Flat Idler Pulley for AYP Craftsman Poulan 173437 532173437 131494 173438 165888 532104360 Fits Husqvarna LT16542 LT18452 LTH1342 LTH1542 LTH1742 LTH18542 LTH2042 YTH130 (2 Pack)

What It Is

This is a 2-pack of flat idler pulleys designed to guide and tension the drive belt on select AYP, Craftsman, Poulan, and Husqvarna lawn tractors. They are commonly used on 42-inch, 46-inch, and 54-inch cutting decks to reduce belt wear and maintain smooth blade engagement.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s model number and deck size. This pulley fits AYP/Craftsman/Poulan models (e.g., LT16542, LT18452, LTH1342, LTH1542, LTH1742, LTH18542, LTH2042, YTH130) and Husqvarna equivalents. OEM part numbers include 173437, 532173437, 131494, 173438, 165888, and 532104360. Measure the pulley: it should be 4 inches outer diameter with a 5/8-inch bore and a flat (not grooved) face. If your deck uses a grooved or smaller idler, this won’t fit. Aftermarket replacements are often identical in function but check that the bearing is sealed (not shielded) to resist grass clippings.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Sealed ball bearings reduce failure from debris and moisture—avoid open-bearing versions. This 2-pack is a common OEM-equivalent, not genuine Craftsman, but reviews show high reliability.
• Installation: Moderate difficulty—requires removing the deck, loosening belt tension, and swapping the old pulley. Use a socket or wrench on the center bolt; torque to about 20-25 ft-lbs.
• Gotchas: The pulley might be held by a 5/16-inch or 3/8-inch bolt—check your deck. If the old pulley is seized, apply penetrating oil and use a puller. Always replace both idlers in a pair to keep belt tension even.
• Belt check: A worn or misaligned belt can cause premature pulley wear—inspect the belt for cracks or fraying before installing new pulleys.

Should You Buy It

If you own a compatible AYP/Craftsman/Poulan/Husqvarna tractor with a flat idler pulley and need a reliable, affordable replacement, this 2-pack is a solid choice. It offers good value for DIY deck maintenance, especially if you’re already replacing the belt. Avoid it if your deck uses grooved pulleys or a different bore size.