Owner’s manual
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Where to find model number on riding mower?
On the Craftsman riding mower model 247204460, the model number is printed on a product ID label placed on the mower frame or body. The most common spots are under the seat, on the frame near the rear wheels, or near the engine area; confirm the exact location in the 247204460 operator's manual.
- Underside of the seat pan or seat mounting area
- Rear of the frame cover, between the rear wheels
- Right or left side of the frame rail
- Near the engine, including the starter housing area
- On or near the cutting deck (often on the rear left side)
Most riding mower ID labels include a model number and often a serial number. On this Craftsman mower, you may see the model formatted with punctuation (for example, 247.204460) even though the model number is commonly written as 247204460.
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to write when ordering parts |
|---|---|---|
| 247.204460 | Model number with a dot | 247204460 |
| Serial number | Unique build ID | Keep for reference |
We use the model number to match the correct parts diagrams and parts like blades, belts, and safety switches. Even small model variations can change deck components, hardware sizes, and electrical interlock wiring.
Last updated: January 2026
How to identify a lawn mower engine?
On the Craftsman riding mower model 247204460, you identify the engine by locating the engine’s ID label or stamping on the engine shroud or blower housing, then recording the engine model, type, and code. Those numbers are what you use to match tune-up parts and service specs in the 247204460 owner's manual.
Most rear-engine riding mower engines place the identification in one of these spots:
- On the sheet metal shroud near the muffler area
- On the blower housing (the cover around the flywheel)
- Near the air cleaner housing
- On a label near the starter or valve cover area
- Occasionally on the engine block itself (stamped into metal)
If the label is dirty or faded, wipe it with a rag and mild degreaser; avoid pressure washing directly at decals and wiring.
You typically need all of the following to get the right engine parts:
- Engine model (identifies the engine family)
- Type/spec (identifies the exact configuration)
- Code/date (helps match the correct carburetor, ignition parts, and service updates)
| What you find | What it’s used for | Example parts it helps match |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Base engine identification | Air filter, spark plug |
| Type/spec | Exact build configuration | Carburetor, starter |
| Code/date | Production run details | Ignition coil, governor parts |
On a mower like the Craftsman 247204460, the tractor model number helps us find chassis and deck parts, but the engine ID is what ensures you get the correct engine maintenance parts and settings (oil type, spark plug gap, filter style).
Our manual guidance for this mower is to prevent unintended starting before service:
- Disengage the PTO/blade control
- Set the parking brake
- Stop the engine and remove the key
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and secure it away from the plug
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 247204460?
The model number for this Craftsman rear-engine riding mower is 247.204460 (often written without the dot as 247204460). You can confirm it on the identification label and in the 247204460 operator's manual, which lists the mower as “Model No. 247.204460.”
Most Craftsman riding mowers have the model/serial label in a spot that is easy to access for parts lookup and service.
- Under the seat on the seat box or frame
- On the rear fender pan near the seat
- On the frame rail near the engine or rear axle area
- Near the footrest or running board area
The same mower can show the model number in slightly different formats depending on where you’re looking.
| Where you see it | Example | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Operator’s manual | 247.204460 | Standard printed format |
| Model label / parts lookup | 247204460 | Same model number without punctuation |
| Serial label | Serial number (varies) | Identifies your exact unit, not the model |
Using the exact model number 247204460 helps us match the correct parts diagrams and compatible items like blades, belts, and safety switches. Even small model-number differences can change deck components, hardware, or electrical interlock wiring.
If you’re ordering common wear items, match the part to the diagrams for your model. For example, deck and drive components can vary by build.
- Mower deck blade options (deck-specific)
- Ground drive belt routing and length
- Starter solenoid and interlock switch style
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth replacing a lawn mower engine?
Replacing the engine on a Craftsman model 247204460 rear-engine riding mower is worth it when the deck, transmission, and safety systems are in solid shape and the total engine swap cost stays well below the cost of a comparable new mower. If the mower has multiple worn systems, replacement usually makes more sense.
- The mower deck shell is solid (not cracked or severely rusted)
- The transmission drives smoothly (no slipping, whining, or loss of pull)
- The safety interlock system works correctly (seat switch, brake switch, PTO switch)
- You can keep all fasteners tight and service the machine safely (per the 247204460 owner's manual)
- The engine failure is isolated (thrown rod, low compression, oil consumption) rather than a symptom of broader neglect
Use this simple comparison to decide before you buy an engine or short block.
| Option | Best when | Typical downside |
|---|---|---|
| Replace engine (complete) | Chassis and deck are strong; you want a fresh start | Highest parts cost; more setup time |
| Short block swap | Top end parts are reusable; you want a middle-cost repair | More labor; requires careful assembly |
| Buy a new mower | Multiple systems are worn; you want minimal downtime | Higher upfront cost; setup and disposal |
The manual emphasizes keeping blades and engine mounting bolts tight and replacing worn or damaged blades with OEM-spec parts. That guidance matters because vibration and loose hardware can damage a new engine quickly.
- Check blade condition and bolt tightness; replace bent, cracked, or excessively worn blades
- Inspect belts and pulleys for wear (deck belt and ground drive belt)
- Verify the parking brake and PTO disengage properly before service
- After any impact, stop the engine and inspect for damage before operating again
- Confirm the mower starts and runs correctly after basic tune-up checks (fuel freshness, spark plug connection, air cleaner)
An engine swap only pays off when the rest of the mower can safely support it. A solid deck, tight fasteners, and working safety switches reduce vibration, prevent thrown objects, and protect your investment in a replacement engine.
Last updated: January 2026
