Lawn mower pull cords are an essential part of the machine, allowing you to start the engine with ease. However, over time, these cords can become frayed, broken, or simply worn out. When this happens, it’s important to know how to change a lawn mower pull cord to keep your equipment running smoothly. Changing a pull cord is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and materials.
To begin the process, you’ll need to gather a few things. First, you’ll need a new pull cord that is compatible with your lawn mower model. You can find these cords at most hardware stores or online. You’ll also need a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a pair of scissors. Once you have your tools and materials, you can start the process of changing the pull cord.
First, you’ll need to remove the old pull cord. To do this, locate the starter assembly on your lawn mower. This is usually a black or gray plastic housing located on the side of the engine. Once you’ve found the starter assembly, remove the screws that hold it in place. Once the starter assembly is removed, you’ll be able to access the old pull cord. Grip the cord firmly and pull it out of the starter assembly. Be careful not to lose the spring that is attached to the cord.
Removing the Old Pull Cord
Replacing a worn-out lawn mower pull cord is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few simple steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to remove the old pull cord:
- Disconnect the spark plug: This is a crucial safety step to prevent the engine from starting accidentally. Locate the spark plug wire and disconnect it from the spark plug.
- Remove the starter housing: The starter housing typically consists of two or three screws. Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws, then carefully lift off the starter housing.
- Locate the old pull cord: Once the starter housing is removed, you will see the pull cord assembly. It usually consists of a recoil spring, a pulley, and the pull cord itself.
- Unwind the recoil spring: To remove the pull cord, you need to unwind the recoil spring. Slowly rotate the pulley counterclockwise while holding the pull cord to prevent it from whipping back. Note the direction of the spring’s winding for later reassembly.
- Detach the pull cord: Once the recoil spring is completely unwound, detach the pull cord by unhooking it from the pulley or releasing it from the handle.
With the old pull cord removed, you can proceed to install the new one. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and tensioning of the recoil spring.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Wrench or Screwdriver | For loosening and removing screws |
| Gloves | For protecting hands from sharp edges |
| Replacement Pull Cord | The new pull cord assembly |
Attaching the New Pull Cord
1. Remove the Old Pull Cord:
Disconnect the old pull cord from the recoil starter by unhooking it and removing it, and then detach the cord from the handle by pulling it out. Note that some models may have a screw that needs to be removed before the cord can be detached.
2. Insert the New Pull Cord:
- Wind the new pull cord onto the recoil starter by turning the starter pulley clockwise and guiding the cord onto the pulley
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Secure the cord onto the starter: For starters with a removable cover, remove the cover and locate the slot or hole for the cord. Insert the cord and reassemble the cover. For starters without a cover, tie a knot at the end of the cord and insert it into the hole on the starter.
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Pull the cord out through the starter housing and the handle. Ensure the cord is long enough to reach the handle comfortably when pulled.
3. Attach the Cord to the Handle:
Hook the end of the pull cord onto the knob or handle mechanism. Some handles have a specific slot or hole for the cord, while others may require you to tie a knot in the cord and attach it to the handle.
Measuring and Cutting the New Pull Cord
To determine the optimal length of the replacement pull cord, carefully measure the old pull cord from the starter handle to the point where it attaches to the engine. Add approximately 12 inches (30 cm) to this measurement to account for any slack or expansion required for knotting and pulling.
Once the desired length has been established, proceed to cut the new pull cord to size using sharp scissors or a utility knife. A clean, precise cut will ensure a smooth and secure connection during installation.
Measuring and Cutting Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the length of the old pull cord (A to B). |
| 2 | Add 12 inches (30 cm) for slack and expansion. |
| 3 | Cut the new pull cord to the calculated length (A to C). |
Ensure that the cut end of the new pull cord is clean and free of fraying or burrs. This will facilitate a secure connection to the starter handle and prevent premature wear or breakage.
Locating the Pull Cord Pulley
The pull cord pulley is a critical component of the lawn mower’s starting system. It transmits the force from the pull cord to the engine’s flywheel, which in turn starts the engine. To change a pull cord, you need to first locate the pull cord pulley.
In most lawn mowers, the pull cord pulley is located on the top of the engine, near the spark plug. It is usually made of plastic or metal and has a groove around its circumference to accommodate the pull cord.
To locate the pull cord pulley, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
- Grasp the pull cord handle and pull it out about 12 inches.
- Look for a small pulley at the end of the pull cord. This is the pull cord pulley.
If you can’t locate the pull cord pulley, consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for assistance.
Winding the New Pull Cord
Once you’ve selected the appropriate pull cord for your lawn mower, you can proceed with winding it correctly.
- Locate the Pulley: Identify the small pulley located on the engine housing. This will be the starting point for winding the new cord.
- Insert the Pull Cord: Feed one end of the new pull cord through the small hole in the pulley, making sure it emerges from the opposite side.
- Tie a Slip Knot: Create a slip knot at the end of the cord and secure it to the pulley. This will prevent the cord from slipping off during the winding process.
- Wind According to Directions: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific winding direction. In most cases, the cord should be wound clockwise around the pulley.
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Determining the Correct Winding Tension:
As you wind the cord, pay attention to the tension. It should be tight enough to provide sufficient starting force but not so tight that it jams the mechanism. Here’s a guide to help you assess the tension:
Tension Description Loose The cord slides freely without resistance. Ideal There is some resistance, but the cord can be pulled out smoothly. Tight The cord is difficult to pull out and may cause strain on the mechanism. Continue winding the cord until it is fully extended, ensuring that it lies evenly on the pulley.
Installing the Pull Knob
After the recoil starter assembly has been properly installed and the starter cord has been threaded through the housing and pulley, it is time to install the pull knob. The pull knob is responsible for providing a comfortable and secure grip for pulling the starter cord, and it is important to ensure that it is properly attached. Here are the steps on how to install the pull knob:
1.
Identify the correct pull knob for your lawn mower model. Different lawn mowers use different types of pull knobs, so it is important to select the knob that is compatible with your mower.
2.
Locate the hole in the starter cord where the pull knob will be attached. This hole is usually located at the end of the cord.
3.
Insert the end of the starter cord through the hole in the pull knob
4.
Pull the starter cord through the pull knob until the cord is taut.
5.
Tie a knot in the end of the starter cord to secure the pull knob in place.
6.
Double-check that the pull knob is securely attached to the starter cord and that the cord is properly wound around the pulley. If the pull knob is not properly attached, it could come off while you are pulling the starter cord, which could be dangerous. It is also important to ensure that the cord is properly wound around the pulley to prevent it from becoming tangled or damaged.
Testing the New Pull Cord
Once you have installed the new pull cord, it is essential to test it thoroughly before using your lawn mower. Follow these steps to ensure the cord is working correctly:
- Grasp the pull cord handle: Grip the handle firmly and pull it out gently until you feel some resistance.
- Check the recoil: As you pull out the cord, it should recoil smoothly and quickly. If it feels stiff or sluggish, there may be an issue with the recoil spring.
- Observe the engine response: When you pull the cord to start the engine, it should start immediately or within a few tries. If the engine cranks but does not start, ensure that it is receiving fuel and spark.
- Listen for unusual sounds: As you pull the cord, pay attention to any unusual noises. A squeaking or grinding sound may indicate a problem with the starter mechanism or crankshaft.
- Inspect the pull cord: Examine the cord for any signs of fraying, stretching, or damage. If the cord appears compromised, it should be replaced again for safety.
- Test for excessive tension: If the cord feels too tight or requires excessive force to pull, adjust the starter recoil tension screw. Refer to your lawn mower’s user manual for specific instructions.
- Repeat the test several times: Conduct multiple test pulls to ensure consistent performance and durability of the new pull cord.
If you encounter any issues during testing, consult your lawn mower’s user manual or seek professional assistance from a qualified technician.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Broken Pull Cord
If the pull cord breaks, you’ll need to replace it. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Determine the length of the new pull cord needed by measuring the distance from the starter housing to the handle.
2. Purchase a new pull cord of the correct length.
3. Locate the starter housing and pull out the old cord.
4. Insert the new cord into the starter housing and pull it through until it’s taut.
5. Tie a knot in the end of the cord and secure it to the handle.Stuck Pull Cord
If the pull cord is stuck, it could be due to a number of issues, including:
– A jammed starter motor
– A broken recoil spring
– A seized engineTo troubleshoot a stuck pull cord, try the following:
– Check the starter motor by trying to turn it by hand. If it’s jammed, you’ll need to replace it.
– Check the recoil spring by trying to pull it back into the starter housing. If it’s broken, you’ll need to replace it.
– Check the engine by trying to turn it over by hand. If it’s seized, you’ll need to take the mower to a repair shop.Hard to Pull Pull Cord
If the pull cord is hard to pull, it could be due to a number of issues, including:
– A dirty or rusty starter housing
– A worn or frayed pull cord
– A weak recoil springTo troubleshoot a hard to pull pull cord, try the following:
– Clean the starter housing with a degreaser and a brush.
– Replace the pull cord if it’s worn or frayed.
– Replace the recoil spring if it’s weak.Cord Recoils Slowly
If the cord recoils slowly, it could be due to a number of issues, including:
– A dirty or rusty recoil spring housing
– A weak recoil spring
– A jammed starter motorTo troubleshoot a slowly recoiling cord, try the following:
– Clean the recoil spring housing with a degreaser and a brush.
– Replace the recoil spring if it’s weak.
– Check the starter motor by trying to turn it by hand. If it’s jammed, you’ll need to replace it.Pull Cord Won’t Retract
If the pull cord won’t retract, it could be due to a number of issues, including:
– A broken recoil spring
– A jammed starter motor
– A seized engineTo troubleshoot a pull cord that won’t retract, try the following:
– Check the recoil spring by trying to pull it back into the starter housing. If it’s broken, you’ll need to replace it.
– Check the starter motor by trying to turn it by hand. If it’s jammed, you’ll need to replace it.
– Check the engine by trying to turn it over by hand. If it’s seized, you’ll need to take the mower to a repair shop.Safety Precautions
Before you start working on your lawn mower, always take the following safety precautions:
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent the engine from accidentally starting.
2. Wear Gloves
Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and hot surfaces.
3. Allow the Mower to Cool
Let the lawn mower cool down completely before working on it to avoid burns.
4. Secure the Mower
Place the lawn mower on a stable surface to prevent it from rolling or tipping over.
5. Exercise Caution with Sharp Objects
Be careful when handling sharp objects, such as the blade or pull cord, to avoid cuts.
6. Keep Children and Pets Away
Keep children and pets away from the work area to prevent accidents.
7. Read the Owner’s Manual
Consult the owner’s manual for specific safety instructions for your lawn mower model.
8. Avoid Loose Clothing
Wear close-fitting clothing to avoid snags and entanglement.
9. Be Aware of Exit Strategy
Make sure you have a clear exit strategy in case of an emergency, such as a fire or sudden movement of the lawn mower. Keep a safe distance from the mower while it is running and be prepared to move away quickly if necessary.
Do Don’t Wear gloves and safety glasses Touch the hot engine or muffler Keep the work area clear and well-lit Use the mower in wet conditions or on slopes Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully Attempt repairs beyond your skill level Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your lawn mower in optimal condition and extending its lifespan. One important aspect of maintenance is replacing the pull cord when it becomes worn or damaged.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
You’ll need: a new pull cord, a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly a spark plug wrench.
Step 2: Disconnect the Spark Plug
Remove the spark plug wire using a spark plug wrench to prevent electrical shocks.
Step 3: Remove the Starter Cover
Locate the screws holding the starter cover and remove them using a screwdriver.
Step 4: Remove the Old Pull Cord
Identify the knot or screw holding the old pull cord to the starter pulley. Untie the knot or remove the screw and pull the cord out.
Step 5: Install the New Pull Cord
Insert the new pull cord into the hole in the starter pulley and tie a secure knot or insert the screw.
Step 6: Wind the Cord
Slowly wind the new pull cord onto the starter pulley, ensuring it wraps tightly in the correct direction.
Step 7: Install the Starter Cover
Replace the starter cover and secure it with the screws.
Step 8: Connect the Spark Plug
Reattach the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Step 9: Pull to Start
Pull the new pull cord to start the lawn mower.
Troubleshooting: Cord Not Retracting
Possible Cause Solution Cord too tightly wound Rewind the cord with less tension Pulley or spring malfunction Contact a qualified repair technician How to Change a Lawn Mower Pull Cord
Replacing the pull cord on a lawn mower is relatively easy and inexpensive. With a few simple tools, you can complete the task in about 30 minutes. Here are the steps on how to change a lawn mower pull cord:
- Safety first. Disconnect the spark plug wire before starting any work on the lawn mower. This will prevent the engine from accidentally starting.
- Remove the recoil starter cover. The recoil starter cover is usually held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and set the cover aside.
- Remove the old pull cord. The pull cord is attached to the recoil starter with a knot. Untie the knot and remove the old pull cord.
- Install the new pull cord. Tie a new knot in the end of the new pull cord and attach it to the recoil starter. Wind the pull cord around the recoil starter a few times.
- Reinstall the recoil starter cover. Replace the recoil starter cover and secure it with the screws.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire. Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
- Test the pull cord. Start the lawn mower and check that the pull cord is working properly.
People Also Ask
What tools do I need to change a lawn mower pull cord?
You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
How long does it take to change a lawn mower pull cord?
It should take about 30 minutes to change a lawn mower pull cord.
How do I know if my lawn mower pull cord needs to be replaced?
If your lawn mower pull cord is frayed, broken, or difficult to pull, it may need to be replaced.
