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How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 247255860, a complete engine replacement (parts plus labor) typically costs $260 to $1,800. Most shops bill about 6 labor hours for a riding mower engine swap, and the final price depends on engine type, mounting, and any extra repairs found during removal.
What drives the total cost
We see engine replacement prices vary mainly because the job often includes more than just the engine.
- Engine price (new or remanufactured, horsepower, shaft size, charging system)
- Labor rate (local shop hourly rate times the hours billed)
- Extra parts discovered (worn belts, pulleys, wiring, fuel lines)
- Deck and drive condition (a slipping belt or damaged pulley can be mistaken for engine trouble)
- Tune-up vs. replacement (sometimes a no-start is fuel, spark, or safety switch related)
Typical cost breakdown (example ranges)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine | $200 to $1,400 | Biggest variable; depends on specs and availability |
| Labor (engine swap) | $300 to $900 | Often around 6 hours total |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $20 to $200 | Fuel line, clamps, filters, hardware |
Before you replace the engine: quick checks that save money
Many “bad engine” symptoms are caused by starting or fuel issues. These checks are fast and often cheaper than an engine.
- Confirm the battery is charged and terminals are clean and tight
- Listen for a single click (often solenoid or battery issue) vs. cranking (fuel/spark issue)
- Check the safety interlocks (brake pedal, PTO/blade switch, seat switch)
- Inspect for fuel delivery problems (stale fuel, clogged line, plugged filter)
- If it cranks but will not start, check spark plug condition and ignition
For model-specific starting and safety system details, use the 247255860 owner's manual.
Why it matters
Replacing an engine is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Verifying whether the problem is electrical, fuel-related, or a safety interlock issue can prevent an unnecessary engine purchase and get your tractor back to mowing faster.
If you do need repair parts for your tractor, you can order from the parts list for model 247255860 or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What engine does Craftsman riding mower use?
For Craftsman model 247255860, the exact engine make and model is listed on the engine ID label and in the 247255860 owner's manual. Most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors in this class use a single-cylinder gasoline engine; the horsepower and brand vary by production run.
How to identify the exact engine on model 247255860
Use the engine’s identification label (not the tractor model tag). On many tractors, you can find it:
- On the valve cover or blower housing (top/front of the engine)
- Near the spark plug area
- On the engine shroud above the muffler
- On a sticker or stamped plate near the starter
- Sometimes on the side of the engine block
Write down the engine brand, model, type, and code (or serial number). That information is what we use to match tune-up parts and engine-specific diagrams.
Quick reference: tractor model vs. engine model
| What you’re looking at | Example of what it tells you | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Tractor model number (247255860) | The mower/tractor configuration | Deck, belts, steering, chassis, wiring |
| Engine model/type/code | The engine’s exact build | Spark plug, air filter, carb parts, ignition |
Why it matters
Two tractors with the same deck size can ship with different engines over time. Using the engine ID prevents ordering the wrong maintenance parts and helps troubleshoot starting or running problems accurately.
Related DIY help (common engine symptoms)
If the engine clicks, spins, or will not start, these guides match typical riding mower diagnostics:
- Riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video
- Riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video
- Riding lawn mower engine wont turn over or click video
Parts you might replace during engine-related troubleshooting
These parts are commonly involved when a tractor will not crank or has electrical starting issues:
- Battery (state of charge and cable connections)
- Starter solenoid (often fails as a click-no-crank symptom)
- Ignition switch and safety interlock switches
- Starter motor and ground connections
If you need to order tractor parts by model number, you can use the parts list for 247255860 or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What year did Craftsman make the 247255860?
Craftsman model 247255860 was produced across a range of years (not a single model-year), and the exact build year is identified from the tractor’s serial number/date code label. For the most accurate match, use the identification label on your machine and confirm the format shown in the 247255860 owner's manual.
How to find the build year on model 247255860
On most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors, the model and serial label is typically:
- Under the seat pan or on the seat bracket
- On the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Near the rear fender area (inside the wheel well)
- Occasionally on the dash tower or footrest support
Once you locate the label, write down:
- Model number (should read 247255860)
- Serial number (all digits and letters)
- Any separate date code (if shown)
What the serial/date code usually tells you
Craftsman tractors in the 247.xxxxxx family were commonly built by MTD for Craftsman, and the build date is normally encoded in the serial/date information on the label. The 247255860 owner's manual shows where to find identification information and how it’s presented for this tractor.
Quick decode guide (what to look for)
| What you see on the label | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| A clear “MFG DATE” or “DATE” field | Direct manufacturing date | Use that date as the build date |
| A serial number with an embedded date code | Date is encoded in the serial | Match the code pattern to the manual’s guidance |
| Only a serial number, no date shown | Year is still traceable by serial format | Use the manual’s ID section and parts diagrams to confirm |
Why it matters
The build year affects parts fitment for key systems like the mower deck, blade drive, and electrical starting circuit. Confirming the build date helps ensure you order the correct replacement parts the first time.
Parts that often vary by production run
- Deck and blade-drive components (spindles, idlers, shields)
- Belts and engagement linkage
- Electrical starting parts (solenoid, wiring)
- Steering and front-axle hardware
If you’re troubleshooting a starting issue while you’re identifying the tractor, our DIY video riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video is a good match for common no-crank symptoms.
You can order replacement parts for Craftsman 247255860 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
