How to Change the Governor on a Lawn Mower

The governor of a lawn mower regulates the speed of the mower engine. Racing mowers don't need the governor. For normal mowing purposes, the governor is important because you don't want the motor using too much power over extended periods of time, such as when you cut grass. Governors are plastic, and can wear out. Changing the governor of your mower helps keep the motor from revving, which can reduce the motor's lifespan.

Socket wrench
Sockets
Needle-nose pliers
Bucket

Instructions

- 1
  Make sure the engine on the mower is cooled down before working on it. Push the mower onto a hard, level surface.
- 2
  Unscrew the bolts holding the engine cover or hood. Use the corresponding sockets with the socket wrench to remove the bolts.
- 3
  Unscrew the bolts holding the flywheel cover from the top of the motor. Look for multiple bolts; combinations from six to ten bolts are common.
- 4
  Remove the cover to gain access to the flywheel and governor.
- 5
  Search for a plastic flap or arm with two springs attached. One spring will lead to the carburetor while the other leads to the throttle; this is where the governor connects to each. Use the pliers to unfasten both springs at the governor.
- 6
  Unscrew the plastic piece (governor) with the wrench. Pull off the rod attached to the throttle linkage to disconnect the governor from the engine block. Disconnect the small rod spanning between the governor and the carburetor.
- 7
  Swap out the old governor with the new governor.
- 8
  Connect the rod between the carburetor and the governor. Connect the rod attached to the throttle linkage and the governor. Screw the governor back into position.
- 9
  Reattach the springs with pliers to ensure they don't pop off in your hand during reassembly.
- 10
  Place the flywheel cover into position over the motor. Screw the bolts back into position.

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