Changing Fuel Filter In Leaf Blower: Step-By-Step Guide

A leaf blower is a versatile piece of outdoor power equipment that can be used all year round. However, like all power equipment, it requires periodic maintenance to keep it running smoothly. This includes replacing the spark plug, cleaning or replacing the air and fuel filters, and rebuilding the carburettor. This article will focus on how to change the fuel filter in a leaf blower.

How to remove the fuel filter from a leaf blower

To remove the fuel filter from a leaf blower, follow these steps:

Firstly, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need a receptacle for draining fuel, long-nose pliers, a small screwdriver, wire cutters, and a wire hook. It is also recommended to have a flat-head screwdriver and a wrench set to hand.

Now, follow these steps:

• Drain the fuel tank. Remove the fuel cap and empty the fuel from the tank into an approved storage container.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire. To ensure the leaf blower can't start, disconnect the wire from the spark plug.
• Rotate the choke knob to the middle position.
• Remove the fuel filter cover. Locate the fuel filter cover on the side of the leaf blower and remove the screws.
• Clean the area. Remove any loose dirt and debris around the filter using a rag or paintbrush.
• Remove the fuel filter. Pull the fuel filter from its housing. If it is an inline fuel filter, you will need to cut a small hook from a wire coat hanger and 'fish' the filter out.
• Remove the pre-filter. Take the pre-filter out of the rest of the unit.

Now that you have removed the fuel filter, you can either clean or replace it. If you choose to clean it, you can follow the next steps:

• Wash the pre-filter. Wash the pre-filter using warm soapy water and place it on a rag to dry for at least an hour.
• Clean the felt filter. Blow out the felt filter using canned air or clean it with a paintbrush.
• Reinstall the filters. Place the filter element and pre-filter back into the fuel filter housing and replace the screws.

Finally, to finish the process:

• Reattach the spark plug wire.
• Refill the fuel tank.

How to clean a leaf blower fuel filter

To clean a leaf blower fuel filter, you should first drain the fuel tank and allow the engine to cool. Then, remove the spark plug wire boot. Rotate the choke knob to the middle position.

Next, locate the fuel filter cover, which is usually on the side of the leaf blower, and remove the screws. Clean away any loose dirt and debris around the filter with a rag or paintbrush. Pull the fuel filter from its housing and remove the pre-filter.

Wash the pre-filter with soapy water and leave it to dry for at least an hour. You can clean the felt filter element by blowing it out with canned air or using a paintbrush. If it is difficult to clean, consider replacing it.

Once the pre-filter is dry, put it and the filter element back into the fuel filter housing and replace the screws. Reattach the spark plug wire boot. If you are going to use the leaf blower, refill the fuel tank.

It is recommended to clean the fuel filter at the end of each season. However, if you use your leaf blower regularly, you may need to clean it more frequently as the fuel filter can get clogged faster. Signs that your fuel filter needs to be cleaned or replaced include trouble starting the leaf blower, frequent sputtering, strong odours, and frequent shutdowns.

How to install a new fuel filter in a leaf blower

To install a new fuel filter in your leaf blower, you will first need to drain the fuel tank and allow the engine to cool. Then, disconnect the spark plug wire and boot to prevent any sparks.

Next, locate the fuel filter cover, which is usually on the side of the leaf blower, and remove the screws. If you're unsure where the fuel filter housing is, check your owner's manual or look online. With the cover removed, clean away any loose dirt and debris around the filter using a rag or paintbrush.

Now, you can install the new fuel filter. Slide the fuel line clip over the fuel tube, positioning it approximately 1/4 inch from the tube's end. Then, install the new fuel filter onto the end of the tube. Ensure the clip expands slightly to accommodate the flared connection before tightening around the narrow portion of the fitting. Perform this step in one continuous motion. If the clip slides backward, reposition it and start again.

Once the new fuel filter is securely in place, you can reassemble the leaf blower. Reinsert the fuel filter and fuel line into the fuel tank, and then reinstall the fuel cap. Finally, reconnect the spark plug wire and boot, and refill the fuel tank if you plan on using the leaf blower soon.

Signs that your leaf blower's fuel filter is clogged

The fuel filter is one of the most important components of a leaf blower as it filters the fuel for a smoother and more efficient performance. Over time, the filter gets clogged with residue and will need to be replaced or cleaned. Here are some signs that indicate your leaf blower's fuel filter is clogged:

• Trouble starting the leaf blower: If you are experiencing difficulty starting your leaf blower, it could be a sign that your fuel filter is clogged. A dirty fuel filter will make it challenging to start the machine, and a fully-clogged one will make it impossible.
• Frequent sputtering: If your leaf blower misfires or sputters when in use, a partially clogged fuel filter is usually the culprit.
• Strong odours: If your leaf blower emits strong-smelling fumes, that can be another sign of a partially clogged or dirty fuel filter. Leaf blowers typically do not emit a strong odour, so this is a good indicator that something is wrong with the fuel filter.
• Frequent shutdowns: If your leaf blower suddenly shuts down for no apparent reason, that is usually a symptom of a dirty or clogged fuel filter.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to clean or replace your leaf blower's fuel filter right away. Do not wait for the next scheduled maintenance to address the issue.

How to drain the fuel tank of a leaf blower

To drain the fuel tank of a leaf blower, you will need a receptacle for draining fuel, such as an approved fuel container. You will also need paper towels or shop rags to deal with any spillages.

Before you begin, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area. Then, follow these steps:

• Remove the fuel cap and empty the fuel from the fuel tank into your chosen receptacle.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire to ensure the leaf blower cannot start accidentally.
• Remove the blower tube by loosening the thumb screw on the front of the housing and pulling it off.
• Remove the air filter cover by unscrewing the screws and lifting it off.
• Pull out the air box and release it from the carburetor throttle and choke levers.
• Remove the fuel lines from the carburetor, noting their configuration so you can reconnect them correctly later.
• Pull the fuel lines out of the tank. The small fuel line is connected to the fuel filter inside the tank, so use needle-nose pliers to carefully remove it.
• Continue to remove the blower housing, fuel tank, and any other necessary components to access the fuel tank fully.

Once you have completed these steps, your leaf blower's fuel tank will be drained, and you can proceed with further maintenance or repairs.

Frequently asked questions