Good morning lachlane, and welcome to the ODK Forums.
From my short experience, when looking for parts and information on your machine, I have found the following information (if available) is a must to help provide or find answers to questions:-
1. Manufacturer information obtained from the machine label to assist in searching details as there are multiple models in each range, and some mowers are built by other Manufacturers and re-labelled. These labels can be located in various places on a machine. You may find the label on the rear plate, under the seat, on the frame below the motor, or hidden in other places.
As an example, the Victa 3012TX I have was built by Murray (as shown in this picture) and the label is on the rear plate of the body, below the drivers seat:-
2. Engine Numbers are also important. For example, if it's a Briggs and Stratton motor, having the Model, Type & Code helps to identify the specific engine series when looking for Parts and Diagrams.
A 13.5hp Tecumseh Engine I have has the engine label on the side of the motor
![[Linked Image]](https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/uploads/usergals/2016/03/full-9311-27730-victa_3012tx_model_31721x88b_ride_on_mower_4.jpg)
And a 16hp Briggs and Stratton I have has it's engine numbers on the cowling. These are sometimes located on the OHV cover
![[Linked Image]](https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/uploads/usergals/2016/03/full-9311-27731-img_2054.jpg)
If you need to service, or work on the Transmission, then having the actual transmission Manufacturers information will also help.
I find uploading Photos of these benefits in identification of machines and, if you have issues with a particular item, may aid in seeing what issues are being investigated.
Hope this is of assistance.
Regards
Daryl