When it comes to maintaining the lush and vibrant lawn that enhances your home’s curb appeal, few tools are as indispensable as a reliable lawn mower. Among its essential components, the pull cord stands out as a crucial element that enables you to effortlessly start the engine and commence mowing. However, with frequent use and the rigors of everyday wear and tear, the pull cord can eventually succumb to damage or breakage, leaving you stranded with an inoperable mower.
In such situations, it’s imperative to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to replace the pull cord promptly. Replacing the pull cord on your lawn mower is a relatively straightforward task that can be accomplished with minimal effort and expense. By following a few simple steps and equipping yourself with the necessary tools and materials, you can restore your lawn mower to optimal functionality and continue enjoying a well-manicured lawn.
Before embarking on the task, gather the following materials: a new pull cord, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver. Additionally, consult your lawn mower’s user manual to familiarize yourself with any specific instructions or safety precautions that apply to your particular model.
Identifying the Need for a New Pull Cord
Recognizing the signs that your lawn mower’s pull cord needs to be replaced is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing further damage to the machine. Here are some common indicators:
- Difficulty Starting: If you encounter significant resistance when pulling the cord or the engine fails to start repeatedly, it could be a sign of a worn or damaged pull cord.
- Frayed or Broken Cord: Examine the pull cord for any visible signs of fraying, tearing, or breakage. A compromised cord will not engage the starting mechanism effectively.
- Insufficient Tension: When you pull the cord, it should have a consistent tension and recoil swiftly. If the cord feels loose or slack, it may have stretched or become weak, affecting the starting power.
- Damaged Spring: The recoil spring inside the starter assembly provides the tension for the pull cord. If the spring is weakened or broken, the cord will not retract properly after being pulled.
- Unusual Noises: During the starting process, pay attention to any unusual noises, such as squeaking, grinding, or rattling. These sounds can indicate that the pull cord or other components of the starting mechanism require attention.
By addressing the need for a new pull cord promptly, you can ensure a smooth and reliable starting experience for your lawn mower.
Gathering Essential Tools and Materials
Replacing a lawn mower pull cord requires a few specific tools and materials. To ensure a successful repair, gather the following:
Tools
- Socket wrench (1/4-inch drive)
- Socket (5/16-inch or 3/8-inch)
- Screwdriver (Phillips head)
- Pliers (needle-nose)
Materials
- Replacement pull cord
- Spring (may come with the pull cord kit)
Note: The size of the socket will vary depending on the model of your lawn mower. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct size.
Selecting the Right Pull Cord
When choosing a replacement pull cord, it’s important to select one with the appropriate length and diameter. The length of the cord will depend on the size and model of your lawn mower. The diameter of the cord should match the size of the pulley it will be wrapped around. Refer to your owner’s manual or consult with a local hardware store for guidance on selecting the correct pull cord.
| Lawn Mower Size | Pull Cord Length | Pull Cord Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| Small (20-22 inches) | 6-8 feet | 1/8 inch |
| Medium (24-26 inches) | 8-10 feet | 3/16 inch |
| Large (27 inches and up) | 10-12 feet | 1/4 inch |
Matching the correct pull cord size will ensure proper operation and longevity of your lawn mower.
Disconnecting the Spark Plug
To safely disconnect the spark plug, follow these detailed steps:
- **Locate the spark plug:** The spark plug is usually located on the side of the engine, near the top. It is a small, threaded part with a wire connected to it.
- **Grab the spark plug wire:** Using pliers or a spark plug wrench, gently grab the insulated portion of the spark plug wire near the boot that connects to the spark plug.
- **Pull straight up:** Use a firm grip and pull the spark plug wire straight up and off the spark plug. Avoid twisting or pulling on the wire, as this could damage it.
- **Check for resistance:** Once the spark plug wire is disconnected, gently tug on the boot to ensure it is fully removed. You should feel some resistance as you pull it.
- **Clean the spark plug terminal:** Before reattaching the spark plug wire, use a clean cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris from the spark plug terminal and the inside of the boot.
- **Tighten the spark plug wire:** Once the terminal is clean, firmly push the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug until it clicks into place. Ensure there is no slack in the wire, but avoid overtightening it.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the spark plug on the engine. |
| 2 | Grab the spark plug wire near the boot. |
| 3 | Pull the spark plug wire straight up and off the spark plug. |
| 4 | Check for resistance when tugging on the boot. |
| 5 | Clean the spark plug terminal and inside of the boot. |
| 6 | Push the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug until it clicks into place. |
Removing the Housing and Belt
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting accidentally.
2. Locate the housing screws or bolts securing the lawn mower housing and remove them.
3. Carefully lift the housing off the mower deck, exposing the engine and belt.
4. Replacing the Pull Cord
a. Locate the recoil starter, which is typically a round housing with a rope handle attached.
b. Remove the bolts or screws securing the recoil starter to the engine and gently pull it away from the engine.
c. Unwind the old pull cord from the starter pulley.
d. Cut a new piece of pull cord slightly longer than the old cord and thread it through the starter pulley and handle.
e. Wrap the new cord around the pulley in the same direction as the old cord.
f. Reattach the recoil starter to the engine and tighten the securing bolts or screws.
g. Pull the new cord several times to ensure it is working correctly.
5. Reinstalling the Housing and Belt
a. Place the housing back on the mower deck and align the screw holes.
b. Insert the bolts or screws and tighten them securely.
c. Reconnect the spark plug wire.
| Tools Required |
|---|
| Socket wrench or wrench set |
| Screwdriver |
| New pull cord (same length and thickness as the old cord) |
Detaching the Old Pull Cord
Safety Measures
Before starting, ensure the lawnmower is turned off and unplugged. Allow it to cool completely to prevent accidental burns.
Removing the Pull Cord Knob
Locate the pull cord knob, typically made of plastic or metal, at the end of the pull cord. Unscrew or pull the knob to remove it.
Detaching the Spring Housing
The pull cord is attached to a spring housing. Locate the screws or clips holding the housing in place and remove them. Carefully lift the housing off the engine, taking care not to damage the spring inside.
Disengaging the Cord from the Pulley
The pull cord is wrapped around a pulley within the housing. Use a pair of pliers or a small screwdriver to pry the cord out of the groove on the pulley. Gently unwind the cord from the pulley, taking care not to pull or snap it.
Removing the Cord from the Engine Shaft
The cord is attached to the engine shaft through a hole in the housing. Locate the hole and carefully pull the cord through it. Note the direction the cord is threaded through, as it will need to be reattached in the same way.
Table: Pull Cord Removal Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove pull cord knob |
| 2 | Detach spring housing |
| 3 | Disengage cord from pulley |
| 4 | Remove cord from engine shaft |
Threading the New Pull Cord
Once you have the new pull cord, it’s time to thread it through the housing and into the engine. Follow these steps:
1. Locate the Rope Guide
The rope guide is a small plastic or metal piece that helps guide the pull cord through the housing. It’s usually located near the top of the lawn mower, close to the recoil spring.
2. Remove the Rope Guide
To remove the rope guide, use a screwdriver or pliers to gently pry it off the housing. Be careful not to damage the rope guide or the housing.
3. Insert the New Pull Cord
Take the new pull cord and thread it through the hole in the rope guide. Then, insert the free end of the pull cord into the hole in the recoil spring housing.
4. Pull the Pull Cord Through
Grasp the pull cord and pull it through the housing until it reaches the bottom. You may need to use pliers to help you pull the cord through.
5. Tie a Knot in the Pull Cord
Once the pull cord is through the housing, tie a knot in the end to prevent it from slipping out. A double knot is recommended for extra security.
6. Install the Rope Guide
Reinstall the rope guide over the pull cord and housing. Make sure the guide is facing the correct direction and is securely in place.
Table: Pull Cord Lengths
| Engine Size (cc) | Pull Cord Length (ft) |
|---|---|
| Up to 140 | 45-54 |
| 140-179 | 50-60 |
| 180-200 | 56-66 |
| 200 or larger | 60-72 |
Connecting the Pull Cord to the Starter
7. Secure the Pull Cord to the Starter Housing
This step involves some delicate handling to avoid damaging the cord or starter assembly. Begin by aligning the hole in the starter housing with the groove on the pull cord handle. Insert the handle into the hole and slowly pull the cord through until the knot or stopper reaches the base of the handle.
Use a pair of pliers or a small wrench to carefully tighten the bolt or screw that secures the handle to the starter housing. Apply just enough force to ensure a firm hold without overtightening and damaging the components.
To further secure the cord, use a zip tie or a piece of wire to wrap around the base of the handle and the starter housing. This provides additional stability and prevents the cord from slipping out during use.
| Tools Needed | Description |
|---|---|
| Pliers or small wrench | To tighten the bolt or screw |
| Zip tie or wire | To secure the cord to the starter housing |
Materials Needed
Before beginning, gather the following tools and materials:
– New pull cord
– Pliers
– Screwdriver
– Socket wrench
– Replacement belt (if necessary)
Steps
1. Safety First
Unplug the spark plug wire and allow the engine to cool before performing any maintenance.
2. Remove the Housing
Locate the bolts holding the engine housing in place and remove them. Carefully lift the housing off the engine.
3. Remove the Old Pull Cord
Grip the broken pull cord firmly and pull it out of the recoil starter assembly.
4. Install the New Pull Cord
Insert the new pull cord into the starter assembly and secure it in place with the bolt or clip provided.
5. Reattach the Housing
Carefully align the housing with the engine and replace the bolts. Tighten them securely.
Reattaching the Belt and Housing
6. Inspect the Belt
Examine the belt for damage or wear. If it appears damaged, replace it with a new belt.
7. Attach the Belt
Wrap the belt around the pulleys on the engine and the blade spindle. Ensure that the belt is correctly routed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Adjust the Belt Tension
Adjust the belt tension using the tensioner bolt or lever provided. The belt should be snug but not overly tight. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended tension specifications.
| Tension | Description |
|—|—|
| Too loose | Belt may slip or come off during operation |
| Too tight | Can cause premature belt failure or damage to pulleys |
9. Final Check
Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the engine. Observe the belt and ensure that it is operating correctly. Make any necessary adjustments to the tension or alignment.
Testing the New Pull Cord
Once the new pull cord is installed, it’s crucial to test its functionality and ensure it operates smoothly. Here are the steps for testing the new pull cord:
- Safety First: Ensure the lawn mower is disconnected from the power source.
- Grasp the Pull Cord: Grip the pull cord firmly near the handle.
- Pull Slowly: Gently pull the cord out a few inches.
- Observe the Cord: Check if the cord feeds out smoothly and without any hesitation or resistance.
- Pull Rapidly: Give the cord a quick, firm pull.
- Listen for the Engine: As you pull the cord, listen for the sound of the engine starting.
- Release the Cord: Once the engine starts, release the cord slowly.
- Check the Pull Cord’s Length: Verify that the new pull cord is the same length as the original one.
- Repeat the Process: Pull the cord a few more times to ensure it continues to function properly.
- Final Observations:
| Observation | Expected Result |
|---|---|
| Cord Feed | Smooth and without resistance |
| Engine Start | Starts promptly after pulling |
| Cord Release | Returns to its original position |
| Cord Length | Matches the original length |
How To Change A Lawn Mower Pull Cord
A pull cord is a common way to start a lawn mower. Over time, the pull cord can become frayed and stretched, making it difficult to start the mower. You should change the pull cord if it is damaged or if it is becoming difficult to pull.
Tools you will need:
- New pull cord
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Steps:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire. This will prevent the mower from starting accidentally.
- Locate the pull starter assembly. This is usually located on the side of the mower, near the engine.
- Remove the screws that hold the pull starter assembly in place.
- Pull the pull starter assembly away from the mower.
- Remove the old pull cord from the pull starter assembly.
- Thread the new pull cord through the pull starter assembly.
- Tie a knot in the end of the pull cord.
- Reattach the pull starter assembly to the mower.
- Replace the screws that hold the pull starter assembly in place.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
People also ask about How To Change A Lawn Mower Pull Cord
How long does it take to change a pull cord on a lawn mower?
It should take about 15-30 minutes to change the pull cord. However, this time may be longer if you have never done it before or if the pull cord is particularly difficult to reach.
How do I know if my lawn mower pull cord needs to be changed?
If the pull cord is frayed or stretched, it may need to be changed. Also, if the pull cord is becoming difficult to pull, this may be a sign that it needs to be replaced.
Can I change the pull cord on my lawn mower myself?
Yes, you can change the pull cord on your lawn mower yourself. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to use the correct tools.
