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Routine small engine maintenance protects lawn equipment from catastrophic internal wear, but identifying the correct b&s air filter requires sorting through engine series numbers, physical dimensions, and media configurations. Push mowers, garden tractors, and commercial zero-turn mowers demand distinct airflow capacities and filtration levels to prevent ambient grass clippings, organic dust, and silica particles from scoring cylinder walls or clogging carburetor jets. When evaluating which b&s air filter to buy, equipment operators must match the specific intake design of their engine block rather than relying on generic mower brand names, since engine builders supply diverse manufacturers across residential and commercial platforms.
The range of intake filtration for these engines divides into distinct physical form factors based on displacement, duty cycle, and housing architecture. Compact residential walk-behind mowers generally rely on flat rectangular pleated paper cartridges or molded polyurethane foam blocks that seat directly over shallow intake manifolds, prioritizing compact geometry. Mid-range single-cylinder tractors transition to elongated oval elements or upright cylindrical canister cartridges, frequently paired with pre-filter foam wraps to manage higher volumes of dry turf debris. At the top of the displacement spectrum, twin-cylinder powerplants require large-capacity panel filters with dual-stage media to satisfy high airflow demands during heavy mowing operations. Conducting a thorough b&s air filter comparison helps clarify these physical variations and ensures your equipment receives the exact filtration required for continuous operation.
This guide by the numbers
9.6/10
Best rated model
Our highest score in this line-up
6
Models on file
Models in this guide that have a stored product record
5
Brands involved
Distinct brand names on the product records used here
Prices and specifications come from the stored Amazon listing data for the products in this article. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.
B&S Air Filters Lineup at a Glance
| Model Name | Filter Media | Form Factor | Pack Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5pcs 491588S Lawn Mower Air Filter | Pleated paper | Flat rectangular panel | 5 filters |
| 4PCS 698369 Lawn Mower Air Filter | Polyurethane foam | Flat foam pad | 4 filters |
| (3 Pack)792105 Air Filter for B | Pleated paper | Extended life V-Twin panel | 3 filters |
| 799579 Air Cleaner Foam Filter Replace | Foam media | Compact rectangular block | 10 filters |
| 2 Pack 698083 Lawn Mower Air | Pleated paper with pre-filter | Elongated oval cartridge | 2 filters, 2 pre-filters |
| 796031 590825 594201 591334 Air Filter | Pleated paper with pre-filter | Cylindrical canister | 4 filters, 4 pre-filters |
The Models in Detail
01
5pcs 491588S Lawn Mower Air Filter
5pcs 491588S Lawn Mower Air Filter
Best for: Push mowers needing multi-pack paper filters
Pros
- Pleated paper media
- Five-pack value
- Airtight perimeter seal
Cons
- No pre-filter included
The 5pcs 491588S Lawn Mower Air Filter from ZLKSKER provides a standardized flat panel replacement for popular residential walk-behind equipment. According to the listing, it replaces OEM part numbers 491588S, 491588, 4915885, 399959, 5043A, 4101, 5043, 5043H, and 5043K. The filter dimensions are specified as 5.25 inches long, 4.5 inches wide, and 0.8 inches high, with an alternate listing measurement of 5.17 by 4.37 by 0.81 inches. Its blue rectangular frame houses pleated filter paper that the manufacturer notes for pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, and airtight sealing to prevent bypass leaks.
This replacement pack suits owners of walk-behind push mowers powered by 625e, 675ex, 725ex, and 625-675 series engines, as well as general 3.5 to 6.75 horsepower small powerplants. It provides a multi-season supply of clean elements for operators running standard suburban yards. Because the listing explicitly notes that these five filters come without foam pre-filters, the unit is intended for standard mowing conditions where excessive airborne dust does not require a secondary pre-cleaning barrier.
As a single-stage barrier, this 491588S air filter delivers reliable particulate trapping for lightweight push mowers without needing messy oil saturation. However, operators who manage large acreage or run twin-cylinder riding tractors will find this compact panel inadequate in surface area and airflow capacity, requiring larger designs like the 792105 or cylindrical cartridges.
02
4PCS 698369 Lawn Mower Air Filter
4PCS 698369 Lawn Mower Air Filter
Best for: Classic walk-behind mower operators
Pros
- Tool-free installation
- Durable polyurethane foam
- Individually packaged
Cons
- Not for overhead-valve engines
The 4PCS 698369 Lawn Mower Air Filter from Welandya provides a flexible foam solution matching part numbers 698369, 4216, 5086K, 5088, 5088H, and 5099, alongside MTD 490-200-0011 and Craftsman SPA8S1062853001. Constructed from polyurethane foam, this design is engineered for wear resistance, durability, and corrosion resistance. Similar to inspecting a craftsman air filter on compatible lawn equipment, checking this foam regularly prevents fine turf dust from reaching the intake throat.
This four-pack is intended for operators running classic vertical-shaft push mowers equipped with shallow foam-holding air cleaner housings. The listing emphasizes tool-free installation, allowing users to simply pop out the degraded element and seat the fresh foam cartridge directly into the air box. Each filter is individually packaged, ensuring clean storage in a garage or workshop between maintenance intervals.
The 698369 air filter excels in older residential mowers where an oil-foam media traps coarse clippings and dirt effectively. However, it yields to rigid pleated paper cartridges like the 491588S when servicing newer overhead-valve engines that require dry, structured filter media to maintain proper carburetor metering.
03
(3 Pack)792105 Air Filter for B
(3 Pack)792105 Air Filter for B
Best for: V-Twin lawn tractor and zero-turn owners
Pros
- Extended life series fit
- Includes 1-year warranty
- Heavy-duty paper construction
Cons
- Too large for push mowers
The (3 Pack)792105 Air Filter for B from Abroman is engineered specifically for heavy-duty twin-cylinder powerplants. It directly replaces OEM numbers 792105, 276890, 5405, 5405H, 5405K, 4163205, 4163206, and 4233, as well as John Deere GY21057, MIU11515, and MIU11517. It also serves as a replacement for Land Pride 8531-054C, Oregon 30-145, Gravely 21544800, Ariens 21544700, and Bad Boy 063-4000-00. The listing specifies that this three-pack includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
This filter is designed for property owners and landscapers operating Extended Life Series V-Twin engines ranging from 16 to 27 horsepower, covering engine models 407777, 40G777, 40H777, 445667, 445877, 44H777, 44K777, and 44L777. Compatible equipment includes John Deere LA155, LA165, LA175, D150, D160, D170, and Z425 zero-turn mowers, Toro 74812 and 74814, Swisher ZTR2560, Craftsman YT4000 and GT5000 tractors, and Husqvarna RZ4222F models.
The expansive surface area of this 792105 air filter accommodates the high cubic-feet-per-minute intake requirements of large-displacement twin engines operating in dry pastures. Residential push mower operators cannot use this oversized panel and must rely on compact rectangular or foam filters suited for single-cylinder housings.
04
799579 Air Cleaner Foam Filter Replace
799579 Air Cleaner Foam Filter Replace
Best for: High-volume residential yard maintenance
Pros
- Generous 10-pack count
- OEM standard fit
- Separate packaging
Cons
- Foam only without paper core
The 799579 Air Cleaner Foam Filter Replace by MOWFILL provides a bulk 10-piece package of replacement foam pads. Designed under OEM part number CA2306606, it replaces numbers 4248, 5434, and 799579. The listing specifies exact dimensions of 4.25 inches in length, 3.19 inches in width, and 0.84 inches in height (also stated as 4 1/4 by 3 5/16 by 27/32 inches). Just as installing a fresh k&n cabin air filter preserves automotive intake freshness, maintaining this foam cartridge ensures stable airflow into small mower engines.
This package targets busy groundskeepers and homeowners managing entry-level walk-behind mowers and blowers. The listing identifies compatibility with 08P500, 09P600, and 09P700 series engines, including 550e through 550ex series, alongside MTD, Troy-Bilt, and AYP mowers equipped with primer-style 450e, 500e, and 5.5 horsepower engines such as the TB110, TB115, and TB554. Each of the ten filters is individually packaged to preserve foam flexibility during long-term storage.
This 799579 air cleaner filter offers an exact match for modern snap-fit plastic air boxes on small displacement push mowers. When maintaining single-cylinder riding mowers or larger Intek engines, this small foam block must give way to heavy-duty paper cartridges like the 698083.
05
2 Pack 698083 Lawn Mower Air
Best for: Mid-size single-cylinder lawn tractors
Pros
- Includes foam pre-filters
- Protective metal frame
- Polyurethane adhesive bond
Cons
- Limited to specific oval housings
The 2 Pack 698083 Lawn Mower Air from ZLKSKER includes two elongated oval air filters alongside two matching foam pre-filters. Physical dimensions measure 8.9 inches long, 3.1 inches wide, and 1.5 inches high. It replaces OEM part numbers 698083, 697014, 697153, 697634, 795115, 797008, 4211, 4214, 5077h, and 5077K, while also matching John Deere GY20573, Craftsman 33425, and Stens 102-875.
This model is built for owners of lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers running single-cylinder overhead-valve engines. The listing confirms fitment for engine models including 286H77-0121, 284H07, 284H77, 285H77, 31E707, 31E777, 31F777, 31G777, 31H777, and 31P677. The construction combines a metal protective frame, polyurethane adhesive seals, and high-efficiency pleated paper designed to handle rough outdoor environments.
Equipped with dual-stage filtration, this 698083 lawn mower air filter uses its outer foam wrap to catch coarse turf clippings before fine grit reaches the paper element. While ideal for elongated Intek filter boxes, equipment utilizing circular canister intakes requires round cartridges such as the 796031 instead.
06
796031 590825 594201 591334 Air Filter
Best for: Riding tractors with canister housings
Pros
- 360-degree radial airflow
- Includes four pre-filters
- 250-hour warranty coverage
Cons
- Incompatible with flat air boxes
The 796031 590825 594201 591334 Air Filter by DASARYA comes as a four-pack of cylindrical cartridges, with each unit including both the round filter and a foam pre-filter. Key measurements are listed as 5 inches in height, 3 inches in outer diameter, and 1-5/8 inches in inner diameter. It replaces OEM numbers 796031, 590825, 591334, 594201, 4243, 5421, 5428, 5428H, and 5428K, as well as John Deere GY21435, MIU13038, MIU13963, and MIU14395. The listing highlights a 250-hour warranty description.
This cylindrical pack suits owners of riding tractors operating in dusty mowing environments. It fits engines across the 31A507, 31A607, 31A677, 31A707, 31A807, 31C707, 31E577, 31E607, 31E677, 31E777, and 31G777 series. Compatible platforms include Craftsman IT2000 and IT1500 lawn tractors, Troy-Bilt Pony mowers, and Husqvarna YTA22V46 riding tractors. Much like vehicle intake components such as a denso cabin air filter that maintain clean airflow through dense particulate exposure, this canister promotes efficient combustion.
The 360-degree radial intake design of the 796031 air filter maximizes airflow across its round circumference, supporting continuous high-load mowing. Because of its cylindrical geometry, it cannot be adapted to machines with flat rectangular filter housings, making housing shape verification essential.
Matching a Model to Your Setup
- For standard walk-behind mowers with 625e to 725ex engines: Select the 5pcs 491588S Lawn Mower Air Filter to maintain a multi-season supply of dry pleated paper panels.
- For older classic push mowers using shallow oil-foam housings: Choose the 4PCS 698369 Lawn Mower Air Filter for simple tool-free pop-in replacement.
- For commercial zero-turn mowers and lawn tractors with 16HP to 27HP V-Twin engines: Install the (3 Pack)792105 Air Filter for B to satisfy high airflow demands.
- For modern Troy-Bilt and MTD push mowers with 300E to 550EX series engines: Pick the 799579 Air Cleaner Foam Filter Replace for bulk maintenance of compact snap-fit air boxes.
- For mid-size single-cylinder Intek riding tractors: Mount the 2 Pack 698083 Lawn Mower Air to leverage an elongated oval paper element protected by a foam pre-filter.
- For riding lawn tractors with vertical canister air housings: Use the 796031 590825 594201 591334 Air Filter to ensure 360-degree radial airflow and pre-filter screening.
Before You Buy
When selecting a replacement filter, mower model names can be misleading because equipment manufacturers often change engine configurations across production years. Equipment operators must locate the specific engine model, type, and code stamped directly onto the engine valve cover or cooling shroud. Furthermore, the product listings do not specify whether mounting wing nuts, hold-down clamps, or air box sealing gaskets are included, meaning you will need to inspect and reuse your existing factory intake hardware during installation.
It is also important to note that while the listings describe durable polyurethane foam and high-efficiency paper media, the listings do not specify whether the foam elements arrive pre-treated with filter oil. Traditional foam elements used for primary filtration on small engines typically require a few drops of clean engine oil worked into the pores to trap microscopic debris, whereas pleated paper cartridges must remain completely dry. Review your mower manufacturer manual before installation to confirm proper lubrication procedures for your specific filter type.
FAQ
How do I know which b&s air filter to buy for my mower?
Examine the metal shroud or valve cover on your engine to locate the stamped model, type, and code numbers. Match those engine codes to the OEM replacement numbers detailed in the product specifications, and compare the physical shape and dimensions of your current air cleaner against the replacement listing.
Can I wash and reuse a pleated paper b&s air filter?
Pleated paper filters cannot be washed with water or liquid solvents, as moisture damages the cellulose fibers and causes the pleats to collapse or clog. While you can gently tap the filter against a flat surface to dislodge loose grass clippings, paper elements must be replaced once the media becomes gray or restricted.
Does the 796031 air filter include the foam pre-filter?
Yes, the listing for the DASARYA cylindrical filter specifies that each unit in the pack includes both the primary round air cleaner cartridge and an outer foam pre-filter wrap to provide dual-stage filtration.
Are foam filters like the 698369 air filter ready to install immediately?
The listing states that these foam filters are separately packaged for easy use, but the listing does not specify whether they come pre-oiled. Mower owners should consult their equipment manual to check whether light oiling is recommended before seating the foam into the air box.
What is the benefit of a dual-stage b&s mower air cleaner replacement?
Dual-stage setups, like those on the 698083 and 796031 models, pair an outer washable foam pre-filter with an inner pleated paper core. The foam wrap captures large grass particles and chaff, allowing the inner paper pleats to arrest fine dust without premature clogging, which extends filter life in dry conditions.
