The Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower Parts Manual provides comprehensive information on the parts, components, and maintenance for the Craftsman 42-inch deck riding lawn tractor. This manual covers part numbers, exploded diagrams, replacement procedures, safety warnings, and ordering information for the engine, cutting deck, transmission, steering, electrical system, and other key assemblies. Below are key sections for safety, parts identification, diagrams, ordering, and maintenance.
Key components: Engine (Briggs & Stratton or Kohler), 42-inch Cutting Deck, Transmission (Hydrostatic or Gear), Steering Assembly, Electrical System (Battery, Starter, Switches), Seat, Frame, Wheels.
| Component Group | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Assembly | Includes cylinder, piston, carburetor, air filter, oil filter, spark plug |
| Cutting Deck | 42-inch stamped or fabricated steel deck with blade spindles, belts, pulleys |
| Blade Set | High-lift mulching or standard blades (left, right, center) |
| Drive System | Hydrostatic transmission, drive belt, axle, differential |
| Steering System | Steering wheel, gear, tie rods, spindle arms |
| Electrical | 12V battery, starter motor, ignition switch, safety switches, wiring harness |
| Deck Lift | Manual or electric lift assembly, lever, cables |
| Seat | Padded seat with suspension, mounting bracket |
| Frame & Body | Steel frame, fenders, hood, footrests |
| Wheels & Tires | Front and rear tires, rims, bearings, axle nuts |
Common engine models: Briggs & Stratton Intek, Kohler Courage.
WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing engine. Allow engine to cool. Use correct torque specifications.
42-inch deck parts list with diagrams.
CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug and engage parking brake before removing deck. Wear gloves when handling blades.
Steering assembly and control linkage parts.
Steering Wheel: Part # 123456 (15-inch diameter). Steering Gear: Rack and pinion or sector gear. Tie Rods: Left and right tie rods with ends. Spindle Arms: Front spindle and kingpin. Control Levers: Throttle, choke, deck lift, brake. Pedals: Brake pedal, clutch/forward-reverse pedal assembly. Linkage Bushings: Nylon or metal bushings for smooth operation.
12-volt electrical system components.
Tip: Disconnect battery negative terminal before electrical work. Check all connections for corrosion.
Seat assembly and frame components.
WARNING! Ensure seat is securely mounted. Check frame for cracks or damage before operation.
Front and rear wheel assemblies.
| Wheel Position | Part Number | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Front Tire | #123461 | 15x6.00-6, 4-ply |
| Front Rim | #123462 | 6-inch diameter, steel |
| Rear Tire | #123463 | 20x10.00-8, 4-ply |
| Rear Rim | #123464 | 8-inch diameter, steel |
| Front Bearings | #123465 | Sealed ball bearings |
| Rear Axle Nuts | #123466 | 3/4"-16 flange nut |
| Valve Stems | #123467 | Standard rubber |
Recommended service intervals and lubricants.
Engine Oil: SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 10W-30, change every 50 hours. Air Filter: Clean every 25 hours, replace yearly. Spark Plug: Gap 0.030", replace every 100 hours. Deck Spindles: Grease zerks every 25 hours. Transmission: Check fluid level annually. Steering: Lubricate linkage pivot points. Tire Pressure: Front 14 PSI, Rear 10 PSI.
CAUTION! Use only recommended lubricants. Do not over-grease.
Order genuine Craftsman parts through authorized dealers or online.
Copyright © 2025 Craftsman. Craftsman is a trademark of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. Parts and specifications subject to change.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Parts/Service Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Bad battery, faulty solenoid | Replace battery (#123468), solenoid (#123457) |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blades, worn belt | Sharpen/replace blades (#144959), belt (#144971) |
| Vibration from deck | Bent blade, bad spindle | Replace blade, spindle assembly (#123469) |
| Loss of drive power | Worn drive belt, low fluid | Replace belt (#144972), check transmission fluid |
| Steering is loose | Worn tie rod ends | Replace tie rod ends (#123470) |
| Deck won't lift | Broken cable, frozen pivot | Replace lift cable (#123471), lubricate linkage |
Exploded Diagrams: Refer to manual pages 12-25 for detailed parts diagrams.
Service Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com/service