How many hours should a Craftsman riding mower last?
Most Craftsman riding mowers like model 247273430 typically last 500 to 700 engine hours with normal residential use and routine maintenance; with excellent care, it’s common to reach around 1,000 hours before major wear items (engine, transaxle, steering) start needing more frequent repairs.
- 500 to 700 hours: common “average” lifespan for many riding mowers
- 700 to 1,000 hours: achievable with consistent maintenance and careful operation
- Under 500 hours: usually tied to neglected maintenance, dirty cooling fins, old fuel, or mowing conditions that overload the deck
| Hours on meter | What it usually means | What we recommend focusing on |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 200 | Early life | Break-in maintenance, keep blades sharp, keep engine cooling clean |
| 200 to 700 | Prime years | Regular tune-ups, belt and deck checks, battery care |
| 700 to 1,000+ | Higher wear period | Watch for hydro/transaxle performance, steering play, electrical issues |
- Change engine oil and filter on schedule; use the oil grade listed in the 247273430 owner’s manual.
- Keep the air filter clean; restricted airflow shortens engine life.
- Use fresh fuel and stabilize it for storage; avoid running old fuel.
- Keep the cutting deck clean and level; an overloaded deck strains the engine.
- Replace worn cutting blades so the mower cuts cleanly instead of tearing grass.
A few common wear items can make a mower feel “worn out” even when the engine still has life left:
- Cutting blades (dull or bent blades reduce cut quality)
- Battery and charging components
- Safety switches and ignition components
- Drive system components (belts, pulleys, transaxle)
If you’re maintaining a 46-inch deck setup, using the correct blade matters; match by model and deck size, such as the lawn tractor 46-in deck 2-in-1 blade 942-04290a when it fits your configuration.
Engine hours are the best quick indicator of overall wear on a riding mower. Knowing the typical 500 to 700 hour range helps you plan maintenance, decide when to refresh key parts, and avoid downtime during peak mowing season.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding lawn tractor like model 247273430, a full engine replacement typically runs about $800 to $2,500 installed (engine plus labor). The total depends on engine type, whether the wiring and fuel system need updates, and local shop rates; confirm specs in the 247273430 owner's manual.
- Engine price: Most replacement riding mower engines fall around $500 to $1,800.
- Labor time: Commonly 4 to 8 hours for a riding mower engine swap.
- Extra parts: Belts, pulleys, fuel line, battery, or muffler hardware may be needed.
- Shop rate: Often $90 to $160 per hour depending on region.
- Condition of the tractor: Rusted fasteners, damaged wiring, or worn PTO components add time.
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement engine | $500 to $1,800 | Varies by horsepower and crankshaft specs |
| Labor | $360 to $1,280 | 4 to 8 hours at $90 to $160/hr |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $25 to $250 | Fuel line, clamps, oil, filter, hardware |
| Estimated total | $800 to $2,500 | Most common real-world range |
- The block is cracked or the crankshaft is damaged.
- Compression is low and the engine is high-hour.
- The cost to rebuild approaches the price of a replacement.
- It only needs a tune-up (spark plug, air filter, carb cleaning).
- The engine cranks but will not start; use riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.
- It only clicks and will not turn over; use riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
An engine swap is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. Getting the correct crankshaft diameter/length, mounting pattern, and electrical connections for model 247273430 prevents fit issues and repeat labor.
Last updated: February 2026
Is a Craftsman riding mower any good?
Yes. Craftsman riding mowers are a good choice for most homeowners because they deliver solid cut quality and practical features at a value-focused price point; for the Craftsman 247273430 lawn tractor, routine maintenance and correct setup matter more to long-term satisfaction than brand name alone.
For typical weekly mowing, we consider a riding mower “good” when it starts reliably, cuts evenly, and holds up with normal wear items (blades, belts, battery) replaced on schedule.
Common strengths many owners like:
- Good value compared with premium brands
- Easy-to-find maintenance parts (blades, switches, hardware)
- Capable for flat to moderately sloped yards when used within limits
- Straightforward controls and service access
Use this quick checklist to decide if a Craftsman rider fits your yard and expectations:
- Deck size and condition: a 46-inch deck is common; inspect for rust, vibration, and uneven cut
- Parts support: confirm you can get wear parts like a lawn tractor 46-in deck 2-in-1 blade 942-04290
- Starting and safety circuits: seat switch, brake switch, and PTO interlock must work correctly
- Transmission performance: smooth forward and reverse, no slipping under load
- Local service options: a nearby small-engine shop is a big plus
| Category | Craftsman riding mower | Premium riding mower |
|---|---|---|
| Price/value | Strong value | Higher cost |
| Heavy-duty use | Best for homeowner duty | Better for frequent, demanding use |
| Parts and DIY repairs | Generally DIY-friendly | Varies by brand and design |
| Features | Practical basics | More comfort and advanced options |
A riding mower is only as “good” as its maintenance. Keeping the deck level, replacing dull blades, and fixing no-start issues early prevents bigger problems and protects cut quality. For model-specific maintenance intervals and adjustments, follow the 247273430 owner’s manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What are common problems with Craftsman riding mowers?
Common problems on Craftsman riding mowers like model 247273430 usually fall into four areas: no-start or clicking, engine runs poorly, mower deck will not cut right, or the tractor will not drive correctly. We troubleshoot these by checking the battery and safety circuits first, then fuel/air/ignition, then belts and deck hardware (see the 247273430 owner's manual).
- Clicks but won’t crank: weak battery, bad cable connection, or a failing starter solenoid
- Cranks but won’t start: stale fuel, clogged carburetor jets, dirty air filter, fouled spark plug
- Starts then dies when you release the brake: safety interlock switch or wiring issue
- Uneven cut or poor bagging/mulching: dull/bent blades, deck out of level, worn deck parts
- Vibration while mowing: damaged blade, loose blade hardware, debris wrapped on spindles
- Won’t move or slips under load: drive belt wear, idler/pulley issues, or transaxle concerns
- Battery and connections: clean and tighten terminals; confirm the ground cable is secure to the frame.
- Safety interlocks: verify the brake pedal is fully depressed and the PTO is off; inspect the seat and PTO/brake switch operation.
- Fuel basics: drain old fuel, replace with fresh fuel, and confirm fuel flows to the carb.
- Air and spark: check air filter condition and spark plug gap/condition.
- Deck and blades: inspect blade edges and deck level; replace worn blades when needed.
| Problem area | What fails most often | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No-crank/clicking | Starter solenoid | Lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153 |
| Engine dies or won’t crank due to safety circuit | Safety switch | Lawn tractor interlock switch 725-04363 |
| Poor cut quality | Worn/damaged blade | Lawn tractor 46-in deck 2-in-1 blade 942-04290 |
| No drive or weak drive | Transaxle or drive system issue | Lawn tractor transaxle 618P09815 |
Most “major” riding mower failures start as simple issues (battery voltage drop, a loose ground, stale fuel, or a safety switch not closing). Catching those early prevents repeat no-starts, protects the starter, and helps the deck cut cleanly without extra strain on belts and spindles.
- Riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video
- Riding lawn mower engine dies when you release the brake video
- How to level a riding lawn mower deck for an even cut video
Last updated: February 2026
What brand engine does Craftsman use?
Craftsman lawn tractors (including model 247273430) have been built with engines from multiple manufacturers over the years; the most common are Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Kawasaki. The exact engine brand on your tractor is confirmed by the engine ID label and the specifications section in the 247273430 owner's manual.
Check these spots on the engine itself (not the hood or frame):
- Engine shroud or valve cover label (often shows the brand logo)
- Sticker near the starter or blower housing with model and type codes
- Emissions label on the engine shroud
- Stamped model information near the muffler or dipstick tube
- Your manual’s engine specification page
Craftsman sources engines by production run and tractor series, so two Craftsman tractors can use different engine brands even if they look similar.
| Engine brand | What you’ll typically see on the label | Why it matters for parts |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Model, Type, Code numbers | Tune-up parts and carburetor kits match engine codes |
| Kohler | Model and Spec numbers | Filters, ignition parts, and gaskets are spec-specific |
| Kawasaki | Model and Spec numbers | Carburetion and ignition parts vary by spec |
The engine brand and engine model/spec numbers determine the correct maintenance parts (air filter, oil filter, spark plug), as well as repair parts like a starter, carburetor, or fuel shutoff solenoid. Using the engine ID prevents ordering the wrong parts for your Craftsman lawn tractor.
If you are troubleshooting a no-start or click-no-crank issue, these items are commonly involved:
- Battery condition and cable connections
- Safety interlock system (seat switch, brake switch, PTO switch)
- Ignition switch and wiring
- Starter solenoid (example: lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153)
- Starter motor and engine ground
For step-by-step diagnostics, use riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman riding lawn mower model 247273430 uses a gasoline, single-cylinder, 4-stroke lawn tractor engine (the exact engine brand and horsepower depend on the specific engine installed on your tractor). For the confirmed engine identification details, we recommend checking the engine section of the 247273430 owner's manual.
Use these quick checks on the tractor and engine itself:
- Look for the engine ID label on the blower housing or valve cover (it typically lists model, type, and code).
- Check the hood or frame decals for engine family or horsepower markings.
- Match the engine label to the specifications section in the 247273430 owner's manual.
- If the engine cranks slowly or only clicks, test the battery and starting circuit before assuming an engine issue.
- If the engine spins but will not start, focus on fuel, spark, and air delivery first.
Most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors in this class use one of these engine styles:
| Engine style | What it means | What you will notice |
|---|---|---|
| Single-cylinder OHV | One cylinder, overhead valve design | Simpler layout, common on 42 to 46-inch deck tractors |
| V-twin OHV | Two cylinders, overhead valve design | Smoother running, often higher horsepower |
| Carbureted gas engine | Fuel mixed in a carburetor | Needs clean fuel and a clean air filter for easy starting |
The exact engine model determines the correct tune-up parts and service specs, including spark plug type/gap, air filter, oil capacity/viscosity, and carburetor settings. Using the engine ID from the tractor helps us match the right maintenance parts the first time.
If you are troubleshooting starting or cranking problems, these guides align with common Craftsman lawn tractor symptoms:
- Riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video
- Riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video
- Jump starting a riding lawn mower battery video
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 247273430 engine?
The Craftsman model number 247273430 identifies the lawn tractor, not the engine itself. On this tractor, the engine model is shown on the engine ID label (typically on the blower housing, valve cover area, or near the starter) and in the 247273430 owner's manual.
Look for a sticker or stamped tag on the engine and record the full model and type/spec numbers.
- Turn the engine off, remove the key, and let the muffler cool completely
- Lift the hood and look for an engine label on the blower housing (fan shroud)
- Check near the starter, spark plug, or valve cover for a second label
- Write down engine model, type/spec, and code/date (if listed)
- Use those numbers when ordering engine parts (carburetor, air filter, starter, ignition)
| Number you have | What it identifies | What it helps you buy |
|---|---|---|
| 247273430 | The Craftsman lawn tractor | Chassis and deck parts (blades, seat, steering, wiring) |
| Engine model/type/spec | The engine manufacturer and build | Engine-specific parts and tune-up items |
Many Craftsman riding mowers share similar frames and mower decks, but engines can vary by manufacturer and spec. Using the engine model and type/spec prevents ordering the wrong ignition, fuel, or starting components.
If you are troubleshooting a no-crank or click-no-start issue, these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
- Lawn tractor starter solenoid 725-06153
- Lawn tractor ignition switch 925-06119A
- Lawn tractor interlock switch 725-04363
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 247273430 riding mower?
The model number for this Craftsman riding mower is 247273430. On Craftsman lawn tractors, the model number is the most reliable identifier for getting the correct parts (like blades, ignition switches, and safety interlock components) and matching the right maintenance instructions in the 247273430 owner's manual.
Look for a model and serial number label in one of these common locations:
- Under the seat pan or on the seat bracket
- On the frame near the rear wheels
- Under the hood near the engine compartment
- Along the left or right side of the frame rail
- Near the footrest area
Craftsman model numbers narrow down the exact chassis and deck configuration so you get parts that fit correctly.
| What you’re doing | Use this identifier | Example from this model’s parts |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering a cutting part | Model number + deck size | 46-in deck blade 942-04290 |
| Fixing a no-start issue | Model number + electrical part | Starter solenoid 725-06153 |
| Diagnosing a safety shutoff | Model number + switch type | Interlock switch 725-04363 |
Some Craftsman tractors also show an additional manufacturer or product code on the tag. For Sears PartsDirect lookups and parts diagrams, use 247273430 as your primary model number, then confirm the deck size and engine family in the 247273430 owner's manual.
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong blade, ignition switch, or transaxle parts, and it keeps troubleshooting steps aligned with your tractor’s exact safety interlock and starting circuits.
Last updated: February 2026
What year is a Craftsman 247273430 riding mower?
Craftsman model 247273430 does not map to one single “model year” the way cars do; it’s a manufacturer model number used across a production run. The most reliable way to identify the exact build date is to match the model and serial information on the tractor to the date-code guidance in the 247273430 owner’s manual.
Look for the model and serial label, then use the serial or date code format shown in the manual.
- Check under the seat pan (common location on Craftsman and MTD-built tractors)
- Check the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Check near the rear fender or hitch plate area
- Write down the model number (247273430) and the full serial number
- Compare the serial/date code to the format in the manual to determine the build date
For parts lookup, the model number and serial number range matter more than the calendar year. Small running changes can affect items like the ignition switch, starter solenoid, and deck hardware.
| If you need… | Use this to identify the correct part | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance and tune-up items | Model number + engine model/type code | Engine parts vary by engine family |
| Electrical parts (no-crank, no-start) | Model number + serial number | Wiring and switches can change |
| Mower deck parts (blades, brakes) | Deck size and deck model info | Deck configurations vary |
Using the correct build date or serial range prevents ordering a part that “looks right” but mounts differently or has different connectors. That is especially important for safety interlock circuits and starting components.
If you’re asking about the year because the tractor will not start or only clicks, these guides match the most common symptoms:
- Riding lawn mower engine clicks but doesnt turn over video
- Riding lawn mower engine wont turn over or click video
- Riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I find the Craftsman riding mower model number?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 247273430, the model number is printed on the product identification label. On most Craftsman lawn tractors, that label is located under the seat (often on the seat pan or underside of the seat) and is easy to read once you tilt the seat forward.
Check these common label locations first:
- Under the seat: underside of the seat or the seat pan
- On the rear frame near the seat mounting area
- On the fender deck near the seat (left or right side)
- Near the engine compartment on the frame rail
- Under the hood area on the chassis (less common)
For the exact label location and how the tag is shown in diagrams, use the 247273430 owner's manual.
The identification label typically includes several fields. Use the model number field when ordering parts.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Example (format) |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact tractor version | 247273430 |
| Serial number | Tracks production run | Varies |
| Engine info | Helps match engine service parts | Varies |
Craftsman riding mower parts can vary by deck size, steering components, and electrical system. Using the correct model number helps us match the right parts the first time, such as a starter solenoid, ignition switch, or deck blade.
Last updated: February 2026





