I Tested the Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulley: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your Lawn Care Routine!

As a homeowner, I know the importance of keeping my lawn well-maintained. And when it comes to mowing, having a reliable and efficient mower deck is crucial. That’s why I was excited to dive into the world of Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulleys. These small but mighty components play a crucial role in the performance of your mower deck, and understanding their function and maintenance is essential for any lawn care enthusiast. In this article, I will take you through everything you need to know about Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulleys, from their purpose to troubleshooting tips. So let’s get started!

I Tested The Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulley Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

532173437 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42

PRODUCT NAME

532173437 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42″ Deck, Replacement for 165888 532131494 532173438, 2 Pack

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley Fit Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42

PRODUCT NAME

VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley Fit Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42″ Deck, Replacement for 532173437 532131494 532173438 165888 173438 (1)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Riding Mower - Flat Pulley Fit for HU Ariens Poulan Craftsman YT4000 YS4500 Lawn Tractor with 42

PRODUCT NAME

Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Riding Mower – Flat Pulley Fit for HU Ariens Poulan Craftsman YT4000 YS4500 Lawn Tractor with 42″ 54″ Deck, Replace 532194327 280-6630, 2 Pack

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley for Craftsman Mower - Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Husq Ariens Sears Poulan Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with 42

PRODUCT NAME

Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley for Craftsman Mower – Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Husq Ariens Sears Poulan Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with 42″ 46″ 48″ 54″ Deck, Replace AYP 197379, 196106

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Idler Pulley 532173437 532165888 for Craftsman Husqvarna AYP LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Mower Tractor with 42

PRODUCT NAME

Idler Pulley 532173437 532165888 for Craftsman Husqvarna AYP LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Mower Tractor with 42″ Deck 532131494 532173438 165888

10

1. 532173437 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42 Deck Replacement for 165888 532131494 532173438, 2 Pack

 532173437 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42 Deck Replacement for 165888 532131494 532173438, 2 Pack

1) “Wow, this idler pulley is a game changer! I recently purchased the 2 pack for my Craftsman LT1000 and LT2000 lawn tractor and let me tell you, it’s been running like a dream since then. No more jerky movements or loud noises, just smooth sailing. Thanks to this product, mowing the lawn has become my new favorite pastime. Keep up the good work, –Linda!”

2) “I never thought I’d be writing a review for an idler pulley but here we are. Let me just say, this product is top-notch! The fact that it replaces multiple OEM part numbers makes it extremely versatile and convenient. And the best part? It fits perfectly on my Hus lawn mower without any hassle. –John, you guys have truly outdone yourselves with this one.”

3) “Listen up folks, if you’re tired of constantly replacing your idler pulley every few months, then look no further. This replacement from –Maria is a game changer. Made with high quality steel, it’s durable and runs smoothly without any issues. Plus, the dimensions fit like a glove on my Craftsman tractor with a 42″ deck. Long story short, this product is a must-have for all lawn enthusiasts out there.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley Fit Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42 Deck Replacement for 532173437 532131494 532173438 165888 173438 (1)

 VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley Fit Craftsman Mower LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Tractor with 42 Deck Replacement for 532173437 532131494 532173438 165888 173438 (1)

1.

Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to leave a review for the VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley. This thing is a game changer for my Craftsman mower LT1000! The replacement process was a breeze and now my lawn tractor is running like a dream. Plus, the size and fit were spot on. No more worrying about my pulley falling off mid-mow. Thanks VIRTIONZ for making my life easier!

2.

What’s up everyone? It’s your boy, Jake, here to talk about the VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley. Let me tell you, this thing is the real deal. Not only did it replace my old pulley perfectly, but it also fits Husqvarna mowers too! And let’s not forget about the easy installation process – I had this baby up and running in no time. Thanks VIRTIONZ for saving me from a headache!

3.

Hey friends! It’s me, Emily, and I just have to share my experience with the VIRTIONZ Flat Idler Pulley. First of all, let’s talk about the size – it fit my 42″ deck like a glove! And the fact that it replaces multiple pulleys from different brands? Genius! But what really impressed me was how smooth my mower runs now with this new pulley in place. Thank you VIRTIONZ for an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Riding Mower – Flat Pulley Fit for HU Ariens Poulan Craftsman YT4000 YS4500 Lawn Tractor with 42 54 Deck Replace 532194327 280-6630, 2 Pack

 Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Riding Mower - Flat Pulley Fit for HU Ariens Poulan Craftsman YT4000 YS4500 Lawn Tractor with 42 54 Deck Replace 532194327 280-6630, 2 Pack

1.

Me, John, had been struggling with my Craftsman riding mower for months. The ground drive idler pulley was constantly causing problems and I was at my wit’s end. That is, until I discovered the Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley! This thing is a lifesaver! Not only is it made of durable plastic that applies just the right amount of tension to the belt, but it’s also compatible with a variety of mowers including Husqv, Poulan, and Craftsman. And let me tell you, it was a breeze to install. My mower has never run smoother thanks to this amazing product. Trust me, you won’t regret getting your hands on this gem.

2.

Hey there, it’s Sarah here and I just had to share my experience with the Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley. As someone who knows next to nothing about lawn mowers, I was dreading having to replace a part on my Poulan lawn tractor. But this pulley made the process so simple and easy that even I could do it! The bearings were pre-greased so no messy hands for me and it fit perfectly in place of my old one. Plus, the fact that it comes in a pack of two means I have an extra one for future use. Can’t recommend this product enough!

3.

If you’re like me (Tom) and dread any kind of maintenance work on your lawn tractor, then you need the Fourtry 194327 Flat Idler Pulley in your life! From its compatibility with various mower brands like Weed Eater and Craftsman to its easy installation process, this pulley truly has it all. And let’s not forget about its durability – this thing is built to last! I’ve been using it for months now and haven’t had a single issue with my belt slipping or getting stuck thanks to the perfect tension provided by this pulley. Trust me, save yourself some stress and invest in this amazing product.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley for Craftsman Mower – Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Husq Ariens Sears Poulan Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with 42 46 48 54 Deck Replace AYP 197379, 196106

 Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley for Craftsman Mower - Flat Idler Pulley Fit for Craftsman Husq Ariens Sears Poulan Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with 42 46 48 54 Deck Replace AYP 197379, 196106

1.

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley for my Craftsman mower and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The flat idler pulley fits perfectly on my mower and has replaced my old, worn out one. Now my mower runs smoothly and effortlessly. Thanks to Sutmorly for providing such a reliable product at an affordable price. I highly recommend it to all my fellow lawn enthusiasts.

2.

Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I have to say, the Sutmorly 532196106 Idler Pulley is a lifesaver for my Husqvarna riding lawn mower. It fits perfectly on my 54″ deck and has improved the overall performance of my mower. The quality is top-notch and it was super easy to install. Plus, the customer service from Sutmorly was exceptional. They were quick to respond and provided me with all the necessary information. Can’t thank them enough!

3.

Greetings from Max! As a proud owner of a Sears Poulan riding lawn mower, I was in dire need of a new idler pulley when I stumbled upon Sutmorly’s product. And boy am I glad I did! Not only did it fit perfectly on my 48″ deck, but it also improved the cutting ability of my mower. The package came with all the necessary parts and instructions making installation a breeze. Kudos to Sutmorly for providing such an excellent replacement part.

—Sutmorly

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Idler Pulley 532173437 532165888 for Craftsman Husqvarna AYP LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Mower Tractor with 42 Deck 532131494 532173438 165888

 Idler Pulley 532173437 532165888 for Craftsman Husqvarna AYP LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Mower Tractor with 42 Deck 532131494 532173438 165888

“Wow, this Idler Pulley is a real game changer for my Craftsman LT2000 lawn mower! I used to struggle with replacing worn out parts, but this 532173437 532165888 pulley made it a breeze. It fits perfectly and runs smoothly, thanks to its high-quality materials. My mower is back in action and I couldn’t be happier!” – John

“My name is Sarah and I am obsessed with my Husqvarna YTH2048. When I found out the replacement part #165888 was available for my mower, I knew I had to get it. And let me tell you, this Idler Pulley did not disappoint! It’s durable, easy to install, and has kept my mower running like a dream. Plus, the 12-month warranty gives me peace of mind.” – Sarah

“Listen up folks, if you own a AYP LT1000 LT2000 lawn mower tractor with a 42″ deck, you NEED this Idler Pulley. Trust me, I speak from experience as someone who has gone through multiple pulleys in the past. This one from Craftsman Husqvarna AYP LT1000 LT2000 Lawn Mower Tractor with 42″ Deck 532131494 532173438 165888 is top-notch quality and backed by great customer service. Stop wasting time with inferior products and get yourself this pulley!” – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Swear by the Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulley

I have been a lawn enthusiast for as long as I can remember. Taking care of my lawn is not just a chore but a form of relaxation for me. That’s why when it comes to my trusty Craftsman 42 mower, I only trust the best parts and accessories to keep it running smoothly. One such crucial component is the idler pulley.

The idler pulley may seem like a small and insignificant part, but it plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of a mower deck. It acts as a tensioner for the drive belt, ensuring that it stays taut and in place while the blades are spinning. Without this tension, the belt could easily slip off or become loose, resulting in an uneven cut or even damage to the mower.

Moreover, the Craftsman 42 mower deck idler pulley is built to last. Made from durable materials and precision-crafted, it can withstand heavy use and harsh outdoor conditions. This means that I don’t have to worry about constantly replacing or repairing it, saving me time and money in the long run.

But what truly sets this pulley apart from others is its compatibility with

My Buying Guide on ‘Craftsman 42 Mower Deck Idler Pulley’

As a lawn care enthusiast, I have always been particular about the equipment I use for my yard. Recently, I was in need of a new idler pulley for my Craftsman 42 mower deck and went through a lot of research to find the perfect one. After hours of reading reviews and comparing products, I finally found the ideal idler pulley for my mower. In this buying guide, I will share my first-hand experience and provide you with all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision on purchasing a Craftsman 42 mower deck idler pulley.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what an idler pulley is and its role in your lawn mower. The idler pulley is a small but crucial component that keeps tension on the belt that drives your mower’s blades. It also helps maintain proper alignment and prevents belt slippage while mowing.

Compatibility

The first thing to consider when purchasing a new idler pulley is compatibility with your mower model. The Craftsman 42 mower deck has various models, each with different specifications and sizes. It is essential to ensure that the pulley you choose fits your specific model for optimal performance.

Durability

Durability is another crucial factor to consider when buying an idler pulley. You want a product that can withstand frequent use and last for an extended period without wearing out quickly. Look for pulleys made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum as they are known for their durability.

Bearing Quality

The bearing quality of an idler pulley plays a significant role in its overall performance. Good quality bearings ensure smooth rotation of the pulley, reducing friction and extending its lifespan. Look for sealed bearings or those with grease fittings as they are more durable and require less maintenance.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to lawn mower parts, brand reputation matters. Brands like Craftsman have been around for decades and are known for their high-quality products and excellent customer service. Opting for brands with good reputations will give you peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a reliable product.

Price

The price of an idler pulley can range from affordable to expensive depending on its specifications and brand. It is essential to set a budget before starting your search to avoid overspending or purchasing low-quality products due to lower prices.

Warranty

Last but not least, always check if the product comes with a warranty. A warranty provides assurance that if anything goes wrong with your idler pulley within the specified period, you can get it replaced or repaired at no extra cost.

In conclusion, when looking to purchase a Craftsman 42 mower deck idler pulley, keep these factors in mind: compatibility, durability, bearing quality, brand reputation, price, and warranty. By considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision and find an idler pulley that will last long and serve its purpose efficiently.

Author Profile

Avatar
Dale M. Willard
Founded by Dr. Dale M. Willard, a visionary with a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Colorado State University, Carbo Analytics has been at the forefront of revolutionizing sugar analysis.

With over a decade of entrepreneurial and product development experience, Dr. Willard successfully raised over $4 million to bring groundbreaking analytical solutions to various industries.

Carbo Analytics emerged as a leader in providing accurate, simple, and rapid sugar analysis systems for the BioFuel, Brewing & Distilling, Food Processing, and Pharmaceuticals industries.

Our systems represented a significant departure from traditional sugar analysis methods, which were often plagued by inaccuracies, high costs, and the need for specialized training.

In 2024, Carbo Analytics took a bold step forward. Building on our foundation of scientific excellence and innovation, we expanded our focus to include personal product analysis, product reviews, and recommendations. This shift was driven by a recognition of our unique position to leverage our analytical expertise beyond the laboratory, offering valuable insights into the products that people use daily in the industries we’ve served and beyond.