109808X Hood Latch AYP for Craftsman Husqvarna Riding Mower Bagger

What It Is

The 109808X Hood Latch is a replacement latch for the hood on AYP (American Yard Products)-built riding mowers, typically used on Craftsman, Husqvarna, and certain Poulan Pro models. It secures the hood closed during operation and is commonly needed when the original latch breaks, wears out, or fails to hold, especially on mowers with bagger attachments.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower’s model number (stamped under the seat or on the frame). This latch fits most AYP platform mowers with a hood latch design using two screw holes spaced 1.5 inches apart center-to-center. It is NOT universal—check that your existing latch has the same mounting pattern. Common compatible models include Craftsman 917 series, Husqvarna YTH/YTA series, and Poulan Pro PPB series. Measure the latch slot width: this part is about 1 inch wide. If your mower uses a different latch design (e.g., a spring-loaded or push-button style), it won’t work. Also verify the latch material—OEM is plastic, aftermarket versions may be slightly thinner.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: OEM-grade plastic, but can be brittle in cold weather. Avoid overtightening screws to prevent cracking.
• Installation: Easy—remove two screws, swap latch, reinstall. No special tools needed. Takes under 10 minutes.
• Gotcha: Some users report the latch doesn’t hold as tightly on older hoods with worn hinge pins. Check hood alignment before installing.
• Bagger note: If your mower has a bagger, the latch must fully engage to prevent hood pop-up during dumping. Test after install.

Should You Buy It

If your AYP mower’s hood latch is broken, missing, or too loose to stay closed, this $8.99 part is a cheap, direct fix. It’s ideal for DIY repairs on Craftsman or Husqvarna riders, but skip it if your mower uses a different latch style or if the hood itself is warped.