April 01, 2013

How to replace a lawn mower wheel

How to replace a lawn mower wheel

This lawn mower repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for how to replace a lawn mower wheel. Lawn mower wheels can wear out with normal use. Fortunately, replacing a wheel is an easy repair. Before ordering the replacement lawn mower wheel, also check the axle shafts for wear and damage. Replace worn axle shafts at the same time to prevent the new wheels from wearing prematurely. Replace the wheels and axle shaft using the manufacturer-approved replacement parts.

These steps show how to replace the wheel on common Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, Yard-Man, Troybilt, Toro and Murray walk-behind lawn mowers.

Quick links
Tools required
Slot screwdriver
Wrench
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Elevate the mower

    Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

    Lift the mower and slide a block of wood under the housing to support the mower with the wheels off the ground.

    If the mower is heavy, have a helper lift the mower while you position the block of wood. 

  2. 02.

    Remove the wheel

    Use a slot screwdriver to pry off the hub cap.

    Remove the nut that secures the wheel to the axle shaft and slide the wheel off the shaft. If the nut has a washer, remember its location.

    Tip: If your mower has a cotter pin instead of a nut, use pliers to remove the cotter pin.
    PHOTO: Pry off the hub cap.

    PHOTO: Pry off the hub cap.

    PHOTO: Remove the nut that holds the wheel to the axle shaft.

    PHOTO: Remove the nut that holds the wheel to the axle shaft.

    PHOTO: Slide the wheel off the axle.

    PHOTO: Slide the wheel off the axle.

  3. 03.

    Clean the axle shaft

    Use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe debris off the axle shaft, to prevent the new wheel from binding.

    Tip: Don't apply oil or grease to the axle, because dirt sticks to these lubricants.
  4. 04.

    Install the new wheel

    Install the new wheel on the axle and secure in place with the nut. Attach the hub cap, if there is one.

  5. 05.

    Lower the mower

    Remove the block of wood from under the mower.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to lower lawn-care equipment can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms for gas walk-behind mowers

Choose a symptom to see related walk-behind mower repairs.

Main causes: engine needs tune up, dirty or clogged carburetor, damaged flywheel key…

Main causes: uneven wheel height settings, damaged wheel, dull or damaged cutting blade…

Main causes: damaged cutting blade, loose cutting blade, damaged flywheel key, engine needs tune up…

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Main causes: dirty carburetor, bad spark plug, clogged air filter, engine choke problems, clogged gas cap vent…

Main causes: drive control cable failure, worn or broken drive belt, bad transmission, broken drive wheel…

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These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your walk-behind lawn mower.

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