You’re ready to tackle the yard, but when you pull the cord on your Ariens lawn mower, it feels loose, frayed, or snaps completely. A broken pull cord can be a frustrating experience, but it’s a common issue that’s relatively easy to fix with the right tools and a bit of know-how. This article will walk you through the process of replacing your Ariens lawn mower’s pull cord step-by-step, so you can get back to mowing in no time.
Here’s a quick overview of what we’ll cover:
- Identifying the problem and the right replacement cord
- Gathering the necessary tools
- Disassembling the engine housing and removing the old cord
- Installing the new pull cord
- Reassembling the engine housing and testing the new cord
Identifying the Problem and Choosing the Right Cord
Before you start tearing into your Ariens lawn mower, it’s essential to make sure the problem truly lies with the pull cord. If your engine won’t start, there could be other issues at play like a faulty spark plug, bad fuel, or a clogged air filter.
To diagnose the pull cord, check for the following:
- Loose or frayed cord: If the cord feels loose or you see visible wear and tear, it’s likely the culprit.
- Snapped cord: A broken cord is a clear sign of replacement needed.
- Difficult recoil: If the pull cord feels stiff or difficult to pull, the issue could be a broken spring within the recoil mechanism.
Once you’ve confirmed the pull cord is the problem, you need to find the right replacement. Ariens offers a variety of models, so ensuring you get the correct replacement cord is crucial. You can check your owner’s manual or contact Ariens customer support to determine the appropriate pull cord for your specific mower model.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Here are the tools you’ll need to replace the pull cord:
- Phillips screwdriver: Used to remove screws on the engine housing.
- Flathead screwdriver: Used to pry off the recoil cover if necessary.
- Pliers: Used to grip and pull the old cord.
- New pull cord: The specific length and type will vary depending on your mower model.
Disassembling the Engine Housing and Removing the Old Cord
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire: Always start by disconnecting the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Pull the wire boot off the spark plug to ensure the engine won’t ignite while you’re working on it.
2. Remove the Engine Housing Cover: Locate the engine housing cover, usually held in place by a few screws. Using a Phillips screwdriver, carefully remove these screws. Some models may have a recoil cover secured with clips, which you can remove using a flathead screwdriver.
3. Access the Pull Cord: Once the engine housing cover is removed, you’ll see the recoil mechanism and the pull cord. The cord is typically routed through a small hole in the engine housing, attached to the recoil spring.
4. Remove the Old Cord: Using pliers, carefully grip the old cord near the recoil mechanism. Pull gently, unwinding the cord from the recoil spring. You may need to use your fingers to help guide the cord through the hole in the engine housing.
5. Inspect the Recoil Spring: While you’re inside, take a moment to inspect the recoil spring. If it’s broken or damaged, you’ll need to replace it as well.
Installing the New Pull Cord
1. Feed the New Cord: Starting at the recoil spring, carefully thread the new cord through the hole in the engine housing. You’ll need to feed it in the same direction as the old cord.
2. Secure the New Cord: Once the new cord is threaded through the hole, attach it to the recoil spring. The attachment method will vary depending on your specific mower model. Refer to your owner’s manual or online instructions for your model.
3. Wind the New Cord: With the new cord attached, you’ll need to wind it around the recoil spring. To do this, slowly pull the cord out while simultaneously rotating the spring. Ensure the cord winds evenly and doesn’t get tangled.
4. Test the Recoil Mechanism: After winding the cord, pull the cord a few times to ensure it functions correctly. The recoil should spring back smoothly, and you should feel resistance when pulling the cord.
Reassembling the Engine Housing and Testing the New Cord
1. Reattach the Engine Housing Cover: Place the engine housing cover back in position and reattach the screws. Make sure the cover is securely fastened and all the screws are tight.
2. Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire: Carefully reattach the spark plug wire to the spark plug boot. Ensure it’s securely connected and there is no gap.
3. Test the New Cord: Now that everything is reassembled, test the new cord. Pull the cord several times to ensure it functions correctly and that the engine starts. If the engine starts smoothly and the cord retracts properly, you’ve successfully replaced the pull cord.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on your lawn mower.
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Refer to your Ariens lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams relevant to your model.
- Clean the Recoil Mechanism: Before replacing the cord, it’s a good idea to clean the recoil mechanism with a compressed air duster. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be hindering its operation.
- Inspect Other Components: While you have the engine housing open, take a look at other components, like the spark plug and air filter, and make sure they are in good condition.
Replacing a pull cord on your Ariens lawn mower is a simple task that can save you money and hassle. With a little patience and these step-by-step instructions, you can get your mower back up and running in no time.
FAQs
What tools will I need to replace the pull cord on my Ariens lawn mower?
You’ll need a few basic tools to replace the pull cord on your Ariens lawn mower. These include a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a small wrench. You may also need a new pull cord and a recoil starter spring if the old one is damaged. It’s always a good idea to have a pair of gloves on hand for added protection when working with mechanical parts.
Make sure to have the right size wrench for the nuts and bolts you’ll be working with. A small wrench will help you get into tight spaces and avoid damaging the parts. Having the right tools makes the job easier and less likely to damage the mower.
How do I know if my pull cord needs to be replaced?
There are several signs that indicate your pull cord needs to be replaced. One of the most obvious is a frayed or broken cord. This can happen over time due to wear and tear, especially if the cord is frequently used. If the cord is slipping or not returning properly, that’s another indication it needs to be replaced.
If the pull cord is becoming difficult to pull or if the engine is not starting easily, it may be due to a worn-out pull cord. It’s better to replace the pull cord sooner rather than later, as a damaged cord can lead to more serious problems down the line.
How do I disconnect the old pull cord?
Before you can replace the pull cord, you need to disconnect the old one. This typically involves removing the recoil starter cover, which is usually held in place by a few screws. Once the cover is removed, you’ll see the pull cord attached to the recoil starter assembly. You’ll need to carefully detach the cord from the assembly.
Be cautious when disconnecting the pull cord, as there may be tension on the spring. The process of disconnecting the pull cord will depend on the specific design of your lawn mower. It’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
How do I install the new pull cord?
Once the old pull cord is disconnected, you can install the new one. This involves threading the new cord through the recoil starter assembly and attaching it to the cord end. Ensure the cord is properly routed through the assembly and that it is securely attached.
It’s essential to make sure the pull cord is installed correctly, as a loose or improperly installed cord can cause problems with the engine starting. Again, refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on installing the new pull cord.
How do I reconnect the pull cord to the engine?
Once the new pull cord is installed in the recoil starter assembly, you need to reconnect it to the engine. This involves attaching the other end of the cord to the engine. The exact method of attachment will depend on your specific mower model.
You may need to use a small wrench or pliers to secure the cord to the engine. Make sure the cord is securely attached, as a loose connection can lead to problems with the engine starting.
What do I do if the pull cord is still not working properly after replacement?
If the pull cord is still not working properly after you’ve replaced it, there may be another issue with the recoil starter system. It’s possible the spring is broken or that the recoil starter mechanism is damaged.
In this case, you may need to replace the recoil starter assembly or contact a qualified repair technician to diagnose and fix the problem. They can inspect the entire system and identify any other issues preventing the pull cord from working properly.
What are some safety tips for replacing the pull cord?
Replacing the pull cord on your Ariens lawn mower is a relatively straightforward task, but there are a few safety tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to disconnect the spark plug wire before you start working on the mower. This will prevent the engine from accidentally starting.
Also, be careful when handling the recoil starter spring, as it can be under a lot of tension. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from injury. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific safety instructions regarding your model.