How to Replace a Craftsman Lawn Mower Primer Bulb
The primer bulb on your Craftsman lawn mower engine is attached to the carburetor. This small bulb, when pressed, forces a small amount of fuel into the carburetor. Without this first squirt, the mower would not start. When you pull on your mower's starter rope, the gas you pumped into the carb with the primer gives the mower engine juice to start. Then vacuum power pulls more gas into the carb as the mower runs. A Craftsman mower primer bulb is a thumb-size soft plastic bubble that can crack over time. At some point, the primer bulb will need to be replaced. The hardware you'll need for a Craftsman mower primer is available at hardware stores and cost only a few dollars.
- The primer bulb on your Craftsman lawn mower engine is attached to the carburetor.
Remove the Craftsman mower's air filter by turning the screw holding it in place. Take off the cover, the filter and the lower cover. This should expose the primer bulb.
Pry off the plastic ring around the primer bulb using a flat-head screwdriver.
Turn the plastic clip that holds the primer bulb in place, using your screwdriver, until it comes loose. Remove both clips holding the primer bulb in place.
Place the new primer bulb into the hole and put the new clips around it to hold the bulb in place. Attach the new plastic cover around the primer bulb.
- Remove the Craftsman mower's air filter by turning the screw holding it in place.
- Attach the new plastic cover around the primer bulb.
Replace the air filter cover and attempt to start the engine to test the bulb. Ensure there are no leaks coming from the bulb.
Connect Your Primer On A Lawn Mower
Park the lawn mower on a flat and level surface, such as a driveway. Remove the spark plug for safety before starting to work. Push in on both sides of the primer bulb with your fingers to release the tabs on the retainer ring holding it in place in the primer valve bore. Pull the primer out of the primer seat groove. Remove the primer seat from the primer valve bore with a crochet hook. Set the ball and spring aside for use later on. Obtain a suitable replacement primer bulb from a small engine repair shop. Avoid over stretching the spring at any point to prevent damage.
- Replace the air filter cover and attempt to start the engine to test the bulb.
- Pull the primer out of the primer seat groove.
Tip
Starting your mower using the primer bulb isn't necessary if the mower has been running recently, because there should still be gasoline in the throttle. If the mower is warm, try starting it without using the primer bulb.
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Tips
- Starting your mower using the primer bulb isn't necessary if the mower has been running recently, because there should still be gasoline in the throttle. If the mower is warm, try starting it without using the primer bulb.
