Starting your Craftsman lawn mower can be a frustrating experience when the pull cord breaks. A broken pull cord means you can’t start the engine, leaving you with an unusable lawnmower. But don’t fret! Replacing a pull cord on a Craftsman lawn mower is a relatively simple task that most homeowners can handle themselves. This article will guide you through the process, step-by-step, with detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful repair.
Understanding the Basics
The pull cord on your Craftsman lawn mower acts as a lifeline to start the engine. It’s a simple yet crucial part that connects to the recoil starter mechanism. When you pull the cord, it engages the starter, spinning the engine flywheel and igniting the combustion cycle. A broken or worn-out cord can make it impossible to start the mower.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather the following tools and materials:
- New pull cord: Make sure to purchase a replacement pull cord specifically designed for your Craftsman model.
- Screwdriver: A standard Phillips screwdriver is usually needed.
- Needle-nose pliers: Useful for manipulating the cord and connecting it to the starter.
- Wire cutters: For trimming the excess cord length after installation.
- Work gloves: Protect your hands while working.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Craftsman Pull Cord
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Disconnecting the Spark Plug:
- Locate the spark plug on the engine. It’s usually a metal cylinder with a wire connected to it.
- Use a wrench to loosen the spark plug, but do not completely remove it.
- This step is essential for safety, preventing accidental ignition while you’re working on the pull cord.
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Removing the Old Pull Cord:
- Locate the pull cord housing: The pull cord housing is usually located on the top or side of the engine, near the recoil starter mechanism.
- Remove the housing cover: Typically, you’ll find screws securing the housing cover. Use your screwdriver to loosen and remove them.
- Detach the old cord: The pull cord is connected to the recoil starter mechanism by a hook or a clip. Carefully detach the old cord from the mechanism.
- Remove the old cord from the housing: The cord is usually threaded through a series of guides and eyelets within the housing. Gently pull the old cord out, freeing it from these guides.
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Installing the New Pull Cord:
- Threading the new cord: Start by threading the new cord through the housing in the same way the old cord was. Ensure the cord passes through each guide and eyelet properly.
- Attaching the cord to the starter: Attach the new cord to the recoil starter mechanism using the hook or clip. Make sure the connection is secure.
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Adjusting the Pull Cord Tension:
- Identifying the tension adjustment mechanism: The pull cord tension can often be adjusted by a spring or a nut on the recoil starter mechanism.
- Adjusting the tension: Tighten or loosen the tension adjustment mechanism to achieve the desired tension. The correct tension should provide a smooth and easy pull, but not too loose.
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Reassembling the Housing:
- Re-attach the housing cover: Align the housing cover properly and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
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Testing the New Pull Cord:
- Reconnect the spark plug: Tighten the spark plug back into place.
- Pull the new cord: Test the new cord by pulling it several times. It should feel smooth and easy to pull, with a consistent feel.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- The cord feels too tight or too loose: Adjust the tension mechanism as described in Step 4.
- The cord breaks again shortly after installation: The recoil starter mechanism might be faulty. Consider replacing the entire mechanism.
- The engine won’t start after replacing the cord: Check for proper connection to the recoil starter, the spark plug, and the fuel supply.
Tips for Maintaining Your Pull Cord
- Regularly inspect the cord: Look for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage.
- Lubricate the recoil starter mechanism: Applying a light oil to the mechanism helps ensure smooth operation.
- Replace the cord if it shows signs of wear: A worn-out cord can break easily, leaving you stranded.
Conclusion
Replacing a broken pull cord on a Craftsman lawnmower is a straightforward task that can be completed with a few simple tools. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can restore your lawnmower to working order and enjoy a smooth mowing experience. Remember to check the cord for wear and tear regularly and lubricate the recoil starter mechanism for optimal performance. With a little effort, you can keep your Craftsman lawnmower running smoothly for years to come.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about changing a pull cord on a Craftsman lawn mower:
What tools do I need to change a pull cord on a Craftsman lawn mower?
You will need a few basic tools to change a pull cord on a Craftsman lawn mower. These include a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new pull cord. You might also need a small flathead screwdriver to remove any screws securing the recoil assembly cover. It is important to make sure the lawnmower is off and the spark plug wire is disconnected before you start working on it.
What kind of pull cord should I use?
It is important to use the correct type of pull cord for your Craftsman lawn mower. You can find the correct pull cord by looking at the part number on the old pull cord or by contacting your local lawn mower dealer or Craftsman customer service. Make sure the new pull cord is the same length as the old one and has the same type of end fitting.
How do I know if my pull cord is broken?
You will know your pull cord is broken if it is frayed, stretched, or if it has snapped. Another sign of a broken pull cord is if the engine is difficult to start. If you are having trouble starting your Craftsman lawn mower, the pull cord may be the problem.
How do I remove the old pull cord?
To remove the old pull cord, you will need to remove the recoil assembly cover. This is usually held in place by a few screws. Once the cover is removed, you can then remove the old pull cord from the recoil spring. You may need to use pliers to help remove the old cord if it is stuck.
How do I install the new pull cord?
To install the new pull cord, simply thread it through the recoil spring and then attach the end to the pull cord handle. Make sure the new pull cord is securely attached to the handle and that it is the correct length.
Should I lubricate the pull cord assembly?
It is a good idea to lubricate the pull cord assembly with a light oil such as sewing machine oil or WD-40. This will help to prevent the cord from becoming frayed or stretched. However, be careful not to use too much oil as this can make the cord slippery and difficult to grip.
How often should I replace the pull cord?
You should replace your pull cord every few years or if it starts to show signs of wear. If you notice that the cord is frayed, stretched, or if it has snapped, it is time to replace it. A worn out pull cord can make it difficult to start your lawn mower and could even cause the cord to break, leaving you with a major repair job.