Experiencing difficulties with a stubborn lawn mower pull string? Replacing it can be a straightforward task that eliminates the hassle and ensures a smooth start to your lawn care routine. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to tackle the replacement process confidently. Dive into the details and discover the secrets to restoring your lawn mower’s vitality, leaving your outdoor space pristine and your lawn manicured to perfection.
To initiate the replacement, gather the necessary tools and materials. A new pull string, pliers, a screwdriver, and a pair of safety gloves are essential for a successful repair. Commence by disconnecting the spark plug wire to ensure safety. Locate the starter assembly, typically positioned at the top of the engine, and proceed to remove the bolts securing it to the mower. Carefully detach the old pull string from the starter mechanism and discard it.
Now, it’s time to install the new pull string. Begin by threading the new string through the starter assembly and out the opposite side. Tie a secure knot at the end of the string, ensuring it is firmly attached. Next, reattach the starter assembly to the mower, making sure to tighten the bolts securely. Lastly, reconnect the spark plug wire and test the new pull string to verify its functionality. With these steps followed precisely, your lawn mower will be ready to conquer your outdoor space once again, delivering a pristine cut and a sense of accomplishment for a job well done.
Removing the Old Pull String
Accessing the Starter Components
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Locate the Pull Starter Assembly: Identify the pull starter mechanism, typically situated on the side or top of the lawn mower’s engine. It consists of a recoil spring housing, a pull cord, and a starter rope.
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Disconnect the Pull Cord: Grasp the pull cord and gently pull it out until you encounter resistance. Release the cord and locate the point where it attaches to the starter rope. Carefully detach the pull cord from the rope by pulling or unhooking the connecting mechanism.
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Remove the Starter Rope: With the pull cord disconnected, proceed to remove the starter rope from the recoil spring housing. Gently pull on the rope to disengage it from the housing’s spool. Exercise caution to avoid any accidental spring recoil.
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Unmount the Recoil Spring Housing: Identify the mounting screws or bolts that secure the recoil spring housing to the engine. Using a screwdriver or wrench, carefully unscrew or unbolt the housing and detach it from the engine.
Retrieving the Old Pull String
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Locate the Worn Pull String: Once the recoil spring housing is removed, inspect the inside of the housing for the old pull string. It is typically wrapped around the spool of the spring.
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Unwind the Old Pull String: Carefully unwind the worn pull string from the spool, taking note of its routing and length. Avoid cutting the string or tangling it with other components.
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Remove the String from the Housing: After unwinding the string, locate any retaining clips or mechanisms that secure it inside the housing. Use pliers or a screwdriver to carefully remove the string and discard it.
Disassembling the Pull Starter
To disassemble the pull starter, you will need a few basic tools:
- A screwdriver
- A wrench
- A pair of pliers
Before you begin, disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. This will help to prevent any accidental starting of the engine.
Locate the pull starter on the side of the engine. It will be a small, cylindrical housing with a rope attached to it. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the housing in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the housing off of the engine.
Inside the housing, you will find a spring, a pulley, and a rope. The spring is what provides the tension that pulls the rope back into the housing. The pulley is what the rope wraps around. And the rope is what you pull to start the engine.
To remove the spring, use a pair of pliers to grab the end of it and pull it out of the housing. Be careful not to let the spring go flying out of your hands. Once the spring is removed, you can remove the pulley by unscrewing the bolt that holds it in place.
Finally, you can remove the rope by unwinding it from the pulley. Once the rope is removed, you can disassemble the rest of the pull starter.
Replacing the Pull Cord
Once you have removed the old pull cord, it’s time to install the new one. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
3. Installing the New Pull Cord
a) Thread the new pull cord through the guide tube: Grab one end of the new pull cord and carefully thread it through the guide tube, making sure it goes in smoothly. You may need to feed the cord slowly to avoid any tangles or snags.
b) Secure the handle to the starter rope: Locate the starter rope attached to the engine and slide the handle of the new pull cord onto it. Ensure that the handle fits snugly and does not slip off.
c) Wrap the cord around the starter pulley: With the handle attached, start wrapping the pull cord around the starter pulley, which is usually located near the top of the engine. Wind the cord in the direction indicated by the arrows or instructions on the pulley.
d) Pull the cord to tighten: After winding the cord a few times, give it a firm pull to tighten it. This will help prevent the cord from slipping when pulling.
e) Secure the knot: Once the cord is tight, tie a simple overhand knot at the end to prevent it from unraveling.
f) Trim excess cord: After tying the knot, trim any excess pull cord to a reasonable length, leaving enough to comfortably grip and pull.
g) Test the pull cord: Finally, pull the starter cord slowly to ensure it winds and releases smoothly without any issues.
Here’s a more detailed table of the steps involved in installing the new pull cord:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Thread new pull cord through guide tube |
| 2 | Secure handle to starter rope |
| 3 | Wrap cord around starter pulley |
| 4 | Pull cord to tighten |
| 5 | Secure knot |
| 6 | Trim excess cord |
| 7 | Test pull cord |
Assembling the Pull Starter
Step 4: Install the New Pull Cord
1. Unwind the old pull cord completely and remove it from the starter assembly.
2. Cut the new pull cord to the desired length. The length of the cord will depend on the size of your lawn mower. As a general rule of thumb, the cord should be long enough to reach from the handle to the ground.
3. Insert the new pull cord into the starter assembly. The cord should be routed through the guide tube and the spring cup.
4. Tie the pull cord to the starter pulley. There are a few different ways to tie the cord to the pulley. One common method is to use a figure-eight knot.
| Figure-Eight Knot | Steps |
|---|---|
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1. Pass one end of the cord through the center of the starter pulley. |
1. Pass one end of the cord through the center of the starter pulley. |
5. Check the tension of the pull cord. The cord should be tight enough to recoil when you pull it, but not so tight that it is difficult to pull.
Verifying the Position of the Pulley
Prior to reinstalling the pull starter, ensure that the pulley is correctly positioned. To verify the pulley’s orientation, observe the notches present on its inner rim. These notches should align with the grooves located on the flywheel.
Attaching the Pulley to the Flywheel
Once the pulley’s orientation has been verified, proceed to attach it to the flywheel. Carefully align the pulley’s notches with the flywheel’s grooves, then press firmly to secure the pulley in place.
Tightening the Pulley with a Wrench
Using an appropriate wrench, carefully tighten the pulley onto the flywheel. Apply moderate torque to ensure a secure connection, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the flywheel or the pulley.
Reattaching the Pull Starter Assembly
Locate the pull starter assembly and align it with the corresponding mount on the mower’s engine. Insert the assembly into the mount and secure it with bolts or screws. Ensure that it is firmly attached to the engine.
Connecting the Pull Starter Rope
Finally, connect the pull starter rope to the pulley. Identify the designated slot or hole on the pulley for the rope, then loop the rope through the slot and tie a secure knot to fasten it. Double-check all connections before attempting to start the mower.
Using a Manual Pull Starter
To replace the pull string on a lawn mower, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug
Locate the spark plug on the side of the engine. Disconnect the spark plug wire by pulling it straight off with your fingers.
2. Open the Starter Cover
Locate the starter cover on the front of the engine. It is usually held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and lift off the cover.
3. Remove the Old Pull String
Grasp the end of the old pull string and pull it out of the starter rewind housing.
4. Thread the New Pull String
Insert the end of the new pull string into the starter rewind housing. Thread the string through the hole in the housing and pull it out until you have about 6 inches of string left.
5. Tie a Knot in the Pull String
Tie a knot in the end of the pull string. This will prevent the string from slipping out of the housing.
6. Wrap the Pull String Around the Pulley
Wrap the pull string around the pulley, starting in the center and working your way around. Wrap the string tightly, but do not overtighten it. There should be a little bit of slack in the string so that it can recoil easily. The following steps will help you wrap the pull string around the pulley correctly:
- Start by wrapping the string around the center of the pulley.
- Make a loop with the string and pass it over the top of the pulley.
- Bring the string down and wrap it around the bottom of the pulley.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have wrapped the string around the pulley in a spiral pattern.
- Once you have wrapped the string around the pulley, tie a knot in the end of the string and trim off any excess.
| Pulley Wrapping Steps |
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7. Reinstall the Starter Cover
Place the starter cover back on the engine and secure it with the screws. Tighten the screws until they are snug, but do not overtighten them.
8. Reconnect the Spark Plug
Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug by pushing it on firmly.
Parts of a Pull String
A recoil starter assembly typically includes the following components:
- Pull cord
- Rewind spring
- Pawls
- Starter cup
- Pulley
- Rope guide
- Starter housing
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Rewind Spring Not Engaging
If the rewind spring is not engaging, it may be due to a broken or weak spring. Check the spring for damage and replace it if necessary. Ensure the pawls are correctly positioned and engaging with the pulley. Clean the starter cup and pulley to prevent friction that could hinder engagement.
Starter Not Winding Back
If the starter is not winding back, inspect the rope guide for any obstructions or damage. Ensure the starter housing is correctly aligned, as misalignment could cause the rope to bind. Check the pull cord for fraying or damage, as this could affect its ability to retract.
Cord Breaking or Slipping
If the cord breaks or slips, it may be due to excessive wear and tear. Replace the pull cord with a new one of the correct length and diameter. Inspect the rope guide and starter housing for any sharp edges or burrs that could damage the cord. Ensure the pull cord is properly wound around the pulley to prevent slippage.
Safety Precautions
Before starting any work on your lawn mower, make sure to read and follow all safety precautions outlined in the owner’s manual. Additionally, observe these general safety practices:
- Wear sturdy shoes and gloves while performing maintenance.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Allow the engine to cool before performing any maintenance.
- Use only genuine replacement parts to ensure proper fit and function.
- Consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions and precautions related to your particular lawn mower model.
- If you are unfamiliar with lawn mower repair or maintenance, seek assistance from a qualified technician.
Changing the Pull String
Follow these steps to change the pull string on your lawn mower:
1. Locate the Starter Assembly
On most lawn mowers, the starter assembly is located on the side of the engine. It typically consists of a housing, a pulley, and a recoil spring.
2. Remove the Starter Assembly
Loosen or remove the bolts or screws that hold the starter assembly in place. Be careful not to lose any loose parts.
3. Remove the Old Pull String
Unwind the old pull string from the pulley and remove it from the starter assembly.
4. Insert the New Pull String
Insert the new pull string into the starter assembly. Feed it through the hole in the pulley and wind it onto the pulley in the direction indicated by the arrow on the pulley.
5. Tie a Knot in the Pull String
Tie a knot in the end of the pull string to prevent it from slipping off the pulley.
6. Reinstall the Starter Assembly
Reinstall the starter assembly onto the engine. Tighten the bolts or screws securely.
7. Test the Pull String
Pull the starter rope to start the engine. The engine should start easily. If it does not, recheck your work or consult a qualified technician.
8. Adjust the Pull String Tension
If the pull string is too loose, the engine may not start easily. If it is too tight, the starter assembly may be damaged. To adjust the tension, tighten or loosen the adjustment screw on the starter assembly. The correct tension will allow the engine to start easily without excessive force required to pull the rope.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your lawn mower running smoothly. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Change the oil every 25 hours of operation or once a season.
- Replace the air filter every 50 hours of operation or once a season.
- Clean the spark plug and check the gap annually.
- Lubricate all moving parts regularly.
- Sharpen or replace the blade as needed.
Storage
Proper storage is crucial to extend the lifespan of your lawn mower. Here are some storage tips:
- Clean the mower thoroughly before storing.
- Drain the fuel and run the engine until it stops, ensuring all fuel is used up.
- Remove the spark plug and pour a tablespoon of oil into the cylinder. Pull the cord several times to distribute the oil.
- Cover the mower with a tarp or store it in a dry place.
- Check the mower’s condition and perform any necessary maintenance before using it again.
9. Changing the Pull String
Replacing the pull string is a simple task that can be completed in a few easy steps:
- Locate the recoil starter assembly on the side of the engine.
- Remove the starter cover by unscrewing the bolts or clips.
- Unwind the old pull string and remove it from the starter assembly.
- Insert the new pull string into the starter assembly and wind it around the pulley.
- Tie a knot in the end of the pull string and attach it to the handle.
- Rewind the pull string fully onto the pulley.
- Reattach the starter cover.
- Test the pull string to ensure it is working properly.
| Tools Required | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Phillips screwdriver | 15 minutes |
Choosing the Right Pull String
Selecting the appropriate pull string is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning of your lawn mower. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Material: Opt for a durable material such as nylon, polyester, or Kevlar. Avoid materials that fray or break easily.
- Diameter: The diameter should be compatible with the pulley system on your lawn mower. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Length: The length should allow you to comfortably start the mower and reach the ground without excessive bending.
- Coated: Consider a pull string with a protective coating or lubrication to reduce friction and wear.
- Tensile strength: Choose a pull string with high tensile strength to withstand the forces exerted during starting.
| Material | Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon | 2mm – 3mm | 36″ – 48″ |
| Polyester | 2.5mm – 4mm | 38″ – 50″ |
| Kevlar | 2mm – 3.5mm | 40″ – 52″ |
Additionally, check the following:
- Spring design: Ensure the pull string has a compatible spring design for smooth retraction.
- Replacement frequency: Determine the recommended replacement schedule for your specific lawn mower model.
- Handle grip: Choose a pull string with a comfortable handle grip for ease of use.
- Quality: Opt for a high-quality pull string from a reputable manufacturer to guarantee durability.
How to Change the Pull String on a Lawn Mower
Changing the pull string on a lawn mower is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Unplug the spark plug wire from the spark plug. This will prevent the engine from starting when you pull the cord.
- Locate the recoil starter assembly. This is usually located on the side of the engine, and it has a handle with a pull cord attached to it.
- Remove the screws that hold the recoil starter assembly in place. Be careful not to lose the screws.
- Pull the recoil starter assembly off the engine. You may need to use a little force to do this.
- Remove the old pull string from the recoil starter assembly. There is usually a knot tied in the end of the string, so you can simply untie it.
- Tie a new pull string to the recoil starter assembly. Make sure that the knot is tied securely.
- Reattach the recoil starter assembly to the engine. Make sure that the screws are tightened securely.
- Plug the spark plug wire back into the spark plug.
- Pull the pull cord to start the lawn mower.
People Also Ask
How often should I change the pull string on my lawn mower?
You should change the pull string on your lawn mower every 2-3 years, or more often if you use your lawn mower frequently.
What are the symptoms of a bad pull string?
A bad pull string may be frayed, broken, or difficult to pull. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should replace the pull string.
Can I change the pull string on my own?
Yes, you can change the pull string on your lawn mower yourself. It is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.
