Worn or damaged front wheels can quickly compromise the performance of your Craftsman lawn mower, making it difficult to steer, reducing traction, and straining the engine and drive system, especially on self-propelled models. Cracked treads, seized bearings, or stripped gear teeth all compromise reliable operation.
Replacing these wheels with the correct, durable fit is essential for restoring smooth performance and maneuverability.
The right replacement should ensure a precise fit and feature the correct gear tooth count (often 53 teeth for self-propelled models) and high-quality bearings for long-term durability.
We analyzed performance, compatibility, and user feedback to identify the top replacement options for both walk-behind and riding mowers. Explore our top picks for the best Craftsman mower accessories available in 2025 below.
1. CRAFTSMAN 8-Inch FWD Wheel – Best Overall
Engineered for reliability, the CRAFTSMAN CMXGZAM325070 stands out as the premier single-wheel replacement for your front-wheel-drive walk-behind mower, snow blower, or edger.
Its most notable feature is the aggressive tread pattern, designed specifically to bite into turf and deliver exceptional traction, which is crucial where worn-out wheels now slip on challenging terrain like hills and wet grass.
This 8-inch bolt-on wheel restores the self-propel function to its original factory feel, significantly reviving the pulling power of the machine.
It is built with a durable 1.25-inch oil-impregnated copper steel bushing, which is superior to standard plastic or basic metal inserts because it significantly reduces friction, resulting in noticeably smoother and quieter operation as you navigate your lawn.
When positioned against multi-pack options, this Craftsman wheel is the clear quality-over-quantity choice. It guarantees OEM-level performance and durability, making it the ideal solution for users prioritizing longevity and robust build over the lowest initial cost.
Key Features
- Wheel Size: 8-Inch diameter
- Tread Pattern: Aggressive tread
- Bushing Type: Durable oil-impregnated copper steel
- Compatibility: CRAFTSMAN Walk-Behind Mowers, Snow Blowers, and Edgers
- Installation: Bolt-On design
Pros
- Provides aggressive traction and grip
- Features a durable copper bushing for longevity
- Offers OEM quality and performance guarantee
- Ensures smooth and quiet operation
Cons
- Higher cost-per-wheel than multi-packs
- Sold individually (single replacement)
2. 2 Pack 583719501 Wheels – Best Budget Friendly
Delivering an unbeatable combination of value and performance, this two-pack of 583719501 front drive wheels is the go-to solution for a complete front-end refresh.
This economical kit is designed with 53 gear teeth, effectively restoring traction and the essential self-propel capability to a wide array of mowers, including Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, Poulan Pro, Roper, and Weedeater models.
The wheels directly address the common failure point of stripped or worn-out plastic gears, providing an immediate and economical path to a fully functional mower without needing to exceed your budget.
Constructed from high-density plastic and premium rubber, these 8-inch wheels match the specifications of the original parts, featuring a 1/2-inch bore and a 1-5/8-inch hub for straightforward installation.
Their performance is solid for typical residential lawns, handling flat and moderately sloped areas with ease.
This set provides excellent utility for the price, making it the perfect choice for budget-conscious homeowners who need a functional and immediate fix for routine maintenance and repair.
Key Features
- Package Content: 2x lawn mower wheels
- Gear Teeth: 53 teeth for self-propel function
- Dimensions: 8″ diameter; 1-3/4″ width; 1/2″ bore
- Material: High-density plastic and premium rubber
- Compatibility: Broad—Husqvarna, Poulan, Sears/Craftsman, Weedeater
Pros
- Offers excellent value and cost-effectiveness
- Sold as a convenient pair
- Features broad brand compatibility
- Immediately restores traction and self-propel functionality
Cons
- Uses standard plastic construction
- Features only basic bushings
3. Fourtry 532403111 Front Wheels – Best Compatibility
The Fourtry 532403111 Front Drive Wheels are masterfully designed for extensive compatibility, serving as a versatile fix for a huge range of Craftsman 22-inch cut front wheel drive self-propelled mowers.
This two-pack is crucial for owners of specific models, featuring the vital 53 gear teeth needed to successfully re-engage a faulty self-propel system.
The clean, white design provides a factory-fresh appearance while ensuring the essential traction needed to get your mower pulling its own weight again.
Installation is described as refreshingly simple, requiring just a wrench to swap out the old, worn tires for these new ones. Each wheel is 8 inches tall by 1-3/4 inches wide.
Engineered to be a direct replacement for multiple part numbers, this set eliminates the guesswork often associated with repairs and ensures a proper fit.
For homeowners whose self-propelled function has completely failed, these wheels are recognized as one of the quickest and most effective ways to restore that essential feature.
This set prioritizes broad, confirmed compatibility for peace of mind, making it the ideal choice for users who cross-reference model numbers and require a guaranteed direct-fit replacement.
Key Features
- Package Includes: 2 white lawn mower wheels
- Gear Teeth: Crucial 53 gear teeth
- Dimensions: 8″ Tall x 1-3/4″ Wide
- Installation: Easy, requires only a wrench
- Compatibility: Craftsman 22″ cut front wheel drive self-propelled mowers
Pros
- Offers extensive model compatibility
- Installation process is quick and easy
- Effectively restores self-propel function
- Conveniently sold as a pair
Cons
- White color stains easily during use
- Based on basic plastic construction
4. 2 Pack 634-05040 Wheel Assembly – Best for MTD-Based Models
This 2 Pack of 634-05040 wheels is the specialist’s choice, precision-engineered for a specific family of mowers manufactured by MTD, earning its designation as “Best for MTD-Based Models”.
This comprehensive compatibility includes popular Craftsman series like the M210, M215, and M230, as well as select models from Cub Cadet, Brute, MTD Gold, Columbia, and Yard Man.
The assembly provides a flawless, factory-spec fit that generic replacements might not offer, specifically designed for 21-inch self-propelled push mowers.
In practice, the 8-inch diameter wheels perform exactly as expected, providing smooth rolling and reliably restoring the intended maneuverability of your self-propelled walk-behind mower.
The installation process is straightforward, involving prying off the hubcap and using a socket to replace the old assembly.
For owners of the specified compatible models, this set eliminates the anxiety of wondering if a Craftsman lawn mower front wheel replacement will fit correctly. Its key strength is its specificity, offering a guaranteed fit for MTD-built machines over a more universal application.
Key Features
- Diameter: 8″
- Package Includes: Wheel Assembly x 2
- Application: Designed for 21″ self propelled push mowers
- Replacement Part Number: MTD / Cub Cadet 634-05040
- Compatibility: Craftsman (MTD-built models), Cub Cadet, Brute, MTD Gold, Columbia, Yard Man
Pros
- Guarantees a perfect, factory MTD fit
- Offers simple, straightforward installation
- Conveniently sold as a pair
- Provides an OEM-style replacement
Cons
- Features very limited compatibility outside the MTD family
- Gear teeth count is not specified in the description
5. Budrash 180775 Front Wheels – Best Durable Design
Built specifically with longevity in mind, the Budrash 180775 Front Wheels are a robust replacement designed to endure demanding use season after season.
This two-pack is highly compatible with mowers from Craftsman, Snapper, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and AYP.
The wheels are 8 x 2 inches in size, featuring black rubber tread with 53 integrated gear teeth, which is a critical combination for successfully restoring power to the front wheels of self-propelled mowers.
The deep treads provide a substantial footprint and reliable grip on uneven ground and grass. The emphasis of this product is on a durable design that actively resists the common stripping and wear that plagues lesser-quality plastic wheels.
With a 1/2-inch bore and engineered as a direct bolt-on solution, the repair process is intended to be quick and painless for the user.
When compared to similar alternatives, the Budrash set stands out due to its claim of a more durable, long-lasting design. It is an excellent choice for those who mow frequently or on more demanding terrain and require a more permanent, resilient solution.
Key Features
- Wheel Size: 8 x 2″
- Gear Teeth: 53 teeth
- Bore Size: 1/2″
- Replacement Part Number: 180775, 180773, 180767, 180766, 189171
- Compatibility: Craftsman, Snapper, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, AYP
Pros
- Features a durable rubber tread design
- Offers broad brand compatibility
- Includes the necessary 53-tooth gear
- Is designed for easy installation
Cons
- Has a white plastic body
- Uses a basic bushing system
6. MARASTAR 15×6.00-6 Tire Assembly – Best for Riding Mowers
Uniquely tailored for riding mowers, the MARASTAR 21446 is the definitive, hassle-free solution for replacing a front tire on many Craftsman and Husqvarna tractors.
This is a complete pneumatic tire and wheel assembly, meaning it arrives ready to install right out of the box, eliminating the difficult task of mounting a new tire onto an old rim.
Its standout feature is the Turf Saver tread, which is specifically engineered to provide excellent traction for steering and control without the risk of tearing up your lawn during tight turns.
This 15×6.00-6 assembly is built for durability, featuring a robust 4-ply rating and contractor-grade oil-infused bushings housed within its 3-inch centered hub.
A professional and key maintenance feature is the integrated grease fitting, which allows for periodic servicing to ensure smooth steering and significantly extended bearing life.
Sold individually, the MARASTAR 21446 is the ideal choice for riding mower owners who need a reliable, high-quality, single-wheel replacement that matches the performance of the original equipment.
Key Features
- Tire Size: 15×6.00-6
- Tread Type: Turf Saver design
- Ply Rating: 4 Ply construction
- Hub Size: 3″ Centered, includes grease fitting
- Compatibility: Craftsman and Husqvarna Riding Mowers
Pros
- Specifically designed for riding mowers
- Features a turf-friendly tread
- Comes as a pre-mounted assembly
- Includes an integrated grease fitting for maintenance
Cons
- Not suitable for walk-behind mowers
- Sold individually (not a pair)
- Requires periodic air pressure checks
7. WEIZE 15×6.00-6 Tire Assembly – Best Premium Riding Mower Option
The WEIZE 15×6.00-6 two-pack delivers exceptional durability and capacity, making it the ultimate front-end upgrade for Craftsman riding mowers.
These pneumatic tire and wheel assemblies are engineered specifically for heavy-duty use, boasting a robust 4-ply rating and an impressive 400-pound load capacity per tire.
This heavy-duty construction makes them a superb choice for mowers equipped with substantial front-mounted attachments, such as snow blowers or baggers, ensuring they can handle the extra weight without any performance issue.
Each assembly features a 15×6.00-6 tire with reliable Turf Saver tread, mounted on a gray rim and complete with a 3-inch centered hub.
The assemblies utilize durable 3/4-inch oil-infused bushings, and the inclusion of a grease fitting further underscores their premium, serviceable design.
Sold as a kit, this provides a complete, high-performance replacement for both front wheels, ensuring balanced aesthetics and stability while significantly boosting the mower’s overall resilience.
This set is the superior option for users demanding maximum durability and performance via a complete front-axle overhaul.
Key Features
- Tire Size: 15×6.00-6
- Capacity: Impressive 400lbs per tire
- Hub Type: 3″ Centered Hub with 3/4″ Bushing
- Ply Rating: Heavy-duty 4-ply tire
- Tread Type: Turf Saver tread
Pros
- Provides high load capacity (400 lbs)
- Features heavy-duty 4-ply construction
- Sold conveniently as a pair
- Includes a serviceable grease fitting
Cons
- Represents a higher initial investment
- Not intended for walk-behind mowers
- May be considered overkill for light residential use
8. DEEG Wheel Bearing Conversion Kit – Best Upgrade Accessory
Transforming your mower’s performance from the inside out, the DEEG Bearing Conversion Kit is recognized as a game-changing upgrade rather than a simple wheel replacement.
This kit is ingeniously designed to replace the standard, high-friction bushings found in your riding mower’s front wheels with smooth, sealed flange bearings.
This single crucial change dramatically reduces rolling resistance, subsequently making steering significantly lighter and extending the life of your wheel and axle components by minimizing premature wear.
The kit is broadly compatible with riding mowers from Craftsman, Husqvarna, Murray, Sears, AYP, Poulan, and Toro 9040H. The purchase includes everything necessary for the conversion: two flange bearings, two dust caps, six washers, and two ring clips for a complete overhaul of both front wheels.
Users will notice an immediate improvement in maneuverability, especially when making tight turns or navigating complex landscapes.
This accessory is in a class of its own; it is the best choice for users who are satisfied with their current tires but want to unlock a higher level of performance, solving issues like wheel wobble.
Key Features
- Includes: 2 flange bearings, 2 dust caps, 6 washers, 2 Ring Clips
- Upgraded Features: Enlarged inner hole and thickened material
- Function: Converts sliding bushings to rolling flange bearings
- Compatibility: Craftsman, Husqvarna, Murray, Sears, AYP, Poulan Riding Mowers
- Rim/Axle Size: 34.925mm rim size, 19.05mm axle size
Pros
- Significantly upgrades mower performance
- Dramatically reduces friction during rolling
- Instantly improves steering effort
- Extends the overall component life
Cons
- Requires wheel disassembly for installation
- Is an accessory, not a full wheel replacement
- Fitment can be precise and model-dependent
Detailed Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Craftsman Front Wheel
Replacing worn or damaged front wheels on your Craftsman lawn mower is crucial for smooth operation, particularly if you own a self-propelled model. Selecting the correct replacement ensures proper traction, long-term durability, and ease of movement.
Here is what you must consider when choosing the best Craftsman lawn mower front wheel replacement:
1. Match Your Mower Model and Part Number
Compatibility is the absolute top priority. Always confirm your mower’s model number and the original wheel’s specific part number (examples include 583719501, 532403111, or 634-05040) before making a purchase.
Using the wrong wheel can lead to fitment issues or negatively affect the mower’s performance. Some replacements fit a broad range of models, while others, like the 2 Pack 634-05040, are designed for specific MTD-based mowers (e.g., M210, M230).
2. Check for Gear Teeth (For Self-Propelled Mowers)
If your Craftsman mower is self-propelled, the front wheels must include gear teeth—typically 53 teeth—to ensure the proper engagement of the drive system. Wheels that lack these gears will fail to restore the propulsion function.
Models such as the Fourtry 532403111 and Budrash 180775 are examples of replacements that include gear teeth to ensure your mower powers forward correctly.
3. Wheel Size and Tread Design
Most walk-behind mower replacements are 8-inch tires, but width (e.g., 1-3/4″) and bore size (e.g., 1/2″) can vary. It is vital to ensure the diameter, width, and bore size match your existing axle.
- Walk-Behind Mowers: Typically require 8-inch wheels. Look for aggressive treads (like the CRAFTSMAN 8-Inch FWD Wheel) to improve grip on hills and grass.
- Riding Mowers: Often require 15×6.00-6 sized pneumatic (air-filled) tires, such as the WEIZE or MARASTAR assemblies. Pneumatic tires offer a smoother ride and help reduce turf damage.
4. Durability and Bearings
Look for features that enhance longevity and smooth operation. Oil-impregnated bushings or flange bearings (like those offered in the DEEG Bearing Conversion Kit) provide a longer life and smoother rolling, helping to prevent breakage.
Data supports that replacements utilizing flange bearings consistently receive higher ratings for longevity compared to those with simple bushings. Furthermore, durable rubber treads and UV-resistant materials also help extend the overall wheel life.
5. Ease of Installation
Most 8-inch walk-behind wheels are designed to bolt on easily with basic tools. Look for kits that provide clear instructions and standard hardware, such as the 2 Pack 634-05040.
For riding mower assemblies, choosing options with grease fittings (like the MARASTAR or WEIZE models) allows for ongoing maintenance, ensuring smoother long-term performance.