Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears Craftsman 32cc Blower/Vac Model# 316.794970 (OEM MTD model 41AS320G799), sears craftsman, impeller blade

Question
The blower started to make a rattling noise and I could
tell the sound was coming from around the impeller’s
location.  After removing the housing the impeller blade
looks like it is the problem due to the sloppy fit when
wiggling it.  Am guessing that where the plastic impeller
blade fits around the metal crankshaft extension the
plastic became disfigured and now the impeller fits on
sloppy.    

Would you please describe the step-by-step procedure in how
to remove the impeller blade so we can replace it with a
new one?  We removed the mounting screws that hold the
pull-start housing onto the engine and we were able to slip
a screwdriver inside (in between flywheel assembly fins) to
hold the motor’s shaft steady, but were unable to get
enough force on the nut that holds the impeller blade at
the end of the motor’s shaft to loosen it.  We decided to
quit before we did any damage.  

Answer
Hello Max:

To Hold the Engine so you can Remove the Nut;  Remove the Spark Plug and Use a Bolt the Same Diameter and Threads as the Spark Plug and About 3" Long. Thread the Bolt into the Spark Plug Hole Until it Engages the Piston. Slowly Tighten the Bolt Until you have Locked the Piston and it Does Not Move. **BE CAREFUL A LOT OF TORQUE IS NOT REQUIRED PISTON DAMAGE CAN OCCUR IF TO MUCH TORQUE IS USED ON THE STOP BOLT** Now **Remove the Impeller Nut. Once the Impeller Nut is Off, the Impuller should Pull Off the Shaft. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Unit at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (MTD)  and Enter the Model Numbers (41AS320G799). Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Unit you Wish to View.  If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Ratings and Comments are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John