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How do I identify my lawn mower engine?
To identify the engine on your Craftsman lawn tractor model 247203704, locate the engine’s ID label and record the model, type, and code (or serial) exactly as shown. On many riding tractors, this label is on the engine shroud or valve cover area; see the 247203704 owner’s manual for model-specific label and service access guidance.
On Craftsman front-engine tractors like 247203704, the engine identification label is typically found in one of these places:
- On top of the engine shroud (blower housing) near the recoil or air intake area
- On the valve cover area (often easier to see from above)
- On the side of the engine shroud facing the hood opening
- Near the starter motor or flywheel screen area (sometimes partially hidden)
- On a metal tag or printed sticker attached to the engine housing
Engine labels usually include multiple identifiers. Use this quick guide:
| Label item | What it tells us | When you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Engine family and displacement group | Ordering engine-specific parts (filters, carb parts) |
| Type / Spec | Exact configuration | Matching the correct tune-up and fuel system parts |
| Code / Serial | Build date or serial | Verifying revisions and production changes |
- Let the engine cool completely before reaching near the muffler or cylinder head
- Wipe dust and oil off the shroud with a rag; use a flashlight at an angle
- Take a clear photo, then zoom in to confirm every character
- Record letters and dashes exactly (for example, “123A-45” is not the same as “123A45”)
Your tractor model number (247203704) identifies the chassis and mower deck, but the engine can vary by production run. Using the engine’s model and code helps us match the correct ignition, fuel, and maintenance parts the first time.
If you are also identifying the tractor itself (not just the engine), our how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts) guide can help you confirm the product label format.
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Replacing the engine on a Craftsman 247203704 front-engine lawn tractor is usually worth it only when the tractor is otherwise in good shape and the total repair cost stays below about half the price of a comparable replacement tractor. If the transaxle, deck, or steering also needs major work, replacement often makes more sense.
- The frame is solid (no cracks or severe rust-through)
- The mower deck is not rotted out and spindles are serviceable
- The transaxle drives smoothly (no slipping, whining, or loss of motion)
- Steering is tight enough to mow safely and straight
- You can still get the maintenance and wear parts you need for this model
- You plan to keep the tractor at least 2 to 3 more seasons
Use this as a practical rule-of-thumb when you price an engine, labor, and any “while you’re in there” parts.
| Situation | What we typically recommend | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Engine is the only major failure | Replace engine | Rest of the tractor can still deliver years of service |
| Engine plus transaxle problems | Consider replacing tractor | Two major systems quickly exceed the tractor’s value |
| Deck is badly rusted or cracked | Consider replacing tractor | Deck replacement can be a large added cost |
| Minor issues (carb, fuel, ignition) | Repair instead of replace engine | Much cheaper than an engine swap |
These steps help you avoid replacing an engine when the real issue is fuel, spark, or safety interlocks.
- Confirm the starting and safety interlock procedure in the Craftsman 247203704 owner’s manual
- Check for old fuel, clogged fuel flow, or a leaking tank (if your tank is damaged, see lawn tractor fuel tank 651P08849)
- Inspect the air filter and spark plug condition
- Verify the battery and cable connections are clean and tight
- If it cranks but will not start, test for spark and fuel delivery before condemning the engine
An engine swap is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Making sure the deck, transaxle, and steering are healthy first prevents sinking money into a tractor that will still have expensive problems after the new engine is installed.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I find my Craftsman model number?
On the Craftsman front-engine lawn tractor model 247203704, the model number is typically printed on a product identification label located under the seat area or on the frame near the seat and rear fender. Use the exact model number to match diagrams, manuals, and compatible parts.
Check these common label locations (clean dirt and grass buildup first):
- Under the seat (lift the seat and look on the seat pan or support bracket)
- On the frame rail near the seat
- Near the rear fender or hitch plate area
- Under the hood near the engine compartment (less common on some tractors)
- On the left or right side of the frame, just ahead of the rear wheel
For model-specific label illustrations and identification details, use the 247203704 manual.
Record the full ID information exactly as shown; it helps us match the correct Craftsman and MTD-built components.
| Label item | Example format | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 247203704 | Identifies the exact tractor family |
| Serial number | Letters/numbers | Helps confirm production run |
| Engine model/type/code | Varies by engine brand | Needed for engine-specific parts |
Even one digit off can pull up a different parts list.
- Copy the model number character-for-character (no spaces unless shown)
- If the label is faded, take a clear photo and zoom in
- Match the product type (front-engine lawn tractor vs. rear-engine rider)
- Use the model number before choosing attachments or kits
The model number is the key to getting the right diagrams and fit. For example, baggers and mulch kits can vary by deck size and frame configuration, so confirming the model first prevents mismatched hardware and mounting points.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
For Craftsman model 247203704, the exact engine make, model, and horsepower cannot be identified from the model-specific information we have here. This tractor uses a front-engine, gasoline-powered riding mower engine; the engine ID is typically confirmed from the engine label on the blower housing and then matched to the correct tune-up parts.
Use the engine’s own identification tag, not the tractor model number, to determine the engine type.
- Lift the hood and locate the engine shroud (blower housing)
- Look for an engine label or stamped tag with model, type, and code (common on Briggs & Stratton)
- Write the numbers exactly as shown (including dashes)
- Use those engine numbers to select the correct air filter, spark plug, oil filter, and fuel filter
- Keep the tractor model number 247203704 for chassis parts (deck, steering, transmission)
For diagrams and label locations, refer to the 247203704 owner’s manual.
On riding mowers like the Craftsman 247203704, “engine type” is usually one of these categories.
| What you’re trying to confirm | Where to find it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine brand and model | Engine label on the engine shroud | Ensures correct tune-up parts |
| Cylinder count (single vs V-twin) | Engine label and visual inspection | Affects power and maintenance parts |
| Fuel type | Fuel cap/decals and manual | Prevents starting and performance issues |
| Chassis compatibility | Tractor model number 247203704 | Ensures correct deck/steering/transaxle parts |
If you are setting up for mowing or cleanup, these model-matched accessories can help:
- Lawn tractor 2-bin bagger 19B30031OEM for bagging grass clippings and leaves
- Lawn tractor mulch kit 19A70041OEM for mulching instead of bagging
- Lawn tractor fuel tank 651P08849 if you are addressing fuel leaks or contamination
Ordering engine maintenance parts by the tractor model alone can lead to the wrong spark plug, air filter, or carburetor parts. Confirming the engine’s model and code first helps you get the right parts the first time and avoids hard-starting, surging, or power loss.
Last updated: January 2026
