How to Install a Lawn Mower Tire

Lawn tractors add simplicity and speed to the job of mowing a lawn. This is especially important if you have a large yard in which to care for. Lawn mower tires are designed to withstand uneven surfaces and rough mowing situations. However, even the most rugged tires can become flat or require replacement after extended use or extreme conditions. Changing a lawn tractor tire is a simple task with a little bit of knowledge, a few extra minutes and the right tools for the job.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tire jack Wooden blocks Pliers Flathead screwdriver Ratchet Tire iron Plastic bag

1. Move gear shift into gear and apply brake to hold mower in place during the tire change.

2. Put a jack under the metal frame of the mower, closest to the tire that needs to be replaced. Raise lawn mower with jack.

3. Check to see if your front tire is on spindles. If it is, it will require a different technique than the rear tires. If it is on spindles, go to the next step, otherwise, proceed to Step 9.

4. Remove the rubber boot that is covering the spindle. Use a pair of pliers to grab the boot and carefully pull it off the spindle.

5. Locate the metal C-clip. Use the flat head of a screwdriver to pry off the clip.

6. Pull tire off mower and replace with a new tire.

7. Replace the C-clip. To do this, put the clip in the correct location on the spindle. Use a screwdriver to push it back into place and clip it closed.

8. Stretch the rubber boot back over the spindle and push it into place.

9. Locate the axle bolt on the rear tire. Use a ratchet to loosen and remove the bolts

10. Pull the tire straight off the axle and replace with a new tire.

11. Replace and tighten bolts onto axle.

12. Remove blocks and lower jack.

13. Place mower in neutral and disengage parking brake.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a wooden block on either side of the jack as a safety precaution. This will keep the mower in place should the jack fail. Take great care not to tear the boot when pulling. You might need to use a tire iron or something with a long handle to create added torque if the bolts are rusted to the axle. Use WD-40 or other lubricant to help release rust from bolts. Place bolts in a plastic bag so you do not lose them while you are changing the tire.
• Never change a tire with the mower turned on.