How to find riding lawn mower model number?
On a Craftsman rear-engine riding mower like model 107277720, the model number is printed on the product identification label (a sticker or metal tag) mounted to the mower’s frame or body. Once you find it, match the full number exactly to order the correct parts and manual.
Common places to check on a riding mower
Look for a label in one of these spots (check both sides of the mower):
- Under the seat, on the seat pan or seat support area
- On the rear frame near the transmission or hitch area
- On the left or right side of the frame rail
- Near the engine area (starter housing or engine shroud area)
- Near the cutting deck, typically on the deck shell edge or a nearby frame bracket
Quick steps that work on most Craftsman riders
- Park on a flat surface, set the parking brake, and remove the key.
- Lift the seat and inspect the seat pan and frame crossmembers.
- Walk to the rear of the mower and check the frame above and between the rear wheels.
- Wipe dirt and grass off the label so every digit is readable.
What to write down (so parts match correctly)
| Item to record | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 107277720 | Identifies the exact mower family |
| Product number (if shown) | Varies | Helps narrow down exact build |
| Engine model/type/code (if shown) | Varies | Helps match engine parts |
Why it matters
Riding mowers often have multiple deck sizes, engine options, and transmission setups under similar names. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong blade drive belt, fuel line, or deck hardware.
For diagrams and model identification details, use the 107277720 operator’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
How to identify a lawn mower engine?
On the Craftsman 107277720 rear-engine riding mower, we identify the engine by locating the engine identification label or stamping on the engine itself (not on the mower deck). The model and type information is typically found on the blower housing or sheet metal near the muffler and air cleaner; use it to match the correct parts and service specs in the Craftsman 107277720 owner's manual.
Where to look on the engine
Check these common locations first (wipe off grass and oil so you can read it clearly):
- On the sheet metal or blower housing directly above or near the muffler
- On the front of the engine near the air cleaner housing
- On a label plate on the engine shroud (often near the starter or recoil area)
- Near the valve cover area on some engines (stamped into metal)
What numbers you need (and how to use them)
Most mower engines identify best with a small set of fields. Write them down exactly as shown.
| What you see on the engine | What it’s used for | Example of what it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the engine family | 12XXXX-XXXX-XX |
| Type / trim code | Matches the exact build configuration | TYPE XXXXX |
| Code / date | Helps match production changes | CODE YYMMDD |
Why it matters
We use the engine model and type to match tune-up parts and fuel system parts correctly (carburetor, fuel line, filters, ignition parts). It also helps you follow the correct starting and shutdown procedures and safety steps in the manual.
Safety reminder before checking
Before you reach around the engine area:
- Park on a level surface and set the parking brake
- Turn the key to OFF and remove the key
- Let the engine and muffler cool completely
- Disconnect the spark plug wire before any hands-on inspection
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Yes, replacing the engine on your Craftsman 107277720 rear-engine riding mower is worth it when the mower deck, transaxle, and frame are still solid and the total engine swap cost stays well below the cost of a comparable replacement mower. It is also a good choice when you want to keep a familiar machine and avoid re-fitting accessories.
Quick decision checklist
- The mower deck is not cracked, badly rusted through, or bent
- The transaxle drives smoothly and does not leak heavily
- The wiring and safety interlocks are intact (no bypassed switches)
- You can do basic service safely (key out, spark plug wire disconnected)
- The engine failure is truly internal (low compression, thrown rod) and not fuel or ignition related
Cost and effort: what to compare
Use this simple comparison to decide where your money goes.
| Option | Best when | Typical downside |
|---|---|---|
| Replace engine | Chassis and deck are in good shape | Higher up-front cost, more labor |
| Repair fuel/ignition issue | No internal engine damage | May take troubleshooting time |
| Replace mower | Multiple major systems are worn | Highest total cost |
A practical rule we use: if the engine replacement plus any must-do deck or drive repairs approaches about half the price of a similar new mower, replacement usually makes more sense.
Before you commit: rule out common “engine” problems
Many “dead engine” complaints are actually fuel delivery or safety shutdown issues.
- Check for stale fuel and clogged fuel line
- Inspect the fuel hose for cracking or soft spots; replace if needed using hose fuel 11 791766
- Verify the mower is not vibrating excessively from loose blade hardware (vibration can cause repeated failures)
- Follow the shutdown steps in the Craftsman 107277720 owner’s manual before inspecting or servicing
Why it matters
A rear-engine riding mower is a system: engine, deck, belts, and drive all have to work together. The manual emphasizes safe service practices (stop engine, remove key, disconnect spark plug wire) and keeping fasteners tight; that same approach helps you avoid spending money on an engine when the real issue is maintenance or a worn drive component.
Last updated: January 2026
What brand engine does Craftsman use?
For the Craftsman rear-engine riding mower model 107277720, the operator’s manual for this mower family lists configurations that use either a Kohler engine or a Briggs & Stratton engine. The engine brand on your specific unit is confirmed on the ID tag under the seat and on the engine label.
What we use to identify the engine brand on model 107277720
The most reliable way is to read the mower identification tag and the engine’s own label, then match those numbers when ordering parts.
- Tilt the seat forward and locate the mower ID tag (the manual notes it is under the seat)
- On the ID tag, record the model and serial information
- On the engine, record the engine make plus the engine model and type/spec
- Use the engine make and model to match tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, oil filter)
- Use the mower model to match chassis and deck parts (belts, blades, pulleys)
Quick comparison: where to look
| Item you need | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine brand (Kohler or Briggs & Stratton) | Engine label on the engine shroud | Ensures correct engine maintenance parts |
| Mower model and serial | ID tag under the seat | Ensures correct mower and deck parts |
| Engine type/spec or code | Engine label | Prevents ordering the wrong carb or ignition parts |
Related part example (fuel system)
If you are diagnosing fuel delivery issues (hard starting, surging, stalling), inspect the fuel line for cracks, soft spots, or leaks. A listed replacement option is the hose fuel 11 791766.
Why it matters
Craftsman mowers can share a chassis but use different engine makes; the engine brand and engine model drive the correct fit for filters, plugs, carburetor parts, and ignition components.
Last updated: January 2026





