Craftsman 12728876 zero-turn riding lawn mower Parts

For the Craftsman 42-inch riding mower shown in the documentation for this page, the model number is 127.28876 (often written without the dot as 12728876). You can confirm it on the mower’s serial/model tag and in the 12728876 owner's manual.

The model number is printed on sales literature and manuals, and it’s also tied to the serial number tag on the machine.

• Look under the seat
• Check the far back wall of the frame
• From the operator’s view, it’s left of the battery
• Write down both the model number and serial number for parts lookup

The operator’s manual groups several similar Craftsman zero-turn mowers by deck size and engine.

Using the exact model number ensures you get the right diagrams and the right replacement parts for your Craftsman riding mower.

• Belt routing and deck configuration can differ by deck size
• Electrical parts (switches, wiring) can vary by production run
• The serial number helps narrow down the correct part versions
• It reduces returns and downtime during repairs

Once you confirm the model number as 12728876, use the parts list for this model first; if you’re searching more broadly by model number, we also support model search on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

For the Craftsman riding mower model 12728876, the operator’s manual lists a 22 HP B&S (Briggs & Stratton) engine. Craftsman has used several engine suppliers across different mower lines and years, but this specific model is equipped with Briggs & Stratton.

From the 12728876 owner's manual, this mower is identified as:

• Model: 12728876
• Engine brand: Briggs & Stratton (B&S)
• Engine power: 22 HP
• Deck style: Side discharge

Across Craftsman riding mowers and tractors, you’ll commonly see engines from:

• Briggs & Stratton (very common on many Craftsman models)
• Kohler (often on higher-end or specific series)
• Kawasaki (less common, typically on select models)

Engine brand and engine model codes determine the correct maintenance parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter) and repair parts (starter, carburetor, ignition components). Using the mower model number alone is not always enough for engine-specific parts.

We recommend matching both identifiers before you buy:

• Use 12728876 to find mower chassis and deck parts
• Use the engine’s model/type code for engine parts
• If you’re searching beyond the model parts list, use Sears PartsDirect and search by the exact model number or engine identifiers

Last updated: February 2026

To find the right parts for your Craftsman riding mower, match the exact model number on the product label to the parts list for model 12728876, then confirm the part by diagram location and description in the 12728876 owner's manual. For broader searching by model number, use Sears PartsDirect.

For Craftsman model 12728876, the model/parts label is typically on the rear frame between the wheels. Once you have that number, use it exactly as shown (including any punctuation).

• Look on the rear frame between the back wheels
• Wipe off grass and dirt so the label is readable
• Write down the full model number: 12728876
• Record any additional numbers on the label (often a serial or product number)
• Use the model number to match diagrams before ordering

Use the model number first, then verify the part in the diagrams and parts list so you do not order the wrong belt, blade, or electrical component.

These checks save time, especially on common wear items like belts and blades.

• Compare the old part to the diagram (shape, mounting holes, connectors)
• For belts, confirm whether you are replacing the cutterdeck belt or hydro transaxle drive belt
• For blades, inspect for bends or cracks before deciding to sharpen or replace
• If you are troubleshooting an electrical issue, test fuses and switches before replacing parts

Riding mower parts often look similar across models, but small differences in deck size, pulley routing, or wiring connectors can cause poor performance or unsafe operation. Using the correct Craftsman 12728876 parts list helps ensure proper fit and reliable mowing.

Last updated: February 2026

A rear-engine riding mower like the Craftsman 12728876 puts the engine weight over the drive wheels, which improves traction on flat lawns and gentle slopes. The rear layout also keeps the front end lighter, so it can feel easier to steer around trees, beds, and other obstacles.

• Better traction: more weight on the rear tires helps reduce wheel spin on typical turf.
• Tighter maneuvering: a lighter front end can make turning and trimming easier.
• Good visibility for trimming: many operators find it easier to judge the front edge of the mower when lining up passes.
• Simpler, homeowner-friendly design: rear-engine riders are commonly built for routine residential mowing.

Rear-engine riders are a great fit for many yards, but they are not ideal for every situation.

The biggest “advantage” is only an advantage when the mower is operated safely and consistently.

• Keep the discharge chute, mulcher, or grass catcher installed while mowing.
• Do not engage blades until you are ready to mow.
• Stop blades to cross gravel areas to reduce thrown-object risk.
• Keep the area clear of people and pets; never direct discharge toward bystanders.
• If grass is extremely tall, mow twice (first pass higher, second pass to final height).

Choosing the right mower layout affects cut quality, traction, and how confidently you can mow around landscaping. For model-specific operating guidance, safety labels, and mowing tips, use the Craftsman 12728876 Owner's manual. For parts lookup by model number, we also support search on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

For the Craftsman 12728876 rear-engine riding mower, a complete engine replacement (engine plus typical shop labor) usually costs $900 to $2,500. The biggest price drivers are the replacement engine itself (commonly a 22 HP Briggs and Stratton on this model family) and any related parts needed to make the swap reliable. Confirm your exact engine details in the 12728876 owner's manual before you price parts.

• Engine type and horsepower: higher HP and certain crankshaft sizes cost more
• New vs. remanufactured: new engines cost more; reman can reduce parts cost
• Crankshaft and mounting match: wrong shaft diameter/length or bolt pattern adds return delays and extra parts
• Add-on parts during install: fuel line, fuel filter, air filter, spark plug, battery cables, mounting hardware
• Shop labor rate: local hourly rates vary widely

• Verify the engine model/type code and crankshaft specs (diameter, length, keyway) in the manual or on the engine label
• Compare the deck size and configuration; this model family includes 42-inch and 36-inch variants
• Inspect for cheaper root causes first: clogged fuel system, bad ignition coil, damaged wiring, weak battery

An engine is the most expensive component on a riding mower. Getting the correct crankshaft and mounting configuration prevents fit issues that can turn a straightforward repair into a costly rework.

Use the parts list for model 12728876 first; for broader search by model number and diagrams, use Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026