Replacing Fuel Tank On Leaf Blower: A Step-By-Step Guide

Leaf blowers are handy tools for maintaining outdoor spaces. However, their performance can be hindered by fuel line issues, which can cause fuel leaks and prevent the engine from starting. This is often due to fuel lines becoming brittle, clogged, or damaged over time. To resolve these issues, you'll need to replace the fuel tank, fuel lines, or both. This process involves disconnecting the spark plug, draining the fuel tank, removing the blower tube and air filter cover, detaching the fuel lines from the carburetor, and then installing new fuel lines or a new fuel tank.

How to Replace Fuel Tank on Leaf Blower

Drain the fuel tank

To drain the fuel tank of your leaf blower, you must first move it to a well-ventilated area. This is important as fuel vapours can be harmful.

Next, you will need to remove the fuel cap and drain the excess fuel from the tank into an approved storage container. It is recommended to use a receptacle specifically designed for draining fuel.

Once the fuel is drained, you can proceed to disconnect the spark plug wire to ensure the leaf blower cannot start accidentally.

Now, you can begin to remove the various components that may be in the way, such as the blower tube, air filter cover, carburetor, and housing. This will give you better access to the fuel tank and lines.

At this point, you can remove the fuel lines from the carburetor using long-nose pliers. Then, cut the fuel lines flush with the fuel tank using wire cutters.

Finally, use a small screwdriver to press the remaining portions of the fuel lines into the fuel tank. You can now proceed to remove the fuel tank itself.

Disconnect the fuel lines

Disconnecting the fuel lines is a crucial step in replacing the fuel tank on a leaf blower. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Drain the fuel tank:

Before disconnecting the fuel lines, it is essential to drain any excess fuel from the tank. This is a safety precaution to prevent fuel leakage during the disconnection process. Place a receptacle under the fuel tank and carefully drain the fuel into it. Ensure you perform this step in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fuel vapors.

Disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor:

Using long-nosed pliers, carefully detach the fuel lines from the carburetor. Gently loosen the connection and pull the lines away from the carburetor. Take note of the configuration of the fuel lines, as you will need to reconnect them correctly later.

Cut the fuel lines:

Once the fuel lines are disconnected from the carburetor, use wire cutters to cut them flush with the fuel tank. Cut as close to the tank as possible to ensure a clean disconnection. Be cautious not to damage the fuel tank during this step.

Remove the remaining line portions:

Using a small screwdriver, carefully press the remaining portions of the fuel lines into the fuel tank. This step ensures that there are no obstructions when removing the fuel tank. Gently apply pressure to push the line remnants into the tank.

Retrieve the lower halves of the fuel lines:

Using long-nosed pliers or a long wire hook, reach into the fuel tank to retrieve the lower halves of the fuel lines. One of these lines will contain the fuel filter. Carefully remove them from the tank, taking care not to damage any other components.

By following these steps, you will successfully disconnect the fuel lines from the fuel tank, allowing you to proceed with replacing the fuel tank on your leaf blower. Remember to work cautiously and refer to the specific instructions for your leaf blower model for the most accurate information.

Remove the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank from your leaf blower, you will need to perform the following steps:

Firstly, ensure that your leaf blower is in a well-ventilated area and that the engine is cool. This is important for your safety, as fuel vapours can be harmful. Next, disconnect the wire from the spark plug to prevent the leaf blower from accidentally starting.

Now, you can begin to disassemble the leaf blower. Remove the blower tube by loosening the thumb screw on the front of the housing and pulling the tube off. Then, remove the screws from the right side of the housing and carefully pull off the left side of the housing, along with the fan cover and handle.

With the housing removed, you will have access to the fuel tank. Remove the fuel tank from the housing, and then carefully pull the fuel lines out of the tank. The fuel lines are typically connected to a fuel filter inside the tank, so use needle-nose pliers to remove the fuel filter and detach the lines.

Once the fuel lines and filter are removed, you can completely detach the fuel tank from the leaf blower. Make sure to dispose of the old fuel and fuel lines safely and responsibly.

Note: It is recommended to have little to no fuel in the tank before beginning this process to avoid spills and reduce the risk of fire. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when handling fuel and working on the leaf blower.

Install the new fuel tank

To install the new fuel tank on your leaf blower, follow these steps:

Begin by ensuring the engine and muffler are cooled down. Place your leaf blower in a well-ventilated area and remove any remaining fuel from the tank. Drain the fuel into an approved storage container.

Next, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Remove the blower tube by loosening the thumb screw at the front of the housing. Take off the air filter cover and carburetor, noting the configuration of the fuel lines attached to the carburetor and carefully detaching them.

Now, you can remove the fuel tank. Take off the screws from the front of the muffler guard cover and pull off the guard cover. Remove the blower tube thumb screw and the screws from the right side of the housing, pulling off the left side of the housing, which will bring the fuel tank with it.

Once the old fuel tank is removed, you can install the new one. Insert the new fuel filter and line into the tank, ensuring they are oriented correctly. Press the grommet into place. Reattach the fuel lines to the appropriate ports on the carburetor and position the vent line in the blower housing.

Finally, to complete the reassembly, follow these steps in reverse order. Reinstall the carburetor, air filter cover, and blower tube, reconnecting the spark plug wire. Ensure all screws are tightened securely.

Your leaf blower is now ready to be used again.

Reassemble the leaf blower

Once you have installed the new fuel tank and fuel lines, you can begin to reassemble your leaf blower.

Reinstall the Left Side of the Housing

Position the left side of the housing near the leaf blower and thread the fuel lines through the hole in the housing near the carburetor. Ensure the handle is correctly positioned, and push the housing back together, checking that the eyelet for the starter pull cord is in the right place. Insert the thumb screw at the front of the blower and rotate it until it catches the nut. Do not tighten it yet. Install two other housing screws loosely to keep the housing in place while you install the fan cover.

Install the Fan Cover

Pry the tab on the fan cover spring out until it is in the loaded position. Snap the fan cover into the housing while holding the spring in the loaded position.

Secure the Housing

Insert all of the housing screws and tighten them firmly.

Reinstall the Guard Cover on the Muffler

Reinstall the guard cover on the muffler.

Reinstall the Carburetor

Push the fuel lines onto the correct connections on the carburetor. Insert the carburetor into the air box, ensuring the throttle and choke levers are positioned correctly. Position the carburetor on the side of the engine and reinstall the mounting screws.

Reinstall the Air Filter Cover

Position the air filter cover over the carburetor and secure it with the mounting screws.

Reinstall the Blower Tube

Push the blower tube back on at the front of the housing and tighten the thumb screw.

Reconnect the Spark Plug

Reattach the spark plug wire.

Your leaf blower should now be ready to use.

Frequently asked questions