How to Change the Primer Bulb on a Craftsman Eager-1 Lawn Mower

Remove the fuel tank filler cap from the lawn mower. Siphon out all the gasoline into a suitable container, using a self-priming gasoline siphon pump.

Grip the primer bulb sideways with a pair of pliers and hold the bottom edge of the pliers against the side of the carburetor. Twist the pliers counterclockwise and remove the primer bulb from the carburetor.

Press the point of a hooked tempered steel probe between the inside of the primer bulb recess and the bulb. Push inward, twist the handle counterclockwise and pull the probe outward; this will lever the tabbed washer securing the bulb out from the carburetor body.

Cover the tip of a small screwdriver with a rag and use it to clean out any rubber shreds adhering to the inside of the primer bulb recess. Dip the rag in organic solvent and repeat until the mating metal face inside the recess is perfectly clean; do not gouge the metal while doing so.

Place the new primer bulb on a clean surface with the bulb side up. Slip the tabbed washer that came in the primer bulb kit over the bulb so that it rests against the rubber flange on the bulb. Ensure that the slightly bent tabs face upward.

Slide the end of a 19 mm socket over the bulb. The bulb fits perfectly inside a 19 mm socket and the socket rim covers the tabbed washer completely. The socket then acts as a hollow punch by flattening the securing tabs during installation.

Press the end of the socket containing the primer bulb into the primer bulb recess on the side of the carburetor.

Push the socket inward and deliver two or three fairly firm blows to the end of the socket with a plastic mallet. This will flatten the tabs so that they clamp themselves against the inside rim of the primer bulb recess, securing the bulb firmly in place with a leak-proof joint.

Refuel the mower. Press the primer bulb two or three times and check for leaks. The primer bulb installation is complete and you can now start the lawn mower.