Where to find model number on riding mower?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 247290002, the model number is printed on the product ID label (a sticker or metal tag) attached to the tractor frame. We use that exact model number to match the correct belts, blades, switches, and other parts.
Look for a label in one of these spots (clean off grass and dirt to read it):
- Under the seat pan or on the seat bracket
- On the frame rail near the engine
- On the frame near the rear wheels or hitch plate
- Under the hood near the dash tower or steering column
- Near the battery tray area
Most riding mower ID labels include more than one number. Use the model number for parts lookup.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Example of what it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Correct parts diagrams and part fit | 247290002 |
| Serial number | Production run identification | Longer number/letters |
| Engine model/type/code | Engine-specific parts (filters, plugs) | Separate engine tag |
- Write down the model number exactly as shown (include all digits)
- If the label is faded, take a clear photo and zoom in
- Don’t use the engine numbers when ordering tractor parts like belts, pulleys, or steering components
- Confirm deck size and transmission type if your mower has multiple configurations
Craftsman tractors often share similar frames across different model numbers, but parts like the blade drive belt, ground drive belt, and safety interlock components can vary. Using the correct model number helps ensure the right fit the first time.
For model-specific label locations and diagrams, check the 247290002 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 42 riding mower?
For the Craftsman riding mower covered by this parts page, the model number is 247290002. If your mower is a 42-inch deck Craftsman rider, confirm the exact model on the ID label and match it to 247290002 before ordering parts or following service steps in the 247290002 owner's manual.
We recommend checking the mower’s model/serial tag because “Craftsman 42 riding mower” can refer to multiple models.
- Look for a model/serial label under the seat, on the frame near the rear fender, or near the engine area
- Write down the full model number exactly as shown (numbers and any dashes)
- Compare that model number to 247290002
- Use the model number (not deck size) when selecting belts, pulleys, switches, and steering parts
- If the label is dirty, wipe it clean so every digit is readable
A “42-inch” deck describes cutting width, not the exact chassis, drive system, or deck configuration. Two 42-inch Craftsman riders can use different:
- Ground drive belts
- Blade drive belts
- Mandrel and pulley assemblies
- Interlock switches
- Steering gears and shafts
If your ID tag matches 247290002, these are examples of model-matched parts you may see listed for this mower:
| System | Example part name | Example part number |
|---|---|---|
| Blade drive | Blade drive belt | 954-05001 |
| Ground drive | Ground drive belt | 954-05040 |
| Safety | Interlock switch | 725-04363 |
Using the correct model number helps us get you the right Craftsman parts the first time, especially for wear items like belts and pulleys where small differences in length or routing can prevent proper operation.
Last updated: January 2026
What riding mower has the least problems?
No riding mower is “problem-free”, but the ones with the least problems are typically simple, well-maintained lawn tractors with proven engines, a strong dealer parts network, and routine service done on schedule. For your Craftsman riding mower model 247290002, we recommend using the maintenance intervals and checks in the 247290002 owner's manual to minimize breakdowns.
- Simple drivetrain and controls: fewer features usually means fewer failure points.
- Easy-to-service deck and belts: quick access reduces skipped maintenance.
- Common, widely supported parts: belts, pulleys, switches, and bearings should be easy to source.
- Strong frame and steering components: reduces wear-related looseness and alignment issues.
- Clear maintenance schedule: oil changes, air filter service, blade care, and belt inspections.
Many “reliability” complaints come from wear items and safety interlocks, not the engine itself.
| Area | What fails most often | What prevents it |
|---|---|---|
| Mower deck drive | Belt glazing, stretching, slipping | Keep pulleys clean, maintain correct belt routing and tension |
| Ground drive | Belt wear, idler pulley noise | Inspect belt condition, replace noisy pulleys early |
| Starting/safety | Seat/PTO/brake interlock issues | Keep connectors clean, avoid bypassing switches |
| Steering | Loose gears, worn bushings | Grease points (if equipped), avoid curb impacts |
If your mower intermittently will not crank or dies when you leave the seat, the interlock switch 725-04363 is a common wear item to check.
- Replace worn deck and drive belts before they start slipping (burnt rubber smell is a key warning sign).
- Keep the deck clean underneath to reduce belt heat and spindle load.
- Tighten loose hardware periodically (vibration loosens fasteners over time).
- Store fuel properly and use fresh fuel to reduce hard-start and stalling complaints.
- Inspect wiring harness routing so it does not rub through on the frame.
Most riding mower “problems” are preventable wear issues. When belts, pulleys, and safety switches are kept in good shape, the mower cuts more consistently, starts more reliably, and avoids expensive secondary damage (like overheated spindles or thrown belts).
Last updated: January 2026
How to read Craftsman serial number?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 247290002, the serial number is the mower’s unique production identifier; we use it to confirm the exact build version, factory, and date range so you get the right parts and service info. Start by locating the ID label, then record the full serial number exactly as printed (including any letters).
Common label locations include:
- Under the seat pan or on the seat bracket
- On the frame rail near the engine
- On the rear frame plate behind the seat
- Near the footrest area on the chassis
- Under the hood near the dash support (less common)
For the most accurate label location and examples for 247290002, use the 247290002 owner's manual.
Craftsman serial numbers vary by manufacturer and era, but they typically help identify:
- Production sequence (a unique unit number)
- Manufacturing plant or line code (often a letter or short prefix)
- Build date code (sometimes embedded as digits that resemble a year and week)
- Revision level (helps match parts that changed mid-production)
| What to write down | Example format | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 247290002 | Matches the correct parts diagrams |
| Serial number | Letters + numbers | Identifies the exact build |
| Any “MFG” or date code | Numeric date-style code | Helps confirm production range |
| Engine model/type/code (if shown) | Engine ID block | Needed for engine-specific parts |
- Copy the serial number from the label, not from memory; one digit off can change the build.
- Include prefixes and suffixes; letters are as important as numbers.
- If the label is dirty, wipe it with a damp cloth; avoid solvents that can remove printing.
- If the label is damaged, check for a second label under the seat or on the frame.
Craftsman riding mowers can have running changes (belts, pulleys, switches, wiring) during a model’s production. Using the serial number helps us match the correct version so parts like a ground drive belt or interlock switch fit and function correctly.
Last updated: January 2026





