Look it up www3.sears.com using your 917. # under the seat or look at the illustration in your manual to be sure. The few links I've replaced have come w/ the ends.

And stores like tractor supply i believe has replacement ball/socket joints as well. Unless yours is part of the whole arm and doesnt screw out.
Another option, heim joints. you can find heim joints in link, not saying that site has what you need, but they will outlast those cheap ball sockets 100 to 1

Here is a link that might be useful: heim joints

When all else has failed, or parts are not available, here's what i have done.
First use a bolt with the head cut off, and longer than the original stud. Long enough to take 2 nuts on the end that goes thru the tie rod. Weld the headless bolt into the part that threads onto the steering rod. Stick the bolt/rod assembly into the steering arm, then double nut the bolt, tightening one against the other, to make a loose fit, but not sloppy. Works for me!

A heim joint might work as well if the original part is unavailable

hey guys the rod comes with the joints already on the rod
i was cutting grass and the tractor veered to one side and i coundnt turn it and i found out that the joints had came lose
i went sears web site and ordered it when it came in it fits pefectly and his still on there, been on there for bout 7 years

I received the part from Sears Parts-direct and I'll put the ol' Craftsman under the wrench this weekend. I examined the construction of the replacement part it appears that the original drag link "Ball & Socket" seperated from each other. It looks to be a pretty straightforward replacement. I'm surprised that a strong part like that would break but over time I guess it makes sense. I'll let you klnow how it goes. Thnx for the help.

Watch out wilderness here comes the Craftsman 1000!

Insert the ball into the socket.With a hammer and punch,mash some of the socket material around the ball.OR Use a piece of 1/8"thick flat iron x3/4"W to about 3" long .Drill a hole in one end to fit over stud.Install stud in hole and draw nut tight. Bend the flat iron into a "U" shape under the joint socket.to hold the ball into the socket.No slop and last for years. I wonder how ofen anyone ever lubricates (oils) these light weight hard working littls joints.

Take this opportunity the lube the wheel bearings and axle pins as well. This will keep it steering easily.

Sears drag links fail. What I have done is screw a heavy spring THAT IS JUST SLIGHTLY LARGER THAN THE SHAFT onto the shaft threading it through the link.
I have done this on two sears mowers and they never have come apart Cheap fix