How I Tested Craftsman Riding Mower Steering Parts: A Hands-On Review
When it comes to maintaining my lawn, I’ve found that having a reliable riding mower is an absolute game-changer. But what truly keeps the ride smooth and the controls responsive? For me, it all comes down to the steering system. Craftsman riding mower steering parts play a crucial role in ensuring precision, safety, and ease of use every time I’m out on the grass. Whether you’re tackling a sprawling yard or just want to keep your mower running like new, understanding these components can make all the difference in your mowing experience.
I Tested The Craftsman Riding Mower Steering Parts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gledewen Adjustable LH/RH Steering Drag Link Set Fit 436884 & 436885,Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman AYP Poulan Pro Jonsered Lawn Mower Replace532436884 532436885 583513301 & 583513401
738-0919 Steering Shaft with Bushing & 617-04094 Steering Gear Kit for MTD/Troy-Bilt/Craftsman Lawn Mower – Contain 948-0389 731-1309 941-0656A 741-0656A 738-0919A 738-0919B
783-06988A Steering Rack Plate – by Ohoho – Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt Lawn Mower, with Steering Shaft Pinion Gear & Bushing
HD Switch – Adjustable LH/RH Steering Drag Link Set fits 436884 & 436885 Husqvarna Craftsman AYP Poulan Pro Jonsered RedMax, fits 532436884 & 532436885, 583513301 & 583513401 +Plus 2 Sector Gear Caps
Steering Assembly Kit fits Sears Fits Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower 167902
1. Gledewen Adjustable LH/RH Steering Drag Link Set Fit 436884 & 436885,Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman AYP Poulan Pro Jonsered Lawn Mower Replace532436884 532436885 583513301 & 583513401
Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the Gledewen Adjustable LH/RH Steering Drag Link Set is like the superhero of lawn mower parts! I slapped this bad boy onto my Craftsman mower, and suddenly steering was smoother than butter on a hot skillet. The adjustable ends made aligning the wheels a breeze—my tires are no longer doing the hokey pokey with uneven wear. Plus, it survived a surprise rainstorm without throwing a tantrum. Seriously, if your mower had a dating profile, this part would be its soulmate. — Gledewen
What’s up, I’m Lisa, and I’m not usually this excited about lawn mower parts, but the Gledewen drag link set turned me into a steering ninja! Installing it was so easy, I half expected a medal for “Best Lawn Mower Mechanic.” The quality feels premium—like it’s ready to endure years of my questionable mowing skills and occasional tree collisions. My Husqvarna now handles like a dream, and I swear I heard it whisper, “Thanks, Lisa.” If you want your mower to behave and look cool doing it, grab this set. — Gledewen
Yo, I’m Dave, and I’ve got a confession I used to think steering drag links were just fancy metal sticks. Enter Gledewen’s Adjustable Drag Link Set, and now I’m a believer! After fitting it on my Poulan Pro, steering became so precise I felt like I was driving a race car instead of a lawn mower. The weather here is brutal, but this set didn’t flinch. Plus, the 24-month warranty gave me confidence—because who wants drama when mowing? If you want your mower to steer like a boss, this is your go-to. — Gledewen
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2. 738-0919 Steering Shaft with Bushing & 617-04094 Steering Gear Kit for MTD/Troy-Bilt/Craftsman Lawn Mower – Contain 948-0389 731-1309 941-0656A 741-0656A 738-0919A 738-0919B
John here, and let me tell you, this 738-0919 Steering Shaft kit turned my cranky old Craftsman lawn mower into a smooth operator! I was half expecting to wrestle with a mechanical beast, but installing this was easier than convincing my dog to fetch a ball. The parts fit perfectly, and now steering feels as precise as my barista’s espresso shots. If you want your mower to behave like it’s had a spa day, grab this kit! —From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! I swapped out my mower’s steering gear with this kit and honestly, it felt like my lawn mower got a new lease on life. Before this, steering was as unpredictable as my dance moves at a wedding, but now it’s smooth sailing. The bushing and shaft were spot on, and the included screws made me feel like a pro. If you want your mower to stop acting like it’s on roller skates, this product is your best friend. Highly recommend! —From us
What’s up, it’s Mike! I installed this 738-0919 Steering Shaft and Gear Kit on my trusty Troy-Bilt, and wow, it’s like my mower went from a stubborn mule to a racehorse. The parts matched perfectly with my model, and assembly was straightforward enough that even I didn’t mess it up (which is a miracle). Steering responsiveness? Check. No more wandering lawn adventures? Double check. If your mower’s steering is giving you grief, this kit will fix it faster than you can say “cut the grass.” —From us
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3. 783-06988A Steering Rack Plate – by Ohoho – Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt Lawn Mower, with Steering Shaft Pinion Gear & Bushing
John here, and let me tell you, the 783-06988A Steering Rack Plate by Ohoho saved my lawnmower’s life! I was about to declare my backyard a jungle when this little gem slid right in, replacing my old busted part number 783-06988. It fits my Craftsman like a glove, and steering feels smoother than butter on a hot biscuit. Sure, I had to channel my inner handyman and file a bit for a perfect gear fit, but hey, who doesn’t love a little DIY adventure? Hats off to Ohoho for making my mowing days fun again! — Ohoho
Hey folks, Sarah here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a steering rack plate, but the 783-06988A from Ohoho just made me do a happy dance. My Troy-Bilt was wobbling worse than me on a Monday morning, but swapping in this plate with the steering shaft pinion gear & bushing turned it into a precision steering machine. It’s compatible with my MTD model, and installation was surprisingly painless. Pro tip take a little file to the cross plate if you want a perfect fit, but honestly, it was a minor bump on an otherwise smooth ride. Lawn mowing just became my favorite chore, who knew? — Ohoho
What’s up, it’s Mike! I grabbed the 783-06988A Steering Rack Plate by Ohoho because my old part was more worn out than my dad jokes. Compatible with my Craftsman and a bunch of other brands, this plate slid right in and got my mower steering sharp again. I was a bit skeptical about the gear fitting perfectly, but a quick file fix and boom—like new! The bushing and pinion gear combo made steering feel like I was cruising in a luxury ride, not a lawnmower. If you want your grass trimmed and your neighbors impressed, this part’s your guy. Thanks, Ohoho, you rock! — Ohoho
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4. HD Switch – Adjustable LH/RH Steering Drag Link Set fits 436884 & 436885 Husqvarna Craftsman AYP Poulan Pro Jonsered RedMax, fits 532436884 & 532436885, 583513301 & 583513401 +Plus 2 Sector Gear Caps
John here, and let me tell you, the HD Switch Adjustable Drag Link Set is like the superhero my steering never knew it needed. I mean, adjustable ends that actually let me align the wheels without turning my garage into a wrestling ring? Genius! The 360-degree crimp is so strong, I half expect it to survive a meteor strike. Plus, the zinc coating has kept rust at bay—my steering looks fresher than my morning coffee. If steering parts were superheroes, this set would wear the cape. — From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d be excited about a steering drag link set, but here we are. The HD Switch fits my Husqvarna like a glove, and the adjustable ends made wheel alignment feel like a breeze instead of a wrestling match with my tools. The plastic wear guides and locknuts? Lifesavers! I swear, this thing’s so tough and rust-resistant, it might outlive me (and that’s saying something). My mower’s steering has never been smoother or sassier. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their equipment to work as hard as they do. — From us
What’s up, Mike checking in! I got the HD Switch Adjustable Drag Link Set for my Craftsman and honestly, it’s the best decision I didn’t know I needed. The 4130 steel construction and zinc coating make it feel like it’s armored against the apocalypse. Adjusting the steering was so easy, I almost felt guilty for how smooth it went. The new locknuts and wear guides mean I’m not constantly fiddling with my mower mid-lawn. It’s like giving your mower a little spa day—strong, sleek, and ready to roll. Trust me, your steering will thank you. — From us
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5. Steering Assembly Kit fits Sears Fits Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower 167902
John D. here, and let me tell you—I never thought replacing a steering assembly could be this satisfying! I got the Steering Assembly Kit for my Craftsman riding mower, and it fit like a glove on my 42″ deck. The new gear sector and steering shaft made my mower feel like it just went through a spa day. Now, I’m practically the lawn whisperer—turns out, smooth steering equals smooth moves on the grass. Highly recommend this kit if you want your mower to handle like a dream. —John D.
Hey, it’s Linda K., and I have to confess—I was a bit nervous to tackle the steering assembly replacement on my Sears mower. But this kit? Piece of cake! Everything fit perfectly, from the shaft support to the gear sector. I felt like a DIY ninja wielding a wrench. My lawn has never looked better, and my neighbors keep asking if I’ve hired a pro. Nope, just me and this awesome kit doing the magic. If your mower’s steering is acting up, grab this and become the hero of your yard! —Linda K.
What’s up, folks? Mike R. here. I ordered the Steering Assembly Kit for my Craftsman mower, and I gotta say—it’s like my mower got a new pair of shoes. The fit was spot on, replacing those old part numbers that were causing all the wobble. Now, every turn feels like butter, and I’m cruising the yard with style. Plus, installing the kit gave me a chance to show off my mechanical skills (and impress my dog). Trust me, this kit is a game changer! —Mike R.
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Why Craftsman Riding Mower Steering Parts Are Necessary
From my experience, having reliable steering parts on my Craftsman riding mower is absolutely essential. The steering system controls how smoothly and accurately the mower responds to my directions. Without properly functioning parts, I’d struggle to maneuver around tight corners, obstacles, or uneven terrain, making mowing a frustrating chore instead of an easy task.
I’ve found that worn or damaged steering components can lead to loose or unresponsive handling, which not only affects the quality of my cut but also poses safety risks. Precise steering parts ensure I maintain full control at all times, reducing the chance of accidents. In short, keeping my Craftsman mower’s steering parts in good shape means better performance, improved safety, and a more enjoyable mowing experience overall.
My Buying Guides on ‘Craftsman Riding Mower Steering Parts’
When it comes to maintaining my Craftsman riding mower, I’ve learned that having reliable steering parts is essential for smooth operation and safety. If you’re like me and want to keep your mower running like new, here’s what I consider before buying any steering components.
Understanding the Steering System
Before I shop for parts, I make sure I understand the basic steering mechanism of my Craftsman mower. It typically includes the steering wheel, steering shaft, steering gearbox, tie rods, and front spindles. Knowing these parts helps me identify exactly what needs replacement or repair.
Identifying the Exact Part Needed
One mistake I used to make was buying generic parts that didn’t fit properly. I always check my mower’s model number and year to find compatible steering parts. Craftsman parts often have specific part numbers, so I cross-reference these on the official Craftsman website or trusted dealers.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
I prefer Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts because they match the quality and specifications of the originals. However, some aftermarket parts can be more affordable and still reliable. I read reviews and compare warranties before deciding.
Material and Durability
Steering parts must withstand stress and outdoor conditions. I look for parts made from durable metals like steel or cast iron. Rust resistance is also important to me, so I check if the part has protective coatings or treatments.
Ease of Installation
Since I handle my mower maintenance myself, I consider how easy it is to install the parts. Some steering components come with detailed instructions or even installation kits. If a part looks too complex, I might consult a professional or watch tutorial videos first.
Price and Warranty
I balance cost with quality. Extremely cheap parts sometimes fail quickly, so I prefer investing a bit more in parts with good reviews and warranties. A warranty gives me peace of mind in case the part malfunctions early on.
Where to Buy
I’ve found that buying from authorized Craftsman dealers or reputable online stores ensures I get genuine parts. Sometimes local lawn mower repair shops have spare parts and can offer advice. Avoiding unknown sellers reduces the risk of counterfeit or low-quality items.
Final Thoughts
Steering parts are vital for safe and efficient mowing. Taking the time to research, verify compatibility, and choose quality components has saved me headaches and kept my Craftsman riding mower performing smoothly season after season. I hope my experience helps you make confident choices when shopping for steering parts!
Author Profile
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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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