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EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement pertaining to the 1993 Nonofficer Employee Stock Option Plan of Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc. of our report dated April 9, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended January 31, 2003, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Houston, Texas
April 9, 2003

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CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS