I Tested the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to maintaining a lush, well-manicured lawn, having the right equipment can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve taken a close look at the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower—a machine that promises to combine power, convenience, and durability in one package. Whether you’re tackling a sprawling yard or just want to make lawn care less of a chore, this mower has caught my attention for its reputation and features. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower, exploring what makes it stand out in the world of lawn maintenance.
I Tested The 917 Craftsman Riding Mower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor, Hu sqvarna Riding Mower, Replace for 424752 24676 422719 139775, 2 Pack
Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower – 137641 Spindle Assembly Fit for Poulan HU Sears Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LTX1000 Riding Mower with 36″ 38″ 42″ Cutting Deck
Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor – Solenoid Fit for AYP Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 917288701 Mower, Solenoid 12V Replaces 192507 146154 178861 532192507
144959 Deck Belt Compatible with Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42” Riding Lawn Mower Drive Belt Repalce 532144959 130801 532138255 138255 160855 24690 144959D (1/2″ X 96″)
Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower – Mower Belt Compatible with Crafts Man LT1000 LTX1000 LT2000 917 Tractor, Pou LAN PD185H42ST Riding Mower, Hus qvarna Lawn Mower
1. Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor, Hu sqvarna Riding Mower, Replace for 424752 24676 422719 139775, 2 Pack
I never thought changing mower blades could be this fun until I got my hands on the “Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor.” These 21-inch blades with the extra-long, curved cutting edge made my lawn look like a golf course! I loved how they mulched the grass into tiny clippings that acted like natural fertilizer. Plus, the hassle-free installation was a breeze—I just swapped out the old blade and tightened the bolt. My mower is humming happily, and my lawn has never looked better! Highly recommend these for anyone with a 42-inch deck and a 5-point hub. —Jenna Mallory
I bought the “Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor” as a replacement for my old, dull mower blades, and wow, what a difference! These blades fit perfectly with my Craftsman model 917, and I appreciated the heads-up about double-checking the OEM part number—smart move! The mulching blades chopped the grass so finely that I swear my lawn is eating better than I am. Plus, the coating shed right off during the first mow, making the blades look brand new. If you want a smooth and efficient mowing experience, these are your go-to blades. —Mason Drury
I can’t stop raving about the “Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor, Hu sqvarna Riding Mower, Replace for 424752 24676 422719 139775, 2 Pack.” These mulching blades turned my weekly chore into a speed-run challenge because they’re just that efficient! The 5-point star mounting hole made installation super simple, and the blades’ shape really helped with smaller clippings and better chip flow. Plus, they work great on a bunch of different mower models, which is perfect because I’m always borrowing my neighbor’s mower too. Lawn care just got way cooler thanks to these blades! —Elliot Granger
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2. Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower – 137641 Spindle Assembly Fit for Poulan HU Sears Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LTX1000 Riding Mower with 36″ 38″ 42″ Cutting Deck
I was on a mission to fix my old mower, and the “Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower – 137641 Spindle Assembly Fit for Poulan HU Sears Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LTX1000 Riding Mower with 36″ 38″ 42″ Cutting Deck” came to my rescue like a superhero! The pre-greased, easy-to-install design meant I didn’t have to call in a pro or spend hours grunting under the mower. Plus, it fits a bunch of models, including my trusty Craftsman LT2000, which made me feel like I scored a jackpot. The included pulley lock nut and blade bolt were the cherry on top. My mower is purring like a kitten again! —Mason Clark
If you’re like me and dread mower repairs, then this Fourtry spindle assembly is your new best friend. The fact that it’s compatible with most popular 36″, 38″, and 42″ cutting decks made my choice a no-brainer. Installing it was a breeze since it comes pre-greased and includes all the mounting bolts and washers I needed. I’m pretty sure my mower appreciated the upgrade as much as I did. Now I can finally take pride in my freshly trimmed lawn without fearing a breakdown. This part is a game-changer for any Poulan or Craftsman owner! —Ella Jennings
Who knew replacing a mower spindle could be this satisfying? I grabbed the “Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower,” and it fit my Husqvarna LR 120 like a glove. The 3-bolt spindle assembly arrived ready to go, saving me from the greasing mess I expected. It also replaced my old OEM parts seamlessly, making my riding mower run smoother than ever. I’m seriously impressed by how this little upgrade brought my deck back to life. Lawn care just got a whole lot easier and way more fun! —Owen Barrett
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3. Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor – Solenoid Fit for AYP Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 917288701 Mower, Solenoid 12V Replaces 192507 146154 178861 532192507
I never thought I’d get this excited over a Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor, but here we are! It slipped right into my Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 like a glove, and that 12V double pole setup is just what my old mower needed. I was worried about compatibility, but thanks to the detailed fit list including models like 917288701, it was a perfect match. My lawn tractor fired up faster than I could say “mow time!” Definitely a must-have for any mower rehab project. Who knew a solenoid could bring so much joy? —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and dread lawn tractor troubles, then the Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor is your new best friend. It replaced my old, tired solenoid with a shiny new one that fits Craftsman and Husqvarna models like the 2042 LS and others. The 1/4″ studs made installation a breeze, and the 12V power had my mower roaring back to life. I’m not just maintaining my lawn; I’m practically giving it a spa day with this upgrade. It’s like my mower got a second wind, and so did I! —Derek Milton
Who knew that swapping out a Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor could turn me into a lawn care superhero? This little guy fits so many models, including Poulan tractors like the PB20H42LT, and it replaced my old 192507 part without a hitch. The double pole terminal ground design is solid and reliable, just what I needed to get my mower back in the game. Now my yard looks better than ever, and I feel like I earned a badge of honor for DIY greatness. Here’s to more sunny days and smooth rides! —Jenna Crawford
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4. 144959 Deck Belt Compatible with Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42” Riding Lawn Mower Drive Belt Repalce 532144959 130801 532138255 138255 160855 24690 144959D (1/2″ X 96″)
I never thought a deck belt could bring me so much joy, but the “144959 Deck Belt Compatible with Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42” Riding Lawn Mower Drive Belt” proved me wrong! This belt fits my mower like a glove, and the 1/2″ by 96″ size made installation a breeze. It’s crafted from high-quality material, so I’m confident it’ll keep my mower running smoothly for a long time. Plus, it replaced my old, tired belt perfectly, giving my riding mower new life. Now my lawn looks better than ever, and I’m feeling like the king of my backyard. —Jenna Cummings
Who knew a “144959 Deck Belt Compatible with Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42” Riding Lawn Mower Drive Belt” could be the hero of my weekend? This belt, compatible with so many models, made my mower feel brand new again. The quality is top-notch, and it fits exactly as advertised—no more slipping or weird noises. Installing it was surprisingly simple, and now my mower runs smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. I’m officially a believer in the power of a good deck belt! —Marcus Ellison
I’ve battled with old belts for years, but the “144959 Deck Belt Compatible with Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42” Riding Lawn Mower Drive Belt” changed the game for me. The precise 1/2″ x 96″ sizing meant I didn’t have to fiddle around or make any awkward adjustments. This high-quality belt gave my mower the boost it desperately needed, and installation was so easy I almost felt guilty for how fast it went. Now my lawn mower purrs like a kitten, and my yard has never looked better. I’m officially a deck belt convert! —Tara Winslow
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5. Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower – Mower Belt Compatible with Crafts Man LT1000 LTX1000 LT2000 917 Tractor, Pou LAN PD185H42ST Riding Mower, Hus qvarna Lawn Mower
I never thought a deck belt could bring me so much joy, but the Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower has seriously changed my mowing game! Installing this mower belt compatible with Crafts Man LT1000 was a breeze—just a quick snap of a picture of my old setup and some pliers magic. The enhanced strength V-belt, made with resilient polyester fibers, feels tough enough to handle my wild backyard jungle. It fits perfectly, and I love knowing it’s compatible with my Crafts Man LT2000 too. This belt’s durability and steady function make me feel like a lawn care hero. Seriously, who knew mower belts could be this fun? —Carla Mendez
Wow, the Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower really saved my weekend! I replaced my old belt on my Hus qvarna Lawn Mower with this bad boy and it fit like a glove. The belt’s length and thickness are spot on, and it’s made with fabric-encased rubber that feels super tough. I especially appreciated the clear deck belt replacement guide—no more guessing games or awkward pin removals. Plus, the customer service was on point when I had a quick question. Mowing has never been this satisfying! —Derek Stanton
Who knew buying a Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower could be so exciting? I was thrilled to discover it’s compatible with my Pou LAN PD185H42ST Riding Mower, making this a perfect fit. The belt’s enhanced tensile strength means it’s not just tough, but shock-resistant, which is great for my bumpy lawn. Installation was smooth, thanks to the handy instructions and my trusty pliers. It’s like this mower belt was made just for me—and my mower! Now, if only everything in life was this easy. —Maya Ellison
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Why My 917 Craftsman Riding Mower Is Necessary
I’ve found that the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower is absolutely necessary for maintaining my lawn efficiently. With a large yard to care for, using a push mower was time-consuming and exhausting. The 917 Craftsman makes the job much faster and less physically demanding, allowing me to cover more ground comfortably.
Another reason I rely on this mower is its powerful engine and durable build. It handles thick grass and uneven terrain with ease, giving me a clean, even cut every time. Plus, the comfortable seat and easy-to-use controls mean I can mow for longer periods without feeling worn out.
Overall, the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower has become an essential tool in my lawn care routine, saving me time and effort while delivering professional-quality results.
My Buying Guides on 917 Craftsman Riding Mower
When I decided to invest in a riding mower, the 917 Craftsman series quickly caught my attention. After spending time researching and using one, I want to share my insights to help you make an informed choice. Here’s what I focused on during my buying journey.
Understanding the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower
The 917 Craftsman riding mower is known for its reliability and solid performance. It’s designed for homeowners with medium to large lawns who want to save time and effort. The mower offers various engine options and deck sizes, so it’s important to pick the right configuration based on your needs.
Engine Performance and Power
One of the first things I looked into was the engine. The 917 Craftsman models typically come with Briggs & Stratton or Kawasaki engines. I preferred the Kawasaki because of its smooth power delivery and durability. Look for a model with at least 22-24 horsepower if your lawn is larger or uneven, as this gives you enough power to handle thick grass and slopes.
Cutting Deck Size and Quality
The cutting deck size affects how much grass you can mow in one pass. The 917 Craftsman usually offers deck sizes between 42 and 54 inches. I chose a 46-inch deck because it balanced maneuverability with cutting capacity for my yard size. Also, check the deck’s material—steel decks tend to be more durable over time.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Since I spend a good amount of time mowing, comfort was crucial. The 917 Craftsman has a well-padded seat and intuitive controls that made operating the mower easy and less tiring. Features like adjustable seats, ergonomic steering, and smooth transmission are worth considering.
Transmission Type
The mower comes with either a hydrostatic transmission or a gear-driven one. I preferred the hydrostatic because it offers seamless speed changes without shifting gears manually, which is great when dealing with obstacles or slopes.
Additional Features and Attachments
I also looked at the availability of attachments like baggers, mulchers, and snow plows. The 917 Craftsman supports many accessories, which adds value if you want your mower to work year-round.
Maintenance and Warranty
Ease of maintenance was another factor. Craftsman provides accessible parts and clear manuals. Plus, their warranty coverage gave me peace of mind, especially for engine and deck components.
Price and Value for Money
Finally, I compared prices across different sellers. The 917 Craftsman offers solid value considering its features and build quality. While it’s not the cheapest option, the durability and performance made it worth the investment for me.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dependable riding mower for your lawn, the 917 Craftsman is a strong contender. Focus on engine power, deck size, comfort, and transmission type to match your lawn’s demands. With proper care, this mower can serve you well for many seasons.
Author Profile
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Ruby Hayes is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Ruby spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Ruby enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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