When your Craftsman model 917370692 starts showing its age, worn-out rear wheels are often the first sign of trouble. A smooth, even cut becomes a struggle as the mower wobbles and drags across your lawn. Replacing these critical components is not just about restoring appearance; it’s about reclaiming the performance and reliability you expect from your equipment.
The right set of rear wheels can dramatically improve traction, stability, and overall mowing ease. With numerous aftermarket and OEM options available, selecting the perfect fit for your needs and terrain is crucial. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting eight of the best rear wheel replacements specifically suited for your Craftsman 917370692 and compatible models.
Top Replacement Rear Wheels for Your Lawn Mower
- Antanker Lawn Mower Wheels, 12 inch Rear Wheels Arnold 490-324-0002
- Sutmorly 12×1.75″ Lawn Mower Rear Wheels for Craftsman Arnold 490-324-0002
- (2-pack) 8-Inch Lawn Mower Wheels Fits Most Standard push Lawn Mowers
- AR-PRO 20 x 8.00-8 Tubeless Tire and Wheel Assemblies for Riding Lawn Mower
- Arnold 6-1/2 in. x 2-1/2 in. Replacement Rear Wheel for Riding Mowers
- Arnold 20×10.00-8 Replacement Rear Tire and Wheel Assembly for Riding Mowers
- MaxAuto 2-Pack 20×10.00-8 Lawn Mower Rear Tires and Wheels Assembly
- Rotary 20×10-8 2-Ply Rib Tires and Wheels Set for Riding Lawn Mowers
Antanker Lawn Mower Wheels, 12 inch Rear Wheels Arnold 490-324-0002
For a direct and reliable replacement, the Antanker 12-inch wheels are an excellent choice. They are designed as a direct fit for the Arnold 490-324-0002 part number, which is commonly used on many walk-behind mowers. This makes them a versatile option compatible with brands like Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Honda.
Constructed from high-quality plastic, these wheels are built for wear resistance and consistent performance. The patterned tread on the wheel surface is a key feature, as it increases friction with the ground. This enhanced grip provides greater stability, especially on uneven or slightly slippery surfaces, ensuring a smoother mowing operation.
Sutmorly 12×1.75″ Lawn Mower Rear Wheels for Craftsman Arnold 490-324-0002
The Sutmorly rear wheels offer another robust solution for your 12-inch replacement needs. Like the Antanker set, these are designed to match the OEM 490-324-0002 specification, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of walk-behind mowers from major brands. It is always recommended to verify your original part number before purchasing.
These wheels are noted for their durable construction and broad-shouldered design, which contributes to a puncture-proof and long-lasting product. With a load rating of 50 pounds per tire, they are built to handle the standard demands of residential mowing without issue, providing a solid and dependable performance season after season.
(2-pack) 8-Inch Lawn Mower Wheels Fits Most Standard push Lawn Mowers
If your mower model requires a smaller 8-inch wheel, this two-pack provides a comprehensive solution. The wheels are engineered with a 1/2-inch bore and an axis width of 1-1/4 inches to ensure a precise fit on many standard push mowers. The inclusion of inner and outer bearings is a significant benefit for smooth and quiet operation.
The solid tire and rim design eliminates the worry of flats and air pressure maintenance. A wider wheel width of 1-3/4 inches contributes to excellent traction and stability across various lawn conditions. This design helps prevent sinking in soft soil and provides a steady base for a more even cut.
AR-PRO 20 x 8.00-8 Tubeless Tire and Wheel Assemblies for Riding Lawn Mower Rear Tires
For owners of riding mowers, the AR-PRO assembly is a heavy-duty option designed for the rear axle. This set is a precise replacement for 20×8.00-8 or 20×10.00-8 tires and is compatible with models like John Deere riders. Always confirm the size on your existing tire’s sidewall before ordering.
These assemblies come pre-mounted on solid steel rims, mirroring the quality of original equipment. The tubeless pneumatic tires are paired with a 3/4″ borehole, a 3.5″ offset hub, and a 3/16″ keyway for a correct and secure installation. With a high load capacity of 965 pounds for the set, they are built for durability and performance.
Arnold 6-1/2 in. x 2-1/2 in. Replacement Rear Wheel for Riding Mowers
For those who prefer to stick with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) style parts, the Arnold brand offers this 6.5-inch replacement rear wheel. Arnold is a trusted name in the lawn and garden industry, known for producing reliable replacement components that meet specific design standards.
This wheel is designed for riding mowers and provides a direct fit for models that use this particular size. Using an OEM-style part can offer peace of mind regarding compatibility and performance, as it is engineered to match the specifications of your mower’s original wheels.
Arnold 20×10.00-8 Replacement Rear Tire and Wheel Assembly for Riding Mowers
This Arnold assembly is another OEM-style option for riding mower owners needing a complete tire and wheel unit. The 20×10.00-8 size is common on many riding mower models for the rear axle, providing the necessary traction and ground clearance.
As a pre-assembled unit, it simplifies the replacement process. You receive a ready-to-install product that includes both the tire and the wheel, which can save time and effort compared to mounting a tire onto a separate rim. This is a straightforward solution for restoring your riding mower’s rear end.
MaxAuto 2-Pack 20×10.00-8 Lawn Mower Rear Tires and Wheels Assembly
The MaxAuto 2-pack provides a complete set of rear tire and wheel assemblies for riding mowers. This offering is ideal for replacing both rear wheels at once, ensuring balanced performance and wear. The 20×10.00-8 size is a standard fit for many popular riding mower brands.
Purchasing a paired set guarantees that both wheels are identical in construction and tread pattern, which contributes to stable and predictable handling. This is a practical choice for a comprehensive upgrade or replacement that addresses both sides of your mower simultaneously.
Rotary 20×10-8 2-Ply Rib Tires and Wheels Set for Riding Lawn Mowers
Rotary presents this set of ribbed tires and wheels for riding mowers. The ribbed tread pattern is designed to provide excellent forward traction and minimize turf damage, making it a good option for well-maintained lawns. The 2-ply rating indicates a sturdy construction that can handle typical residential use.
This complete set comes with both tires pre-mounted on their wheels, ready for installation. The 20×10-8 size ensures broad compatibility with various riding mower models. Choosing a set from a recognized brand like Rotary can be a reliable way to get your equipment back in working order.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Lawn Mower Rear Wheels for Model 917370692
When my own mower’s rear wheels started cracking and losing traction, I knew I had to find a good replacement. It’s not as simple as just picking any wheel off the shelf. For a Craftsman model 917370692, you need to get the specs right, or you’ll waste time and money. I’ve learned a few things through trial and error, and I want to share what to look for so you can get your mower rolling smoothly again.
First and foremost, you have to confirm the size. The model 917370692 typically uses a 20×8.00-8 rear tire and wheel assembly. That first number (20) is the tire’s overall diameter in inches, the second (8.00) is the width, and the last (8) is the rim diameter. Getting this wrong means the part simply won’t fit. While you’re at it, check the bore hole. This is the hole in the center of the wheel that slides onto the axle. A common size is 0.75 inches, but it’s always best to measure your old one or check the manufacturer’s specification to be absolutely sure.
Next, think about the wheel’s material. Most replacement wheels are made from durable, UV-resistant plastic. This is a good, cost-effective option that holds up well against the elements and general wear and tear. You might also find some with a metal center hub, which can add strength where the axle bolt applies pressure. The tread pattern is another consideration. A more aggressive, knobby tread is fantastic for hills and soft ground, providing much better grip. A smoother, semi-pneumatic style is great for flat, even lawns and generally offers a slightly smoother ride.
Finally, consider the bearing type. This is a big one for how the wheel feels when you push the mower. Plain bore wheels with no bearings are the most basic and can be fine for lighter use. However, wheels with integrated ball bearings are a huge upgrade. They spin more freely, reduce friction, and make maneuvering the mower significantly easier, especially when making tight turns. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the daily user experience. When searching for the 8 best lawn mower rear wheels for model 917370692, paying attention to these details—size, bore, material, tread, and bearings—will guide you to the perfect set for your needs and get your yard work back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the rear wheels for model 917370692 sold as a pair or individually?
This is one of the first questions I had when I started looking. Most of the time, replacement rear wheels for this model are sold as a complete assembly, which includes the tire, wheel, and sometimes even the inner bushing or bearing. However, they are almost always sold as a single unit, not as a pair. You will need to order two of them to replace both rear wheels. Always double-check the product description before you buy to confirm whether it’s for one wheel or a set of two.
Can I use a different size wheel on my Craftsman mower?
I really don’t recommend it. Sticking with the original equipment size, which is typically 20×8.00-8, is crucial. Using a different diameter wheel will change the mower’s deck pitch, leading to an uneven cut. A wider or narrower wheel might not fit correctly within the mower’s frame or could rub against the deck. Sticking with the specified size ensures proper operation, safety, and the quality of your cut.
My new wheel is hard to push. What’s wrong?
If your mower feels harder to push after installing new wheels, the first thing I check is the axle bolt. It might be overtightened. You want the bolt to be snug but not so tight that it pinches the wheel and prevents it from spinning freely. Give the wheel a spin by hand after installation; it should rotate easily for a moment. If it stops abruptly, loosen the axle bolt a little. Another possibility is that the wheels you purchased lack ball bearings, which provide a much smoother roll.
How do I know if my rear wheels need to be replaced?
The signs are usually pretty clear. Look for obvious cracks or chunks missing from the wheel itself. If the tread is completely worn smooth, you’ll notice a lot of slipping, especially on any slight incline. Sometimes, the wheel can become wobbly on the axle, which points to a worn-out inner bushing or a damaged center hole. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s definitely time for a replacement to make your yard work easier and safer.
Do I need any special tools to replace the rear wheels?
For most replacements on the Craftsman 917370692, you won’t need anything too fancy. A good socket set or wrenches is your main requirement. You’ll likely need a 3/4-inch socket or wrench for the axle nut. Sometimes, you might need a pair of pliers to remove a retaining clip. It’s also a good idea to have a block of wood to safely prop up the mower deck while you work. The process is generally straightforward and doesn’t require advanced mechanical skills.