A lawn mower is an indispensable tool for maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn. However, even the most well-maintained lawn mowers can experience problems from time to time. One common issue is a broken pull cord. This can be a frustrating problem, but it is relatively easy to fix with the right tools and materials.
The first step is to identify the cause of the broken pull cord. The most common cause is simply wear and tear. Over time, the cord can become frayed or weakened, and eventually it will snap. Other causes of a broken pull cord include:
Once you have identified the cause of the broken pull cord, you can begin to repair it. The first step is to remove the old pull cord. To do this, simply untie the knot that attaches the cord to the starter assembly. Then, remove the cord from the recoil housing. Next, you will need to install the new pull cord. To do this, simply thread the cord through the recoil housing and tie a knot in the end of the cord. Finally, reattach the cord to the starter assembly.
Once you have replaced the pull cord, you will need to test it to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, simply pull on the cord until the engine starts. If the engine starts easily, then you have successfully repaired the pull cord. If the engine does not start, then you may need to troubleshoot the problem further.
Removing the Starter/Recoil Assembly
Identify the Assembly’s Location
Locate the starter/recoil assembly, typically situated on the side of the lawn mower’s engine. It consists of a plastic housing with a pull cord extending from it.
Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire
For safety reasons, disconnect the spark plug wire. Look for a black or red wire connected to the spark plug; grasp the rubber boot and firmly pull it off.
Loosen the Mounting Bolts
Using a wrench or socket, locate and loosen the mounting bolts securing the starter/recoil assembly to the engine. There are typically two to four bolts, depending on the lawn mower model.
Carefully Remove the Assembly
Gently pull the starter/recoil assembly away from the engine, taking care not to damage any wires or components. It may be necessary to wiggle it slightly to release it from its housing.
Additional Tips for Removing the Starter/Recoil Assembly:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use the Correct Tools | Utilize a wrench or socket specifically suited for the mounting bolts. |
| Avoid Excessive Force | Loosen and remove the bolts gradually to prevent stripping or breaking them. |
| Protect the Pull Cord | Ensure the pull cord remains intact and untangled during the removal process. |
Disassembling the Starter/Recoil Assembly
To begin disassembly of the starter/recoil assembly, follow these steps:
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Remove the Spark Plug Wire
Locate the spark plug wire and detach it from the spark plug by pulling it straight off. Ensure that you do not twist or bend the wire during the removal process.
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Detach the Carburetor
Identify the carburetor, which is connected to the air filter box with a rubber boot. Remove the air filter box by unfastening the clips or screws that secure it. Once the air filter box is removed, you will be able to access the carburetor. Loosen the bolts or nuts that hold the carburetor in place and gently detach it from the engine.
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Unbolt the Starter Assembly
Locate the starter assembly, which houses the pull cord mechanism. It is typically bolted to the engine block. Using a wrench or socket, remove the bolts that secure the starter assembly to the engine. Carefully lift the starter assembly off the engine.
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Remove the Recoil Housing and Spring
The recoil housing is the plastic or metal cover that encloses the pull cord mechanism. It is held in place by screws or bolts. Remove the screws or bolts and carefully lift the recoil housing off the starter assembly. Once the recoil housing is removed, you will have access to the recoil spring. The recoil spring is a coiled metal spring that provides tension to the pull cord. To remove the recoil spring, carefully unhook it from the starter assembly.
Reassembling the Starter/Recoil Assembly
With the starter cord wound and the recoil spring attached, it’s time to reassemble the starter/recoil assembly.
1. Carefully insert the starter cup into the recoil housing, aligning the holes.
2. Secure the starter cup to the recoil housing using the bolts.
3. Place the recoil assembly onto the engine shaft, aligning the keyway with the key on the shaft. Push it down into place.
4. Attaching the Starter Pull Handle
4.1. Insert the starter pull handle into the starter cup. The pawl on the handle should engage with the teeth on the starter cup.
4.2. Hold the starter handle in place and rotate the starter assembly counter-clockwise until the handle locks into position. Ensure it is securely fastened.
4.3. Reattach the recoil spring cover, securing it with the bolts or screws. Make sure the spring is tensioned properly by pulling the starter cord slightly and releasing it. The recoil spring should retract the cord smoothly.
Reinstalling the Starter/Recoil Assembly
Once the starter/recoil assembly has been repaired or replaced, it’s time to reinstall it into the lawn mower. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Align the Assembly: Carefully align the starter/recoil assembly with its designated location on the lawn mower. Ensure the mounting holes align correctly.
- Insert Bolts: Insert the mounting bolts into the corresponding holes in the assembly and the lawn mower frame. Hand-tighten them as much as possible.
- Tighten Bolts Evenly: Using a socket wrench or pliers, tighten the mounting bolts evenly and securely. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the assembly or bolts.
- Connect the Spring: Locate the spring that connects the starter/recoil assembly to the lawn mower engine. Hook one end of the spring onto the designated hook on the assembly and the other end onto the engine.
- Test the Pull Cord: Pull the cord slowly and gently to ensure it extends and retracts smoothly. If it feels stiff or obstructed, check the spring connection and alignment again.
Additional Tips:
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the mounting bolts to the specified torque value to prevent damage.
- Lubricate the spring connection points with a small amount of grease to enhance smooth operation.
- Inspect the pull cord regularly for signs of wear or fraying. Replace it immediately if any damage is found.
Troubleshooting Pull Cord Problems
1. Check the Blade
First, make sure the mower blade is not jammed. A jammed blade will prevent the engine from starting, which will, in turn, keep the pull cord from retracting.
2. Lubricate the Cord
If the pull cord is sticky or feels rough, it may need to be lubricated. Apply a small amount of silicone spray to the cord and pull it in and out several times to distribute the lubricant.
3. Inspect the Pulley
The pull cord pulley is located on the engine and is responsible for winding the cord. If the pulley is damaged or misaligned, it will prevent the pull cord from retracting properly.
4. Check the Recoil Spring
The recoil spring is located inside the starter assembly and is responsible for rewinding the pull cord. If the spring is broken or weak, the pull cord will not retract.
5. Inspect the Rope Handle
The pull rope handle is attached to the end of the pull cord. If the handle is damaged or broken, it will make it difficult to pull the cord.
6. Replacing the Pull Cord
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to replace the pull cord. This is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few steps:
- Detach the old pull cord from the starter assembly.
- Wind the new pull cord onto the pulley, leaving about 6 inches of slack.
- Attach the end of the new pull cord to the rope handle.
- Pull the new pull cord to start the engine.
Maintaining the Pull Cord
Your lawn mower’s pull cord is a vital component that allows you to start the engine. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep it functioning smoothly and prevent costly repairs.
- Inspect the cord regularly: Check the pull cord for any signs of wear or fraying. If the cord is damaged, it could snap while pulling, leaving you with a non-functional mower.
- Lubricate the cord: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the cord to reduce friction and prevent it from sticking. This will also help keep the cord flexible and less likely to break.
- Clean the cord: Dirt and debris can accumulate on the pull cord over time, making it harder to pull. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the cord regularly to remove any dirt or grime.
- Replace the cord if necessary: If the pull cord becomes severely damaged or frayed, it is best to replace it. Using a worn-out cord can be dangerous and lead to further issues.
Troubleshooting Common Pull Cord Problems
If your lawn mower’s pull cord is not working properly, there are a few common problems that you can troubleshoot:
- The cord is stuck: If the pull cord is stuck and will not pull, check if the engine brake is engaged. Release the engine brake and try pulling the cord again.
- The cord snaps when pulled: A snapped pull cord usually indicates that the cord is worn out or damaged. Replace the pull cord with a new one.
- The cord pulls but does not start the engine: This could be due to several reasons, including a clogged carburetor, dirty spark plug, or a malfunctioning starter solenoid. Check these components and service or replace them if necessary.
Safety Considerations When Repairing a Pull Cord
Before starting any repair, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Secure the lawn mower to prevent it from falling or rolling. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and debris.
9. Inspecting the Pull Cord and Starter Assembly
Checking the Cord:
- Pull the cord fully out of the recoil housing.
- Examine the cord for wear, fraying, or cuts.
- Check if the cord is bundled up properly within the housing.
Inspecting the Spring:
- Check if the spring inside the recoil housing is taut and has enough tension.
- Ensure that the spring is properly seated and not loose.
Inspecting the Pulley:
- Examine the pulley at the base of the cord for any signs of damage or excessive wear.
- Check if the pulley rotates freely and doesn’t bind.
Inspecting the Pawl and Ratchet:
- Locate the pawl and ratchet mechanism responsible for engaging the pull cord.
- Check if the pawl is engaging properly with the ratchet and is not worn or damaged.
Inspecting the Cover:
- Examine the recoil housing cover for cracks or damage.
- Ensure that the cover is securely in place and not loose.
Table 1: Inspection Checklist for Pull Cord and Starter Assembly
| Component | Checks |
|---|---|
| Cord | Wear, fraying, cuts, proper bundling |
| Spring | Tension, seating |
| Pulley | Damage, rotation |
| Pawl and Ratchet | Engagement, wear |
| Cover | Cracks, damage, security |
Tools and Materials
The tools and materials you’ll need to repair the pull cord on a lawn mower include:
- Replacement pull cord
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Scissors
Special Considerations for Different Lawn Mower Models
The steps for repairing the pull cord on a lawn mower may vary slightly depending on the model of the lawn mower. Here are some special considerations for different lawn mower models:
Briggs & Stratton Mowers
Briggs & Stratton mowers typically have a spring-loaded recoil starter. When repairing the pull cord on a Briggs & Stratton mower, it’s important to make sure that the spring is properly tensioned. If the spring is too loose, the pull cord will not retract properly. If the spring is too tight, it can make it difficult to pull the cord.
Honda Mowers
Honda mowers typically have a rewind starter. When repairing the pull cord on a Honda mower, it’s important to make sure that the rewind spring is properly lubricated. If the rewind spring is not properly lubricated, it can make it difficult to pull the cord.
Toro Mowers
Toro mowers typically have a pull-start engine. When repairing the pull cord on a Toro mower, it’s important to make sure that the pull-start assembly is properly aligned. If the pull-start assembly is not properly aligned, the pull cord can become jammed.
How To Repair The Pull Cord On A Lawn Mower
The pull cord on a lawn mower is an essential part that allows you to start the engine. When the pull cord breaks, it can be frustrating and inconvenient.
Fortunately, repairing a pull cord on a lawn mower is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can get your lawn mower up and running again in no time.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- New pull cord
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Safety glasses
Instructions:
1. Safety first! Before you begin working on your lawn mower, make sure to wear safety glasses.
2. Locate the pull cord assembly on your lawn mower. It is typically located on the side or back of the engine.
3. Remove the screws that hold the pull cord assembly in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the assembly off of the engine.
4. Inspect the pull cord. If the cord is frayed or broken, it will need to be replaced. To replace the cord, simply thread the new cord through the assembly and tie a knot at the end.
5. Reattach the pull cord assembly to the engine. Make sure to tighten the screws securely.
6. Test the pull cord to make sure it is working properly. If the cord is not pulling smoothly, it may need to be adjusted. To adjust the cord, simply loosen the screws that hold the assembly in place and move the assembly until the cord pulls smoothly.
That’s it! You have now successfully repaired the pull cord on your lawn mower. With a little bit of care and maintenance, your lawn mower will be running smoothly for years to come.
People Also Ask About How To Repair The Pull Cord On A Lawn Mower
What is the most common reason for a pull cord to break?
The most common reason for a pull cord to break is due to wear and tear. Over time, the cord can become frayed or brittle, which can cause it to snap.
How can I prevent my pull cord from breaking?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your pull cord from breaking. First, make sure to keep the cord clean and free of dirt and debris. Second, avoid pulling the cord too hard. Finally, store your lawn mower in a dry place when it is not in use.
Can I repair a pull cord myself?
Yes, repairing a pull cord is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can get your lawn mower up and running again in no time.
