Step 5
Fuel Filters
Again, check your mower’s owner’s manual to determine if your mower has a fuel filter. Lawn mower fuel filters come as canister (similar to an oil filter) or in-line, pleated paper designs. A clogged fuel filter can stop your mower dead in its tracks. Fuel filters have a simple, but important job, keeping dirt, rust, scale and other impurities from entering and damaging the engine. Safety first! No smoking or open flames and have a fire extinguisher handy. Turn the fuel cut-off valve to the “off” position and use a different drain pan to catch any gasoline that spills.
- For a canister fuel filter, follow the same steps as replacing the oil filter.
- For an in-line filter, use hose clamp pliers or a multi-bit screwdriver to loosen either spring or worm gear clamps located on each side of the filter.
- Slide the clamps off the filter’s rubber or plastic fuel lines.
- Twist the filter to “break” the seal between the filter and fuel lines.
- Remove the old filter—note “inlet” and “outlet” port orientation, usually marked with an arrow.
- Inserting the new filter into the fuel lines, ensure the new filter “outlet” port is pointed in the correct direction—toward the carburetor.
- Reposition the clamps and retighten.
Step 6
Finishing Up
Wipe any spilled oil or other fluids off the mower. Clean your work area, tools and dispose of old parts. Properly dry out and store oily rags and waste oil containers until bringing to a facility that collects used oil.
- Check the oil level again.
- Fill the tank with fresh gasoline. I always add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer (usually one ounce) when filling the tank to prevent corrosion.
- Open the fuel shut-off valve if closed. If you replace the fuel filter, you will need to pull the starter cord a few times to prime the carburetor.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire/cable.
- Start the mower, let it run for a few minutes. Check for oil and fuel leaks.
- Shut the mower off and check the oil level again.
How much does a lawn mower tune-up cost?
Depending on your make and model, it can cost $15 (or less) to simply change the oil and install a new spark plug yourself. If your mower needs an air, oil and or fuel filter, it may add another $30 to $50 to the cost. Most of the chemicals you may need (degreaser, rust inhibitor, penetrating lubricant or fuel additive) are most likely in your garage.
Is it cheaper to repair your lawn mower or buy a new one?
Again, depends. If you invested in an expensive mower with all the bells and whistles, and it’s less than five years old, it makes sense to invest in DIY repairs, such as replacing a defective carburetor, a frayed starter cord or a broken control cable. If you bought a $100 mower, it’s 15 years old, and it needs major engine repairs or the deck is rotted out, then it’s time for a new one.
Pro Tip: I always add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer to my five-gallon gas can to help keep the gas fresh as long as possible. In addition to annually tuning up my snow blower, generator, and pressure washer, because they can sit idle for a year or longer, I start them every six months to keep them in tip-top shape for when I go to use them.
DIY vs. Professional Lawn Mower Tune Up
Performing the five simple DIY lawn mower tuning steps listed here can save you $200 to $300 in labor over taking it to a small engine repair shop. Although each lawn mower can be different, the steps are usually similar.
Before you start, check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended motor oil, filters, and spark plug. The manual should also tell you where the parts are located and how to replace them. It should also include notes on certain specifications such as the spark plug air gap and how much oil the engine holds. If the engine is running poorly or belching black smoke after the tune-up, it may be time to visit the pros.
Sharpening Your Lawn Mower Blade
Sharpening a lawn mower blade twice each season helps maintain a green, healthy lawn, reducing mowing time, decreasing engine strain and lowering fuel consumption. An easy DIY task, follow these steps to learn how to sharpen your lawn mower blade while performing a tune-up.
About the Expert
David Bodzioch has been an ASE Master Technician for 23 years, is EETC (Equipment and Engine Training Council) certified and for the past 19 years has taught Recreational Power Equipment at North Montco Technical Career Center.
Happy mowing!
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