The sweet sound of a freshly mown lawn is a summer staple, but that serenity can quickly turn into frustration when your lawn mower refuses to cooperate. A stubborn pull start can be a common culprit, leaving you stranded with a half-mowed lawn and a growing sense of exasperation. But fear not! Fixing a pull start on a lawn mower doesn’t require a mechanic’s degree. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common issues and provide you with the tools and knowledge to get your mower back in action. We’ll cover everything from identifying the problem to troubleshooting and replacing parts, ensuring you can tackle this task with confidence.
Overview
The pull start system on a lawn mower uses a recoil spring to engage the engine. When you pull the starter cord, the spring winds up, storing energy. Releasing the cord allows the spring to unwind, spinning the engine’s crankshaft and starting it. If the pull start malfunctions, it can be due to issues with the cord, spring, recoil housing, or the engine itself.
Identifying the Problem
The first step to fixing a faulty pull start is pinpointing the issue. Here’s a quick checklist to help you identify the culprit:
- Cord Won’t Pull: Is the cord completely stuck or does it pull with resistance but not fully extend? This could indicate a problem with the cord, spring, or recoil housing.
- Cord Pulls But Doesn’t Engage: If the cord pulls but the engine doesn’t attempt to start, there may be an issue with the engine’s ignition system or the connection between the pull start and the engine.
- Cord Rebounds Quickly: A cord that snaps back immediately without engaging the engine suggests a worn-out or broken recoil spring.
- Loud Clicking Noise: A clicking sound during the pull-start process often signals a worn-out or broken spring, or a problem with the recoil housing.
Troubleshooting & Fixing the Pull Start
Once you’ve identified the problem, you can start troubleshooting and fixing the pull start. This section breaks down common issues and their solutions:
1. Worn or Broken Starter Cord
Cause: The starter cord can become frayed, worn, or even break from repeated use.
Diagnosis: Visually inspect the cord for signs of damage. If the cord is frayed, cracked, or missing sections, it needs replacement.
Solution:
* Replacing the Cord:
* Step 1: Disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
* Step 2: Remove the cover that protects the recoil assembly. This usually involves removing screws or clips.
* Step 3: Unwind the old cord and detach it from the recoil housing and the engine’s crankshaft.
* Step 4: Install the new cord, ensuring it’s properly threaded through the recoil housing.
* Step 5: Securely attach the cord to the engine’s crankshaft using the appropriate method (usually a pin or nut).
* Step 6: Reattach the recoil cover and reconnect the spark plug.
2. Worn or Broken Recoil Spring
Cause: The recoil spring is responsible for storing and releasing energy to spin the engine. Over time, it can become weakened, lose tension, or break entirely.
Diagnosis: If the cord rebounds immediately or you hear a clicking noise when pulling, it’s likely the spring is faulty.
Solution:
* Replacing the Spring:
* Step 1: Follow the same steps as replacing the cord to access the recoil housing.
* Step 2: Unwind and remove the old spring.
* Step 3: Install the new spring, ensuring it’s securely attached to the recoil housing and the engine’s crankshaft.
* Step 4: Reassemble the recoil housing and reconnect the spark plug.
Tip: Always ensure you are using the correct spring for your lawn mower model. Check the parts diagrams for your specific model to find the appropriate replacement part.
3. Damaged Recoil Housing
Cause: The recoil housing can crack, break, or become worn due to repeated use or impact.
Diagnosis: Inspect the housing for cracks, broken parts, or excessive wear.
Solution:
* Replacement: If the recoil housing is damaged beyond repair, you’ll need to replace it. This involves removing the old housing and installing a new one. Consult your owner’s manual or a parts diagram for specific instructions on disassembly and reassembly.
Note: When replacing the housing, make sure to purchase a compatible model designed for your specific lawn mower.
4. Engine Problems
Cause: Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the pull start itself, but with the engine. A faulty ignition system, a seized engine, or a lack of fuel can all prevent the engine from starting.
Diagnosis: If the pull start works but the engine doesn’t fire, check the spark plug, the fuel system, and the engine for any obvious problems.
Solution:
* Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for wear, corrosion, or damage. Replace it if necessary.
* Fuel System: Ensure the fuel tank has fresh fuel, the fuel lines are clear, and the fuel filter is clean.
* Engine: If the engine is seized, you’ll need to seek professional help to diagnose and repair the issue.
Prevention and Maintenance
Taking a proactive approach to maintaining your lawn mower’s pull start system can prevent costly repairs down the line:
- Regular Inspections: Visually inspect the starter cord, recoil spring, and housing for wear or damage at least once a year.
- Cord Lubrication: Apply a light lubricant (like dry Teflon spray) to the starter cord to reduce friction and wear.
- Spring Tension: Ensure the spring has adequate tension. If it feels weak, consider replacing it.
- Cleanliness: Keep the recoil housing and surrounding area clean to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and causing problems.
Conclusion
Fixing a pull start on a lawn mower can be a simple DIY project, but it requires careful diagnosis and attention to detail. By following the troubleshooting steps and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can restore your mower to its full functionality and avoid costly repairs. Remember, if you encounter a complex issue or are uncomfortable with any aspect of the repair process, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic. With the right approach, you can get your lawn mower back in top shape and enjoy a beautifully manicured lawn.
FAQ
What tools do I need to fix a pull start on a lawnmower?
You’ll need a few basic tools to fix a pull start on a lawnmower. These include a screwdriver set, a wrench set, pliers, and a pair of needle-nose pliers. You may also need a new pull start rope or spring if the existing ones are broken or worn out. It’s always a good idea to have a repair manual on hand as well, as it can provide detailed instructions and diagrams.
Having these tools on hand will ensure that you can properly troubleshoot and repair any issues with the pull start. You may also want to have a small cleaning brush and a can of compressed air to clean out any dirt or debris.
How do I know if the problem is with the pull start rope or the spring?
You can tell if the problem is with the rope or the spring by carefully observing the pull start mechanism. If the rope is frayed, broken, or simply too short, then you’ll need to replace it. If the rope is intact but the engine doesn’t start when you pull the rope, the problem is likely with the spring.
To check the spring, gently pull the rope out and see if the spring is still in place and working properly. If the spring is broken or stretched out, you’ll need to replace it. Replacing either the rope or the spring is a relatively simple process that you can likely do yourself.
How do I replace the pull start rope?
Replacing the pull start rope is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. First, you need to remove the old rope. You can do this by unscrewing the nut that holds the rope in place. Once the nut is removed, you can pull the rope out of the housing.
Now, simply thread the new rope through the hole in the housing and attach it to the spring. Make sure the rope is securely attached to the spring. Then, reattach the nut and tighten it securely.
How do I replace the pull start spring?
Replacing the pull start spring is also a straightforward process. Start by removing the old spring. You can do this by unscrewing the nut that holds the spring in place. Once the nut is removed, you can pull the spring out of the housing.
Next, insert the new spring into the housing. Make sure the spring is properly aligned with the housing. Reattach the nut and tighten it securely. Make sure the spring is properly seated and that it’s not rubbing against any parts of the housing.
What should I do if the pull start is stuck?
If the pull start is stuck, it’s important to not force it. Trying to force it can damage the mechanism. First, try to gently rock the pull start back and forth to see if you can loosen it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to remove the pull start cover and inspect the mechanism for any obstructions.
Once you’ve identified the problem, you can use a pair of pliers to remove any debris or obstructions. If the problem is with the spring, you’ll need to replace it. Remember to always use caution when working with the pull start mechanism.
What if the engine still won’t start after fixing the pull start?
If the engine still won’t start after you’ve fixed the pull start, the problem is likely not with the pull start itself. You should check the spark plug, the fuel line, and the air filter to make sure they are all in good working order.
Also, make sure the engine has enough fuel and that the fuel lines are not clogged. If you’ve checked all these things and the engine still won’t start, you may need to take it to a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
How can I prevent my pull start from breaking in the future?
To prevent your pull start from breaking in the future, you can follow a few simple tips. First, always use the pull start rope to start the engine. Don’t try to start the engine by pushing the mower.
Second, keep the pull start mechanism clean and free of debris. Regularly inspect the rope and spring to make sure they are in good condition. If you notice any wear or tear, replace the parts immediately. By following these simple tips, you can help to extend the life of your pull start and avoid unnecessary repairs.