When your Craftsman lawn mower starts leaving uneven tracks or becomes difficult to push, the culprit is often a worn-out rear wheel. Cracked plastic, bald treads, and wobbly bearings can turn a simple mowing job into a frustrating chore. Finding the right replacement is crucial for restoring smooth operation and protecting your lawn from damage caused by poor traction.
This roundup simplifies your search by presenting a curated selection of the best replacement rear wheels for various Craftsman mower models. From genuine OEM parts to versatile universal options, you can find the perfect fit to get your mower rolling smoothly again and ensure a perfectly manicured lawn with every use.
Top Replacement Rear Wheels for Your Craftsman Mower
- Craftsman 532433121 Rear Wheel
- Antanker Lawn Mower Wheels, 12 inch Rear Wheels
- 12 Inch Lawn Mower Wheels, 2 Pcs Universal Rear Wheels Kit
- Craftsman SBD 11-Inch Rear Drive Wheel
- Craftsman 584465301 Rear Wheel 8″ x 1 3/4″
- 72-108 Wheels Replaces for Oregon, 8 Inch Universal Wheels
- (2-Pack) 20×8.00-8 Rear Tire and Wheel Assemblies
- 20×8.00-8 Gray Lawn Mower Wheel – Set of 2
- Mighty Max Replacement Wheel for Craftsman Lawn Mower 20×8-8
Craftsman 532433121 Rear Wheel
For those seeking a guaranteed fit and performance, this Genuine OEM part is the ideal solution. Manufactured by American Yard Products, the same company that produces parts for leading brands like Craftsman and Husqvarna, this wheel is designed to meet original specifications. It ensures seamless compatibility and reliable operation, giving you peace of mind.
This wheel replaces several old part numbers, including 583744201 and 194387X460, and fits a wide range of Craftsman models such as the 917376091 and 917370441 series. By choosing this OEM part, you are restoring your mower with a component that matches the original quality and durability, ensuring a long service life and consistent performance.
Antanker Lawn Mower Wheels, 12 inch Rear Wheels
This two-pack from Antanker offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for many popular mower brands. These 12-inch wheels are compatible with Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Honda mowers, among others. The high-quality plastic construction is engineered for wear resistance and reliable performance over time.
The wheels feature a patterned design on the surface that increases friction, providing enhanced stability on uneven or slippery terrain. This helps prevent slipping and ensures a more controlled mowing experience. Sold as a pair, this set is perfect for replacing both rear wheels at once, balancing your mower for optimal function.
12 Inch Lawn Mower Wheels, 2 Pcs Universal Rear Wheels Kit
This comprehensive kit includes two 12-inch wheels made from an upgraded PU plastic material. This material offers superior wear resistance, a stronger grip, and overall better performance compared to standard plastic. The high resilience of the wheels also provides a shock-absorbing effect, improving impact resistance and extending the tire’s life.
The wheels are solid and puncture-resistant, eliminating concerns about flats, inflation, or air pressure maintenance. The mixed pattern tread enhances friction and skid resistance for safer operation. This universal set is suitable for most standard push mowers, Craftsman mowers, generators, and garden tillers, and comes with the necessary bolts and nuts for a straightforward installation.
Craftsman SBD 11-Inch Rear Drive Wheel
This is an Original Equipment part designed specifically for rear wheel assemblies starting with OE# 634-07184. Factory tested and approved, it guarantees the perfect fit, strength, and performance required for your Craftsman walk-behind mower. The aggressive tread pattern is engineered for increased traction, which helps reduce lawn turfing.
Constructed from high-impact polypropylene, this wheel is built for durability. Replacing a worn tire with this OEM part not only improves traction but also contributes to a smoother mowing process and a healthier lawn. It is a reliable choice for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your mower.
Craftsman 584465301 Rear Wheel 8″ x 1 3/4″
This is another genuine OEM part from American Yard Products, ensuring a direct replacement for your Craftsman mower. It measures 8″ x 1.75″ and is sold as a single wheel, which is ideal if you only need to replace one damaged wheel. It is designed to replace the old part number 400246X427.
As an authentic AYP part, it guarantees compatibility and reliability. Using this wheel helps maintain the original performance and quality of your lawn mower, providing a straightforward solution for getting your equipment back in working order with a part you can trust.
72-108 Wheels Replaces for Oregon, 8 Inch Universal Wheels
This two-pack of 8-inch wheels offers broad compatibility, serving as a direct replacement for Oregon 72-108 wheels and parts for Craftsman, AYP, and MTD mowers. Beyond lawn mowers, these versatile wheels also fit Radio Flyer wagons, hand trucks, and various BBQ grills, making them a handy spare to have.
The package includes two wheels with a diameter of 8 inches and a width of 1-3/4 inches. The bore is 1/2 inch with a hub offset of 1-1/2 inches. Their universal design makes them a practical and economical choice for a variety of replacement needs around the home and garden.
(2-Pack) 20×8.00-8 Rear Tire and Wheel Assemblies
This set is designed for riding lawn mowers requiring 20×8.00-8 rear wheels. It is an exact replacement for models that use this size, including some John Deere riders. The wheels feature a 3/4″ borehole, a 3.5″ offset hub, and a 3/16″ keyway for a precise and secure fit.
The tires are 4-ply rated tubeless tires with a tread that combines high-grade turf patterns and turf lugs. This design provides maximum traction and stability on various surfaces, from sensitive turf to loose soil and sandy ground, ensuring your riding mower performs reliably in different conditions.
20×8.00-8 Gray Lawn Mower Wheel – Set of 2
This pair of 20×8.00-8 wheels with gray rims is compatible with many MTD models and other riding mowers with 20-inch wheels. They feature a turf-friendly tread pattern that is gentle on your lawn while providing adequate grip. The set includes two complete wheel assemblies.
The wheels are built with a 3/4 inch axle hole and a D-Drive mechanism. With a 2.90-inch offset hub, they are engineered to fit specific riding mower configurations correctly. This set offers a straightforward replacement solution to get your riding mower back in service.
Mighty Max Replacement Wheel for Craftsman Lawn Mower 20×8-8
Mighty Max offers a replacement wheel designed for Craftsman lawn mowers that require a 20×8-8 size. This product is aimed at providing a durable and compatible solution for riding mower owners. The brand is known for supplying batteries and power sports products, extending its reliability to lawn and garden parts.
This wheel is intended to match the specifications of the original equipment, ensuring a proper fit and function on compatible Craftsman riding mowers. It represents a solid aftermarket option for those seeking a dependable replacement without the OEM price tag, helping to restore mobility and performance to your machine.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in Replacement Rear Wheels for Craftsman Lawn Mowers
When my Craftsman mower’s rear wheels started to wobble and crack, I realized I needed to find a good replacement set. It is not as simple as just picking any wheel, though. The wrong choice can make mowing a real chore. After going through this process myself, I have a good idea of what to look for when shopping for the best replacement rear wheels for Craftsman lawn mowers.
First, you need to get the size right. This is the most important step. The wheel size is almost always printed on the sidewall of the old tire, something like “20×8.00-8”. The first number is the tire’s overall diameter, the second is the width, and the last number is the rim diameter. If the sidewall is worn away, you can measure it with a tape measure. Getting the correct rim diameter and hub length is critical for a proper fit on the mower’s axle.
Next, think about the wheel material and tread. You will mostly find plastic and polyurethane wheels. Plastic wheels are common and affordable, but they can crack under stress, especially on rougher terrain. I prefer polyurethane or rubber-filled wheels because they are much more durable and provide a smoother ride over bumps. The tread pattern matters, too. A aggressive, deep tread is great for hills and soft ground, giving you better traction. A smoother tread works well for flat, even lawns and is often easier on the grass.
Then there is the bearing type. This is what lets the wheel spin freely. Plain bushings are basic and can wear out faster. Ball bearings are a significant upgrade. They handle weight better, roll more smoothly, and last much longer, which is a big help when you are maneuvering a heavy mower. For me, the extra cost for ball bearings is always worth it.
Finally, consider the hub design. You need to know the bore hole size (the hole in the middle) and how it attaches to the axle. Most Craftsman mowers use a pin or a bolt to secure the wheel. Make sure the replacement wheel has the correct hole for your mower’s specific locking mechanism. I always double-check the product description and reviews to confirm the fit for my specific Craftsman model before I buy. Taking these factors into account will help you find a set of wheels that makes mowing easy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size wheels my Craftsman mower needs?
The easiest way is to look at the sidewall of your current wheel. You should see a series of numbers like “20×8.00-8”. The last number (“8” in this example) is the rim diameter, which is the most critical for fit. If the writing is worn off, you can measure the rim diameter across the center of the wheel. Also, check how the wheel is held on the axle; it is usually with a push-pin or a bolt. Knowing this helps you pick a compatible replacement.
Can I put larger wheels on my Craftsman lawn mower?
You can sometimes go up one size, but you have to be careful. Larger wheels can give you better ground clearance and make it easier to roll over obstacles. However, if they are too big, they might rub against the mower deck or body, which can cause damage. They can also change the mower’s cutting height and balance. I would recommend sticking with the original size unless you are certain a specific larger size is compatible with your model.
What is the difference between bushing and ball bearing wheels?
This comes down to durability and smoothness. Bushing wheels, often made of nylon or bronze, are a simpler, cheaper option. They work fine for light use but can wear out and become wobbly over time. Ball bearing wheels have small metal balls inside the hub that reduce friction. They support heavier loads better, roll much more smoothly, and generally last longer. For a heavy mower or a hilly yard, ball bearings are a much better investment.
Why are my new replacement wheels so hard to push?
If your new wheels are stiff, the first thing I would check is the axle nut or bolt. It might be over-tightened. There should be a little bit of side-to-side play in the wheel; it should not be clamped down rock-solid. Loosen the nut just a tiny bit until the wheel spins freely without wobbling. If that does not fix it, the wheels might have a lower-quality bushing system that needs to “break in,” though this is less common with ball bearing models.
Are universal replacement wheels a good option for my Craftsman?
Universal wheels can be a good, cost-effective solution, but you have to pay close attention to the specifications. They are designed to fit a range of models, so you must confirm that the rim diameter, hub width, and mounting style match your mower’s requirements. I always look at the detailed fitment chart and read user reviews from other Craftsman owners to see if there were any installation issues before buying a universal set.
How long should a set of replacement rear wheels last?
The lifespan really depends on the quality of the wheel and how you use your mower. A cheap plastic wheel with a basic bushing might only last a season or two if you have a rough, hilly yard. A good quality polyurethane wheel with ball bearings can last for many years, even with regular use. Proper maintenance, like cleaning grass clippings from the axles and not over-tightening the bolts, also helps extend the life of your best replacement rear wheels for Craftsman lawn mowers.