Replacing A Lawn Mover Fuel Filter: Step-By-Step Guide

Lawn mowers are essential for maintaining a well-manicured garden, but they require regular maintenance to function effectively. One such task is replacing the fuel filter, a small device that ensures the fuel reaching the engine is clean and free of contaminants. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace the fuel filter on a lawnmower, ensuring your machine runs smoothly for years to come.

Identify the type of fuel filter your lawn mower has

To identify the type of fuel filter your lawn mower has, you'll need to locate the fuel filter itself. Typically, the fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank or fitted into the fuel line between the tank and the fuel pump/carburetor.

Lawn mower fuel filters can be replaceable or non-replaceable. Replaceable fuel filters are usually found inside or attached to the fuel line. They can be identified by their small plastic canister with pleated material inside, or a thin, straw-like tube-style design with a fine mesh at one end. The canister-style connects to one end of the fuel line, while the straw-style slides inside the fuel line where it connects to the fuel tank.

On the other hand, non-replaceable fuel filters are often found inside the fuel tank. These are usually designed as a metal mesh at the bottom of the tank, where it empties into the fuel line.

Once you've located and identified the type of fuel filter your lawn mower has, you can proceed with the appropriate cleaning or replacement steps. It's important to maintain your lawn mower's fuel filter to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Find the fuel filter

To find the fuel filter on your lawnmower, you'll first need to consult your lawnmower's manual. The fuel filter is typically found along the fuel line between the fuel tank and the carburetor.

Riding lawn mowers and lawn tractors usually have an in-line filter, which is a plastic pod with a fuel line attached to both ends. This filter will be located somewhere between the fuel tank (often mounted to a lawn tractor's firewall, close to the driver) and its carburetor (on either the left or right side of the engine).

If you have a walk-behind lawnmower, it may have an in-tank filter. This type of filter is a screen inside the gas tank and should only be changed by an experienced technician.

If you can't find the fuel filter, it's possible your lawnmower doesn't have one. Some engines, especially older and smaller ones, don't have fuel filters.

Remove the fuel filter

To remove the fuel filter from your lawnmower, you will need a pair of pliers.

First, clamp the fuel line shut with the pliers. Then, use the pliers to open the hose clamps on both ends of the fuel filter. Loosen the clamps and slide them away from the filter, then allow them to close again. Place something underneath the filter to catch any dripping gasoline. Finally, twist and pull both ends of the fuel line off the fuel filter nozzles.

If your lawnmower has an in-tank filter, this is a job for an experienced technician.

Inspect the filter

Inspecting the fuel filter is a crucial step in maintaining your lawnmower. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Identifying Clogging or Contamination:

Start by examining the filter for any signs of dirt, debris, or gunk buildup. Look for dark spots, discolouration, or visible particles trapped within the filter. If you notice any of these issues, it's an indication that the filter is clogged or contaminated and needs to be replaced or thoroughly cleaned.

Understanding the Filter Types:

Lawnmowers typically have two types of fuel filters: canister-style and tube-style. Canister-style filters are small plastic canisters with pleated material inside, while tube-style filters resemble thin straws with a fine mesh at one end. Understanding which type your lawnmower has will help you know what to look for during inspection.

Inspecting a Canister-Style Filter:

If your lawnmower has a canister-style filter, you'll need to look through the transparent plastic casing to inspect the pleated material inside. Check for any debris or discolouration within the pleats. If the pleated material appears clogged or severely discoloured, it's definitely time for a replacement. Unfortunately, canister-style filters cannot be conveniently cleaned, so replacement is the best course of action.

Inspecting a Tube-Style Filter:

For tube-style filters, focus your attention on the meshed end of the filter. Carefully inspect the mesh for any trapped dirt or debris. If you notice any contamination, it's recommended to either thoroughly rinse the filter with clean gasoline and let it dry before reinstalling, or simply replace it with a new filter.

Frequency of Inspection:

It's generally advised to inspect and replace your lawnmower's fuel filter at least once a year. However, if you use your lawnmower frequently or operate it in particularly dusty or debris-prone environments, you may need to inspect the filter more often. Regular inspection and replacement of the fuel filter will help ensure optimal performance and longevity for your lawnmower.

Install a new or cleaned filter

Once you have your new lawn mower fuel filter or cleaned the old one, you can install it in a few simple steps.

First, make sure you have threaded the fuel hose clamps onto the fuel line before beginning installation. Then, examine the new fuel filter for an arrow indicating the direction the fuel should flow. When installing the new filter, ensure this arrow is pointing toward the engine.

You will need to twist each nozzle of the fuel filter into the corresponding fuel line. After the fuel line is snug against the plastic filter body, loosen the hose clamps and slide them over the filter's entrance and exit nozzles. Release the fuel clamps, and they will tighten around the new filter and your fuel lines.

Remember to remove your fuel line clamp before restarting your lawn mower.

Frequently asked questions