Where Is the Air Filter on a Craftsman 4.75 Mower?

Air Filter's Function

• Doing exactly what its name suggests, the air filter filters the air. The air coming into the engine mustn't contain any impurities, such as dust or grass clippings. If these particles reach the cylinder, they will scratch the sides of the bore and ruin the piston, shutting the engine down completely. The air filter keeps all of these nasty particles away from the sensitive engine parts. For this reason, air filter cleaning and maintenance needs to be performed regularly for the Craftsman to work.

Air Filter's Location

• The air filter needs to stay close to the engine and fuel system to ensure no particles reenter the air supply. However, the air filter must also sit in a convenient spot that allows easy access for the operator. For this reason, the air filter will sit next to the gas tank, near the top of the engine on the right-hand side. The element that does the actually cleaning sits inside a protective black box. A screw sits at the top of the box, securing the cover and the air filter box to the engine.

Cleaning the Filter

• For the air filter to continue filtering, and for the engine to continue running, the filter needs regular cleaning, usually after every 10 to 15 hours of operation or more frequently if the Craftsman gets used regularly in dusty conditions. Unscrew the air filter cover, and pull out the foam element. Wash this foam part in warm, soapy water with a mild detergent like dish soap. Rinse the filter under cool water, and let it dry overnight before putting it back in.

Replacing the Filter

• The air filter will need regular cleaning to keep the engine running in peak condition. However, after one or two seasons, the air filter will not clean adequately through a wash. Washing these filters will also compromise the integrity of the filter material, and the filter may start breaking apart. When the filter can't be cleaned or the integrity has been compromised, the air filter needs to be replaced. Replace the filter every season to prevent any future filter problems.