How to Replace a Lawn Mower Fuel Filter

Here at Mower Logic, we always recommend staying ahead of lawn mower problems by keeping up with routine maintenance. Knowing how to replace a lawn mower fuel filter is key to maintaining a healthy lawn mower. If you don’t replace your lawn mower’s fuel filter regularly, you’ll face a series of avoidable problems. Let’s check out the super simple steps to replacing your lawn mower fuel filter.

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Why it’s Important to Replace a Lawn Mower Fuel Filter

The main issue you’ll encounter if you don’t replace your fuel filter is that your lawn mower will sputter or won’t be able to start. The engine sputters because oil is unable to get through the clogged filter. This is one of the reasons why your lawn mower won’t start after running out of gas or why it’s hard to cold-start your lawn mower. In other words, a dirty fuel filter prevents the engine from accessing the fuel it needs to run smoothly. So, if your lawn mower keeps stalling even though there’s plenty of gas in the tank, then check your fuel filter.

You should also replace your filter when storing it away for the winter. This is an essential step when winterizing your lawn mower. If winterizing is new to you and you fail to do it, then replacing the fuel filter when getting your mower ready in spring will really help your mower work properly. In the winter, the mower sits idle for months. If you don’t winterize, the fuel left in the engine will deteriorate and cause damage to the fuel filter. When this happens, your mower will really struggle to run.

Ok, you get it. Replacing your lawn mower’s fuel filter is super important. But how do you do it?

Finding the Fuel Filter

There isn’t a single fuel filter location across all mowers. Different mowers place fuel filters in different places. For example, if we’re looking at a ride-on lawn mower or tractor mower, then the fuel filter is usually under the hood. On zero turns, you’ll likely find the fuel filter under the seat or beneath the tank. On walk-behind mowers, the filter is usually on the side of the mower or inside the fuel line. Take your time and find the fuel filter. If you’re having trouble, then a quick search in the mower user manual should help you locate it.

Another thing to keep in mind is that larger lawnmowers sometimes have two tanks, each with its own fuel filter. So, make sure to replace the fuel filter on both of the tanks.

How to Replace a Lawn Mower Fuel Filter

There are two main types of fuel filters: in-line filters and in-pipe filters. In-line filters are those you can see. In-pipe filters are hidden inside a pipe.

What You’ll Need to Replace Fuel Filter

Pliers
Fuel Line Clamp (no cut-off valve)
New Fuel Filter (specific for your mower)

Steps to Replace an In-line Lawn Mower Fuel Filter

Switch off the mower.
Switch off the fuel. Some mowers have fuel cut-off valves, or you can use a fuel line clamp to pinch the fuel line. Avoid using any type of clamp that could damage the rubber fuel line. Without a clamp, your other option is to drain the fuel out of the tank.
Disconnect the fuel lines. The fuel filter is connected to the mower by two fuel lines. One connects to the fuel tank, and the other to the fuel pump. Each line is connected to the filter with a clamp. Use a pair of pliers to slide the two clamps a couple of inches down each fuel line.
Remove the used fuel filter. If it is stuck, you can twist it to break the seal.
Install the new fuel filter. There is a right and wrong way to install a new fuel filter. Look for an arrow on the new filter. This signifies the direction of fuel flow. The arrow needs to point in the direction of the engine, not the tank. Some newer filters don’t have arrows and can be installed in either direction.
Attach both fuel lines to the filter.
Clamp the fuel lines with your pliers, and position the fuel line clamps over the outlet pipes. Check that the grip is secure.
Switch the fuel back on or remove the clamp you placed on the fuel line.
Fill the fuel tank with fresh gas.

Steps to Replace an In-Pipe Lawn Mower Fuel Filter

Switch off the mower.
Switch off the fuel. Some mowers have fuel cut-off valves, or you can use a fuel line clamp to pinch the fuel line. Avoid using any type of clamp that could damage the rubber fuel line. Without a clamp, your other option is to drain the fuel out of the tank.
With your pliers, slide the fuel line clamp a couple of inches down the line. The fuel line should be located beneath the fuel tank.
Disconnect the fuel line attached to the fuel tank. If it feels stuck, twist it to break the seal.
Use a pair of pliers to remove the used in-pipe fuel filter or pull the fuel lines from the filter.
Install the new filter. In-pipe fuel filters are straightforward. One end fits in the fuel line, and the other end has a stopper. Insert the filter all the way into the fuel line until it can’t be pushed in anymore.
Attach the fuel line by sliding the line with the new filter onto the bottom of the fuel tank.
Clamp the fuel line. Use your pliers to position the fuel line clamp, and check that the grip is secure.
Switch on the fuel or remove the clamp you placed on the fuel line.
Fill the fuel tank with fresh gas.

Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing the Fuel Filter on a Lawn Mower

Replacing a fuel filter is one of the easier lawn mower maintenance tasks. However, there are still some things to be aware of to ensure you do it right.