Craftsman 917.272921 Parts Manual

The Craftsman 917.272921 is a riding lawn mower featuring a 42-inch cutting deck, powered by a Briggs & Stratton engine. This manual provides detailed parts diagrams, part numbers, and ordering information for maintenance and repair. Below are key sections for identification, engine parts, deck assembly, drive system, electrical components, and troubleshooting.

1. Model Identification & Specifications 2. Engine Assembly Parts 3. Cutting Deck & Blade Parts 4. Drive System & Transmission 5. Electrical System Parts 6. Controls & Steering 7. Frame & Body Parts 8. Wheels & Tires 9. Belts & Pulleys 10. Fasteners & Hardware 11. Parts Ordering & Warranty

Model Identification & Specifications

Locate the model and serial number plate on the frame under the seat or on the rear fender. Use these numbers when ordering parts.

SpecificationDescription
Model Number917.272921
EngineBriggs & Stratton, 17.5 HP, OHV, Single Cylinder
Cutting Width42 inches
Deck TypeStamped Steel, 3-Blade
TransmissionPeerless 5-Speed Manual Gear Drive
Fuel Capacity2.5 Gallons
Oil Capacity1.5 Quarts
Battery12V, 280 CCA
Overall Dimensions72" L x 54" W x 42" H (approx.)
WeightApprox. 450 lbs

Engine Assembly Parts

Parts for the Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP engine (Model 31C707-0237-E1). Always disconnect spark plug before servicing.

  1. Cylinder & Piston: Piston rings, connecting rod, gaskets.
  2. Crankshaft & Camshaft: Main bearings, seals, timing gear.
  3. Valve Train: Valves, springs, pushrods, rocker arms.
  4. Fuel System: Carburetor kit, fuel pump, fuel lines, air filter.
  5. Ignition System: Spark plug (RC12YC), ignition coil, flywheel key.
  6. Lubrication System: Oil filter, dipstick, drain plug.
  7. Cooling System: Cooling fins, blower housing, fan.
  8. Exhaust System: Muffler, exhaust gasket, heat shield.

WARNING! Engine parts are under high pressure and temperature. Allow engine to cool completely before disassembly.

Cutting Deck & Blade Parts

42-inch stamped steel deck with three spindle assemblies. Replace blades annually or when damaged.

  1. Deck Shell: Main deck housing, reinforcement brackets.
  2. Spindle Assemblies: Spindle housing, bearings (6205-2RS), seals, pulley.
  3. Blades: Mulching/blade set (part # 134149), blade bolts, washers.
  4. Deck Lift System: Lift lever, linkage rods, pivot pins, bushings.
  5. Deck Wheels: Anti-scalp wheels, axles, spacers.
  6. Belt Guides & Idlers: Belt keepers, idler pulleys, springs.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire and ensure blades have stopped before working on deck.

Drive System & Transmission

Peerless 5-speed manual transmission with shift lever and chain drive to rear axle.

Electrical System Parts

12-volt system with key start, alternator charging, and safety interlock switches.

Components: Battery, starter solenoid, ignition switch, voltage regulator, wiring harness, headlight bulbs, safety switches (seat, brake, PTO), fuses (20A).

PartPart NumberDescription
BatteryU1-312V, 280 CCA
Starter Motor49977012V DC
Ignition Switch925-0451Key start with positions
PTO Switch925-1940Blade engagement switch
Headlight Assembly532-401-0005Left/right headlight

Controls & Steering

Steering wheel, tie rods, and control linkages for operation.

  1. Steering Wheel: Wheel, adapter, retaining bolt.
  2. Steering Gear: Steering shaft, gear assembly, bushings.
  3. Tie Rods & Ends: Inner/outer tie rods, adjustment sleeves.
  4. Control Levers: Throttle control, choke cable, PTO lever.
  5. Pedals: Brake pedal, clutch pedal, return springs.

Tip: Lubricate all pivot points and linkages annually with grease.

Frame & Body Parts

Main frame, fenders, seat, and body panels.

  1. Main Frame: Welded steel frame, reinforcement brackets.
  2. Fenders: Rear fenders (left/right), mounting bolts.
  3. Seat: Seat cushion, seat pan, suspension springs, mounting bracket.
  4. Body Panels: Hood, side panels, decal kit.
  5. Grille & Bumper: Front grille assembly, bumper bracket.

WARNING! Inspect frame for cracks or damage before operation.

Wheels & Tires

Front: 15x6.00-6 tires. Rear: 20x10.00-8 tires.

Parts: Front wheel assembly (including rim, tire, bearing), rear wheel assembly, valve stems, lug nuts, axle spacers.

Belts & Pulleys

Drive belt and deck belt specifications and replacement parts.

BeltPart NumberLength/Type
Main Drive Belt1449591/2" x 95-1/2"
Deck Drive Belt1402941/2" x 108"
PTO Idler Pulley532-402-0115Idler assembly with spring
Engine Pulley123756X5/8" bore, 7" diameter

Fasteners & Hardware

Common hardware: Hex bolts (grade 5), lock nuts, washers, cotter pins, hairpin clips, roll pins.

CAUTION! Always replace hardware with equivalent grade. Do not reuse stretched or damaged bolts.

Parts Ordering & Warranty

Use the model number (917.272921) and part numbers from this manual when ordering.

SymptomCommon Part NeededOrdering Info
Engine won't startSpark plug, fuel filterUse Briggs & Stratton part numbers
Deck vibrationSpindle bearings, bladesOrder complete spindle kit
Loss of driveDrive belt, shift linkageCheck belt routing diagram
Electrical failureFuse, ignition switchTest with multimeter first
Steering looseTie rod endsCheck for play before ordering

Warranty: Limited warranty from date of purchase. Contact Craftsman customer service for warranty claims.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com

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