177968 Idler Pulley Fits for Craftsman HU Mower, 193197 Flat Idler Pulley Compatible with HU Sears Pou LAN Lawn Tractors with 42" 46" 48" Deck, Replace for 532177968, 2 Pack

What It Is

This 2-pack of idler pulleys (part 177968 / 193197) replaces the flat, smooth pulley that guides and tensions the belt on 42", 46", and 48" cutting decks of Craftsman, Husqvarna, Sears, and Poulan Pro lawn tractors. They are used on the deck spindle or tensioner arm to keep the belt aligned and under proper tension.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm these three things:

• Your deck size – Fits 42", 46", and 48" decks only. Not for 50" or 54" decks.
• Your model numbers – Compatible with Craftsman HU series, Husqvarna, Sears, Poulan Pro, and many AYP/Electrolux-built tractors. Check your mower’s model number (not engine model) against the compatibility list.
• OEM cross-references – Replaces OEM 532177968, 193197, 170255, 171380. Measure your old pulley: outer diameter should be 3.5", inner bearing is 5/8" (or 3/4" on some variants – measure your bolt/shaft). The 2-pack includes two identical pulleys.

What to check before buying:

• Measure the existing pulley’s outer diameter and center hole size. This is a flat idler (no groove), so ensure your deck uses a flat pulley, not a V-groove.
• Verify your deck model number (stamped on a tag under the seat or on the deck itself). Common compatible decks include: 42A, 46A, 48A, 917 series.

Key Things to Know

• Quality – Aftermarket part, not OEM. Most users report it’s durable and matches OEM specs, but a few note the bearing is slightly noisier than OEM. Expect 2-3 seasons of regular use.
• Installation difficulty – Easy. Remove the center bolt, swap the pulley, and retighten to ~20-30 ft-lbs. No special tools needed.
• Common gotcha – The pulley may be slightly thicker than OEM. Check clearance with the deck belt guard or frame. If it rubs, you may need a spacer or to grind a little material off the guard.
• Belt routing – After replacing, verify the belt is correctly routed on the new pulley. A misrouted belt can cause premature wear or throw the belt.

Should You Buy It

If you need a budget-friendly replacement for a worn flat idler on a 42"-48" Craftsman/Husqvarna deck, this 2-pack is a solid value. It’s not OEM, but it works reliably for most users and saves money over buying two separate pulleys. Skip it if you need a V-groove pulley or have a 50"+ deck.