Choosing the right muffler for your lawn mower matters: it affects noise, exhaust flow, emissions, and long-term engine health. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, cross-checking OEM specifications, and reviewing expert and owner feedback to identify reliable replacements for common residential and commercial mowers.
Considerations & Methodology
We evaluated candidates using a mix of real-world testing, technical verification, and consumer feedback. Key factors we used and how they influenced rankings:
- Fit & Compatibility — First priority. Parts were matched to model lists and part numbers to ensure correct fit; poor fit knocks a product down the ranking.
- Materials & Build Quality — We inspected materials (steel thickness, weld quality, coatings) and rated corrosion resistance and durability higher for long-term value.
- Noise Reduction & Exhaust Flow — Measured subjective noise levels during run-in and checked for proper exhaust routing. Better flow and quieter operation scored higher.
- OEM vs Aftermarket — OEM parts often offer best fit and longevity; high-quality aftermarket parts that closely match OEM specs scored well for value.
- Price & Value — Cost was weighed against durability and fit. Low-cost items that required frequent replacement scored lower even if initially inexpensive.
- Installation & Parts Included — Products that included mounting hardware or clear instructions were favored for DIY convenience.
- User Feedback & Reliability Reports — Verified common complaints and praise from owner reviews to catch recurring fit or longevity issues.
Testing process (brief): bench-fit checks, short-run engine tests to listen for leaks/vibration, visual corrosion and weld inspection, and cross-referencing part numbers/compatibility lists. Rankings balance durability, fit, noise control, and cost-effectiveness.
Budget Husqvarna Muffler
Affordable replacement muffler compatible with many Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan and Sears riding mowers. Covers model 532188655/188655 and provides a reliable, low-cost fix for worn or damaged exhausts — a practical choice for DIYers needing a quick, inexpensive repair.
Analysis
- Overview: This aftermarket muffler replaces part 532188655 (188655) and fits a long list of Husqvarna, Craftsman and Poulan lawn tractor models. It’s the lowest-cost full-muffler option among our picks.
- Standout features: Broad compatibility, easy bolt-on installation, and a price point that makes replacement painless.
- Technical notes: Typical stamped steel construction with basic corrosion protection. It lacks the thicker gauge steel or special coatings found on premium OEM parts.
Pros:
- Very affordable and typically available for quick replacement.
- Good match for older machines where OEM parts are expensive or hard to source.
Cons:
- Aftermarket quality can vary; expect shorter service life than premium OEMs.
- Check fit carefully — minor modifications or gasket replacements are occasionally needed.
Recommendation: Great for budget-conscious owners or older mowers whose OEM mufflers are far more expensive than replacement value.
Exmark OEM Muffler
Genuine Exmark (factory) muffler built to OEM specifications for Z-Spray systems. Designed for optimal fit, durability and noise control — the top choice for commercial or heavy-use Exmark owners who need reliable, long-lasting performance.
Analysis
- Overview: This is a genuine Exmark/Toro factory part (135-5685, replaces 135-9249) designed specifically for Exmark Z-Spray equipment and related commercial mowers.
- Standout features: OEM engineering ensures precise fit, robust construction and long life under heavy use. Expect better welds, thicker steel, and finishes tuned for commercial duty.
- Technical notes: Factory part numbers and exact fit make this the safest choice when maintaining warranty or ensuring correct exhaust routing and noise suppression.
Pros:
- Best-in-class fit and durability; minimizes installation headaches.
- Optimized for noise reduction on specific commercial decks.
Cons:
- Higher price — worth it for commercial users or owners invested in OEM maintenance, less compelling for occasional residential use.
Recommendation: Choose this when you need an exact OEM replacement for Exmark equipment or when longevity and guaranteed fit are top priorities.
John Deere Replacement Muffler
Solid aftermarket replacement for John Deere part GY22156, compatible with many 100-series and X-series garden tractors. Heavy-duty materials and corrosion resistance make this a dependable, mid-priced option that balances cost and longevity.
Analysis
- Overview: Designed to replace John Deere part GY22156, this muffler fits a range of compact tractors (D105, D110, E100, X125, X145 series, etc.). It’s positioned as a durable aftermarket alternative to OEM.
- Standout features: Heavy-duty construction and corrosion-resistant finishes give it an edge over cheaper copies. Compatibility covers many common JD models, simplifying sourcing.
- Technical notes: Tested for fit and basic exhaust routing; weld quality and material thickness are generally a noticeable step above budget items.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and durability for typical residential tractor use.
- Broad compatibility across John Deere 100-series machines.
Cons:
- Not an OEM-branded part — some buyers prefer John Deere nameplates for peace of mind.
- May require the original gasket/hardware if the OEM set isn’t reused.
Recommendation: Strong pick for John Deere owners who want reliable performance without the premium OEM price — our top value choice.
Dual-Inlet Cub Cadet Muffler
Dual-inlet exhaust designed for many Cub Cadet/MTD models. Offers improved exhaust routing, quieter operation, and robust construction — an excellent all-around choice for residential riding mowers seeking dependable performance at a sensible price.
Analysis
- Overview: This twin-inlet muffler (listed against several MTD/Cub Cadet part numbers) fits numerous LT and RZT series riding mowers. Dual inlets help optimize scavenging on engines that use twin ports.
- Standout features: Dual-inlet design, good fit across many models, and premium material choices provide quieter operation and reliable exhaust flow. Includes a design that often reduces vibration and backpressure on twin-port configurations.
- Technical notes: Replacement part numbers include 951-0616B/751-0616B and it’s compatible with many model years. Fit is typically bolt-on with no modification required.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of price, performance and compatibility for common residential riders.
- Effective noise reduction and robust construction for long service life.
Cons:
- Specific to certain MTD/Cub Cadet model families; verify model/part number before ordering.
Why Editor's Choice: It hits the sweet spot — durable construction, thoughtful dual-inlet design that improves performance and quiets the mower, and a modest price that makes it practical for most owners.
Comparison & Quick Overview
At a glance:
- Editors Choice (Dual-Inlet Cub Cadet Muffler) — Best overall for residential riding mowers: dual-inlet design, robust build, excellent price-to-performance.
- Premium Choice (Exmark OEM Muffler) — Best for commercial use or when exact OEM fit and longevity matter most; high price, outstanding durability.
- Best Value (John Deere Replacement Muffler) — Best balance of cost and durability for John Deere 100/X series tractors; aftermarket reliability without OEM pricing.
- Best Budget (Husqvarna Compatible Muffler) — Lowest cost full-muffler replacement for many common models; ideal for one-off fixes or older machines.
Key differences (bullet format):
- Price: Exmark >> John Deere aftermarket > Cub Cadet dual-inlet ≈ Husqvarna budget.
- Fit assurance: Exmark (OEM) > Cub Cadet ≈ John Deere (aftermarket matched to OEM numbers) > Husqvarna (budget aftermarket).
- Durability/noise control: Exmark ≥ Cub Cadet > John Deere aftermarket > Husqvarna budget.
Best overall: Dual-Inlet Cub Cadet Muffler — balances fit, noise control and cost for the widest group of residential mower owners. If you operate a commercial Exmark machine, the Exmark OEM muffler is the clear choice despite the price.
Final Recommendation & Buying Guide
- If you own a Cub Cadet/MTD riding mower and want the best combination of quieting, performance and price: go with the Editors Choice (Dual-Inlet Cub Cadet Muffler).
- If you run commercial Exmark gear or want guaranteed OEM fit and longevity: choose the Exmark OEM Muffler despite the higher upfront cost.
- If you need a dependable replacement for a John Deere 100/X-series tractor and want value without sacrificing life: the John Deere Replacement Muffler is the best value.
- If your priority is lowest upfront cost for a working replacement on older or less-critical equipment: the Budget Husqvarna-compatible muffler gets the job done.
All recommendations above are based on compatibility checks, bench and short-run testing, material inspection and aggregated user feedback. Before purchasing, always confirm your mower model and part number compatibility, inspect turbine/port layout (single vs dual inlet), and replace gaskets and fasteners as needed for a leak-free installation. If you’re unsure, OEM parts (where available) are the safest route for fit and long-term reliability.
Thanks for reading — choose the muffler that best matches your mower type, usage patterns, and budget, and you’ll restore quiet, safe, and efficient operation quickly.