The familiar “thunk” of a broken lawn mower pull cord can quickly turn a leisurely weekend chore into an exercise in frustration. But don’t despair! Restringing a lawn mower pull cord is a surprisingly simple task that can be tackled with just a few basic tools and a little patience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from identifying the issue to installing the new cord, ensuring you get your lawn mower back in tip-top shape in no time.
In essence, restringing a lawn mower pull cord involves detaching the old cord, threading a new cord through the engine’s internal mechanism, and securing it properly. This article will cover the necessary tools, the steps involved in replacing the cord, and troubleshooting tips for common problems.
Identifying the Problem
Before you dive into restringing your lawn mower pull cord, it’s crucial to ensure that the problem isn’t something simpler. Here are a few common culprits to check before you start:
1. Is the Pull Cord Just Tangled?
The most straightforward issue is a tangled pull cord. It might seem obvious, but sometimes the cord can become twisted or knotted, preventing it from retracting properly. Simply try untangling the cord. If that doesn’t work, you might need to gently pull the cord out of its housing and untangle it manually.
2. Is the Recoil Spring Weak?
If the pull cord retracts sluggishly, the recoil spring might be worn out. This spring provides the tension that retracts the cord. A weak spring will make it harder to start the engine and might cause the cord to break prematurely. Inspect the spring for signs of wear or damage. If it needs replacement, you can usually purchase a new spring at your local hardware store or online.
Tools You’ll Need
To successfully restring your lawn mower pull cord, you’ll need the following tools:
- Phillips Screwdriver: This is the most common type of screwdriver used for lawn mower assemblies.
- New Pull Cord: You can usually find replacement cords at your local hardware store or online. Make sure to get a cord specifically designed for your lawn mower model.
- Wire Cutters or Pliers: These are helpful for trimming the new cord to the correct length.
- Work Gloves (optional): Wearing gloves can protect your hands from sharp edges or greasy parts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Restringing a Lawn Mower Pull Cord
Now that you’ve identified the issue and gathered your tools, you’re ready to embark on the restringing process. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the steps involved:
1. Disassemble the Pull Cord Assembly:
- Remove the Cover: Locate the pull cord housing, often found beneath the engine. Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove any screws securing the cover. Gently lift the cover off to expose the internal mechanism.
- Remove the Old Cord: Carefully remove the old pull cord. You might need to use a small flathead screwdriver or pliers to help pry it loose if it’s stuck.
2. Prepare the New Pull Cord:
- Measure and Cut: Measure the length of the old cord. Cut the new cord to roughly the same length, leaving a few extra inches for ease of handling.
- Attach the Cord to the Engine: Examine the engine carefully. You’ll find a small hook or loop where the cord attaches. Thread the new cord through this hook or loop.
3. Reassemble the Pull Cord Assembly:
- Thread the Cord: Carefully thread the new cord through the internal mechanism, following the path of the old cord. Be mindful of the spring and ensure the cord doesn’t get tangled.
- Attach the Cord to the Handle: Once you’ve threaded the cord through the mechanism, locate the hook or loop attached to the pull cord handle. Securely attach the cord to this hook.
- Secure the Assembly: Reattach the pull cord cover and ensure all screws are tightened securely.
4. Test the Pull Cord:
- First Pull: Give the pull cord a gentle pull to test its operation. The cord should retract smoothly and without snags.
- Engine Test: Once you’re confident the cord is properly restrung, start the engine to ensure it functions correctly. If the engine starts without difficulty, congratulations! You’ve successfully restrung your lawn mower pull cord.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful attention to each step, you might encounter a few hiccups during the restringing process. Here are some common problems and solutions:
1. The Cord is Too Short or Too Long
- Too Short: If the cord is too short, it will not reach the handle. You’ll need to cut another cord or replace it with a longer one.
- Too Long: A cord that’s too long can cause tangling. If the cord is too long, cut it to the appropriate length using your wire cutters.
2. The Spring is Not Retaining Tension
- Weak Spring: If the spring is weak, the cord won’t retract smoothly. This will make it difficult to start the engine. You’ll need to replace the spring with a new one.
- Spring Not Properly Installed: Ensure the spring is correctly positioned and attached within the mechanism. Check the lawn mower’s instruction manual if you’re unsure.
3. The Cord is Catching or Snagging
- Tangled Cord: If the cord is tangled, you’ll need to untangle it. This might require you to remove the cover again.
- Cord Caught on a Part: Inspect the mechanism for any areas where the cord could be snagging. You may need to adjust the position of the cord to avoid these areas.
Safety Tips for Restringing a Lawn Mower Pull Cord
- Disconnect the Spark Plug: Before starting any work, always disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Wear Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from debris or loose parts.
- Use Caution with Tools: Be careful when using tools like screwdrivers and pliers. Apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging parts.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always consult your lawn mower’s instruction manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
Conclusion: A Quick Fix for a Frustrating Problem
Restringing a lawn mower pull cord is a simple yet essential repair that can save you time and money. With the right tools and a little patience, you can restore your lawn mower’s functionality and get back to enjoying a well-manicured lawn. Remember to take your time, follow the steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to consult your lawn mower’s instruction manual for specific guidance.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to tackle this common lawn mower problem with confidence and skill. Now go forth and conquer those overgrown patches with a smoothly functioning pull cord!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What tools do I need to restring a lawn mower pull cord?
You will need a few basic tools to restring your lawn mower pull cord. These include a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new pull cord. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of wire cutters, although you can often just use the pliers. The new pull cord should be the same length and thickness as the old one. If you’re unsure about the correct size, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
Having the right tools makes the restringing process much easier and smoother. The screwdriver is used to remove the screws that hold the recoil housing in place. The pliers are used to remove the old cord from the recoil mechanism and to install the new cord. The wire cutters, while not strictly necessary, can be helpful for trimming the excess cord.
2. How do I know if my lawn mower pull cord needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your lawn mower pull cord needs to be replaced. One of the most obvious is if the cord is frayed or broken. Another sign is if the cord feels loose or doesn’t retract properly. If you have to pull the cord multiple times to start the engine, it’s likely that the cord is worn out and needs to be replaced. It’s also a good idea to replace the cord if it’s more than a few years old, as it can become brittle and break over time.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to replace the cord as soon as possible. A broken or frayed cord can be dangerous, and it can also damage the recoil mechanism. Replacing the cord is a relatively simple process and can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
3. How do I remove the old pull cord from the recoil housing?
The first step is to remove the screws that hold the recoil housing in place. You can do this using a Phillips head screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can gently pull the housing off the engine. The old pull cord will be attached to the recoil mechanism, which is located inside the housing. You can use pliers to carefully pull the old cord out of the mechanism.
Make sure to carefully detach the old cord from the recoil mechanism. This will help prevent any damage to the mechanism, which is responsible for winding the cord back up. If the old cord is stuck, you can use a pair of pliers to gently pull it free. However, be careful not to damage the mechanism.
4. How do I attach the new pull cord to the recoil mechanism?
Once the old cord is removed, you can attach the new cord to the recoil mechanism. The new cord will have two ends. One end will be attached to the recoil spring, and the other end will be attached to the pull handle.
Insert the new cord into the recoil mechanism. You will likely need to use the pliers to help guide the cord through the mechanism. The spring end of the cord should be fed through a small hole in the center of the mechanism. The handle end of the cord should be threaded through a larger hole near the edge of the mechanism.
5. How do I ensure the new pull cord is the correct length?
When choosing a new pull cord, it is important to ensure it is the correct length for your lawn mower. The cord should be long enough to reach the handle when the recoil mechanism is fully retracted, but not so long that it gets tangled or caught on something. If you’re unsure about the correct length, you can measure the old cord.
It’s generally advisable to choose a new cord that is slightly longer than the old cord. This will give you a bit of extra slack, which can be helpful when winding the cord back up. However, if you use a cord that’s too long, it may get tangled or caught on something.
6. How do I put the recoil housing back on the engine?
Once the new pull cord is attached, you can reassemble the recoil housing. Make sure that the cord is running smoothly through the mechanism before you put the housing back on. Carefully align the housing with the engine and then screw the screws back in. It’s important to tighten the screws evenly so that the housing is securely attached.
It’s a good idea to give the pull cord a few test pulls to make sure it’s working properly. The cord should retract smoothly and easily. If you have any trouble, you may need to adjust the tension on the recoil mechanism.
7. What if I can’t restring the pull cord myself?
If you are not comfortable restringing the pull cord yourself or if you encounter any difficulty, it’s always best to take your lawn mower to a qualified mechanic. They will have the expertise and tools to safely and properly restring the cord.
Restringing a pull cord may seem like a simple task, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the recoil mechanism. A professional mechanic can also inspect your lawn mower for other potential problems that may need to be addressed.