How to Change a Snapper Lawn Mower Blade
- 1). Put on gloves and disconnect the spark plug wire from the top of the spark plug. This removes the danger of the mower being accidentally started when it is tilted or lifted for access to the blade. Gloves will keep hands and wrists safe from harm if the blade twists or falls during removal.
- 2). Drain the fuel tank. Working on the mower may require you to lift or tilt the mower into a position where fuel may exit the tank, creating a hazardous work space. Spilled gasoline may damage paint or other parts of the mower, as well as the environment. Drained gas should be reused in the mower or other personally owned vehicle.
- 3). Place mower on suitable working surface, and then lift the spark plug side for easier access to the blade. If the mower is a riding type, then remove the cutting blade shroud and tilt with car jacks.
- 4). Place a wood block against the blade and the mower housing to keep it from turning. This may require finding a shorter or longer piece of wood to properly brace the blade. Removing the blade without bracing of some kind may allow the blade to turn or fall and cut you. Take note of the blade position before work. Write down whether the curved edges of the blade are up or down, as well as the position of all nuts, bolts, and washers used in securing the blade. If parts are lost during the blade change, these notes will help you acquire new parts and place them properly.
- 5). Use the 9/16-inch wrench to remove the bolt securing the blade. Do not to allow the blade to shift or drop while you remove it, as this could damage the mower and you.
- 6). Mount the new cutting blade as noted in the prior step. Replace washers and the bolt or nut securing the blade to the mower. Ensure that the washers are installed with the correct side towards the blade, and that the nut securing the assembly is installed properly.
- 7). Tighten the nut to the designated amount of torque. Before lowering the mower, triple-check that everything is tight, and that the blade is mounted correctly. Improper mounting could damage the mower and harm the operator.
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