The warm weather is here, and your lawn is starting to grow. You’re ready to get out the lawn mower and tackle the yard, but when you pull the cord, nothing happens. The familiar “thunk” of the engine starting is replaced by a disheartening silence. Your lawn mower pull cord is broken, and you’re not sure what to do.
This article will guide you through the common causes of a broken pull cord and offer step-by-step instructions for fixing it. We’ll cover how to identify the problem, troubleshoot potential issues, and provide the tools and techniques to get your mower running again in no time.
Understanding the Problem
The pull cord on a lawn mower is a crucial component of the starting mechanism. It’s connected to a recoil spring that stores energy, transferring it to the crankshaft when you pull the cord, ultimately rotating the engine and firing it up.
The most common issue with a pull cord is a broken or frayed cord. This can happen for several reasons, including:
- Wear and Tear: Frequent use, especially in rough conditions, can cause the cord to wear down over time.
- Incorrect Handling: Pulling the cord too hard or forcefully can stress the cord and lead to breakage.
- Improper Storage: Storing the mower improperly, such as in damp conditions, can lead to corrosion and weakened cord fibers.
Diagnosing the Problem:
Before jumping into repairs, it’s essential to correctly diagnose the issue. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Inspect the Pull Cord: Look for signs of fraying, tearing, or a broken section.
- Check the Recoil Spring: Is the spring fully extended when the cord is fully retracted? If not, the spring might be damaged or improperly attached.
- Examine the Starter Housing: Look for any cracks or damage in the starter housing.
- Test the Engine: Can you turn the engine by hand with the spark plug removed? If you can’t, there might be a problem with the engine, which is separate from the pull cord.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Lawn Mower Pull Cord:
Tools You’ll Need:
- Phillips Screwdriver: To remove screws on the starter housing.
- Flathead Screwdriver: To detach the pull cord from the recoil spring.
- New Pull Cord: Choose a cord with the correct length and diameter for your mower.
- Wire Cutters: To trim the cord to the appropriate length.
- Pliers: To help you securely attach the cord to the recoil spring.
Instructions:
- Disconnect the Spark Plug: Always disconnect the spark plug before working on the starter mechanism. This prevents accidental starting and ensures safety.
- Remove the Starter Housing: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws holding the starter housing to the engine.
- Detach the Pull Cord: Use a flathead screwdriver to detach the old pull cord from the recoil spring.
- Remove the Old Pull Cord: Carefully remove the old cord from the starter housing.
- Install the New Pull Cord: Thread the new cord through the starter housing, making sure it’s routed correctly.
- Attach to the Recoil Spring: Use pliers to securely attach the new cord to the recoil spring. Make sure the cord is firmly attached to prevent it from coming loose during operation.
- Trim the Excess Cord: Use wire cutters to trim any excess cord length, leaving enough for the recoil spring to fully retract.
- Reassemble the Starter Housing: Secure the starter housing back onto the engine with the screws.
- Reconnect the Spark Plug: Reattach the spark plug, ensuring it’s securely connected.
- Test the Pull Cord: Gently pull the cord a few times to ensure it retracts smoothly and the engine turns.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Cord Retraction Issues: If the cord doesn’t fully retract, check for snags or twists in the cord.
- Engine Won’t Start: If the engine still won’t start, ensure the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is not blocked. Additionally, inspect the spark plug for damage or dirt accumulation.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower Pull Cord:
A well-maintained pull cord can significantly extend its lifespan. Here are some tips:
- Store the Mower Properly: Store your mower in a dry and clean environment, ideally with the pull cord fully retracted.
- Lubricate the Recoil Spring: Occasionally lubricate the recoil spring with a light oil to reduce friction and wear.
- Avoid Harsh Pulling: Pull the cord smoothly and consistently to minimize stress on the cord and the recoil spring.
Conclusion:
Fixing a broken lawn mower pull cord is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with the right tools and a few straightforward steps. By following the instructions outlined in this article, you can restore your mower to working order and get back to enjoying a well-manicured lawn.
Remember, safety is paramount. Always disconnect the spark plug before working on the starter mechanism and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model. With a little patience and care, you can easily repair your lawn mower pull cord and get your lawn looking its best.
FAQs
Q1: Why is my lawn mower pull cord not working?
A: There are a few reasons why your lawn mower pull cord might not be working. The most common cause is a broken or worn-out spring. The spring is responsible for retracting the cord, and if it’s broken, the cord won’t return to its starting position. Other causes include a tangled cord, a damaged recoil housing, or a clogged carburetor.
To determine the exact cause, you’ll need to inspect the pull cord mechanism. Look for any visible damage, such as a broken spring, a frayed cord, or a cracked housing. You can also try pulling the cord repeatedly to see if it feels loose or if the engine starts.
Q2: How do I know if the spring is broken?
A: A broken spring is a common reason why your lawn mower pull cord won’t retract. To check for a broken spring, you’ll need to remove the recoil housing cover. This is typically done by removing a few screws. Once the cover is off, you can inspect the spring.
A broken spring will be obvious, as it will be either completely detached or have a visible break. If the spring is still attached but feels weak or doesn’t retract properly, it’s likely worn out and needs to be replaced.
Q3: What if the pull cord is tangled?
A: A tangled pull cord can prevent it from retracting properly and make it difficult to start the lawn mower. To untangle the cord, gently pull it out of the recoil housing. Be careful not to pull too hard, as this could damage the cord.
Once the cord is out of the housing, carefully untangle it. You can use your fingers or a small tool to help you. Once the cord is untangled, gently feed it back into the recoil housing. Make sure the cord is properly seated in the housing before you put the cover back on.
Q4: Can I replace the pull cord myself?
A: Yes, you can replace the pull cord yourself. However, you’ll need to have some basic mechanical skills and a few tools, such as a screwdriver and a pair of pliers.
Start by disconnecting the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Then, remove the recoil housing cover and carefully detach the old pull cord. Attach the new cord to the recoil assembly, following the instructions provided with the new cord. Make sure the cord is properly seated in the housing before you put the cover back on.
Q5: How often should I replace the pull cord?
A: The pull cord on your lawn mower will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. The lifespan of a pull cord depends on how often you use your lawn mower and how well you maintain it.
As a general rule, it’s a good idea to replace the pull cord every few years or if you notice any signs of wear and tear. This includes fraying, cracking, or stiffness. Replacing the pull cord when it starts to show signs of wear will help prevent more serious problems, such as a broken spring or a damaged recoil housing.
Q6: Where can I buy a replacement pull cord?
A: You can buy a replacement pull cord for your lawn mower at most hardware stores and online retailers. To find the right cord for your mower, you’ll need to know the make and model of your mower.
You can also check your owner’s manual for the part number of the pull cord. Once you have the part number, you can easily find the right replacement online or at your local hardware store.
Q7: Are there any other things I should check when fixing the pull cord?
A: While replacing the pull cord is often the fix for a malfunctioning lawn mower, you should also check other parts of the recoil system. This includes inspecting the recoil housing for cracks or damage, checking the condition of the pawl and spring, and ensuring the pull cord is properly seated.
Additionally, check the lawn mower’s engine for other potential issues. A clogged carburetor or a worn-out spark plug can also cause starting problems.