The pull cord on a lawn mower is an essential component that allows you to start the engine. If the pull cord is damaged or broken, it can prevent you from using your lawn mower. Fortunately, repairing a pull cord is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can be completed in a few minutes.
To repair the pull cord on a lawn mower, you will need a new pull cord, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver. First, locate the starter housing on the lawn mower. The starter housing is typically located on the side of the engine and is covered by a plastic cover. Remove the plastic cover to access the starter housing.
Next, remove the old pull cord from the starter housing. To do this, use a pair of pliers to squeeze the metal clip that is holding the pull cord in place. Once the clip is squeezed, the pull cord will come out of the starter housing. Discard the old pull cord.
Identifying the Issue: Understanding the Pull Cord Mechanism
The pull cord is a critical component in starting a lawn mower, and when it breaks or malfunctions, it can be frustrating and impede your mowing endeavors. To effectively repair a pull cord, it’s essential to first identify the underlying issue. This involves understanding the mechanics of the pull cord system and pinpointing the specific problem.
Components of the Pull Cord Mechanism:
The pull cord mechanism typically consists of the following parts:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Pull cord | Initiates engine starting by pulling on the rope |
| Recoil spring | Retracts the pull cord after it has been pulled |
| Pulley (with spring attached) | Guides the pull cord and assists in the recoil function |
| Pawl | Engages the engine flywheel and initiates engine rotation |
Understanding the purpose and interaction of these components is crucial for diagnosing and repairing pull cord issues effectively.
Troubleshooting: Determining the Root Cause of the Problem
Identify the Symptoms
– Observe the pull cord’s behavior: Does it pull smoothly, stop abruptly, or offer resistance?
– Inspect the starter cord: Are there any frayed or broken strands, knots, or damage to the handle?
– Check the starter recoil assembly: Is it moving freely, or is there any binding or obstruction?
– Look for signs of debris or dirt in the pull cord housing or on the starter components.
Isolate the Issue
Use a systematic approach to isolate the problem:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pull cord pulls smoothly but lawn mower won’t start | – Faulty spark plug – Fuel system issues |
– Check and replace spark plug – Inspect and clean fuel system |
| Pull cord stops abruptly | – Broken starter cord – Jammed starter recoil assembly |
– Replace starter cord – Clean or lubricate starter recoil assembly |
| Pull cord offers resistance | – Frayed or knotted starter cord – Dirt or debris in pull cord housing |
– Replace starter cord – Clean pull cord housing |
Additional Considerations
If the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider:
– Consulting a lawn mower repair professional
– Reviewing the manufacturer’s instructions for specific troubleshooting steps
Safety Precautions: Ensuring a Safe Repair Process
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug
Before beginning any repairs, always disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. This involves removing the spark plug wire from the spark plug itself.
2. Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
When working on a lawn mower, it’s important to wear appropriate safety gear to protect yourself from potential hazards. This includes gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris, and hearing protection to guard against noise.
3. Secure the Lawn Mower
It’s crucial to ensure that the lawn mower is stable and secure before starting repairs. Place the mower on a flat, stable surface and use a jack or wheel chocks to prevent it from moving. Additionally, ensure that the parking brake is engaged and the throttle is in the off position.
Gathering Necessary Tools: Assembling Essential Equipment
To effectively repair the pull cord on a lawn mower, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Hex key set
Materials:
- Replacement pull cord (available at hardware stores or mower repair shops)
- Lubricating oil
- Screws (if needed)
Disassembling the Pull Cord Assembly
Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, follow these steps to disassemble the pull cord assembly:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Remove the pull cord cover, usually held in place by a few screws.
- Identify and remove the spring mechanism that retracts the pull cord.
- Disassemble the pulley system by removing the screws or bolts that hold it in place. This step often involves using an adjustable wrench or hex key set to loosen the bolts. Ensure you identify the correct bolts to avoid damaging other components. If necessary, refer to the lawn mower’s user manual or online repair guides for specific instructions on pulley disassembly.
- Unhook the pull cord from the pulley and remove it from the assembly.
Replacing the Pull Cord: Installing a New Cable
In this step, you will prepare the new cable for installation:
- Unfold the new cable and remove any packaging materials.
- Measure the length of the existing cable and cut the new cable to the same length.
- Thread the new cable through the hole in the starter cup.
- Tie a knot in the end of the cable to prevent it from slipping back through the hole.
- Pull the cable through the starter housing until the knot reaches the back of the housing.
- Wind the cable onto the starter pulley, ensuring that the coils are tight and even.
Tips for Winding the Cable: – Keep the cable taut while winding. – Ensure the coils are close together to prevent slippage. – Do not overtighten the cable, as this can cause damage to the pulley or cable. - Secure the cable to the pulley using the starter bolt.
- Pull the recoil starter handle to engage the new cable.
- Test the lawn mower to ensure the pull cord is working properly.
Adjusting Tension and Length: Optimizing the Cord for Smooth Operation
1. Determine the Optimal Tension
The tension of the pull cord should be firm enough to allow for easy starting but loose enough to prevent strain on the recoil starter assembly. Hold the cord near the end and pull it gently. If the cord feels too loose, the tension needs to be increased.
2. Adjust the Tension Spring
Most lawn mowers have a tension spring that controls the cord’s tightness. Locate the spring and use a wrench or pliers to rotate it. Tightening the spring increases tension, while loosening it reduces tension.
3. Recoil Starter Assembly Adjustment
Some lawn mowers have an adjustable recoil starter assembly. Check the manufacturer’s manual to determine if yours does. If so, use a wrench to tighten or loosen the assembly as needed to increase or decrease tension.
4. Cord Length Measurement
The ideal cord length varies depending on the size and type of lawn mower. Measure the distance from the pull cord handle to the recoil starter assembly. The cord should be long enough to reach comfortably but not so long that it becomes tangled or creates a tripping hazard.
5. Adjust the Handle
Many lawn mowers have adjustable pull cord handles. These handles can be moved closer to or farther from the mower deck to optimize the cord length and handling comfort.
6. Replace the Pull Cord (Optional)
If the cord is frayed or broken, it may need to be replaced. Choose a cord with the appropriate length and diameter for your lawn mower. Insert the new cord into the recoil starter assembly and wind it around the pulley.
7. Wind the Pull Cord
Once the tension and length are adjusted, wind the pull cord around the recoil starter pulley. Do this by holding the cord handle and pulling on it firmly. Wind the cord tightly, but do not overwind it.
Reattaching the Starter Housing: Securing the Assembly
With the starter housing aligned, carefully slide it back into place over the starter assembly. Ensure that the housing fits snugly and sits flush against the engine casing.
Aligning the Bolts or Screws
Locate the bolts or screws that secure the starter housing to the engine casing. Position the housing so that the bolt holes align precisely with their corresponding threaded holes on the casing.
Tightening the Bolts or Screws
Using a socket wrench or screwdriver, gradually tighten the bolts or screws in a crisscross pattern. Apply moderate pressure, ensuring that the housing is securely fastened without overtightening. Overtightening can damage the bolts or screws, potentially compromising the integrity of the assembly.
| Tips for Tightening Bolts or Screws |
|---|
|
Once the starter housing is securely fastened, check the pull cord to ensure it is operating smoothly and there are no obstructions. If the pull cord feels stiff or is not pulling back into the starter housing fully, recheck the alignment and tightness of the bolts or screws.
Testing the Repair: Verifying Proper Function of the Pull Cord
9. Testing the Starter Assembly:
- Reattach the starter assembly to the engine and secure it with the bolts.
- Insert the spark plug wire back into the spark plug.
- Connect the ground cable to the frame of the lawn mower.
- Turn the fuel valve back on.
- Pull on the pull cord slowly at first, then with a sharp jerk.
- If the engine starts, run it for a few minutes to verify proper operation.
- Inspect the pull cord while it is running to ensure it is not fraying or binding.
- If the engine does not start, repeat the previous steps and check the following:
- The cord does not recoil when you pull it.
- The cord pulls out of the recoil starter.
- The engine does not start when you pull the cord.
| Possible Cause | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|
| Incorrect carburetor adjustment | Adjust the carburetor mixture screws according to the manufacturer’s specifications. |
| Fuel line obstruction | Check the fuel line for any kinks or blockages. |
| Spark plug issues | Remove and inspect the spark plug. Clean or replace it if necessary. |
| Loose electrical connections | Tighten all electrical connections, including the spark plug wire and ground cable. |
If the engine still does not start, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.
Maintenance and Prevention: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of the Pull Cord
1. Clean the Pull Cord Regularly
Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the pull cord. This will prevent the cord from sticking or fraying.
2. Lubricate the Pull Cord
Every few months, apply a small amount of dry lubricant to the pull cord. This will reduce friction and help the cord slide smoothly through the starter assembly.
3. Inspect the Pull Cord Regularly
Check the pull cord for any signs of fraying or damage. If the cord is damaged, it should be replaced immediately.
4. Avoid Overuse
Don’t start the lawn mower repeatedly without giving the starter a break. This can strain the pull cord and shorten its lifespan.
5. Use a Slow, Steady Pull
When starting the lawn mower, pull the cord slowly and steadily. Jerking the cord can damage it.
6. Hold the Cord at the Handle
Avoid pulling the cord close to the starter. Grip the cord near the handle to ensure proper tension and prevent fraying.
7. Store the Lawn Mower Properly
When the lawn mower is not in use, store it in a dry place where the pull cord will not be exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.
8. Avoid Exposing the Cord to Chemicals
Gasoline, oil, and other chemicals can damage the pull cord. Keep the cord away from these substances.
9. Check the Starter Assembly
If the pull cord is difficult to pull, the starter assembly may be at fault. Consult a qualified mechanic to inspect and repair the assembly.
10. Repairing a Damaged Pull Cord
If the pull cord is damaged, it must be replaced. Follow these steps to repair the cord:
| Remove the starter assembly. | Locate the damaged section of the cord. |
| Cut the cord above and below the damaged area. | Tie a new knot in the cord, leaving enough length on each side to attach to the starter assembly. |
| Reattach the cord to the starter assembly. | Reinstall the starter assembly. |
How To Repair The Pull Cord On A Lawn Mower
The pull cord on a lawn mower is a critical component that allows you to start the engine. If the pull cord breaks, it can be frustrating and prevent you from mowing your lawn. Fortunately, repairing a pull cord is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to repair the pull cord on a lawn mower:
1. Safety First: Before you begin, make sure the lawn mower is turned off and the spark plug is disconnected. This will prevent the engine from starting accidentally while you’re working on it.
2. Locate the Pull Cord Assembly: The pull cord assembly is typically located on the side of the lawn mower engine. It consists of a recoil starter, a pulley, and a pull cord.
3. Remove the Pull Cord: To remove the pull cord, simply pull it out of the recoil starter. If the cord is broken, you may need to use a pair of pliers to remove the remaining piece.
4. Inspect the Recoil Starter: Once the pull cord is removed, inspect the recoil starter for any damage. If the starter is cracked or broken, it will need to be replaced.
5. Install the New Pull Cord: To install the new pull cord, simply thread it through the pulley and the recoil starter. Make sure the cord is wound around the starter in the correct direction.
6. Tie a Knot in the Pull Cord: Once the pull cord is installed, tie a knot in the end of the cord to prevent it from slipping out of the recoil starter.
7. Reconnect the Spark Plug: Once the pull cord is repaired, reconnect the spark plug and start the lawn mower to test the new cord.
People Also Ask About How To Repair The Pull Cord On A Lawn Mower
How do I know if the pull cord on my lawn mower is broken?
The most obvious sign of a broken pull cord is if the cord is frayed or snapped. Other signs include:
How much does it cost to repair a pull cord on a lawn mower?
The cost of repairing a pull cord on a lawn mower will vary depending on the make and model of the mower, as well as the cost of parts and labor in your area. However, as a general rule, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 for the repair.
Can I repair the pull cord on my lawn mower myself?
Yes, repairing a pull cord on a lawn mower is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, if you are not comfortable working on your lawn mower, it is always best to consult with a qualified technician.
