Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Replacement Fan on Homelite Blower Vac, piston damage, plastic blower

Question
Hi John,

I have a Homelite MightyLite Blower/Vac Model UT08550, which is only about 3 months old.

The plastic blower fan has broken and needs to be replaced.

I've ordered the new part, but it seems like there is no way to undo the exsting nut that was holding the old fan, as the motor turns when trying to undo it.

How do I "lock" the motor or stop the motor from turning and  be able to undo the nut?

Thanks for your help,
E

Answer
Hello Eric:

**Use a Bolt the Same Diameter and Threads as the Spark Plug and About 4" 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 Nut. You can View a Breakdown of this Equipment at this Site Addy; http://www.homelite.com/parts/index.htm and Select Parts/Service at left, then Select Go to Homelite Parts Store. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John