Value of Vintage Craftsman Riding Mower. Sears lawn mowers craftsman
Where to Find the Model and Serial Number on a Sears Craftsman Riding Mower or Tractor
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Are you having some trouble finding the model and spec numbers on your Craftsman rider or tractor? We’re here to help you. Here are a couple of common locations that you can find this information.
Please note: At this time, we cannot offer Craftsman parts lookup, however, we do have original OEM Sears Craftsman parts for machines made by AYP (American Yard Products).
Engine parts: We can provide OEM and aftermarket parts for Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki, Tecumseh and other engine manufacturers on Craftsman riding lawn mowers and tractors. For more information, please visit our small engine parts page.
Finding the Model and Serial Numbers on a Craftsman Rider
Pictured above is a pretty typical Craftsman rider with a Briggs Stratton engine. The model and serial numbers are located on a sticker right under the seat. The model number usually begins in “917.”
Locating the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Rider
You’re going to have to lift the hood to find the Briggs model, type and code on this one. It’s typically located right on the top of the engine. That was easy! Record the model, type, and code information and head over to our free Briggs Stratton parts lookup.
Locating the Model and Serial numbers for a Craftsman Gold Edition Tractor with a Briggs Stratton Engine
On this particular Craftsman Gold Edition tractor, the model and serial numbers are located on the underside of the seat. Again, this will normally begin with “917.”
Where to find the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Gold Edition
This particular Gold Edition has a 20HP Briggs Stratton engine. The engine model, type and code numbers can be found on the front of the valve cover.
Locating the Kohler Model and Spec Numbers on a Craftsman LTX1000
This is a Craftsman LTX1000 with a Kohler Engine. After you lift the hood, you’ll see a sticker on the right side of the engine with the spec and serial numbers on it. Once you’ve located the model and spec numbers off of the engine, you can find your Kohler parts on our website.
Locating the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Tractor
On this Craftsman, the Briggs model, type and code numbers are engraved on a plate near the engine and under the hood. While standing on the left side of the tractor and lifting the hood, the model, type and code numbers should be right down there to greet you.
Finding the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Newer Craftsman Riding Tractor
This is a newer Craftsman riding tractor with a newer Briggs Stratton Engine. The Briggs model, type and code numbers should be located on the valve cover on the front of the engine.
You’ll need the model and spec numbers to look up Tecumseh. Use our Tecumseh parts lookup for those. What about the Briggs? Don’t worry! With your model, type, and code numbers, you can also check out our Briggs Stratton parts lookup! Hope this helps!
Are you having some trouble finding the model and spec numbers on your Craftsman rider or tractor? We’re here to help you. Here are a couple of common locations that you can find this information.
Please note: At this time, we cannot offer Craftsman parts lookup, however, we do have original OEM Sears Craftsman parts for machines made by AYP (American Yard Products).
Engine parts: We can provide OEM and aftermarket parts for Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki, Tecumseh and other engine manufacturers on Craftsman riding lawn mowers and tractors. For more information, please visit our small engine parts page.
Finding the Model and Serial Numbers on a Craftsman Rider

Craftsman rider model and serial number locationPictured above is a pretty typical Craftsman rider with a Briggs Stratton engine. The model and serial numbers are located on a sticker right under the seat. The model number usually begins in “917.”
Locating the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Rider

Briggs Stratton Engine model, type and code location on a Craftsman riderYou’re going to have to lift the hood to find the Briggs model, type and code on this one. It’s typically located right on the top of the engine. That was easy! Record the model, type, and code information and head over to our free Briggs Stratton parts lookup.
Locating the Model and Serial numbers for a Craftsman Gold Edition Tractor with a Briggs Stratton Engine

Craftsman Gold Edition Tractor model and serial locationOn this particular Craftsman Gold Edition tractor, the model and serial numbers are located on the underside of the seat. Again, this will normally begin with “917.”
Where to find the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Gold Edition

Briggs Stratton Engine Model, Type and Code Number Location on a Craftsman Gold Edition TractorThis particular Gold Edition has a 20HP Briggs Stratton engine. The engine model, type and code numbers can be found on the front of the valve cover.
Locating the Kohler Model and Spec Numbers on a Craftsman LTX1000

Kohler Engine Spec amd Serial Number Location on a Craftsman LTX1000This is a Craftsman LTX1000 with a Kohler Engine. After you lift the hood, you’ll see a sticker on the right side of the engine with the spec and serial numbers on it. Once you’ve located the model and spec numbers off of the engine, you can find your Kohler parts on our website.
Locating the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Craftsman Tractor

Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code Location on a Craftsman TractorOn this Craftsman, the Briggs model, type and code numbers are engraved on a plate near the engine and under the hood. While standing on the left side of the tractor and lifting the hood, the model, type and code numbers should be right down there to greet you.
Finding the Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code on a Newer Craftsman Riding Tractor

Briggs Stratton Model, Type and Code Location on a Craftsman TractorThis is a newer Craftsman riding tractor with a newer Briggs Stratton Engine. The Briggs model, type and code numbers should be located on the valve cover on the front of the engine.
You’ll need the model and spec numbers to look up Tecumseh. Use our Tecumseh parts lookup for those. What about the Briggs? Don’t worry! With your model, type, and code numbers, you can also check out our Briggs Stratton parts lookup! Hope this helps!
Value of Vintage Craftsman Riding Mower?
Is this old riding lawn mower worth anything? It is from Sears and Roebuck, from the 1940s! Model#131 8100.


Answers
This is a great mower and it looks like it is in fairly good shape. In the past, you could find a few of these models on different lawn mower forums and people were asking 300 to 600 dollars depending on the condition of the mower.
If your mower is running and in good condition, you can more than likely sell it for around 300. The ones they sold for 600 were in excellent condition and had the paint restored along with some other parts to make it look almost new.
This could be worth more than 300 if you find the right collector. Collectors do not always care if it is running as they usually redo everything themselves. Finding the right collector will be the problem. It may take a while.
- You can check vintage mowers on eBay (you will not find one like yours or probably even similar) but you can see what people are asking for their vintage mowers. Asking do not usually mean the items are selling for those but it does show what is for sale.
- Here is a link to vintage mowers on eBay at the present time:
- www.ebay.com/. / i.html?_from=R40_trksid=p2334524.
- Then you can check the mowers that actually sold on eBay over the past several months to compare the differences. You will rarely see a mower sell for even several hundred dollars. Some of these mowers will be in very good condition but a true vintage mower can still bring good money but it may take a long time before it will sell. Some sellers leave things like this up for sale for q year, hoping the right collector will see it and of course want it.
Questions
Ask a Question Here are the questions asked by community members. Read on to see the answers provided by the ThriftyFun community or ask a new question.
Question: Information About Vintage Mower?
Can anyone tell me anything about this mower? I can’t find any information about it



Answers
This is an interesting mower but I do not believe that Allstate is a brand name unless it was a very small company in California.I can say that your mower was built before 1963 as that is the year state names changed to a 2 letter abbreviation.
You could try contacting your local Sears Service Center and ask about parts for this mower (the tech may want to see it) as they have books (probably online now) that have names of almost every mechanical thing made. You may get lucky and find information quickly.www.service-center-locator.com/. / sears-service-center.htm
That’s about all that I have found on this mower but you could ask the experts on several of the lawnmower forums.You will have to join the clubs and you may have to ask several as this appears to be an unknown brand.Sometimes stores had a brand name of their own (such as Kenmore) and had items built and used their ‘brand name’ instead of the company that built the item.
The plate says ALLSTEEL. I don’t think it’s a company name.
You have an Allsteel mower made by McLane.
Didn’t you notice the obvious resemblance of your mower to the McLane mowers?thelawnforum.com/ viewtopic.php?t=8994
Mclane Manufacturing Company has been around since the 1940s, and has consistently built one of the best reel mowers in history.The plate on your mower says “7210 E. Rosecrans blvd. Paramount Calif.”Yes, McLane Manufacturing currently has address 6814 Foster Bridge Blvd. Bell Gardens, Californiamclaneedgers.com/ But the address of the company has changed.For example, the address was 7110 East Rosecrans Ave. Paramount, CAusermanual.wiki/. / htmlAnd the address, which is written on your mower “7210 East Rosecrans blvd. Paramount California” too. You can see this address of McLane Manufacturing in Nongovernment Organization Codes for for Military Standart Contact Administration Procedures (MILSCAP) from October 1974, page 713 (books.google) “52706 MCLANE MFG INC 7210 E ROSECRANS AVE PARAMOUNT CA 90723”, in Popular Science from March 1985, page 46 “7210 E. Rosecrans Ave. Paramount Calif. 90723”
McLane doesn’t always put their company name on lawn mower (in front plate). For example, they made Craftsman reel mowers, on the plate in front they wrote “Craftsman”thelawnforum.com/ viewtopic.php?t=10497www.YouTube.com/ watch?v=x5pr9gUdGwMventure-auctions.hibid.com/. / If you need more information contact McLane mclaneedgers.com/. /
Question: Value of a 1960 Sears Craftsman Riding Mower?
I have a 1960 Sears Craftsman green and white riding lawnmower. Model # 137962860. I was wanting to sell it, but have no idea of the value.
It does not run. All the parts are on it I believe. A friend told me it won’t take much to get running, but I don’t know.
What’s the Best Type of Oil for a Craftsman Lawnmower

Engine oil keeps your engine all lubed up, preventing friction damage, and helps keep your engine’s heat down. To keep your lawn mower running smoothly for a long lifespan, it’s crucial to stay on top of regular maintenance like oil changes. Since there are many types of oil for lawn mower engines, we consulted experts to find the best oil for your lawnmower.
What kind of oil should you use for a craftsman lawnmower?
SAE 10W-30 lawn mower oil is the most adaptable and may be used in any situation; it is adequate for most climates. In contrast, SAE 5W-30 could be preferable in colder climates. You might also use synthetic oil, which will thicken from pollutants rather than deteriorate or get thinner over time. Synthetic oils are great for all climates and can help provide your craftsman mower with better lubrication durability.
Check the Owner’s Manual
When you buy a new lawnmower, it should come with a manual. If not, you can find your manual online. Keep this manual handy to find the manufacturer’s safety tips and operating instructions.
You should always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the manufacturer’s specific oil recommendations.
You can lookup craftsman mower owners manuals here.
Environmental Factors Impacting Craftsman Lawn Mower Oil Recommendations
A decrease in lubricant layer thickness due to low viscosity during the summer is one of the critical concerns for equipment operating in hot climates. The capacity of an oil to flow and form an oil film thick enough to separate lubricated engine parts is determined by its viscosity, which is critical. Inherently, in hot climates, higher viscosity oil is recommended.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil for Craftsman Mowers
You must pay attention to the weight you use, synthetic or conventional oil. Different weights are applied to both synthetic and conventional oils, such as a multiweight (10W-30 is a frequent example) or a straight weight (“straight 30” is frequently quoted).
Multiweight oils consider several temperature ranges; for instance, 10W-30 performs as a 30-weight oil while the engine works at operating temperature and as a 10-weight oil when the temperature is indicated as cold. While Straight 30 will use similarly to 30-weight when the engine is running, it makes no promises regarding cold starting and operation.
How Much Oil Does a Craftsman Lawn Mower Take?
You must pay attention to the weight you use, synthetic or conventional oil. Different weights are applied to both synthetic and conventional oils, such as a multiweight (10W-30 is a frequent example) or a straight weight (“straight 30” is frequently quoted). Multiweight oils consider several temperature ranges; for instance, 10W-30 performs as a 30-weight oil while the engine works at operating temperature and as a 10-weight oil when the temperature is indicated as cold. While Straight 30 will use similarly to 30-weight when the engine is running, it makes no promises regarding cold starting and operation.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in Craftsman Lawn Mowers?
It is recommended to change and replace the oil in existing push mowers, as seen in the video below, at least once every season or after 50 hours of use. It is advised to change and replace the oil in existing riding mowers at least once every season or after 100 operating hours.
Maintaining your lawn mower properly will ensure it functions well for many years. One area of lawn mower maintenance that is sometimes forgotten is how frequently oil changes should be performed. At least once every spring or summer, or after 50 hours of use, whichever comes first, engine oil and oil filters should be changed.
Most mower engines require an oil change after 20 to 50 operating hours. The owner’s handbook specifies how frequently to change the oil in a mower. An oil change and other seasonal tune-up maintenance should be performed at the very least annually.
Can You Put Car Oil in Your Lawnmower?
Your lawn mower needs clean, premium oil for efficient operation and extended service life. You may use motor oil in a lawn mower as long as it’s high-quality and the right oil for your particular mower.
In general, SAE30 is a decent option for both cars and lawnmowers. Always check with the manufacturer or dealer if you’re unsure which oil is appropriate for your equipment. Make sure to use oils that conform to your manufacturer’s recommendations and your lawn mower will thank you with many more years of use.
Can I use 10w30 instead of SAE 30 in my lawn mower?
Yes, 10w30 and SAE 30 are both appropriate for lawnmowers. The SAE 30 will provide excellent protection if your mower is older and has more wear. That said, the heavier oil may cause problems for some small engines.
The standard motor oil grade for many lawnmowers is 10W30. The precise quality needed will be specified in your owner’s manual. However, 10W30 is typically the best option for four-stroke engines. Any oil intended for vehicles or trucks will function admirably in your lawn mower.
Who Makes Craftsman Lawn Mowers? (Are They Good?)

Do you know who makes Craftsman lawn mowers? Well, you are at the perfect place to find the answer to such a question. While lawn mowers may be a dime a dozen, quality lawn mowers are a different story. Craftsman has been on the lawnmower game since 1946 when Sears purchased the David Bradley Manufacturing Company. But who makes craftsman mowers and are they any good? Craftsman has been owned by several big brand manufacturers over the decades and up until 2017, they were manufactured by Husqvarna. However, Stanley Black and Decker acquired Craftsman in late 2017 and now, Stanley B;D uses their Modern Tool and Die company to manufacture Craftsman lawn mowers. Modern Tool and Die is another company that Stanley Black and Decker acquired, and Stanley uses the MTD manufacturing facilities to develop and put together Craftsman lawn mowers of every kind.
Are Craftsman Lawn mowers Any Good?
One thing is for certain, Craftsman mowers have been on the market for decades and they wouldn’t have made it this far if all they ever produced was subpar product after terrible product. If you want to know whether or not Craftsman mowers are any good, you have to look at the company behind their creation for the last four years, which is MTD. Modern Tool and Die have an excellent reputation within the industry but you don’t often hear about them outside of the industry. That’s because MTD does most of the hard work, while the engines that they supply to numerous name brands are applauded under the name brand that uses them. For instance, when John Deere brings out a new line of small engine tractors and lawn mowers, you won’t hear the acronym MTD. Although MTD manufactures many small engines for John Deere’s more recognizable small engine tractors and lawn mowers. MTD manufactures small engines for many name brands and it doesn’t stop with John Deere. If you are riding around in a Craftsman mower, then the odds are, that someone is riding around in a John Deere equivalent that is essentially the same mower. Read also Who Makes John Deere Lawn Mowers? (Are They Good?) Read also Who Makes Cub Cadet Lawn Mowers (Are They Good, Quality)
Reviews for Craftsman Lawn mowers
According to Consumer Affairs, Craftsman mowers maintain a 3.6 out of 5 stars. Consumer Affairs is a compilation of reviews from actual consumers, so it is far more likely to reflect the accuracy of public sentiment towards a product than paid-for adverts. The only issue is, that the Consumer Affairs site includes reviews from those who own Craftsman lawn mowers that were manufactured prior to 2018, meaning they own Craftsman mowers that didn’t use MTD engines, but whoever manufactured them previously. So, for a more accurate representation of what MTD manufactures and the quality of those components, we jumped over to Consumer Affairs’ compilation of consumer reviews for MTD products. When it comes to MTD, the compilation of reviews came to an average of 4 out of 5 stars, which is a.4 jump from the overall reviews for Craftsman lawn mowers. While none of it is a scientific certainty, there seems to be a higher degree of positive sentiment for MTD, Since MTD now manufactures Craftsman mowers, it stands to reason that the overall quality of the products will improve from previous engine manufacturers.
Who is MTD?
Now that MTD has been acquired by Stanley BD, Stanley basically oversees all of the brands that MTD acquired over the decades.
It’s an interesting story of millions of dollars, exponential growth, and exponential acquisitions by a company that got its start manufacturing perforating dies and rolling machines.
MTD’s humble beginnings included only having 12 employees, a number which grew to 60 employees the very next year.
MTD is one of those surprising companies that hide behind so many major brands. MTD is also the private label behind 247 products.
If it has something to do with small engines, then the odds are high that MTD had something to do with it at one time or another.
Now, they manufacture Craftsmen lawn mowers, and, seeing as MTD has a pretty stellar track record across the decades, Craftsman couldn’t be placed in better hands.
Are Craftsman Lawn mowers for Those on a Budget?
Kind of sort of. While a Craftsman zero-turn mower is probably going to be priced much better than a John Deere zero-turn mower, you’re still going to easily pay 3,000 for one of them.
It’s not quite like buying generic cereal in other words. Companies like MTD are able to keep the for their Craftsman mowers down because they manufacture much of it in-house and they also bring in a sizeable profit from all of their private label contributions.
If 3,000 is still too rich for your blood, and it is for most people, Craftsman mowers are often purchased in used condition or completely refurbished.
Craftsman Lawn Mower Replacement Parts
This is source of confusion for many Craftsman owners and it’s because Craftsman has jumped from hand to hand over the years, with numerous brands owning the company.
When it comes to replacement parts, who to turn to?
Almost all Craftsman lawn mowers manufacture in the year 2018 and afterward, are going to need MTD parts to replace worn or broken parts.
In fact, Craftsman customer service agents will frequently refer their customers to MTD when it comes to finding the right part.
Since MTD does the vast majority of the manufacturing, you don’t have to worry much about a multitude of different manufacturers all contributing to the same platform with all of their different parts.
All Things Considered
Craftsman mowers are now owned and manufactured by MTD. Over the years, Craftsman has caught a bit of a bad rep, thanks to some previous ownership not directing many resources to the Craftsman brand.
Fortunately, MTD has a better reputation and that should mean, as the year’s progress, better and more improved Craftsman Lawn mowers.