My Harrier 412C lawn mower has a broken blade carrier. This is the casting that connects the motor drive to the friction disk and blade.

Is replacement by a competant amateur realistic? The spares diagram shows the carrier being retained by a woodruff key....does this require a special tool?

I suspect that the damage has been caused by the mower hitting rocks at the edge of the lawn....I shall take more care in future!

Chris P, February 2009

plus remove the spark plug lead for safety and when you do have the mower on its side DO NOT attempt to move the blade from side to side as this will automatically pump the oil out of your engine and through the exhaust- causing a hell of a mess and lots of white smoke when re-started.

The item you have damaged is designed to be broken should you hit a solid object, so don't worry if it happens again- it's only doing it's job. Far rather replace a bit of ali that the crankshaft.

pleasant, February 2009

Hi, for a reasonably competent mechanic it is very easy job to do. Turn mower on to its side with air filter/petrol tank cap staying uppermost. Undo centre bolt, remove blade friction disc and then broken part. The key may drop out, but simply sits back into the engine crank to stop the crank spinning inside the aluminium blade carrier.

Fit new blade carrier, ensure when on the crankshaft that it will not spin freely. If all okay replace friction disc & blade & tighten. Turn mower to correct operating position - Check oil level & restart

epark mowers, February 2009