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Who and When Was My Craftsman Made?
When Was My Craftsman Made? Who Made My Craftsman?
Who Made My Craftsman?
This is for U.S. Craftsman products. It does not work for Canadian, European or Austrailian models. To find who made your lawn tractor, etc., look at the first three numbers before the decimal point.
The first 5 numbers after the decimal combined with the first three make up the model number. numbers after the fifth spot are build/minor revisions to the original product.
Model Number 917. These products are made by Husqvarna. Older products may have Electrolux or American Yard Products (AYP) which were acquired by Husqvarna years ago. Roper was the company before AYP.
Model Number 247. These products are made by MTD.
To see a complete list of who made what for Craftsman go here: Craftsman OEM List
When was it made?
This only works for products with a 917. or 247 serial number. It also does not work for Canadian, European or Austrailian models. To find the age of your Craftsman lawn tractor, riding mower or zero-turn mower you will need to use the serial number. It’s usually located on a tag or decal under the seat.
Serial Number: The first two numbers are the month. The third and fourth numbers are the day. The fifth and sixth numbers are the year.
Model Number For Attachments. Attachments with model number beginning with 486 are made by Agri-Fab. These attachments “generally” fit riding mowers built between 2005 and 2017.
Will my Craftsman Snow Blower fit?
Snowblower attachments with model numbers other than 486 will not fit any Craftsman lawn or garden tractor made after 1997. For Example, there are still quite a few Craftsman 2-stage snow blower attachments floating around with the prefix 842. This company, Haban went out of business in 1997. It will not fit any tractor made after that date and you can not find parts for it anywhere except auction sites like eBay.
You can read more about Craftsman Riding Mowers at TodaysMower.com
You can read more about Craftsman Snow blowers at MovingSnow.com
Carlo Miller
My craftsman mower is model 502.255040 with serial number of 15146125, your formula for finding the year doesn’t work.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Carlo, Yes, It looks like the old Murray made mowers had to be different. My rough guess yours is 1988-1991. I base that guess on the copyright of the owners manual.
Cindy
Paul, can you tell me what years Craftsman made the model #917.271813? It’s a lt1000 color green, rounded hood, 42″ mower, 19.5 hp. Just a ballpark range of years would help. The serial # is no longer available. Thank you.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Cindy, 1997-2001
Corey
My tractor model # is 917.254551, what year is it?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Corey, I can’t figure out when it was made with the model number. You need the serial number to figure it out. Here is the process from this article.
“When was it made?
This only works for products with a 917. or 247 serial number. It also does not work for Canadian, European or Austrailian models. To find the age of your Craftsman lawn tractor, riding mower or zero-turn mower you will need to use the serial number. It’s usually located on a tag or decal under the seat.
Serial Number: The first two numbers are the month. The third and fourth numbers are the day. The fifth and sixth numbers are the year. “
Michael Hartner
Paul Sikkema,
This info as to date of manufacturer is same as another site but makes no sense with my serial number, still plainly visible on the sticker. Serial number is 034498. The ‘o3 could work but the 44 doesn’t unless back then there was a month with more than 31 days and the ’98 doesn’t work as I had it before then. I traded a reel mower to a coworker when I worked for a company and I left that company before ’98… Was closer to ’90 when I made the trade. Do you know what the Lot number indicates?? Thanks!!
Paul Sikkema
Hi Michael, Sears, Sear Repair and Sears Parts never kept the info for figuring out when these tractors were made. Most of that information was destroyed long before they moved to Hoffman Estates. The only other way to find the year is: Using your model number find an operator’s manual. Many are available online through various websites. Most of them have a copyright date on the last page. That will give you an idea when the tractor was first made.
scott moses
hi i have a craftsman riding mower model no is 917.270812 and the sel is 04899d003181 what year is this
Paul Sikkema
Hi Scott, about a 1999
Matt Stump
Hello Paul, have a Craftsman LT1000 17 HP, model 917.271652. Serial #040402B006285. As I understand from your great site, this was built April 2002? FOund a manual but doesn’t list accessories. Trying to find a bagger, or the part number that fits. Would appreciate any direction. Thanks
Paul Sikkema
Hi Matt,
Tractor 27165 Bagger 24891 (bag) Snow blade 24441 Snow Thrower 24837
Al
Hi Paul, I find the information on the site helpful. I am wondering if you can help. I have a 18.5 HP LT2000 Craftsman Lawn Tractor 917.274761 purchased in 2004. I also have installed Craftsman/Haban snow thrower attachment, which I purchased in 1993 and used on an earlier tractor, successfully for all these years #842.240510 on this tractor since purchase. I have since posted the attachment for sale. I have an interested customer with lawn tractor model 917.275350. If our tractors share the same frame, the unit should be compatible. I believe Craftsman switched lawn tractor OEM around ’05. I am trying to determine if the frames are the same since that is critical for compatibility of the mounting brackets. I want to make sure so I can give the prospective customer accurate info. Please advise and thank in advance for your time.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Al, The 917.275350 was built after 2006 so it’s not compatible.
The old Haban snow blowers are great but I suggest that you sell the tractor and snowblower as one unit because there are not many tractors left that it will fit.
Bill
Hi looking for a grass bagger Craftsman 30 inch riding mower model number 536. 2 70 282 part number cmx G z a ma 300 1/4 the more was made 2003
Paul Sikkema
Hi Bill, That Craftsman was made by Briggs and was not very popular. You will not find a bagger for it.
NMH
Hello Mr. Sikkema, how about a Craftsman model #917.272050 16 HP electric start 42″ mower 6 speed transaxle? Also a ballpark would help.
Paul Sikkema
Hi NMH the first six digits of the serial number will give you the date it was built: month/day/year. I’m guessing about a 2000.
Rob
my LT 1000 is model 917271811 mm/dd/yyyy ???
Paul Sikkema
Hi Rob, Look at the serial number on the same nameplate. Serial Number: The first two numbers are the month. The third and fourth numbers are the day. The fifth and sixth numbers are the year.
Andrew wilkins
Hi I’m trying to find out if husqvarna made my 2000 lt1750 42in craftsman riding mower. I’m trying to buy a rear bagger for it. Thank you
Paul Sikkema
Andrew, Please reply with the model number from under the seat. It should start with 917.
Chris
Hey Paul. I also looked up Carlo’s mower on searspartsdirect, but couldn’t find a manual. I’m looking to find a date on an old Murray as well (502.254970). If you have a source for the owners manuals, any chance you could pass it along?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Chris, I have no secret source. I just Google the number with Sears Craftsman Manual after the number. Usually, http://www.manualslib.com and a few others will pop up with the manual. I view the first and last page of the manual and most of the time there is a copyright date. Since most tractors were only made for 1-3 years you can get a guess to the age. http://www.stripmine.org/sears/layout/id_number.htm is also good for just finding out what engine and deck were originally on it.
Doug Underwood
Trying to find out what year and model number of a riding mowers I just bought.hope u can help
143.981002
TTP358U1G2EA
DOM 8154D
Trying to find a carb rebuild kit
Thanks
Paul Sikkema
Hi Doug, I can’t help except that number comes up as an engine here and there is a replacement carb available: http://shrsl.com/12r6d
Paul Fleury
I’ve got a good one for you.
The sticker under the seat of my old Sears Craftsman garden tractor shows the Model# 50260211 and a Date of Fabrication 3342
Now the model # that I gave you are some what clear while others are not, but their were spaces between some of the number typed as (502 6021 1) the numbers 6 and especially 2 are very hard to see guessing that’s what they are. The sticker with the model # and date was all in french the tractor is painted all black its a GT18. My guess is that its between the years 1981-1985. The only other twin to mine that I have ever seen is on Youtube check out this site:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-n92r2DAFnE
or
https://youtu.be/-n92r2DAFnE
Once you’ve whatched the Youtube video you will see what mine looks like he is missing the mower deck. MY problem is that I need new or used parts for my mower deck, but without a proper Model# I can’t find parts.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Paul, Is this tractor in the U.S.? If it is then the 502 means it was made by Murray. If it is you can go through all the parts diagrams for the 502 tractors here: http://shrsl.com/12r5q.
Be aware that Sears Parts only stocks parts for about 20 years and doesn’t restock parts after that. So you may find the part on a diagram but you may not be able to order it. You can Google search or eBay search the part number and someone else may still have it.
If the tractor is outside theU.S. the model numbers are country-specific and Sears parts does not have records of it.
William Button
Who made my tractor? Model number is 917 – 253080?
Paul Sikkema
Hi William, “Model Number 917. These products are made by Husqvarna. Older products may have Electrolux or American Yard Products (AYP) which were acquired by Husqvarna years ago. Roper was the company before AYP.”
Ronald Flack
I have what I believe to be a LT4000 4 wheel steer lawn tractor. Model number 536.255880 and next to it is a code number 207603218 with that info do you have a general guess of what year it is and any other information you have???
Paul Sikkema
Hi Ronald, You have a pretty rare Craftsman. It was made by Noma around 1992. Here are the parts diagrams for it. http://shrsl.com/12zyx. Most of the parts are no longer available.
David Weger
How about model number 917273100 serial number 1560s04654
Paul Sikkema
Hi David, Is that tractor here in the U.S? That model was made sometime around 2000 but the serial number is not the usual U.S. layout.
Joseph M. Spillman
Hello Paul Sikkema, This is an outstanding idea. Actually, I have an American Lawn Mower and model no 1304-14. Can you say to me Who made my lawn mower?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Joeseph, https://americanlawnmower.com/
mike
what about a model 247-37048-0, s/n 7G158K10449
Paul Sikkema
Hi Mike, The date code only works on riding mowers – but that corded electric is about a 2010.
Tony
hello Paul,
last year i bought a Craftsman lt1000, there are no numbers anymore, is there a place i can find the model numbers. It is a 21hp B&S twin, 6 speed, 42″ deck, and Green. any help would be appreciated, Thank you Tony
Paul Sikkema
Hi Tony, I did some looking and I’m not having much luck finding a similar tractor to get the model number from. I suggest doing a Google search for “craftsman 21hp B&S twin, 6 speed, 42″ deck, Green” Then look at the ebay, tractorhouse and other websites that have them for sale. Also, do the same search and click the images tab on Google search. Many times you’ll find a listing or image and the owner lists the model number. If it has the same specs and hood as your’s the model number will work for you to get parts.
warren conway
I have 917.271131 SN 031600B001810 I know it was built in 2000 but who built it, as I remember when I ordered it the sears rep said AYP.
thanks
Paul Sikkema
Hi Warren, Husqvarna purchased AYP around 2005. So now we just say it was made by Husqvarna.
Jeff
Hello, I’m looking for some of the same information, year of manufacture for my lawn mower. The formula is icy aren’t working. Here’s what I have
Model 917.380210
Lot M093086
Serial 00961
I have been pushing this more around for about 25 years, just curious what year it was actually made. Thanks for all your help.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jeff, The formula only works on riding mowers. But your tractor was made by AYP – American Yard Products – which is now Husqvarna.
Lisa
I have a Craftsman model 917.289253. Serial is 031810D002326. Im trying to find out what year it is.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Lisa, 03/18/10. March 18, 2010
Jim
Hi I have just purchased a used ride on model # 944.60415 I’m in Canada just can’t seem to find much info on this particular model # any help would be greatly appreciated!!!
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jim, I have no access to any information on the Canadian Craftsman products. Sears.ca always had a tight lid on any info including parts and operator’s manuals. When they closed their doors it disappeared. That said,
The tractor was made by Husqvarna or MTD so all the parts except the hood are available through the appropriate dealer. The dealer should be able to match the part by how it looks.
Sam
Does Craftsman snow blower attachment Model-486.248462 works on Craftsman tractor Model-247.203790?
Thanks you,
Sam
Paul Sikkema
Hi Sam, No, that snow blower is almost 20 years old. The current model snow throwers do fit on some 247 Craftsman tractors – but.
I don’t recommend you even try to put a snow blower on that inexpensive lawn tractor. The frames are too light and you will break your tractor within a year or two.
If you want a tractor mounted snow blower you should look for a Craftsman Yard Tractor or Garden Tractor.
John F Urenovitch
Paul
I have a Craftsman 917.251481 Tractor w. a Bercomac 7002-1 Snowblower. What other Craftsman models will the Bercomac attach to? Basically, what models use the same chassis/frame?
Thanks
John
Paul Sikkema
Hi John, Your tractor is around a 1996 and Craftsman made quite a few chassis changes from 1999-2004. But I suggest contacting Bercomac and see if your snow blower will still fit a newer tractor with an attachment kit from them.
John F Urenovitch
Thanks Paul, I’ll try Beromac.
John
Joe Lepore
Hi Paul, my dad left me a roper yet 140 at Serial number 3645S01419 it’s a 14 hp opposed to sell on the Briggs & Stratton do you have any idea what year this machine was made thank you
Paul Sikkema
Hi Joe, rough guess about 1980.
BJ
Hi Paul, I have a Companion rider Model 917259730 Serial 0190S01008, Is this by Husqvarna and what year was it manufactured?
Paul Sikkema
HI BJ, no idea. The serial number prefix only works with U.S. made Craftsman products. You could try mytractorforum.com, show pictures and ask those guys.
SRS
Thanks for the info!
Randy
Can anyone help me find the model # of my mower? It’s a 42″ Craftsman with a 19.5 HP Briggs/Stratton engine. The model # is worn off the label and I need some parts. I can supply pictures is it’s possible on here. Thanks.
keith hopfner
i have craftsman lt 11 serial #793199 model # c459160311 i have no idea what year this is can you help me im looking for a battery it is not a normale size thank
Paul Sikkema
Hi Keith, I can’t find that mower. It is Canadian? Bring your old battery to Batteries Plus or Interstate Batteries. They will be able to help you find the right one.
Stephen
I have a 14.5HP Craftsman 917.270532 which has the Dana/Spicer D4360-140 transaxle. The “lever, actuating PN 138244” broke and I’m finding it is a discontinued part. Any suggestions for finding a replacement, or should I start fabricating?
Frank Paxton
I HAVE A SEARS RIDING MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.25061 SERIAL NUMBER IS 4431. ENGINE IS A TECUMSEH SEARS NUMBER 143.629012 S/N 2090E 38 INCH DECK TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT YEAR IT WAS BUILT.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Frank, The reason you are having difficulties is that Sears has used the same model number multiple times. The last time it was used was for a Zero-turn. That said, Here’s my best guess – 1972 – and here is the reference manual I found for it: http://www.stripmine.org/sears/manuals/91725061.pdf
Scott
Hello 🙂
Trying to find if my DYS4500 24hp (917) is compatible with either of these blower attachments.
486.248371 says “only” for 247 models. But I can’t tell what makes it different.
486.248391
Help please 🙂
Will they mount up?
Scott Rademaker
I was wondering if these two snowblower attachments were compatible with my (917) DYS4500 24hp mower.
486.248371 – says only with 247 mowers on the manual… But according to the fitment chart… My tractor takes a 24837 thrower attachment. I’m confused.
Or this: 486.248391
Help please 🙂
Paul Sikkema
Hi Scott, Thanks for the model number. 917.287301. The 486.248391 is for a 2003 and older tractor. It won’t fit. The fitup chart I have here is old and it has not been updated for a while but…
The Correct snow blower is the Craftsman 24837. The new kit comes with all the brackets for your tractor, older tractors and 247. tractors EXCEPT the Craftsman Pro/CTX. (there is an additional fit-up kit for the Craftsman Pro) It will not fit the CTX series.
Be very careful about buying a used 24837 snowblower. It may have been attached to an older tractor and the owner threw the brackets you need away.
Brandon
I have a craftsman gtv 18. Where can I find parts for the engine… 917 253735
Paul Sikkema
Hi Brandon, That could be one of four different brands. I can’t tell who made that engine from the parts list but there is a nameplate on the engine itself. You will need all the numbers off that plate to get parts. If Briggs – Any repair shop can order parts. Kohler – Any repair shop. Onan or Tecumseh are both out of business but you may be able to get parts on eBay and tuneup parts from a repair shop.
Don
I have a 2004 Craftsman 917.273401 ser#030104D005021 w/42inch lower unit and was wondering if a Husquvarna 42 inch lower blade and pulley is interchangeable ?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Don, You can go to You can go to Sears PartsDirect – enter your model number and order the correct parts you need.
Jimmie
I should have said my craftsman riding mower serial # is 3530S01035, what the heck does that translate to?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jimmie, The article shows you how to figure out the date using the serial number from the tractor. If the serial number is not formatted that way then you can’t find out when it was made using that method. You can go to Sears PartsDirect – enter the model number of your tractor – and if there is a downloadable manual available you can look at the publishing date (usually the last page of the manual) to see when that model was first made.
Jake
I have a sears mower with model # 247.288841- serial number 1E311H10078. What year is it? It’s a 42″ Lt 2000, 19.5 H.P.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jake, The article shows you how to figure out the date using the serial number from the tractor. If the serial number is not formatted that way then you can’t find out when it was made using that method. You can go to Sears PartsDirect – enter the model number of your tractor – and if there is a downloadable manual available you can look at the publishing date (usually the last page of the manual) to see when that model was first made.
Herbie
My serial number is 2229S01049. Can you tell me the year it was made and the shade of silver body paint please.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Herbie, The article shows you how to figure out the date using the serial number from the tractor. If the serial number is not formatted that way then you can’t find out when it was made using that method. You can go to Sears PartsDirect – enter the model number of your tractor – and if there is a downloadable manual available you can look at the publishing date (usually the last page of the manual) to see when that model was first made.
ron donaldson
Hi I’m ron! I have inherited my father’s craftsman lt3000 font know the year #917276821 can you tell me what year was Manufacturing date?
Paul Sikkema
Hi ron, The article shows you how to figure out the date using the serial number from the tractor.
Paul Sarver
I am looking for the attchment for grass bag attach that connects to cutting deck and then goes to the tune and into the catcher. I have riding mower, model 917.276813, Sn. O51606D018380.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Paul, The only way I know to find that part is to have the original assembly manual for the bagger. That manual has the model number for the bagger. Once you find that model number then you can go to Sears PartsDirect and get the part.
Phill bullock
Who made my mower.my model # is 917272058 42′ cut . I need a lower chute for my bagger .l Can not find anything that fit it . my hair is going up like don king. If you know who don king is sears told me it was made in December of 2001 I need all the help I can get .thanks Phil
Paul Sikkema
Hi Phill, You will need the model number of your bagger to get the parts. It will be on the bagger owners manual and on the main part of the bagger. That model number starts with 486. (Agri-Fab)
Your tractor was made for Craftsman by Husqvarna. Husqvarna will not be able to help you with parts for the bagger.
ALL parts for your lawn tractor and your bagger can be found here: Sears PartsDirect.
JoAnne Wallace
Hello, I don’t have a serial number but here’s model number 917.274953 can you tell me what yr this is? I’m in need of a deck. Thank you
Paul Sikkema
Hi JoAnne, It’s about a 2002. The deck shell itself is no longer available but all the other parts for it are still available check the parts and owner’s manual here: Craftsman Garden Tractor
jim a germond
Recently purchased a Sears Companion 12/38. Serial # is 1780S08785. Cannot figure out who made it and date of manufacture. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jim, Mid 80’s most likely. I found this on Google and you can use it to figure out if you have a Murry built or AYP (Husqvarna). If you have a Murry you got a rare one. “I have done some research and have found that the Murray built Compaion tractors have minor differences then the AYP built Companion tractors. The Murray built Companion tractors have an angled shifter area and slightly different hood, fenderpan, and running boards then the AYP machines. Also the Murray built machines only appear to be in a 11/36 model with a 4 speed trans. The AYP built Companion tractors have a flat shifter area and slightly different hood, fenderpan, and running boards then the Murray built machines. Also the AYP built machines only appear to be in a 12/38 model with a 4 speed trans. The Companion tractors are pretty darn hard to find but finding a Murray built Companion is next to impossible. BBY the Companion you posted (not the patent drawings) is an AYP unit.”
If this is not enough go over to the Craftsman/Sers section of mytractorforum.com and ask those guys.
jim a germond
Thanks Paul, great help. From your info I’m gonna say it’s an AYP. Thanks once again.
Nathaniel Perry
Can you help me figure out the age of my Sears garden tractor model number 917.257090 serial number 02119 B 01822
Paul Sikkema
Hi Nathanial, About a 1979.
Darrell
I have a craftsman riding lawn mower . It is a GVT 16 Twin model 917.253721
I need mower blades for mower deck 917.253644 part number 1926103.
Made by AYP It has 3 blades about 15 inches long.
What year is this mower?
Any help finding mower blades would be appreciated. Sears parts was no help.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Darrel, Sears PartsDirect was no help because you are trying to find parts for tractors that’s over 37 years old. In addition, I believe those Garden Tractors were sold with the deck being optional and they had separate parts listings. Are there any part numbers on the deck or blades?
You may want to try the Craftsman section at Mytractorforum.com and see if anyone can help over there.
Please use the information in this article, your model number and your serial number to figure out the age.
Norm
Hello Paul,
I have access to a 1998 craftsman 917.270821 that needs a complete mower deck. Will most 42″ craftsman decks fit this tractor? I’ve read something about cables vs linkage, and I’m not sure how to Identify what I need with no deck to look at for reference. I’m sure there must be a way to know what decks should fit, but I’m having difficulty finding that info online.
Thanks for any help
Paul Sikkema
Hi Norm Some mower decks built from 1996 to 2001 will fit this tractor. Craftsman completely switched decks on all the tractors between 2002 and 2005. No decks with the 3 point mounts built after that time will fit.
Bunny
My husband is wanting to order parts for our Craftsman lawn tractor. Ours is an LTX 1000 but he can only find parts for an LT 1000 – what is the difference in the two? The model number in ours is 917272440.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Bunny, I have no idea the difference between an LTX 1000 and LT 1000. Sears has used these numbers for many different tractors over the years. The model number is what you need. Go to Sears PartsDirect. Type in your model number and parts diagrams, parts listings and operator’s manuals will pop up.
David Charron
I have a Craftsman lt1000
Model #: 917.272812
Serial # 0220010002424
When I look for parts I am told the model number is not correct.
Paul Sikkema
Hi David, yes, that is a bad model number. Sometimes the numbers are hard to make out. The first 5 number after the . are the important ones so the 1 is wrong. Also, the 2 is not important. It only represents a minor change.
Now, checking the numbers there is a 917.27285 that was made around that time. Go to searspartsdirect.com and check that model out.
James McCullough
I have a Craftsman Model 917.288570 serial 02711D003575
I need a 587819701 mandrel assembly with pulley I think the Husqvana 917.192870 will work
my question is will the MowerPartsGroup D663 Ariens 46″ Deck Rebuild Kit Repl Spindles 21546238 Gator Blades 21546611 fit it also?
Paul Sikkema
Hi James, All parts for your lawn tractor can be found here: Sears PartsDirect. Just type in your model number and parts diagrams. Parts lists and operators manuals will pop up.
Here is the mandrel assembly
Not all third-party replacement parts are built to the same specs as the original equipment. You would have to check with Husqvarna and MowerPartsGroup to see if they are the same
Gene Crachy
Hi Paul. I have a craftsman lawn tractor model 917.273471. I’m looking for a new fuel tank can’t seem to find one . Any suggestions as to what might fit it?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Gene, Here is the link to the parts page for your mower: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=626432&u=308056&m=54365&urllink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Esearspartsdirect%2Ecom%2Fmodel%2F3ffph30qpc%2D000247%2Fcraftsman%2D917273471%2Dfront%2Dengine%2Dlawn%2Dtractor%2Dparts&afftrack=
Your mower is pretty old (2003) so you probably won’t be able to find a new tank. I suggest eBay.
Josh
I have a craftsman Indy 500 20 hp 6 speed model 917.254422 serial 1048501264 trying to find out brand of motor & value its not a track used tractor thanks
Paul Sikkema
Hi Josh, The Indy 500 had an Onan engine. Check out this webpage: http://gardentractortalk.com/forums/topic/44776-craftsman-indy-500-restore-project/
Jean Wise
Bought a used craftsman riding lawn mover year 2014, model number 917.288560 yt4000, 24 hp, red/black in color. I printed a manual for model number 917.28856. Is this the correct one? Serial number is 021611a003761. Thanks.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Jean, Yes, The first 5 numbers after the decimal are the model number.
Jean Wise
Thank you, Paul!
Steve
Hello I have a Craftsman 917.254630, serial number 2069S16310. The formula does not seem to work on this. Help a guy out, I think it’s either 1989 or 1990 but not sure.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Steve, the formula only works on mowers made after 2000 or so. The manual for your tractor doesn’t even have a copyright date so I can’t even guess on your age. Looking at the hood it could be anywhere from 82 to 89.
Norm
Paul, my mower is a t 1200. When was it made, and what is it worth with a bagger? Thanks, Norm
Paul Sikkema
Hi Norm, the number on the hood means nothing because they used the same numbering for many different models and years. You need to look under the seat and use the serial and model number to figure out when it was made.
Shawn Clark
How ya doing Paul ? I have an 11hp 4 speed 36 inch deck model number 917.254272 serial number 2127S02757 .I’ve searched for hours and can NOT find what year it was made . Possible 81-82 ? What are your thoughts
Paul Sikkema
Hi Shawn, I can’t find the exact date but it is identical to the Sears Companion sold in 1987. So, it’s definitely a mid-80’s tractor.
Heather Jones
My mower serial # is 1000S05795 and model # is 917.2559101 can you please tell me what size belt it take please
Paul Sikkema
Hi Heather, that mower uses two belts for the deck. Here is the engine to deck belt: Engine to deck
Here is the belt on the deck itself: On deck belt
Dave Lundeen
I purchased a Craftsman tractor mower. I am having trouble finding a bagger for it.
Model number 247.288843
Serial number 1B053830212
Can you tell me the year of the mower and where I can purchase a bager.
Thank you
Paul Sikkema
Hi Dave, That is a 2012 Craftsman Lawn Tractor made by MTD. Sears is no longer stocking the Craftsman branded bagger for it. But, Here is the correct bagger for it. https://amzn.to/2MqEK6C
Johnny
Hey I have a riding mower 917.25061 model and serial is 5074 I’m trying to figure out what year is it if you can help let me know please
Paul Sikkema
1971-1972
Parker
I have a 917.255540 serial 1001s02386. What year is it? I’ve download the owners manual and it’s not in there. 14 hp vtwin vanguard motor. 38in deck. Any ideas of date?
Paul Sikkema
The formula only works as listed in the article. But, the copyright on the manual is 1991. (back cover page) So your mower was made sometime 1991 or later.
Michele
Hi – you are a genius at this stuff! Can you help? Our mower was stolen from our church and I’m trying to get a year for the police report. Model 247.88852, serial 1F112B30277. It doesn’t seem to fit an of the formulas you have listed throughout, so I’m curious if you have any thoughts on how to find a general timeframe? Thanks so much!
Paul Sikkema
Hi Michele, That model number is not for a mower. It’s for a snowblower. That snow blower was produced around 1998/1999.
Do you have a picture of someone using it? If you do please write back and I’ll help you out via email.
Also, many churches will approve that large of a purchase through the board (consistory) and there will be a written record of that approval.
Mike F.
Will baggers for 42″ decks with model# starting with 917 be compatible with all 42″ mowers starting with a 917 model#? Particularly, my tractor has a 42″ deck with model# 917.288515. I’m wondering if any, all, or none of the baggers listed below are compatible:
917.249790
917.249791
917.249890
I learned a lot reading through your post, thanks for all the insight you can provide!!
Paul Sikkema
Hi Mike, I don’t know. copy the model number, do a google search for the manual and then look at the copyright date of the manual to get a rough idea of when the bagger was made. The date is usually on the last page of the manual. But most 42 inch baggers made between 2006 and 2014 will interchange. The 2-bin, 2-bin hard side, and the 3-bin all use the same discharge tube. The correct bagger for your mower is the 24891 or 24892.
By the way, the 6th number after the decimal means nothing. It’s a production run identifier. Make sure you get the shoulder bolts off of the old tractor if you are buying used. A 3-bin has the shoulder bolts on the side of the frame above the tires and the 2-bin has the shoulder bolts on the back. These bolts are very, very, very hard to find and usually get left on the tractor when it’s junked.
Mark
Hello,
I’m trying to find a bagger for my Craftsman 15.5 electric start 42″ mower 6 speed transaxle lawn tractor.
model number 917.271051 Serial number 2934910181
I can’t seem to find a bagger for this tractor. Are there universal baggers that would work?
Thank you.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Mark, You need a 917.24891 2-bin bagger. Sears probably sold the last one they had around 2005… I did Google it and there looks like there is someone on eBay with a few.
William J. West
How do I remove the back rim from my craftsman model #247.288851.I took out bolt and washer but it will not budge. It has a axle end which has two slots over and under the oval shaped interior?
Paul Sikkema
Hi William, Your Craftsman is made by MTD so this process is the same for many MTD built tractors. 1. Go to youtube and put your question in the search bar. 2. Watch a few of the videos that come up. 3. Here is one that goes through all the steps for a rim that’s really stuck on.
Eric A
Hi. I have an older Craftsman riding mower. Model 917.254410. Serial 2467S17108.
I have the wiring diagram but no manual. I want to change the transaxle fluid and others have said 30 weight with no detergent.
I found a drain plug but can’t find the fill hole. Do I need to pull the whole transaxle off and fill it through the same hole? Also the briggs motor is a 94 18hp opposed twin horizontal. Model 422437 Type 1210 02 Code 9403175A.
Do you think the mower is the same year? Also, any idea where I could get a manual?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Eric, There is very little info available on the 25441. You can find the original parts diagrams at searspartsdirect.com but there are no manuals available anywhere.
After Googling the part number of the transmission it also comes up as a 1994 so there is a 90% chance the whole tractor was made about that year.
Matt B
Hi Paul, you seem to be a wealth of information so here goes. I have a Craftsman model 917.257561, looks like it was made in June of ’94. I have an opportunity to buy a snow thrower model 486.24853. will this fit? Per your initial article i would like to think so but doesn’t hurt to check. Hoping for a quick reply. Appreciate you very much.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Matt, Your tractor is too old for the 486 series snow blowers. If a snow blower was available back then for your tractor it would have been made by Haban. The model prefix for Haban is 842.
Matt B
Do you know what part number the snow blade would begin with for this model? The Manual unfortunately doesn’t list compatible model.
Follow up question, is the snow blade even worth it? I live in Minnesota so we can get some heavy snowfalls and plenty of them.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Matt, No, I don’t. I suggest going over to mytractorforum.com and asking in the Craftsman section. No, it’s not worth it. A blade on this small of a tractor really only works on 2-4 inches of snow. Even then you’ll need tires chains and a rear weight to get enough traction.
Frank Fiore
Hello Paul, Thank you in advance for your time. I would like to query CraigsList for other lawn tractors for sale that are manufactured exactly like mine but sold under different names. Would you know what they are? Mine is a Craftsman M#247.288812, SN# 1B242B30124. Hope you can help. Thanks again. Best regards. -Frank
Paul Sikkema
Hi Frank, Troy-Bilt Pony and Tractor Supply Huskee are built on the same frame. Pretty much everything except the hood will be the same. (Depends on the year – the engines will also be different but will fit right into your tractor.)
Frank Fiore
Hi Paul, Thanks for your quick response. I couldn’t decipher the build date. Can you please tell me it. Thanks again. -Frank
Paul Sikkema
Hi Frank, That is a MTD build date and I don’t know how to read it. But, if you go to searspartsdirect.com and look at the operator’s manual there is usually a copyright date on the front or the last page to give you a guesstimate. So, your tractor was built sometime after 2012.
Michael Webley
Hi Frank, I have 2 riders I need to Identify
The first is a 536.252570/ serial is 506602104
The other is a 917.252580/ 080295A
I need to get parts for both of them.
Thank You
Michael
Paul Sikkema
Hi Michael, The 536.252570 is about a 1995 and made for Sears by Murry. It’s actually a pretty rare mower. The 917.252580 is also about a 1995 and made for Sears by AYP – now Husqvarna.
There are some parts available at Searspartsdirect.com but both mowers are pretty old. If the part you need is no longer avialable you’ll have to try eBay and mytractorforum.com
Max Boliek
Hi Paul, I am looking at a GT5000, model # 917.276052 and serial# 071904B001053. The serial# reflects that it was manufactured July,19, 2004. This mower is a silver or light grey color. Most of the GT5000’s I have looked at are red in color. Is there a difference in the tractors or did they just paint some red and some the silver/grey color? I guess what I’m asking is there any significance in one color over the other? Thanks for your expertise.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Max, Sears painted the GT’s red, gray/silver, black and they even had one special edition mauve. There was no rhyme or reason to the color schemes before 2010.
After 2010 they settled on gray for lawn tractors, red for yard tractors, black for premium yard and garden tractors and in 2014 or so Black/yellow for the “best/pro” garden tractors.
BRIAN EMMERICH
my sticker is missing. its a dark gree 42 inch cut hydrostatic drive 20.5 hp, trying to find out what model it is and yr
Paul Sikkema
Hi Brian, Briggs opposed twin? 1997 to 2001
KEITH
IM CURRENTLY WORKING ON A SEARS GARDEN TRACTOR 917.253742 ITS A 18HP / 6 SPEED IM TRYING TO DETERMINE WHAT YER IT IS . ANY HELP WOULD BE GREAT
Paul Sikkema
Hi Keith, My best guess is 1978-80. If you can find a manual for it look at the copyright date on the back page that will give you a date of when it was first made.
Tom
Hi Paul, I have a DGT 6000 and the identification stick appears to be missing under the seat. Is there another way to identify the serial and model number? Thanks.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Tom, The owners manual that came with the mower will also have the model number.
Bill t
Just bought a sears riding mower. The model is 917 258 540. I can’t fine beans on this one!! HELP please!!!
Paul Sikkema
Hi Bill, You found an antique Craftsman! It’s about a 1997.
Here are the parts diagrams, parts available and you can also get an operator manual for it. 917258540
DEVIN E WEAVER
Can you tell me when mine was made
Model 917255735
Serial 3575502243
Paul Sikkema
I can’t get the exact date but it’s around a 2012
Fred Teed
Hi Paul Trying to identify 18hp twin.Model#917-2559101 SER#1780S09573. Any info would be great. Thanks Fred Teed
Paul Sikkema
Hi Fred, somewhere around 1988. You can get parts listings at searpartsdirect.com
Ken Fox
My unit is a Craftsman model 944.602000 the transaxle has a number173839 3230510 where can if there is a replacement
Paul Sikkema
Hi Ken, That tractor was made by Husqvarna but all the parts lists and records disappeared when Sears Canada went bankrupt. I don’t know anyone who could figure it out.
Here is a resource that’s working on creating owners manuals but it may take years to get it all done. https://www.drmower.ca/blogs/news/sears-canada-craftsman-parts-breakdowns-and-manuals-for-models-starting-with-944
Viince
You are my last resort, I think this thing is cobbled together but here goes. 917.272670 I have an oil pan leak and am having trouble finding the gasket. Also the breather in the manuals I have found show an odd shaped breather, where as mine is rectangle. Thank you for any help.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Vince, The engine make and model is not listed on the parts page. You’ll have to find the serial number of the engine itself (It’s on the side of the engine) and then Google it to figure out who made it.
Then go to that manufacture to get your engine parts.
Kevin b
What year is my Craftsman model 131 96602
It a 7 hp Tecumseh engine 36 or a 38 inch cut and any suggestions on wear I can find tires for the back diamond tread turf tires with Sears logo on them and a gas tank as well
Paul Sikkema
Hi Kevin, Here is the parts page for your mower: https://www.searspartsdirect.com/model/482kgz1j48-000247/craftsman-13196602-rear-engine-riding-mower-parts?page=3
I can’t figure out the year other than it was made sometime around when Rally/Roper moved from Kankakee, Il to South Carolina and changed their name to American Yard Products. That move happened in 1977.
Try the Craftsman section of mytractorforum.com. They may have more info.
Kevin b
Paul from what I can tell you it a 69 to 70 model with electric start it does run it has a high back seat with a red light on the back of the seat I haven’t been able to find a matching one the same color it needs to be restored so I’m looking bring it back as new as I can so thank you for your help Paul
Mike Krul
What year is my Craftsman Model# 247.289010 serial# 1A210B10389
Paul Sikkema
Hi Mike, About 2010. It was made by MTD
Tommy G.
hey paul, i have a rear engine sears craftsman riding mower the model is 02066000572 and the serial is 989220. i can not fond anything on it any help would be appreciated
Paul Sikkema
Hi Tommy, That is not the correct model/serial number. Did you get that off the engine?
The model number is on a tag/decal usually under the seat. It will have three numbers, then a decimal, followed by 5 or 6 more numbers i.e. 917.24789
Marcus
Hello. what year is my Craftsman Model #917.254950? It has a Hydro transmission.
Paul Sikkema
Hi Marcus, It’s old. There are still parts shown for it at searspartsdirect.com but no manuals and I can’t find any pictures of one. I don’t know what year it was made.
You may try mytractorforum.com. Ask the guys there and post a picture of it.
Leonard Hambleton
Can you tell me about 917.258913?
Paul Sikkema
Hi Leonard, It’s old. There are still parts shown for it at searspartsdirect.com but no manuals and I can’t find any pictures of one. I don’t know what year it was made.
You may try mytractorforum.com. Ask the guys there and post a picture of it.
Don Chazelle
Paul my craftsman is as follows. Model 247.270550 serial 1E097H40059. I need a new deck for this and trying to figure out year I need to look for. Thanks
Paul Sikkema
Hi Don, It’s a 2017. Unless you are buying used you can’t buy an entire deck but you can buy all the pieces through SearsPartsDirect.com.
That link goes directly to your tractor.