Tools and Equipment Needed:
- 10mm wrench or socket
- 15mm wrench or socket
- Rubber mallet or dead-blow hammer
- Large screwdriver or pry tool
- New flywheel
- New Woodruff key
- Spark plug wrench
- A breaker bar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug:
Start by disconnecting the spark plug wire using the spark plug wrench. This is an important safety step to prevent any unintentional ignition.
2. Remove the Starter Housing Cover:
Next, locate and remove the starter housing cover on your mower. This cover usually has several bolts that can be removed using the 10mm or 15mm wrench or socket, depending on the model.
3. Pull the Starter Assembly:
Once the starter housing cover is removed, you should see the starter assembly. Grab the starter pulley and pull it straight toward you to disengage it from the engine.
4. Remove the Flywheel Retainer Bolts:
Now, you'll need to remove the bolts that hold the flywheel in place. These are usually located around the perimeter of the flywheel. Use the appropriate size wrench or socket to loosen and remove these bolts.
5. Free the Flywheel Using a Mallet:
The flywheel may still be stuck in place even with the bolts removed. Tap around the edges of the flywheel lightly using a rubber mallet or dead-blow hammer to break it loose. Be careful not to damage the flywheel or surrounding components.
6. Remove the Flywheel:
After tapping, you should be able to remove the flywheel by gently pulling it towards you. If it doesn't budge, continue tapping gently.
7. Replace the Woodruff Key:
Inspect the Woodruff key that engages with the flywheel. If it's damaged, replace it with a new Woodruff key. Make sure it sits correctly in the slot on the crankshaft.
8. Install the New Flywheel:
Align the new flywheel with the key on the crankshaft and slide it into place. Tap it gently using a rubber mallet to make sure it's seated correctly.
9. Reinstall the Flywheel Retainer Bolts:
Replace the flywheel retainer bolts and tighten them securely using the appropriate wrench or socket.
10. Reattach the Starter Assembly:
Align the starter assembly with the flywheel and gently push it in until the starter pulley engages. Secure it back into place using the bolts.
11. Replace the Starter Housing Cover:
Finally, put the starter housing cover back on and tighten the bolts.
Troubleshooting Pull Cord Retraction:
- If your pull cord was not retracting before and it still isn't after the flywheel replacement, the issue may lie in the recoil starter assembly or spring. Inspect these components and replace if needed.
- Double-check that all the components are properly seated and bolted in place. Sometimes a loose or misaligned part can cause the pull cord not to retract.
Remember to follow any additional instructions provided in the operator's manual for your specific Craftsman mower model. If you're unsure about any step or face any difficulties, it's always best to consult a professional small engine repair technician.
