Is your lawn mower’s pull string broken or fraying? Don’t worry, replacing it is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can quickly and easily get your lawn mower back up and running in no time.
Begin by gathering the necessary tools and materials, including a new pull string, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver. First, locate the recoil starter housing on the side of the lawn mower. Using the screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the housing in place and carefully lift it off. You will then see the old pull string wrapped around the recoil spring. Use the pliers to unhook the old string from the spring and remove it.
Now, take the new pull string and attach it to the recoil spring. Wrap the string around the spring in the same direction as the old string was wrapped. Once the string is wrapped, use the pliers to hook the string onto the starter pulley. Slowly pull the string out until it is about 12 inches long. Finally, reattach the recoil starter housing to the lawn mower and tighten the screws. Your lawn mower is now ready to use again.
Removing the Old Pull String
To remove the old pull string, follow these steps:
1. Remove the spark plug wire
This is a safety precaution to prevent the engine from starting while you are working on it.
2. Locate and detach the pull starter assembly
The pull starter assembly is usually located on the side of the engine. It is a small, cylindrical unit with a rope pulley and a spring-loaded recoil mechanism. To detach the assembly, remove the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Note the orientation of the assembly before removing it, as it will need to be reinstalled in the same way.
3. Remove the old pull string
The old pull string is attached to the rope pulley. To remove it, simply untie the knot or unscrew the bolt that holds it in place. Once the string is detached, you can discard it.
Inspecting the Recoil Starter Housing
Before removing the pull string, it’s crucial to inspect the recoil starter housing thoroughly to assess its condition and identify any potential issues.
Checking the Housing for Damage
Examine the housing for any cracks, dents, or breaks. These defects can weaken the housing and compromise the starter’s performance. Look for any loose screws or bolts that may need tightening.
Assessing Spring Tension
Use a pair of pliers to gently pull the spring-loaded mechanism. If it offers significant resistance, the spring tension is adequate. However, if the spring feels weak or loose, it may need to be replaced to ensure sufficient recoil power.
Inspecting the Pawl and Gear
Locate the pawl, a small metal piece that engages with a gear inside the housing. Check if the pawl moves smoothly and engages the gear properly. Also, inspect the gear for any worn or damaged teeth. If the pawl or gear shows signs of wear or damage, it may require replacement.
Cleaning the Starter Housing
Over time, the starter housing may accumulate dirt, debris, or grass clippings. Use a brush or compressed air to clean the interior of the housing, removing any obstructions that could hinder the starter’s operation.
| Inspection Aspect | What to Look for |
|---|---|
| Housing | Cracks, dents, breaks |
| Spring Tension | Adequate resistance when pulled |
| Pawl and Gear | Smooth engagement, no damaged teeth |
| Cleanliness | Free from dirt, debris, and grass clippings |
Installing the New Pull String
Step 1: Removing the Outer Housing
Locate the outer housing, usually a plastic or metal casing covering the pull cord assembly. Remove the housing by unscrewing or unclipping it, exposing the recoil spring and pull cord.
Step 2: Unwinding the Old Pull String
With the outer housing removed, gently unwind the old pull string. Be careful not to damage the recoil spring.
Step 3: Installing the New Pull String
Wrap the new pull string around the drum in the same direction as the old string was wound. Leave a few inches of excess string to tie a knot later.
Step 4: Winding the Pull String
Slowly and evenly wind the new pull string onto the drum until it is slightly taut. While winding, make sure the string is not overlapping or tangled. Each revolution of the drum should pull approximately 8-12 inches of the string.
| Pull String Winding Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Wind the first 6-8 inches of string onto the drum. | Create a base for winding. |
| Pull the string through the starter housing and knot it securely. | Prevent the string from unwinding. |
| Continue winding the string tightly onto the drum, making even revolutions. | Store energy for the pull. |
Step 5: Knotting the Pull Cord
Once the string is wound, tie a secure knot around the starter housing’s handle. This will prevent the string from unwinding when you pull it.
Step 6: Reinstalling the Outer Housing
Reattach the outer housing to the lawn mower. Ensure it is securely fastened and no gaps or leaks are present.
Winding the Pull String
Step 1: Remove the Recoil Starter Housing
Locate the recoil starter housing on the side of the lawn mower. It’s usually a round or square-shaped cover with a pull string attached. Remove the screws or bolts holding the housing in place and carefully lift it off the engine.
Step 2: Remove the Old Pull String
Grab hold of the broken pull string and pull it out completely. If it’s stuck, gently twist and pull until it comes loose. Discard the old pull string.
Step 3: Prepare the New Pull String
Measure the length of the old pull string and cut a new one to the same length. Tie a small knot at one end of the new pull string and insert it into the hole in the recoil starter rope pulley.
Step 4: Thread the Pull String
Start threading the pull string through the guides and pulleys inside the recoil starter housing. Refer to the diagram on the housing for the proper routing. Avoid twisting or kinking the string.
Step 5: Wind the Pull String
Once the pull string is threaded, start winding it onto the recoil starter pulley. Hold the knot at the end of the string firmly and slowly pull the string out and let it recoil back in. Repeat this process until the pulley is tightly wound and there’s about 6-8 inches of string left.
| Wind Direction | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Clockwise | For most lawn mowers with recoil starters on the right side |
| Counterclockwise | For lawn mowers with recoil starters on the left side |
Securing the Pull String
6. Once the new pull string is in place, it is important to secure it properly to prevent it from coming loose or slipping. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the design of your lawn mower.
**a. Knot the String:** The simplest and most common method is to tie a knot in the end of the pull string. This can be done by passing the end of the string through the hole in the starter handle and then tying an overhand knot. Make sure the knot is tight and secure, but not so tight that it damages the string.
**b. Use a Screw or Bolt:** Some lawn mowers have a screw or bolt that can be used to secure the pull string. To do this, simply insert the screw or bolt through the hole in the starter handle and tighten it down until the pull string is secure.
**c. Use a Locking Ring:** Some lawn mowers use a locking ring to secure the pull string. To do this, simply insert the locking ring into the hole in the starter handle and turn it until it is tight. This will prevent the pull string from coming loose.
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Knot the String | Pass the end of the string through the hole in the starter handle and tie an overhand knot. |
| Use a Screw or Bolt | Insert the screw or bolt through the hole in the starter handle and tighten it down. |
| Use a Locking Ring | Insert the locking ring into the hole in the starter handle and turn it until it is tight. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
9. The Pull Cord is Broken:
A broken pull cord is a relatively common issue. If the cord snaps, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:
- Gather your materials: You’ll need a new pull cord, a pair of needle-nose pliers, and a screwdriver.
- Remove the old pull cord: Use the needle-nose pliers to remove the old pull cord from the starter assembly.
- Install the new pull cord: Thread the new pull cord through the starter assembly and secure it with a knot.
- Adjust the tension: Use the screwdriver to adjust the tension on the new pull cord. The cord should have a little slack, but it shouldn’t be too loose.
- Test the pull cord: Pull the cord to make sure it’s working properly. If it’s not, check the connections and adjust the tension as needed.
| Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| The pull cord is frayed or worn. | Replace the pull cord. |
| The spring in the starter assembly is broken. | Replace the spring. |
| The starter assembly is damaged. | Replace the starter assembly. |
How to Replace the Pull String on a Lawn Mower
Replacing the pull string on a lawn mower is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Follow these steps to get your mower up and running again:
1.
Unplug the spark plug wire. This is a safety precaution to prevent the engine from starting accidentally.
2.
Remove the old pull string. Grasp the handle of the pull string and pull it out of the recoil housing. The recoil housing is the black plastic cover that contains the pull string reel.
3.
Insert the new pull string. Feed the new pull string through the hole in the recoil housing. Make sure that the string is facing the correct direction. The arrow on the string should point towards the engine.
4.
Wind the pull string around the reel. Turn the reel by hand until the string is wound around it tightly.
5.
Tie a knot in the end of the pull string. This will prevent the string from unraveling.
6.
Replace the recoil housing. Snap the recoil housing back into place over the reel.
7.
Reconnect the spark plug wire.
Your lawn mower is now ready to use.
People Also Ask
How do you know if the pull string on your lawn mower is broken?
If you pull on the pull string and it does not recoil, the string is likely broken.
Can you replace the pull string on a lawn mower yourself?
Yes, replacing the pull string on a lawn mower is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.
How much does it cost to replace the pull string on a lawn mower?
The cost of a replacement pull string will vary depending on the make and model of your lawn mower. However, you can expect to pay between $5 and $10 for a new string.
