How to Replace a Fuel Tank On a Riding Lawnmower

Lift the seat forward and remove the fuel tank cap. Siphon the fuel from the fuel tank to a gas can using a hand siphon. This helps prevent fuel spills when removing the tank, and also makes the tank lighter to move.

Find and remove the bolts and nuts securing the fender assembly to the mower frame using a socket wrench. Depending upon the model, the securing bolts and nuts are usually between the fuel tank and the inside of the fenders, with a couple on the front and rear of the assembly.

Twist off the knobs or handle grips from all levers that come up through the fender assembly. Most lever handles and knobs simply screw onto threads on the ends of the levers.

Lift the fender assembly away from the riding mower frame. Lift the fuel tank so you have access to the fuel line. Lock a fuel line clamp tool around the fuel line 6 inches from the fuel tank. This helps prevent fuel spillage from the line.

Loosen the clamp screw securing the fuel line to the fuel tank with a Phillips-head screwdriver, if the fuel line uses a clamp. Pull the fuel line away from the fuel tank. Some fuel lines do not have clamps, and simply pull off the fuel tank. Lift the fuel tank away from the riding mower.

Position the new fuel tank into the cavity on the mower frame. The fuel fill cap should be toward the rear of the mower. Attach the fuel line to the fuel tank. Tighten the line clamp around the nipple fitting, if your unit uses a clamp on the fuel line. Remove the fuel line clamp tool from the fuel line.

Install the fender assembly back onto the mower frame. When reinstalling the fender frame, ensure that the fender assembly secures the fuel tank and that all mounting holes line up. It might take some maneuvering and a helper to reposition the fender assembly onto the frame.

Thread all securing bolts and nuts into the mounting holes and tighten with a socket wrench. The fuel tank should be secure once all nuts and bolts for the fender assembly are tight. Reattach the lever knobs or handle grips.

Fill the fuel tank with new fuel. Lower the driver seat, and start the mower just as you would when cold starting. It might take several attempts to start the mower as the fuel travels to the carburetor.