Mower Oil Filter Cross-Reference Guide | 8 Major Brands

Quick answer: mower oil filter cross reference

The fastest way to build a reliable mower oil filter cross reference is to start with your OEM part number, then match thread size, gasket diameter, and height to quality aftermarket filters from brands like Wix, Baldwin, Donaldson, and Fram.

Most residential mowers use spin‑on filters in the 3–4 inch height range with common threads such as 3/4″-16 or M20x1.5, and a 20–30 micron rating with an internal anti‑drainback valve.

By cross‑referencing OEM filters to aftermarket equivalents, you can typically cut filter costs from dealer prices of around 15–25 dollars down to 5–12 dollars per filter without sacrificing protection when you choose reputable brands.

Choosing the wrong oil filter on a zero‑turn or lawn tractor is not just an inconvenience; it can cause low oil pressure, leaks, or even internal engine damage if the gasket does not seal or the bypass valve is incorrect. A proper mower oil filter cross reference ensures the filter threads on correctly, seals against the base, and has a micron rating suitable for your engine’s clearances. Beyond fitment, you need confidence that the filter media and anti‑drainback valve will protect the engine during cold starts and long mowing sessions. Oil changes and greasing extend engine life.

The good news is that high‑quality aftermarket filters often meet or exceed OEM specifications, letting you save roughly 60–75% versus dealer filters if you buy in multi‑packs or through equipment‑parts suppliers. This guide walks through core oil filter specs, shows brand‑specific tables for Kubota, John Deere, Exmark, Scag, Toro, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, and Bad Boy, and explains how to safely cross‑reference without risking your engine. For Kubota‑specific tractor and mower engines, also see the dedicated Kubota oil filter guide at this Kubota engine oil filter complete guide.

Understanding oil filter specifications

Before building a mower oil filter cross reference, it helps to understand the key dimensions and performance specs that make one filter interchangeable with another. A correct cross‑reference is not just about the thread pattern; it is about sealing, filtration efficiency, and internal valving that matches your small engine’s needs.

Thread size and gasket diameter

Thread size describes the diameter and pitch of the mounting threads, such as 3/4″-16 UNF or M20x1.5.
Gasket diameter (outside and inside) must match the engine’s filter pad so the rubber gasket fully overlaps the sealing surface without overhang.
If either is wrong, the filter can leak under pressure or blow the gasket, dumping oil in seconds and risking catastrophic engine failure.

Height and canister size

Height determines physical clearance around the engine, muffler, frame, and deck; many small engines share a base pattern but use short or long cans depending on chassis.
Shorter filters may have less media and dirt‑holding capacity, which can matter in dusty mowing conditions or extended commercial use.
When cross‑referencing, choose a similar height to the OEM unless the engine manufacturer explicitly allows a longer or shorter version.

Micron rating and filtration efficiency

Micron rating indicates the particle size the filter media can capture, often around 20–30 microns nominal for small engine oil filters.
Nominal micron ratings typically mean capturing about 50% of particles at that size, while absolute ratings refer to near‑total capture.
Too coarse a filter lets abrasive particles circulate, while an extremely fine media can restrict flow if the engine and bypass valve were not designed for it.

Anti‑drainback and bypass valves

Many mower filters include an internal anti‑drainback valve to keep oil in the filter when the engine is off, reducing dry‑start wear.
A bypass valve opens when the media is restricted so the engine still receives oil; its cracking pressure should be similar to OEM to avoid unfiltered or starved operation.

Warning: Never skip mower oil filter changes; most residential engines need fresh oil and a new filter about every 50 hours or at least once per season to prevent sludge and premature wear.

Key point: OEM vs aftermarket filters is mostly a question of brand trust and build quality; reputable aftermarket options are often built to meet or exceed OEM specifications and can safely replace dealer filters when cross‑referenced correctly.

Spec differences by brand (example)

Brand example	Typical thread	Nominal micron	Anti‑drainback
Commercial Kawasaki‑powered zero‑turn	3/4″-16	~20–28 micron	Yes, internal silicone or nitrile valve
Kohler small engines	3/4″-16 or M20x1.5	Around 20 micron	Common on spin‑on filters

Brand cross‑reference tables

The tables below use common OEM part numbers and widely used aftermarket replacements as examples to illustrate how a mower oil filter cross reference works. Always confirm your exact engine model and OEM number, then verify thread size, gasket diameter, and height before installation. Like oil filters, our spark plug cross-reference helps you find compatible aftermarket options. Check this tractor oil filter cross-reference guide.

Kubota mower oil filters

Many Kubota lawn tractors and zero‑turn mowers share oil filter patterns with compact tractors, so cross‑reference data for these filters is widely published. Use the Kubota OEM number from the engine decal or manual as your starting point.

OEM part number (Kubota)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
HH150‑32094 / 70000‑15241 (common compact & mower filter)	3/4″-16	~2.45″ OD seal ring	~3.4″	~20–25 micron (typical small‑engine spec)	Wix 51348, Baldwin B1402, Donaldson P550162, Fram PH4967 (example cross‑refs)

*Always verify physical dimensions and sealing surface against your original filter before use.

🛒 Recommended Kubota Replacement Oil Filters

Premium Option ($15): Genuine OEM Kubota Engine Oil Filter HH150-32094 – Factory-direct replacement with exact OEM specifications. Perfect fit and quality assurance. ~$14.89 per filter.

Value Option ($10): Wix 51348 Premium Oil Filter – High-quality aftermarket filter meeting OEM specs. Excellent filtration efficiency. ~$9-11 per filter.

Budget Option ($8): Professional Oil Filter Wrench Set – Essential tool for easy filter changes. Adjustable design fits multiple filter sizes. Makes maintenance quick and clean.

John Deere mower oil filters

John Deere lawn tractors and zero‑turns frequently use spin‑on filters that cross to common small‑engine aftermarket numbers. Many Deere filters also serve Briggs & Stratton, Kawasaki, or Kohler engines, which simplifies cross‑referencing.

OEM part number (John Deere)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
AM107423 (popular Deere/Kawasaki filter)	3/4″-16	~2.45″ OD seal ring	~3.0–3.4″	~21–28 micron typical	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170 (example cross‑refs)

🛒 Recommended John Deere Compatible Oil Filters

Premium Option ($15): John Deere Original AM107423 Oil Filter – Genuine John Deere OEM quality. Perfect for Kawasaki-powered Deere mowers. Guaranteed fit and performance. ~$14-16 per filter.

Value Option ($10): Wix 57035 High-Efficiency Oil Filter – Premium aftermarket alternative with superior filtration. Meets or exceeds OEM specs. ~$9-11 per filter.

Budget Option ($9): Baldwin B7165 Oil Filter – Reliable aftermarket filter from trusted brand. Excellent value for money. Compatible with multiple John Deere models. ~$8-10 per filter.

Exmark mower oil filters

Exmark zero‑turn mowers often use engines from Kawasaki, Kohler, or Briggs, meaning the OEM Exmark filter will cross to those engine brands and to general small‑engine aftermarket filters. Confirming the engine model along with the Exmark filter number gives extra protection against mix‑ups.

OEM part number (Exmark)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
Exmark 513211 (example Kawasaki‑based application)	3/4″-16 (typical Kawasaki pattern)	~2.45″	~3.4″	~25–28 micron typical	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170 (pattern examples)

🛒 Recommended Exmark Zero-Turn Oil Filters

Premium Option ($14): Kawasaki Genuine 49065-7007 Oil Filter – OEM quality for Kawasaki engines in Exmark mowers. Factory specifications ensure perfect fit. ~$13-15 per filter.

Value Option ($12): Kawasaki 49065-0721 Oil Filter (Replaces 49065-7007) – Updated OEM replacement with improved design. Excellent filtration for commercial use. ~$11-13 per filter.

Budget Option ($7): Multi-Brand Compatible Oil Filter 2-Pack – Affordable aftermarket option for Kawasaki FR/FX series engines. Great value for frequent oil changes. ~$6-8 per filter.

Scag mower oil filters

Scag commercial zero‑turns heavily feature Kawasaki and Kohler engines, so their OEM filters usually cross directly into the same aftermarket families as Deere and Bad Boy. Again, the engine label plus OEM filter number is the safest path to a correct mower oil filter cross reference.

OEM part number (Scag)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
Scag 48261 (Kawasaki application, example)	3/4″-16	~2.45″	~3–3.5″	~25–28 micron	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170 (example pattern)

🛒 Recommended Scag Commercial Mower Oil Filters

Premium Option ($17): Donaldson P502503 Heavy-Duty Oil Filter – Premium commercial-grade filtration for Scag mowers. Trusted by professionals for demanding applications. ~$16-18 per filter.

Value Option ($10): Oregon 83-013 Multi-Brand Oil Filter – Replaces Kawasaki 49065-7007 and multiple Scag applications. Excellent quality-to-price ratio. ~$9-11 per filter.

Budget Option ($6/ea): Kawasaki 49065-0721 Oil Filter 2-Pack – Bulk value pack for commercial operators. Stock up and save 30-40%. ~$11.99 for 2 filters.

Toro mower oil filters

Toro riding mowers and zero‑turns often overlap with Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Kawasaki filter families, so many OEM Toro part numbers have broad aftermarket coverage. Matching the engine brand and displacement with the Toro OEM reference is crucial for safe substitution.

OEM part number (Toro)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
Toro 120‑4276 (example Kohler V‑twin filter)	3/4″-16	~2.45″	~3.4–3.7″	~20 micron typical Kohler cross	Wix 51348, Baldwin B1402, Donaldson P550162, Fram PH3614 (pattern examples)

🛒 Recommended Toro TimeCutter & Zero-Turn Oil Filters

Premium Option ($18): Caltric 2-Pack Oil Filters for Kohler Engines – Compatible with Toro, Cub Cadet, Bad Boy, and Scag mowers. Premium quality construction. ~$18.00 for 2 filters.

Value Option ($12): NexaNova 2-Pack Kawasaki Oil Filter – For Toro mowers with Kawasaki FR/FX engines. Excellent filtration performance. ~$11.99 for 2 filters.

Budget Option ($12): HEYZLASS 2-Pack 136-7848 Oil Filter for Toro V-Twin – Replaces 127-9222 and 120-4276. Perfect for TimeCutter zero-turns. ~$11.99 for 2 filters.

Cub Cadet mower oil filters

Cub Cadet machines commonly share filters with Kohler and Kawasaki engines, and retailers frequently list cross‑reference data directly on filter packaging. This makes Cub Cadet a good example of how one OEM number can map into several aftermarket choices.

OEM part number (Cub Cadet)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
490‑201‑0001 / 490‑201‑C010 (Cub Cadet oil filters)	3/4″-16 (Kawasaki/Kohler style)	~2.45″	~3.0–3.5″	~20–28 micron typical	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170 / PH3614 (depending on engine)

🛒 Recommended Cub Cadet Lawn Tractor Oil Filters

Premium Option ($8): TXRXIZ 1205001S Oil Filter for Kohler Engines – Replacement for Cub Cadet and Troy Bilt models. High-quality construction. ~$7.99 per filter.

Value Option ($8): HOODELL 696854 Oil Filter with Gloves – Compatible with Cub Cadet, John Deere, and Kawasaki engines. Includes work gloves. ~$7.50 per filter.

Budget Option ($4/ea): 1205001S Oil Filter 4-Pack – Bulk savings for Kohler engines. Fits Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Toro, and Husqvarna. ~$16.99 for 4 filters.

Husqvarna mower oil filters

Husqvarna uses a mix of Briggs & Stratton, Kawasaki, and Kohler engines in its riding and zero‑turn mowers, so many of its filters trace back to those engine manufacturers. Retail oil filter listings often show Husqvarna alongside Deere, Bad Boy, and Cub Cadet on the same aftermarket filter.

OEM part number (Husqvarna)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
Husqvarna 576‑89‑73‑01 (example Kawasaki‑based filter)	3/4″-16	~2.45″	~3.4″	~25–28 micron	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170 (example pattern)

🛒 Recommended Husqvarna Riding Mower Oil Filters

Premium Option ($9): Briggs & Stratton 2-1/4″ Standard Oil Filter – #1 Top Rated with 14.9K reviews. Universal fit for most Husqvarna models. ~$9.24 per filter.

Value Option ($20): YTH22V46 Complete Tune-Up Kit – Includes air filter AND oil filter for Husqvarna YTH/Z series. Complete maintenance solution. ~$19.98 per kit.

Budget Option ($14): WORKPRO Universal Oil Filter Wrench Set – Adjustable magnetic removal tool. Makes filter changes quick and clean. Essential maintenance tool. ~$13.99 per set.

Bad Boy mower oil filters

Bad Boy mowers frequently use Kawasaki and Briggs engines, and several aftermarket filters list Bad Boy OEM numbers on the label. This makes Bad Boy a clear illustration of how one aftermarket part can replace many OEM filters across brands.

OEM part number (Bad Boy)	Thread size	Gasket diameter (approx.)	Height (approx.)	Micron rating	Aftermarket options*
063‑8017‑00 (Bad Boy oil filter)	3/4″-16 (Kawasaki/Briggs style)	~2.45″	~3.0–3.5″	~21–28 micron typical	Wix 57035, Baldwin B7165, Donaldson P502503, Fram PH8170, MaxPower 334298 (example cross‑refs)

🛒 Recommended Bad Boy Zero-Turn Oil Filters

Premium Option ($15): Bad Boy OEM 063-8017-00 Oil Filter – Genuine Bad Boy replacement filter. Factory specifications ensure perfect fit. ~$14-16 per filter.

Value Option ($4/ea): Abroman 3-Pack 492932S Oil Filter – Fits Briggs & Stratton engines in Bad Boy mowers. Excellent bulk value. ~$13.39 for 3 filters.

Budget Option ($24): 10W-40 Kawasaki Oil Change Kit – Complete kit with oil filter + 2 quarts of oil. Everything needed for full service. ~$23.95 per kit.

OEM vs aftermarket quality and cost

When planning a mower oil filter cross reference, most owners want to know whether aftermarket filters are truly safe for their engines. For reputable brands, the answer is usually yes, as many aftermarket filters are engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications for burst pressure, filtration, and flow. Like oil filters and hydraulic filters, spark plugs have aftermarket equivalents.

OEM filters provide guaranteed fitment and warranty alignment but are often priced at a premium in dealer channels.
Aftermarket filters from major brands like Wix, Baldwin, Donaldson, and quality private labels can cost 60–75% less when purchased in multi‑packs or from farm and lawn suppliers.
Ultra‑cheap no‑name filters with no published specs are risky because manufacturing quality and media performance are unknown.

Filter type	Typical price range (USD)	Notes
OEM dealer lawn mower filter	15–25 per filter	Branded with mower or engine logo; often identical core spec to quality aftermarket.
Name‑brand aftermarket filter	5–12 per filter	Listed cross‑reference numbers and published micron rating; strong value for most owners.

Pro tip: Buying mower oil filters in bulk packs can easily save 30–40% on each change, especially if you service multiple machines or cut commercially.

Installation best practices

Once you have a correct mower oil filter cross reference, proper installation is the last step to protecting your engine. A few simple habits will prevent leaks, air ingestion, or loose filters during heavy mowing.

Step‑by‑step replacement

Warm the engine briefly so the oil flows more easily, then shut it off and remove the key.
Drain the oil according to the manual, capturing it in a pan for proper disposal.
Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter counter‑clockwise, keeping a rag ready for spills.
Verify that the old gasket came off with the filter and clean the sealing surface on the engine.
Lightly oil the new filter’s rubber gasket with fresh engine oil to help it seat and seal.
Spin the new filter on by hand until the gasket contacts the base, then tighten to the recommended spec, typically hand‑tight plus about 3/4 of a turn.
Refill with the correct oil type and volume, then run the engine and check for leaks.

Warning: Always confirm that the old gasket is removed; double‑stacked gaskets can blow out under pressure and dump the crankcase oil in moments.

Warning: After the first start‑up, shut the engine off and recheck the oil level; topping off is often needed after the new filter fills with oil.

Torque and tools

Most small engine filters specify installation to contact plus roughly 3/4 turn, which corresponds to a firm hand‑tight torque without tools.
If using a torque‑style filter wrench, follow the engine manual’s recommended torque and avoid overtightening that can crush the gasket or deform the can.
Cap‑style filter wrenches that match the filter’s hex or flutes are ideal for tight spaces on compact mowers.

⚠️ Repair vs Replace: Should You DIY or Call a Pro?

Changing your mower oil filter yourself can save $50-150 in labor costs, but proper installation is critical to prevent leaks and engine damage. Use our free calculator to compare DIY vs professional service:

Calculate Your Savings Now →

Mower oil filter FAQ

Can I use automotive oil filters on my mower?

Some small engines share thread size and gasket dimensions with popular automotive filters, but that does not guarantee the correct bypass setting or media design for mower duty. If you substitute a car filter purely on thread match you risk poor filtration, incorrect flow under high RPM, or sealing problems that can shorten engine life. The safest approach is to use an automotive filter only when a reputable cross‑reference catalog explicitly lists that part for your specific engine model.

How often should I change my mower oil filter?

Most owner’s manuals recommend changing the oil filter with every oil change, which for many residential mowers is around every 50 hours of operation or at least once per season. Heavy commercial use, dusty conditions, or repeated short‑run cycles justify more frequent changes because the filter loads quickly with debris and moisture. If your OEM schedule lists 50–100 hour intervals, staying on the short side of that range provides inexpensive insurance against engine wear.

Are aftermarket filters as good as OEM?

High‑quality aftermarket filters from established brands can be just as protective as OEM filters when they are properly cross‑referenced, as they are designed to meet or exceed original specifications. The major differences are often in branding, packaging, and distribution rather than the core filtration technology or burst strength. To avoid problems, choose filters with published micron ratings and cross‑reference listings for your exact OEM part number instead of generic “fits most” claims.

What happens if I use the wrong oil filter?

Using a filter with the wrong thread or gasket diameter can cause leaks, blowouts, or complete oil loss that may destroy the engine in minutes. Even if it appears to fit, a mismatched bypass valve or very different micron rating can run the engine with either unfiltered oil or restricted flow, both of which accelerate wear. A mower oil filter cross reference that checks all critical dimensions and specs virtually eliminates these risks while still letting you save money over OEM.

Should I pre‑fill my oil filter before installing?

On many vertical‑mount mower filters it is difficult to pre‑fill without spilling, so manufacturers often focus instead on using an anti‑drainback valve to keep oil in the filter between starts. For horizontal or easily accessible filters, partially filling the canister can shorten the initial dry‑start period, but it is optional if you use the correct oil viscosity and do not immediately load the engine hard. The most important step is coating the gasket with fresh oil and confirming the oil level after the first start rather than pre‑filling at all costs.

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Key takeaways and next steps

A reliable mower oil filter cross reference starts with the OEM part number and confirms thread size, gasket diameter, height, micron rating, and internal valving before switching to aftermarket. By choosing reputable filters from brands like Wix, Baldwin, Donaldson, and Fram, most owners can safely cut filter costs by 60–75% compared to dealer‑branded parts while maintaining excellent engine protection. Regular oil changes and proper greasing extend engine life

From here, consider bookmarking OEM and aftermarket cross‑reference catalogs, then building a simple spreadsheet of your mower fleet’s filter numbers and change intervals so you can buy in bulk. For deeper equipment maintenance, see related guides on
Kubota engine oil filters,
mower blade cross references,
mower deck belts,
zero‑turn wheels,
spindle assemblies, and
must‑have tractor maintenance tools so your entire cutting system stays aligned with your oil filter program. Check us out for more TractorPartsCentral