The sweet sound of a well-maintained lawnmower humming through your backyard is a joy to behold. But what happens when that satisfying “vroom” turns into a frustrating “clunk” or a disheartening “sputter”? Often, the culprit behind a lawnmower’s unwillingness to start is a worn-out pull start rope. This article will guide you through the process of restringing your lawnmower’s pull start, providing you with the necessary steps to revive your mower and get your lawn looking its best. From identifying the problem to replacing the rope, we’ll cover all the essential aspects, ensuring you’re equipped to tackle this common maintenance task.
A Short Overview
Restringing a lawnmower’s pull start is a relatively simple repair that can be done with basic tools. It involves removing the old rope, replacing it with a new one, and reassembling the pull start assembly. While it’s not a complicated procedure, it does require a little bit of dexterity and patience.
Identifying the Problem: Why Your Pull Start Isn’t Working
Before diving into the restringing process, it’s essential to confirm that the pull start is indeed the culprit behind your lawnmower’s starting woes. Here’s a quick checklist to help pinpoint the issue:
1. Check the Pull Rope:
- Is the rope frayed or broken? A worn-out rope is the most common reason for a faulty pull start.
- Does the rope feel loose or have excess slack? This could indicate a problem with the spring tension or the rope’s attachment point.
2. Inspect the Recoil Assembly:
- Are there any visible signs of damage? Cracks or breaks in the plastic housing or the spring can prevent the pull start from functioning correctly.
- Is the spring fully engaged? A disengaged or broken spring will make it impossible to pull the rope.
3. Test the Engine:
- Can you hear the engine turning over? If the engine is not turning, the problem might be with the starter clutch or the engine itself, not the pull start.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Once you’ve confirmed that the pull start is the culprit, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and supplies to complete the restringing process:
- New pull start rope: Ensure the new rope is compatible with your lawnmower model.
- Phillips screwdriver: For removing and securing screws.
- Flathead screwdriver: For prying open the pull start housing (if necessary).
- Pliers: For gripping and pulling the rope.
- Wire cutters: For trimming the rope to the correct length.
- Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
Step-by-Step Guide to Restringing a Pull Start Lawn Mower
Now that you’re equipped with the right tools, let’s embark on the restringing process.
Step 1: Disassembling the Pull Start Assembly
- Locate the pull start housing: This is usually located on the top of the engine.
- Remove the screws: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the pull start housing together. Some models might have a single large screw in the center.
- Separate the housing: Gently pry open the housing using a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage any internal components.
Step 2: Remove the Old Rope
- Identify the rope attachment points: The rope is typically attached to the recoil spring and the pull start handle.
- Release the rope: Carefully pull the rope out of its attachment points. You might need to use pliers to help grip the rope and pull it free.
- Inspect the spring: Make sure the spring is in good condition and not damaged. If it’s broken or weak, you’ll need to replace it.
Step 3: Installing the New Rope
- Thread the new rope: Begin by threading the new rope through the hole in the pull start handle.
- Secure the rope to the spring: Attach the rope to the recoil spring, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
- Pull the rope through the housing: Carefully pull the rope through the housing, ensuring it’s not snagged on any components.
Step 4: Reassemble the Pull Start Assembly
- Attach the handle: Align the pull start handle with its housing and reattach it using the screws.
- Test the tension: Pull the rope several times to ensure the spring tension is adequate.
- Trim the rope: Use wire cutters to trim the excess rope to the desired length.
Step 5: Reinstall the Pull Start Assembly
- Secure the housing: Place the housing back on the engine and tighten the screws.
- Test the pull start: Pull the rope several times to ensure it operates smoothly and the engine turns over.
Tips for a Smooth Restringing Process
- Use a quality rope: Don’t skimp on the rope. A high-quality rope will last longer and provide better performance.
- Lubricate the spring: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the spring to ensure smooth operation.
- Test the engine: After restringing the pull start, run the engine for a few minutes to ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Check for other problems: If the pull start continues to malfunction even after restringing, there might be other issues with the engine or the starter clutch.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower’s Pull Start
Just like any other mechanical component, your lawnmower’s pull start requires regular maintenance to keep it in top shape. Here are a few simple steps to ensure its longevity:
- Inspect the rope regularly: Check for fraying, wear, or damage. Replace the rope as soon as signs of wear appear.
- Lubricate the spring: Apply a light coating of lubricant to the spring every few months to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
- Store properly: Keep your lawnmower in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While restringing a pull start is a relatively simple task, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to problems:
- Not using the correct rope: Using a rope that’s too thick or thin can damage the pull start assembly or make it difficult to start the engine.
- Over-tightening the screws: Tightening the screws too tightly can damage the housing or the spring.
- Forcing the rope: Don’t force the rope through the housing. If it’s snagged or doesn’t go easily, there’s likely a problem with the rope’s path or the housing.
Conclusion: Power Up Your Lawn Mower
Restringing a pull start lawnmower is a simple, cost-effective solution to revive your mower’s starting power. By following these detailed steps, you can easily tackle this common maintenance task and get your lawn looking pristine. Remember to use quality materials, take your time, and be mindful of common mistakes. With a little patience and care, you can keep your lawnmower running smoothly for many years to come.
FAQ
What tools do I need to restring a pull start lawnmower?
You will need a few basic tools to restring your pull start lawnmower. These include:
* A Phillips head screwdriver
* A pair of pliers
* A small flathead screwdriver
* A new pull start rope
How do I remove the old rope?
To remove the old rope, you will first need to remove the cover of the pull start assembly. This cover is typically held on by a few screws. Once the cover is removed, you should see the rope wound around a spring. Use a pair of pliers to grip the rope and pull it out. Be careful not to damage the spring. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the rope off the spring.
How do I install the new rope?
Once you have removed the old rope, you can start installing the new rope. Start by threading the new rope through the eyelet on the spring. Make sure that the rope is threaded in the correct direction so that it will wind around the spring correctly. Once the rope is threaded, start winding it around the spring. You can use your hand to wind the rope around the spring, or you can use a small screwdriver to help you wind the rope more tightly.
How do I ensure the rope is wound correctly?
It is important to wind the rope correctly so that it will work properly. The rope should be wound tightly around the spring, but not so tightly that it is difficult to pull. You should also ensure that the rope is wound in the correct direction. If you wind the rope in the wrong direction, it will not pull the engine over correctly.
How do I reassemble the pull start?
Once you have wound the rope around the spring, you can reassemble the pull start. Start by putting the cover back on the pull start assembly. Make sure that the cover is securely fastened with the screws. You should then be able to test the pull start by pulling on the rope. If the engine starts, you have successfully restrung your pull start lawnmower.
What do I do if the rope breaks while I am restringing it?
If the rope breaks while you are restringing it, you will need to start over. Remove the broken rope and install a new one. Be sure to use a new rope that is the correct length and diameter for your lawnmower.
How do I know if my pull start is beyond repair?
If the spring is broken or the housing is cracked, the pull start is likely beyond repair. It may be more economical to replace the entire assembly. There are several retailers that carry pull start assemblies online and in local hardware stores.
These FAQs provide a basic understanding of how to restring a pull start lawnmower. Always refer to your lawnmower’s user manual for more detailed instructions on how to properly restring the pull start. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic.