine swap is a big job; planning for labor time and “while-you’re-in-there” parts helps prevent repeat downtime. Following the maintenance and safety steps in the owner's manual also protects the new engine from overheating and premature wear.
You can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 917276120 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 6.75 lawn mower?
“6.75” is an engine-size label used on many Craftsman mowers, not a single mower model number. For the Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor covered here, the model number is 917276120 (shown in the 917276120 owner's manual).
How to find the model number on a Craftsman mower or tractor
We use the equipment model number (not the engine model) to match the correct parts diagrams.
Check these common ID-tag locations:
- Riding lawn tractor: under the seat, on the frame near the seat pan
- Riding lawn tractor: on the rear frame plate behind the seat
- Riding lawn tractor: under the hood near the dash tower (varies by series)
- Walk-behind mower: on the mower deck housing, usually near the rear or side
What numbers you might see (and which one you need)
Use the equipment model number for parts lookup; use the engine model only for engine-specific parts.
| Label you see | What it identifies | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model No. 917.XXXXXX | Craftsman equipment model | 917.276120 |
| 917XXXXXX (no dot) | Same model without punctuation | 917276120 |
| Engine model/type | Engine identification | Kohler CV740 |
Why it matters
Parts such as deck belts, PTO switches, mandrel components, and steering hardware are matched to the equipment model number. Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong belt length, pulley, or electrical switch.
If you are working on model 917276120
These are examples of model-matched parts commonly used on the mower deck and PTO system:
For other “6.75” Craftsman mowers, the exact model number on the ID tag is what you will use to select the right diagrams and parts.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
Craftsman riding mower model 917276120 is a 27.0 HP tractor with a 54-inch mower deck, electric start, and an automatic transmission. The exact engine manufacturer and engine model are identified by the engine ID label on your engine; confirm it using the owner's manual.
What we can confirm for model 917276120
From the model’s documentation, these are the key powertrain details you can rely on:
- 27.0 HP rating
- 54-inch mower deck
- Electric start
- Automatic transmission
- Engine-specific service parts are selected by the engine ID (not just tractor model)
How to identify the exact engine (make and model)
Use the engine’s ID tag to get the correct manufacturer and model designation:
- Locate the engine ID label (commonly on the blower housing, valve cover, or near the starter)
- Write down the model and spec/type numbers (and the code/serial if shown)
- Compare those numbers to the engine information section in the owner's manual
- Use the engine ID when choosing tune-up parts like the air filter, spark plug, and fuel filter
Quick guide: tractor model vs. engine model
| You have | What it tells you | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| 917276120 (tractor model) | Tractor and deck configuration | Chassis, deck, steering, PTO, belts |
| Engine ID label (engine model/spec) | Exact engine make and build | Engine tune-up and internal engine parts |
Why it matters
Many Craftsman tractors can share similar frames and decks but use different engines over production runs. Matching the engine ID prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and ensures the correct starting, choke, and throttle procedures.
Related parts that affect “engine” performance while mowing
If the engine seems to bog down or the cut quality drops, the issue is often in the deck drive system:
- Lawn tractor blade drive belt 584451901 (transfers power to the blades)
- Lawn tractor electric clutch 532414737 (engages the mower deck)
- Switch.pto 582107601 (controls PTO engagement)
You can order replacement parts from the parts list for model 917276120, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





