Do Craftsman mowers use Briggs and Stratton engines?
Yes, many Craftsman mowers and lawn tractors use Briggs and Stratton engines, but it depends on the exact model and engine configuration. For Craftsman model 247203732, the engine brand is best confirmed by checking the engine ID label and the engine section details in the 247203732 owner’s manual.
How to confirm the engine brand on Craftsman 247203732
Look for the engine identification label (usually on the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the starter). Use these checks:
- Find the engine model and type numbers on the engine label
- Compare the label info to the engine information listed in the manual
- Check whether your parts list includes Briggs and Stratton engine components
- Match tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter) by engine model, not just tractor model
- If the engine has been replaced, rely on the current engine label, not the tractor’s original spec
Parts clue for this model
For model 247203732, we do see Briggs and Stratton engine-related parts listed for this tractor, which strongly suggests a Briggs and Stratton engine family is used on at least some configurations.
| What you see | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Briggs and Stratton engine parts listed for the tractor | The tractor was built with (or supports) a Briggs engine configuration |
| Engine short block listed | Major internal engine assembly is serviceable by engine model |
| Exhaust gasket listed | Common Briggs engine service part |
Examples from the compatible parts list include the briggs & statton lawn & garden equipment engine short block 592059A and the exhaust gasket 692236.
Why it matters
Craftsman tractor model numbers identify the chassis and mower deck system, but engine parts must match the engine’s model/type code. Confirming the engine brand and ID prevents ordering the wrong carburetor, ignition parts, or gaskets.
Last updated: January 2026
How old is my Craftsman lawn tractor?
For a Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 247203732, we can’t determine the exact age from the model number alone. The reliable way is to use the manufacturing date information on the ID label (often shown as a serial number or date code) and then calculate the age from that date (see the 247203732 owner's manual).
Where to find the date information
On model 247203732, the product identification label is typically on the tractor frame or body. Check these common spots:
- Under the seat or on the seat pan bracket
- Frame rail near the engine
- Rear frame near the hitch area
- Inside the hood area near the dash
- Near the transaxle on the frame
How to interpret what you find
Craftsman tractors can use different serial number and date-code formats depending on the manufacturer and production run, so we do not recommend assuming a fixed MMDDYY pattern.
Use this quick guide instead:
- If the label shows a full date (month/day/year), use that directly.
- If it shows a serial number only, the build date may be embedded but requires the correct decoding method for that specific label format.
- If it shows a date code, write it down exactly (including letters) before trying to decode it.
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Full date printed | Build date is explicit | Subtract from today to get age |
| Serial number with letters/numbers | Date may be encoded | Use the identification guidance in the manual |
| Date code (varies by format) | Build date is encoded | Decode only using the correct format for your label |
Why it matters
Knowing the build date helps us match the correct maintenance schedule and avoid parts mismatches when there were mid-production changes (belts, decals, wiring, fuel system components).
Last updated: January 2026
What would cause my Craftsman riding mower not to start?
On the Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 247203732, a no-start is most often caused by a safety interlock not being satisfied (brake not set, PTO engaged), a weak battery or bad connections, a blown fuse, or a starting-circuit failure (ignition switch, wiring, solenoid, starter). Use the 247203732 owner’s manual to confirm the correct starting procedure and safety switch locations.
Quick checks (most common)
- Press the brake pedal fully and set the parking brake.
- Make sure the attachment clutch (PTO) is OFF.
- Verify the battery is charged; clean and tighten battery terminals.
- Inspect the main fuse; replace if blown.
- Look for loose, pinched, or corroded wiring at the battery, solenoid, and starter.
What the symptom usually means
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing happens (no click) | Safety switch open, blown fuse, bad ignition switch, open wiring | Recheck brake/PTO, check fuse, inspect harness connections |
| Clicks once but won’t crank | Weak battery, corroded terminals, bad solenoid | Charge battery, clean terminals, test solenoid |
| Cranks but won’t start | Fuel issue, spark issue, stale fuel | Check fuel quality, fuel flow, spark plug and ignition |
| Starts only with a jump | Battery failing or not charging | Load-test battery, check charging output |
Parts that can be involved on this model
We cannot identify the exact failed component without testing, but these model-compatible parts are commonly involved in no-start complaints:
- Lawn tractor wire harness 725P04432P (damaged connectors or broken wires can open the start circuit)
- Lawn tractor interlock switch bracket 17962 (mounting issues can prevent a safety switch from actuating)
Why it matters
The 247203732 uses safety interlock circuits to prevent starting in unsafe conditions. A simple issue like a PTO left on or a weak battery can look like a major failure, so checking the interlocks and power connections first saves time and avoids unnecessary parts replacement.
Last updated: January 2026
Where can I find the Craftsman riding mower model number?
On the Craftsman riding mower model 247203732, the model number is typically printed on a product identification label located under the seat (often on the underside of the seat or on the frame directly beneath it). We recommend confirming the exact label location using the 247203732 manual.
Where to look on model 247203732
Check these common label spots first:
- Underside of the seat pan (lift the seat)
- Frame rails directly under the seat
- Rear fender area near the seat hinge
- Left side of the tractor frame near the seat platform
- Near the engine compartment opening (less common)
What the label usually includes
The identification label often lists more than just the model number:
- Model number (for example, 247203732)
- Serial number
- Date code or manufacturing information
- Engine information (varies by build)
Quick tips so you record the right number
- Write down the full model number exactly as shown (all digits)
- Take a clear photo before the label gets dirty or faded
- If the label is worn, gently clean it with a damp cloth (avoid harsh solvents)
Why it matters
We use the model number to match the correct diagrams and compatible parts for your tractor, such as the lawn tractor fuel tank 651P08849 or other fuel system and chassis components.
| If you find this | Use it for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Selecting correct parts diagrams and assemblies |
| Serial number | Narrowing down production variations |
| Engine numbers | Ordering engine-specific parts (filters, gaskets, ignition) |
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the choke on a Craftsman riding lawn mower?
On the Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 247203732, the choke is typically built into the throttle control on the dash or steering-column area; you move the throttle lever to the choke position (often marked with a choke symbol) for cold starts. For the exact control labeling, use the 247203732 owner’s manual.
How to find the choke control on model 247203732
Look for the throttle/choke markings near the operator controls:
- Check the dash panel near the steering wheel for a throttle lever with a choke icon.
- Some versions use a combined throttle/choke lever: full forward may be choke, then fast, then slow.
- If there is a separate choke knob, it’s usually on the dash within reach of the seat.
- Confirm you are reading the correct decal and symbols; worn decals can make the choke hard to identify.
How we recommend using the choke (cold start)
Use this quick sequence for most gasoline riding mowers:
- Sit in the seat and set the parking brake.
- Make sure the PTO or blade switch is off.
- Move the throttle to choke (or pull the choke knob out) for a cold engine.
- Start the engine; once it fires, reduce choke gradually toward fast.
- Let the engine warm briefly, then run at fast for mowing.
Choke vs. throttle: what’s the difference?
| Control | What it does | When you use it |
|---|---|---|
| Choke | Richens the fuel mixture | Cold starts only |
| Throttle | Sets engine speed | Warm-up, mowing, transport |
Why it matters
Using the choke only as needed helps prevent hard starting, spark plug fouling, and rough running. If the engine only runs with choke on, the carburetor or fuel delivery may need attention.
If you’re also dealing with starting issues, our riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video can help narrow down fuel, spark, and safety-interlock causes.
Last updated: January 2026





