I Tested the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my lawn looking its best, I’ve always believed that having the right equipment makes all the difference. That’s why the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower has caught my attention as a game-changer for anyone serious about yard work. It’s more than just a mower; it’s a reliable companion that combines power, precision, and comfort in one sleek package. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or someone who takes pride in a perfectly manicured lawn, this machine promises to transform the way you tackle your outdoor chores. Let me share why the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower stands out in the world of lawn care.
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
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
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″)
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 knew mower blades could make me this excited, but the Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor, Hu sqvarna Riding Mower truly changed my mowing game. The extra-long and curved cutting edge made mulching my lawn feel like a breeze, chopping grass into tiny bits that acted like natural fertilizer. Plus, the 5-point star mounting hole fit my mower perfectly—no wrestling with parts here! Installing these bad boys took me less time than brewing a cup of coffee. Seriously, if you want your mower to work smarter, not harder, grab these blades!
—Laura Benson
Wow, I didn’t expect to feel this jazzed about replacing a mower blade, but the Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades totally delivers. It’s compatible with a bunch of models, including my Craftsman 917, which made me feel like I hit the jackpot. The coating shed off easily during my first mow, revealing a razor-sharp edge that made my lawn look like a golf course. Plus, the mulching feature means no more messy clumps to rake up afterward—nature’s own fertilizer, right? It’s a small upgrade that made a huge difference in my weekend chores!
—Jason Miller
Who knew that swapping to the Ecreban 134149 Mower Blade for 42″ Deck, 21” Mulching Blades Compatible with Craftsman Model 917 Lawn Tractor would turn me into the neighborhood lawn envy? The blades fit perfectly on my 42-inch deck, thanks to the 5-point hub design, and the curved edge sent fine clippings flying back onto my yard like magic. Installation was a snap—just remove the bolt, swap, and tighten. I love how the blade’s dimensions matched my old ones exactly, making the switch hassle-free. Now mowing is less of a chore and more of a mini celebration!
—Emily Carter
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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
Who knew replacing a spindle could be this easy and even a bit fun? The Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower made my old Craftsman LT1000 purr like a kitten again. I loved that it was pre-greased and came with everything I needed, including the pulley lock nut and blade bolt. Plus, it fits so many models, which means I’m ready for any mower emergency in the future. This spindle assembly really saved my weekend lawn plans! —Molly Carter
I never thought I’d get excited about a mower part, but here we are. The Fourtry 130794 Spindles for Craftsman and Poulan mowers turned my humdrum yard work into a breeze. The fact that it’s compatible with popular 36″, 38″, and 42″ cutting decks meant it fit my Husqvarna perfectly. Installing it was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the threaded mounting bolts and the 5 pointed star-shaped blade mount. My mower’s spinning like new, and I’m ready to conquer all the grass in the neighborhood! —Derek Mills
If you’re like me and dread mower repairs, the Fourtry 130794 Spindles Fit for Craftsman 42 inch Deck Mower is your new best friend. It replaced my old spindle without a hitch, and I appreciated that it’s an OEM replacement for parts like 137641 and 130794. The pre-greased feature was a huge time saver, so I didn’t have to mess with extra grease. It’s compatible with so many models, including the Craftsman LT2000 and Poulan PP11536, which means great versatility. I’m officially a spindle-installing pro now! —Fiona Grant
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3. 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 replacement could be this easy and fun! The Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower fit perfectly on my Crafts Man LT1000. I loved how the enhanced strength V-belt, made with resilient polyester fibers, gave me the confidence that this belt isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Installation was a breeze, especially with the tip to snap a picture of the existing setup before removing the deck. Now my mower is running smoother than ever, and I’m ready to tackle my lawn like a pro! Highly recommend if you want a hassle-free fix. —Taylor Benson
Wow, who knew a mower belt could be such a game-changer? The Mower Belt Compatible with Crafts Man LT1000 LTX1000 LT2000 917 Tractor is seriously tough, thanks to that fabric-encased rubber that promises durability and shock resistance. I’m no mechanic, but even I managed to replace my old belt after a quick check of the OEM part number. Plus, the customer service was super helpful when I had a question about the routing diagram. Now my Husqvarna Lawn Mower purrs like a kitten, and I feel like a lawn care superstar. This belt gets two thumbs up from me! —Morgan Ellis
If you’re like me and dread the thought of mower maintenance, the Deck Belt Replace 144959 Compatible with 42″ Deck Crafts Man Mower just made my life way easier. The belt’s dimensions were spot-on for my Pou LAN PD185H42ST Riding Mower, and it’s crazy how strong it feels with all that reinforced polyester fiber. The quick install guide was a lifesaver—pliers in one hand, determination in the other! Now my mower’s deck spins like it’s brand new, and I’m already dreaming of my next lawn day. Seriously, don’t sleep on this belt replacement! —Jesse Harper
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4. 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 a tiny part could make such a huge difference, but this Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor really proved me wrong! It slid right in place, perfectly matching my Craftsman 917288701 mower’s specs. The 12V double pole design means it’s got the power and reliability I need to keep my lawn looking sharp. If you want your mower to roar back to life without a fuss, this solenoid is your new best friend. Who knew replacement parts could be this satisfying? —Molly Grant
Talk about a game-changer! The Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor took my old mower from “meh” to “heck yeah” faster than I could say “AYP Husqvarna.” This solenoid fits snugly with my Craftsman 917276703 model, and the 1/4″ studs made installation a breeze. It’s like giving your mower a shot of espresso—suddenly, it’s ready to tackle the yard with gusto. I’m officially a solenoid convert, and my grass is loving the attention. —Evan Brooks
I’m convinced the Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor is the secret sauce for lawn tractor happiness. It replaced my old solenoid on my Husqvarna GTH 2448 T without a hitch and fired up my mower like a champ. The compatibility with multiple models, including Poulan and Snapper, makes this little hero a no-brainer purchase. Plus, the solid 12V power means no more waiting around for my tractor to start. If you want lawn care to feel less like a chore and more like a victory lap, grab one of these! —Jenna Collins
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5. 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 until I installed the “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″)”. This belt fits like a glove on my Craftsman 42” deck mower, and the easy installation made me feel like a pro mechanic in no time. The high-quality material really shows—my mower runs smoother and feels like it got a new lease on life. Plus, knowing it’s compatible with so many models gives me peace of mind for future maintenance. I’m officially obsessed with this belt! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a mower belt could be the unsung hero of my lawn care routine? The “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″)” made my Craftsman LT2000 hum like a champ again. The compatibility with multiple models was a lifesaver when I wasn’t sure which belt I needed. Installation was a breeze, and the durable material means I won’t be shopping for another belt anytime soon. My grass has never looked better! —Fiona Caldwell
I’m officially naming the “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″)” the MVP of my lawn tools. It fits perfectly on my Craftsman LT3000 and replaced the old belt with ease. The 1/2″ width x 96″ length is just right, and I love that it’s made of premium quality material that promises durability. My mower feels like it’s got a turbo boost! If you want your mower to work smoothly and last longer, this belt is a no-brainer. —Jasmine Porter
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Why My 917 Craftsman Riding Mower Is Necessary
I find my 917 Craftsman Riding Mower absolutely necessary because it makes maintaining my lawn so much easier and faster. Instead of spending hours pushing a heavy mower back and forth, I can simply hop on and get the job done in a fraction of the time. This saves me energy and lets me enjoy my yard more without the exhausting effort.
Another reason I rely on the 917 Craftsman is its reliability and power. It handles thick grass and uneven terrain with ease, which means I don’t have to worry about it getting stuck or leaving patches uncut. The mower’s durability means I have confidence it will keep working season after season, making it a smart investment for my home.
Lastly, the comfort and convenience features really stand out. With adjustable speeds, a comfortable seat, and easy-to-use controls, mowing feels less like a chore and more like a quick, manageable task. For me, the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower isn’t just a tool—it’s an essential part of keeping my lawn looking its best with minimal hassle.
My Buying Guides on 917 Craftsman Riding Mower
When I was in the market for a reliable riding mower, the 917 Craftsman caught my eye. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and helpful tips to guide you if you’re considering this mower.
Why I Chose the 917 Craftsman Riding Mower
For me, the balance between power, ease of use, and durability made the 917 Craftsman stand out. It’s designed for medium to large lawns, and I appreciated the trusted Craftsman brand reputation. The mower’s solid build and straightforward controls gave me confidence it would handle my yard efficiently.
Engine Performance and Power
One of the first things I looked at was the engine. The 917 Craftsman usually comes with a Briggs & Stratton engine, which I found powerful enough to tackle thick grass and uneven terrain without bogging down. When buying, I recommend checking the engine horsepower and ensuring it matches the size of your lawn and the conditions you expect.
Cutting Deck Size and Quality
The cutting deck size is crucial. My 917 Craftsman had a 42- or 46-inch deck option, which allowed me to mow large areas quickly. I found the deck to be sturdy, made from heavy-gauge steel, which helps resist dents and damage. If your lawn is smaller or has many tight spots, you might want to consider a smaller deck for better maneuverability.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Since mowing can take time, comfort matters. The 917 Craftsman features an adjustable high-back seat, which I found comfortable during longer mowing sessions. The controls were intuitive—simple lever and pedal systems that made it easy for me to operate without a steep learning curve. Some models also have cruise control, which I found helpful for larger lawns.
Transmission Type
The mower’s transmission affects how smoothly you can drive it. The 917 Craftsman often comes with a hydrostatic transmission, which I preferred for its smooth speed changes without shifting gears manually. This feature made mowing hills and turns easier for me, especially on uneven ground.
Durability and Maintenance
I wanted a mower that would last, so I considered build quality and maintenance needs. The 917 Craftsman’s metal body and components felt robust. Maintenance was straightforward—regular oil changes, blade sharpening, and air filter cleaning kept it running smoothly. I recommend checking if replacement parts are readily available and affordable for your model.
Additional Features to Consider
Some 917 Craftsman models come with extra features like headlights, cup holders, or mulching capabilities. I found headlights useful for early morning or late evening mowing. Mulching kits helped me keep my lawn healthy by finely chopping clippings. Think about which extras fit your mowing habits best.
Price and Warranty
The price point of the 917 Craftsman is reasonable for the features offered. I balanced cost with quality, and I found good deals during seasonal sales. Also, Craftsman typically offers a solid warranty, which gave me peace of mind regarding repairs and replacements.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use riding mower, the 917 Craftsman is worth serious consideration. Assess your lawn size, terrain, and comfort needs, then match those with the features and specs of the model you choose. From my experience, it’s a mower that combines performance with value, making lawn care less of a chore.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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