Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Some Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines, but not all of them do. For the Craftsman riding tractor model 247203790, the engine brand depends on the exact engine installed on your unit; we use the 247203790 owner's manual to confirm the engine family and service parts.
How to tell what engine your Craftsman 247203790 has
Check these common identifiers on the tractor:
- Engine label on the blower housing or valve cover (often lists the manufacturer and model)
- Engine model, type, and code stamped on the engine (format varies by brand)
- Emissions label (often includes engine family and displacement)
- Tractor data tag under the seat or on the frame (lists model and serial)
- Parts diagram match: air filter, spark plug, and muffler style
What “Craftsman mower” can mean (and why answers vary)
Craftsman is the equipment brand, but engines are commonly sourced from multiple manufacturers across different mower lines and years. That is why you will see Craftsman push mowers and riding mowers with different engine brands, even when the deck size and features look similar.
Quick comparison
| Mower type | Common engine brands you may see | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Push mower | Briggs and Stratton, others | Engine cover label |
| Riding mower/tractor | Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, others | Engine model/type code |
Why it matters
The engine brand determines the correct tune-up parts (air filter, oil filter, spark plug), starting system components, and some maintenance specs. Using the engine ID prevents ordering the wrong service parts for your Craftsman 247203790.
Related DIY help
If your tractor is having starting trouble while you are identifying the engine, use these steps:
- Verify battery connections are clean and tight
- Confirm brake pedal is fully depressed and PTO is off
- Check the seat switch and brake/clutch safety switch operation
- Listen for a click at the solenoid when turning the key
For a step-by-step diagnosis, see riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of oil do you use in a Craftsman lawn tractor?
For the Craftsman lawn tractor model 247203790, we use 4-cycle engine oil; SAE 5W-30 is the most common all-season choice for reliable starting and protection across typical mowing temperatures. For the exact viscosity and oil capacity for your engine, follow the 247203790 owner's manual.
Recommended oil type (what to buy)
Use 4-stroke (4-cycle) engine oil that meets current small-engine service ratings.
- SAE 5W-30: best all-around option for mixed temperatures
- SAE 10W-30: common alternative for warmer weather mowing
- Synthetic 5W-30: strong choice for easier cold starts and longer protection
- Avoid 2-cycle oil (it is for premix engines and is not correct for a 4-cycle tractor engine)
Quick selection guide
| Outdoor temperature | Typical oil choice | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Below about 40°F | SAE 5W-30 (synthetic preferred) | Easier cranking and faster lubrication |
| About 40°F to 90°F | SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 | Balanced protection for most mowing |
| Consistently hot conditions | SAE 10W-30 | Helps maintain viscosity at higher temps |
How to confirm you are using the right oil
These checks prevent smoking, hard starting, and engine wear.
- Verify the engine is 4-cycle (oil is in the crankcase, not mixed with fuel)
- Check the dipstick level on a level surface before each mow
- Do not overfill; excess oil can cause smoke and fouled plugs
- Change oil on schedule and replace the drain plug washer if it seeps
- If the engine cranks slowly after sitting, test the battery and starting circuit first
Why it matters
Correct oil viscosity keeps the engine properly lubricated at startup and under load, which reduces heat and wear and helps your Craftsman tractor maintain power during mowing.
Related DIY help
If your tractor is clicking or cranking slowly after an oil change or storage, use jump starting a riding lawn mower battery video to rule out a weak battery or poor cable connections.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 247203790 lawn mower?
The model number for this Craftsman riding mower is 247203790. You’ll typically find it on the mower’s model and serial number label; our 247203790 owner's manual also shows where to look and how to record it for parts lookup and service.
Where to find the model number label
On most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors like model 247203790, the model/serial label is commonly located in one of these spots:
- Under the seat pan (lift the seat and look on the frame)
- On the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Near the rear hitch plate area
- Under the hood area on the chassis (not on the plastic hood)
- Near the footrest area on the frame
What the model number is used for (and why it matters)
Using the exact model number 247203790 ensures we match the correct diagrams and parts for your tractor’s deck, steering, electrical system, and transmission. Even small model-number differences can change blade style, belt routing, or safety interlock wiring.
Quick check: model number vs. serial number
| Item | What it tells you | Used for parts lookup? |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (247203790) | The tractor’s design and parts configuration | Yes |
| Serial number | The specific unit’s production run | Sometimes (for revisions) |
If you’re shopping parts, start with these common wear items
Once you confirm 247203790, these are typical maintenance parts owners replace often:
- Mower blade (46-in deck): lawn tractor 46-in deck 2-in-1 blade 942-04290
- Starter circuit component: lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153
- Safety system component: lawn tractor interlock switch 725-04363
Why it matters: entering the wrong model number can pull the wrong deck diagram or electrical schematic, which leads to ordering parts that do not fit.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 247203790 engine?
The Craftsman 247203790 number identifies the lawn tractor, not the engine itself. The engine model number is printed on the engine’s ID label (typically on the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the starter) and is also listed in the engine section of the 247203790 owner's manual.
Where to find the engine model number on a 247203790 tractor
Look for a sticker or stamped tag on the engine. Common locations include:
- Top or side of the blower housing (recoil shroud)
- Near the spark plug and valve cover
- Near the starter motor or flywheel screen
- On the engine block near the muffler heat shield
- Under the hood on the engine side facing the seat
What to write down (so you get the right parts)
For accurate engine parts lookup, record these exactly as shown on the label:
- Engine manufacturer (often Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, or similar)
- Engine model
- Type (or spec) number
- Code (date code)
Quick ID guide
| Label item | What it tells us | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Engine family/series | Determines tune-up and fuel system parts |
| Type/Spec | Exact build configuration | Prevents wrong carburetor, starter, or muffler |
| Code | Build date | Helps match revisions and superseded parts |
Why it matters
Many Craftsman riding mowers share similar tractor model numbers but use different engines over the years. Using the engine’s model-type-code prevents ordering the wrong ignition parts, starter components, or fuel system parts.
If you are troubleshooting a no-start or clicking issue
Before assuming the engine is the problem, we recommend checking common starting system items:
- Battery charge and cable connections
- Starter solenoid operation
- Safety interlock switch function
A helpful walkthrough is in riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I find the Craftsman lawn mower model number?
You can find the model number for your Craftsman riding tractor on the product identification label (model and serial tag) mounted on the tractor frame. For model 247203790, use that exact number when ordering parts and looking up diagrams in the 247203790 owner's manual.
Common model tag locations on a front-engine riding tractor
Check these spots first (wipe dirt and grass off the label so the full number is readable):
- Under the seat pan or on the seat support bracket
- On the frame rail near the engine (left or right side)
- Near the rear hitch plate or rear frame crossmember
- Under the hood area on the chassis (not on the engine itself)
- Near the footrest area on the frame
What to write down (and why)
Record the information exactly as printed; it helps us match the correct parts list.
| Label item | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 247203790 | Identifies the correct parts diagrams and assemblies |
| Serial number | (varies) | Helps confirm production run and compatible revisions |
| Product name | Craftsman riding tractor | Confirms you are in the right category |
Tips to avoid ordering the wrong part
- Use the full model number, including any extra digits or suffixes.
- Don’t use the engine model number for chassis or deck parts; the tractor model controls most parts lookups.
- If the label is damaged, check the 247203790 owner's manual for typical label placement and identification details.
- Match the part description to your assembly (mower deck, steering, electrical, transmission) before ordering.
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors often share similar-looking decks, blades, and electrical parts across multiple models. Using the exact model number (like 247203790) ensures the correct fit for items such as blades, interlock switches, and starter components.
Last updated: February 2026





