How to Change a Lawnmower's Fuel Filter

Unplug the spark plug wire from the top of the spark plug. If you have a riding lawnmower, turn the ignition to the "Off" position and take out the key.

Locate the fuel filter on your mower. The fuel filter is between the carburetor and the fuel tank. Follow the fuel line from the fuel tank until you find the fuel filter. The fuel filter is usually transparent.

Lock a fuel line clamp onto the fuel line between the fuel tank and the fuel filter. A fuel line clamp tool resembles a pair of pliers. The clamp jaws lock over the line, preventing the fuel in the tank from flowing. If you do not have a fuel line clamp, siphon the gas out of the fuel tank into a gas can with a hand siphon.

Place several rags on your lawnmower under the fuel filter. The rags will catch most of the fuel that escapes when you remove the fuel filter. Loosen then slide the clamps that secure the fuel lines to each end of the fuel filter away from the ends of the filter. Some clamps use a screw, which requires a Phillips head screwdriver, while most have clamps with tabs you squeeze together with a pair of pliers to slide them away from the fuel filter.

Pull the fuel line off each end of the fuel filter. The ends of the fuel filter have barbs that might require twisting the line back and forth as you pull it way from the filter.

Install the new fuel filter with the arrow on the filter pointing away from the fuel tank. The arrow indicates the fuel flow. Reattach the fuel line clamps over the end of the lines and fuel filter. Release the fuel line clamp tool from the fuel line.

Remove the rags from your lawnmower and wipe up any excess fuel. Push the spark plug wire back over the plug.