Last Updated on February 11, 2026
A lawn mower engine oil filter is an essential component that helps protect your mower’s engine by filtering out dirt, debris and microscopic metal particles from the oil. Clean oil is critical for proper lubrication, smoother operation and preventing premature engine wear.
Over time, a clogged or worn oil filter can reduce engine performance and increase the risk of damage, which is why regular inspection and replacement are so important.
In this guide, we’ll explain how a lawn mower engine oil filter works, how often it should be replaced, signs that it needs changing, and how to choose the correct filter for your specific mower model. Whether you perform routine maintenance yourself or want to better understand engine care, this information will help you keep your lawn mower running efficiently for years.
Top Picks
Briggs & Stratton Genuine 491056 Filter
You get a genuine OEM filter built to the manufacturer's specifications, which simplifies compatibility checks and preserves engine warranty requirements. It's a dependable choice when you want assurance of fit, filtration performance, and long-term durability.
Purpose and compatibility
You should buy this filter when you want a direct replacement that matches the original factory specification for many Briggs & Stratton small engines. It is designed for Model 26, 29, 30, 35, 40, 42, 43 and 58 series engines with an oil pump and uses a 27‑micron media rating suitable for general lawn‑mower service intervals.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insights
You benefit from straightforward fitment and predictable performance: if your mower originally shipped with this filter, you avoid the guesswork of cross‑reference. Users often report the same service life and no leaks after installation. The limitation is cost OEM parts typically carry a premium, so if you change filters very frequently you may prefer a lower‑cost replacement.
Installation and usage tips
You should hand‑tighten the filter to the specified torque and follow your engine manual for oil type and change interval. Example: when servicing a 500cc Briggs‑powered lawn tractor, use the OEM filter and a recommended 10W‑40 synthetic oil during year‑round use to reduce wear in colder months.
Briggs & Stratton 492932S 2¼" Filter
You receive a standard‑height OEM replacement that covers many Briggs engines at a lower price point than some premium variants. It provides the familiarity and compatibility of a manufacturer part while keeping purchase cost reasonable.
Who this is for
You should consider this filter if you want an affordable genuine Briggs & Stratton replacement that keeps your engine within manufacturer maintenance guidelines. The 2‑1/4" height makes it suitable for mowers and tractors where clearance is limited.
What it delivers
Practical considerations and tradeoffs
You’ll find this filter is a good compromise: it’s cheaper than some higher‑capacity models but still offers OEM quality. The tradeoff is oil capacity the shorter housing holds less filter media, which can reduce contaminant holding capacity versus taller filters. For most routine homeowner schedules the shorter filter performs adequately, but you should adhere to manufacturer oil change intervals to avoid premature clogging.
Installation tips
When you install, make sure the sealing surfaces are clean and lightly oil the gasket before hand‑tightening. If you store spare filters, keep them in a dry place to avoid gasket distortion over time.
HOODELL 2‑Pack Kohler Replacement Filters
You get a two‑pack of aftermarket filters that match common Kohler OEM dimensions and claim 27‑micron capture. It's a practical option if you want spares on the shelf and reliable performance at a lower price than branded OEM parts.
Intended use and compatibility
You should buy this two‑pack if you run a Kohler‑equipped mower and want a cost‑effective replacement that fits a range of Kohler engine part numbers (12‑050‑01 series and variants). The manufacturer lists wide compatibility across KT/CH/CV/SV series engines and popular tractor models.
Features and construction
Benefits, limitations and real‑world notes
You’ll save money per filter versus buying individual OEM units while maintaining similar physical dimensions and filtration rating. Several users note easy installation and good fitment. The limitation is inherent to many aftermarket parts: batch quality consistency and long term durability can vary, so inspect each filter before use and monitor for leaks the first time you run the engine after a change.
Practical tips
When switching to an aftermarket filter, check thread size and gasket contact carefully. Keep one of the two filters as a backup and rotate it into service at the next oil change to ensure you always have a usable spare.
2 Pcs Kohler Replacement 1205001‑S Filters
You obtain a two‑piece replacement set built to match Kohler dimensions and intended for general lawn‑mower service. It's a practical buy if you prefer to stock spares and want a reasonable balance of price and performance.
Why choose this two‑pack
You should pick this set if you want to keep an extra filter on hand and you operate equipment with Kohler engines (CH/CV/KT/SV series). The product positions itself as a direct replacement for part numbers in the 12‑050‑01 family and lists thread and micron specifications.
Notable features
Performance and limitations
You’ll appreciate the value of having two filters and the reported good seal performance (many buyers report no drips after installation). However, because this is an aftermarket item, filter media quality and canister construction are the areas to watch inspect for consistent gasket seating and body finish. If you rely on heavy‑duty, extended run intervals, consider upgraded or OEM alternatives with higher capacity.
Practical advice
You should verify fitment against your engine’s parts list before ordering and store the extra filter in a cool, dry place. Follow normal torque and oil‑change procedures and check for leaks after the first run to confirm a proper seal.
TopHomer MTD/Cub Cadet Replacement Filter
You receive a low‑cost replacement matched to common MTD and Cub Cadet vertical‑shaft engines with 3/4‑16 threads. It’s a practical option when you want a direct fit without paying OEM premiums, though build quality is typical of value brands.
Who this suits
You should consider this filter if you maintain MTD or Cub Cadet lawn tractors and need a low‑cost direct replacement for OEM references like 751‑12690 / 751‑11501. It's targeted at owners who perform routine single‑filter changes rather than stocking spares.
Key attributes
Tradeoffs and usage guidance
The principal advantage is cost: you pay significantly less than OEM equivalents. The tradeoffs are standard for aftermarket budget filters you should inspect the gasket and housing before installation and confirm the seal after first run. If you operate in very dusty conditions or run extended intervals, you might prefer a higher‑capacity OEM or premium aftermarket filter.
Practical installation notes
You should change the oil and filter together and properly torque the spin‑on unit to ensure a good seal. If you rely on a single spare, consider purchasing an extra unit to keep on hand so you’re not left without a replacement at the next scheduled service.
Buying & Maintenance Guide
When selecting an oil filter for your mower, prioritize fit and sealing first, then filtration performance. Check three specs on the old filter: thread size (e.g., 3/4-16 for many MTD/Cub Cadet units), overall height (Briggs 492932S is a standard 2¼"), and gasket outer diameter. If those match, the replacement will seat correctly and maintain oil pressure.
What to check (quick checklist)
Installation basics (do this every time)
Budget vs. Premium: Where these five fall
Common mistakes to avoid
Quick comparison
| Product | Best for | Key advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton 491056 | Briggs owners who want OEM certainty | Manufacturer fit and warranty adherence |
| Briggs & Stratton 492932S | Cost-conscious Briggs owners | OEM compatibility at lower cost |
| HOODELL 2-Pack Kohler | Kohler engine owners who want spares | Two filters and claimed 27-µ capture |
| Kohler 1205001-S (2 pcs) | Routine Kohler maintenance | Practical spare pair |
| TopHomer MTD/Cub Cadet | Budget MTD/Cub Cadet replacements | Low price and correct 3/4-16 thread |
Final tip: keep one spare filter and a small tube of engine oil in your shed. When you change oil and the filter every season, you remove the largest variable that leads to engine wear. Regular, simple maintenance is the cheapest way to preserve performance and avoid emergency repairs.
FAQs
Change the oil filter at least once per season or every 50 hours of operation — sooner if you mow in very dusty conditions. When you change the oil, change the filter; it’s a low-cost step that prevents particles from recirculating.
Yes. You can alternate OEM and quality aftermarket filters as long as the replacement matches thread size, height, gasket diameter, and recommended micron capture. Avoid low-quality knockoffs with poor sealing or thin media.
No. Micron rating matters, but sealing reliability, build quality, and dimensional match are equally important. A filter with excellent media but a poor gasket will leak or let contaminants bypass the element.
Multi-packs (like the HOODELL and the 2 Pcs Kohler set) are smart if you perform regular maintenance or service multiple machines. They save cost and ensure you have spares, but inspect each unit for consistent build quality before use.
Common mistakes are overtightening (which can damage the gasket), failing to lubricate the gasket before installation, using the wrong thread/height, and skipping oil changes. All of these lead to poor sealing or premature clogging.
Final Thoughts
For most homeowners who want absolute compatibility and warranty peace of mind, choose the Briggs & Stratton Genuine 491056 Filter. Its OEM build and proven fit make it the best overall pick for Briggs-equipped mowers you get correct sealing, specified filtration performance, and long-term reliability backed by the manufacturer.
If you want nearly the same OEM assurances but prefer a lower upfront cost, go with the Briggs & Stratton 492932S (2¼"). It delivers excellent OEM-level fit and function at a better price and is ideal if you change filters regularly and want consistently accurate replacements without a premium tag.
