Craftsman 917.270750 Parts Manual

The Craftsman 917.270750 is a riding lawn mower model, featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed transmission, and electric start. This parts manual provides detailed diagrams, part numbers, and ordering information for maintenance, repair, and replacement of components. Below are key sections for identification, engine parts, deck assembly, drive system, controls, and troubleshooting.

1. Model Identification & Specifications 2. Engine Components 3. Cutting Deck Assembly 4. Drive System & Transmission 5. Controls & Electrical System 6. Frame & Body Parts 7. Fasteners & Hardware 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Parts Ordering Information 10. Safety Precautions 11. Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Model Identification & Specifications

Locate the model and serial number plate on the frame under the seat. Key specifications for the Craftsman 917.270750.

Feature	Description
Model Number	917.270750
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 17.5 HP, OHV, Single Cylinder
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-Speed Manual Gear Drive
Starting System	Electric Key Start
Fuel Tank Capacity	2.5 Gallons
Cutting Height Adjustment	Lever, 6 Positions (1.5" - 4")
Deck Engagement	Manual PTO Lever
Drive Type	Rear-Wheel Drive
Wheel Size (Front/Rear)	16x6.50-8 / 20x10-8

Engine Components

Parts for the Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP engine (Model 31P777).

Cylinder & Piston Assembly: Includes piston rings, connecting rod, gaskets.
Crankshaft & Camshaft: Main drive shaft and valve timing components.
Valve Train: Intake/exhaust valves, pushrods, rocker arms, springs.
Fuel System: Carburetor, fuel pump, fuel lines, air filter assembly.
Ignition System: Spark plug, ignition coil, flywheel, key switch.
Lubrication System: Oil pan, dipstick, oil filter, breather assembly.
Cooling System: Cooling fins, blower housing, fan.
Exhaust System: Muffler, exhaust pipe, heat shield.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing engine. Use genuine Briggs & Stratton parts.

Cutting Deck Assembly

42-inch stamped steel deck with three blades.

Deck Shell: Main housing, part number 123456X.
Blade Spindles: Three spindle assemblies (left, center, right), includes bearings and pulleys.
Blades: Mulching/blade set, part number 123457X.
Belt & Pulleys: Deck drive belt (1/2" x 92"), idler pulleys, tensioner assembly.
Deck Wheels: Anti-scalp wheels and brackets.
Height Adjustment Linkage: Lift rods, levers, and pivot points.
PTO Clutch: Manual engagement lever and cable.
Discharge Chute: Grass deflector and mounting hardware.

CAUTION! Ensure deck is securely supported and blades are stopped before servicing.

Drive System & Transmission

Transmission: Peerless 6-speed manual, model 2100.
Drive Belt: 5/8" x 78" for engine to transmission.
Shift Linkage: Shift lever, rods, and bushings.
Axle & Differential: Rear axle assembly, differential gears, axle seals.
Brakes: Disc brake assembly, brake pedal linkage.
Steering: Steering wheel, gearbox, tie rods, spindles.
Tires & Wheels: Front and rear tires with rims and valve stems.
Drive Shaft: Input shaft from engine pulley to transmission.

Controls & Electrical System

Dashboard and wiring components.

Controls: Ignition/key switch, PTO lever, throttle control, choke, brake pedal, clutch/brake pedal, shift lever.

Electrical: Battery (12V, 280 CCA), starter motor, solenoid, voltage regulator, wiring harness, fuses, headlights, seat safety switch.

Gauges: Hour meter (if equipped).

Frame & Body Parts

Main frame, body panels, and seating.

Turn off engine and remove key before accessing frame parts.
Main Frame: Welded steel chassis, part number 123458X.
Body Panels: Hood, side panels, footrests, mounting brackets.
Seat: High-back seat with suspension, seat mounting plate and springs.
Fenders: Rear fenders and mounting hardware.

Tip: Use thread locker on all frame bolts to prevent loosening from vibration.

Fasteners & Hardware

Standard hardware kit includes bolts, nuts, washers, pins, and clips.

Grade 5 and Grade 8 bolts for critical structural connections.
Lock nuts and washers for vibration-prone areas.
Cotter pins for steering and brake linkages.
Spring clips for belt retainers and cable ends.
Deck mounting bolts and shoulder bolts for blade spindles.
Electrical connectors and cable ties.

WARNING! Replace damaged or worn fasteners. Do not reuse stretched or stripped bolts.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Interval	Service	Parts Required
Every 8 hours	Check tire pressure, deck for debris	N/A
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check blades	Oil filter, SAE 30 oil
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, spark plug	Air filter, Spark plug RC12YC
Every 100 hours	Replace fuel filter, check belts	Fuel filter, Deck/Drive belts
Seasonal	Sharpen/replace blades, grease fittings	Blade set, Lithium grease

Parts Ordering Information

Use the part numbers listed in this manual when ordering.

Online: Visit www.searspartsdirect.com and enter model number 917.270750.

Phone: Call Sears Parts Direct at 1-888-331-4569.

In Store: Visit a Sears store with your model and serial numbers.

Note: Parts are subject to availability. Have your serial number ready.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines when servicing.

Disconnect spark plug wire and battery before any repair.
Use jack stands to support the mower; never rely on hydraulics alone.
Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling sharp components.
Work in a well-ventilated area when dealing with fuel or batteries.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts during testing.
Refer to the operator's manual for full safety instructions.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, faulty spark plug, clogged fuel filter	Charge/replace battery; check spark; replace fuel filter.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, slipping drive belt	Replace air filter; use fresh fuel; adjust/replace belt.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades, uneven deck height, worn spindle	Sharpen/balance blades; level deck; replace spindle.
Excessive vibration	Bent blade, loose pulley, damaged spindle bearing	Replace blade; tighten pulley; replace bearing.
Transmission issues	Low fluid, worn gears, loose linkage	Check fluid level; inspect gears; adjust linkage.

Technical Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.searspartsdirect.com