How to Change a Tire on a Walk Behind Mower
Changing a tire on a walk behind mower is a necessary skill for any homeowner who wants to keep their lawn looking pristine. Whether it’s due to a flat tire or regular maintenance, knowing how to change a tire can save you time and money. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to change a tire on a walk behind mower safely and efficiently.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start changing the tire, gather all the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a new tire, a lug wrench, a jack, a spare tire, a tire iron, and a flathead screwdriver. It’s also a good idea to have a friend or family member help you with the process, as it can be challenging to do it alone.
Step 2: Park the Mower on a Flat Surface
Find a flat, level surface to park your walk behind mower. Make sure the mower is turned off and the blades are not engaged. Engaging the blades while working on the tire can be dangerous and cause serious injury.
Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, begin to loosen the lug nuts on the tire. It’s important to do this before raising the mower, as the weight of the mower can make it difficult to loosen the nuts later. Continue to loosen the nuts until they are loose but not completely removed.
Step 4: Raise the Mower with the Jack
Place the jack under the mower, near the tire you want to change. Raise the jack until it is securely under the mower. Use the jack handle to lift the mower off the ground, ensuring that the tire is fully off the ground.
Step 5: Remove the Lug Nuts and Tire
Using the lug wrench and tire iron, remove the lug nuts completely. Once the nuts are off, carefully pull the tire off the mower. If the tire is stuck, you may need to tap it gently with a hammer to release it.
Step 6: Install the New Tire
Place the new tire on the mower and line up the wheel with the lug bolts. Insert the lug nuts into the wheel bolts and tighten them by hand. Once all the nuts are in place, lower the mower back to the ground.
Step 7: Tighten the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until they are secure. Be sure to check the tightness of the nuts again after the mower has been in use for a short period, as they can become loose.
Step 8: Lower the Mower and Remove the Jack
Lower the mower back to the ground and remove the jack. Check the tire for proper inflation and ensure that it is securely mounted on the mower.
Conclusion
Changing a tire on a walk behind mower is a task that every homeowner should know how to do. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your mower remains in good working condition and that your lawn stays looking beautiful. Always remember to take your time and be cautious when working with tools and machinery.
