Where is the model number on a Craftsman rear tine tiller?
On the Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 24729933, the model number is printed on the product identification label. On this style of tiller, you will typically find that label on the tine shield/guard area, and sometimes near the engine or fuel tank area; confirm the exact location using the 24729933 owner's manual.
Where to look first
Check these common label locations on a rear-tine tiller:
- On or near the tine shield (tine guard) behind the tines
- On the frame near the engine mounting area
- Near the fuel tank (often on the tank or a nearby frame surface)
- On the front frame section on larger units
What the label usually shows
The ID label is meant to help you match parts like control cables, fasteners, and gear case components to the correct machine.
| Label item | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number (example: 24729933) | Matching diagrams and parts lists |
| Serial number | Identifying production run for service |
| Engine info (varies) | Ordering engine-related parts and tune-up items |
Tips for reading a worn or dirty label
If the label is hard to read, these steps usually make it legible without damaging it:
- Brush off loose dirt first (dry rag or soft brush)
- Wipe gently with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Avoid harsh solvents that can remove printed ink
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in to read faint characters
Why it matters
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong parts for your Craftsman tiller, especially for assemblies that can vary by version (for example, a control cable, tine shield, or gear case parts).
Last updated: January 2026
Are rear tine tillers better?
Rear-tine tillers are better when you need maximum digging power and control, especially for breaking new ground. On the Craftsman 24729933 rear-tine tiller, the wheels pull the machine while the counter-rotating tines dig, which helps you maintain steady forward progress and consistent depth (set by the depth stake). See the 24729933 operator’s manual.
When a rear-tine tiller is the better choice
Rear-tine tillers typically outperform front-tine models in tougher soil because the drivetrain and wheels do more of the work.
- Breaking sod or virgin ground for a new seed bed
- Working larger garden plots where traction matters
- Tilling deeper with less “bouncing” and less operator effort
- Mixing in compost or organic matter more thoroughly
- Maintaining a straighter path because the wheels pull the unit
What “better” depends on
If your goal is light cultivation in already-loose soil, a smaller tiller can be easier to maneuver. If your goal is power and depth control, rear-tine is usually the better fit.
| Job type | Rear-tine tiller (like 24729933) | Smaller/front-tine tiller |
|---|---|---|
| New ground / sod | Best choice | Often struggles |
| Deep tilling | Strong depth control via depth stake | Limited depth |
| Tight spaces | Larger turning radius | More nimble |
| Operator effort | Wheels pull; steadier pace | More pushing and correcting |
Tips to get the best results on model 24729933
The operator guidance matters as much as the design.
- Let the wheels pull the tiller while the tines dig; walk slowly and keep a secure grip.
- Set depth with the depth stake; start shallow (the manual recommends the second hole from the top, about 1 inch) and increase depth gradually.
- Do not push down on the handlebars to force deeper tilling; it can reduce wheel traction and cause loss of control.
- Do not till in reverse; reverse is for repositioning only.
Why it matters
Choosing the right tiller type saves time and reduces strain. A rear-tine tiller is built for traction, depth control, and soil-breaking power, which is exactly what you need when the ground is hard, weedy, or unworked.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the back of a tiller called?
On a Craftsman 24729933 rear-tine tiller, the “back” is typically referred to as the rear tine area (the tines and tine shield behind the wheels). Many people also mean the rear tines, which can be standard-rotating or counter-rotating depending on the tiller design.
Common names you will hear
- Rear tines: the digging blades at the back of a rear-tine tiller
- Tine shield: the protective shield covering the tine area
- Depth stake: the adjustable stake that helps control tilling depth
- Handle assembly: the operator controls at the rear of the machine
How to identify the “back” parts on model 24729933
Use the diagrams and assembly steps in the 24729933 owner's manual to match what you see on your tiller.
Here is a quick reference for the rear area:
| What you see at the back | Common name | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Rotating blades in the soil | Rear tines | Breaks up and mixes soil |
| Shield over the tines | Tine shield | Helps contain soil and debris |
| Vertical bar behind tines | Depth stake | Sets how deep the tines dig |
| Rear controls and grips | Handle assembly | Lets you steer and control engagement |
Why it matters
Using the right term helps you order the correct Craftsman parts and follow the correct adjustment steps (for example, setting handle height and tilling depth). It also reduces mistakes when you are installing hardware like a clevis pin or cotter pin in the rear shield and depth stake area.
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of engine is on a Craftsman tiller?
The Craftsman rear-tine tiller model 24729933 is equipped with a Briggs & Stratton gasoline engine; the parts listing in our documentation calls out Briggs & Stratton engine model 12T102 for this tiller. For the engine identification pages and related service parts, use the 24729933 owner's manual.
What engine is listed for model 24729933
The engine section for this specific tiller model identifies the manufacturer and engine model.
- Manufacturer: Briggs & Stratton
- Engine model: 12T102
- Use the engine model to match tune-up parts (spark plug, air filter, fuel filter)
- Use the tiller model 24729933 to match chassis parts (tines, shields, cables)
| Item you are matching | Use this identifier | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Engine parts and specs | Briggs & Stratton model/type/code | Engine ID label on the engine |
| Tiller frame and drive parts | Craftsman 24729933 | Model tag on the tiller |
How to confirm the exact engine on your machine
Even within the same engine family, the type and code numbers matter for exact part fit.
- Locate the engine ID label (commonly on the blower housing or near the recoil starter)
- Record the model, type, and code
- Compare those numbers to the engine section in the 24729933 owner's manual
- Order engine-specific parts using the engine ID, not just the tiller model number
Why it matters
Using the correct Briggs & Stratton identification (model/type/code) prevents ordering the wrong ignition, carburetor, or gasket parts, and it keeps routine maintenance accurate for your Craftsman 24729933.
Last updated: January 2026



