How to Change the Steering Wheel on a Snapper Rear-Engine Mower

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Things You'll Need

  • Flat-blade screwdriver

  • Hammer

  • Punch

  • Pliers (optional)

The rear-engine Snapper riding lawnmower has been a common sight in suburban lawns for many years. As of 2011, the small mower has been in production for over 50 years. Its small design and quick steering allow it to go around obstacles easily, and its rear-mounted gasoline engine has enough power to spin the single cutting blade, as well as power the rear wheels. The steering is low effort and has a quick 1-to-1 ratio. The steering wheel is made from plastic and can be removed for repair or replacement.

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Step 1

Pry the center cap from the steering wheel up with a flat-blade screwdriver. Remove the cap and place it aside.

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Step 2

Locate the rolled pin that protrudes from both sides of the steering shaft at the center of the steering wheel. Place a flat-blade screwdriver on one end of the pin. Tap the screwdriver with a hammer to move the pin to one side.

Step 3

Place a punch that is slightly smaller in diameter than the rolled pin on the end of the pin that is now flush with the side of the steering shaft. Tap the punch with a hammer to drive the pin out of the shaft. Use pliers to pull the pin out the rest of the way, if necessary.

Step 4

Remove the washer from the center of the steering wheel and place it aside. Note the orientation of the spokes of the steering wheel so that the replacement can be installed in the same position. Lift the wheel straight up and remove it from the steering column.

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Step 5

Lower the center hole of the replacement steering wheel over the steering shaft so that the spokes are in the same position as the old wheel. Push the wheel onto the column until the pinhole in the steering shaft is visible.

Step 6

Place the washer over the steering shaft. Slide the rolled pin through the hole in the steering shaft. Tap the pin in with a hammer until it sticks out past the shaft equally on each side.

Step 7

Push the center cap over the steering wheel until it snaps into place.

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