A warm summer day, the smell of freshly cut grass in the air – a perfect time to get your lawn mower out for a good trim. But then disaster strikes. You pull the cord, and instead of a satisfying “thunk” and the roar of the engine, you’re met with a limp, lifeless cord that won’t retract. The dreaded pull cord problem! Don’t fret – you don’t need to call a repairman just yet. With a few simple steps, you can learn how to rewind that stubborn pull cord and get your mower back in action. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps for rewinding a lawn mower pull cord, explaining the process in detail and equipping you with the tools and knowledge you need.
A Quick Overview of the Process:
Rewinding a lawn mower pull cord is a straightforward procedure that involves a few key steps:
- Identify and access the rewind mechanism. This usually involves removing a cover or panel on the mower housing.
- Rewind the cord onto the spool. Carefully guide the cord back onto its spool, ensuring it’s properly seated and free of tangles.
- Secure the cord. There might be a retaining clip or spring that needs to be re-engaged to hold the cord in place.
- Reassemble the mower. Put back any panels or covers you removed and test the cord for smooth operation.
## Identifying the Problem
Before you jump into the rewind process, it’s essential to understand the root cause of your pull cord malfunction. Here are some common scenarios:
1. Cord Breakage:
This is the most straightforward issue and often the easiest to fix. If the cord is completely broken or has a fraying section, you’ll need to replace it. This usually requires a new cord kit that includes the cord itself, the recoil spring, and potentially other components.
2. Tangles or Knots:
The cord may have become tangled on the spool, preventing it from retracting properly. This is a common problem, especially if the cord wasn’t properly wound in the first place.
3. Worn Recoil Spring:
The recoil spring is responsible for pulling the cord back in after you pull it. If the spring is worn out or broken, the cord won’t retract properly. This requires replacing the spring.
## Rewinding the Pull Cord: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve identified the potential issues, let’s dive into the actual rewind process.
1. Accessing the Recoil Mechanism:
The first step is to locate and access the rewind mechanism, which is usually housed under a cover on the mower housing. The cover might be held in place by screws or clips.
- Locate the cover: Look for a rectangular or circular cover on the mower’s side, often near the engine. It might have a small pull tab or handle.
- Remove the cover: Carefully remove the cover by unscrewing it or releasing the clips. Be sure to note the order of any screws or clips so you can reassemble the cover correctly later.
2. Rewinding the Cord:
Once you have access to the rewind mechanism, you can start rewinding the cord.
- Identify the spool: Locate the spool onto which the cord is wound. It will usually be a metal cylinder with a small groove around its edge.
- Guide the cord: Carefully guide the cord onto the spool, starting from the end that’s attached to the engine. Avoid creating any tangles or knots.
- Evenly wind the cord: As you wind the cord, ensure it is wound evenly onto the spool. This will prevent tangles and ensure smooth operation.
Important Note: If your cord has a broken section, it’s best to replace it with a new cord kit. Attempting to rewind a broken cord can damage the rewind mechanism.
3. Securing the Cord:
Once the cord is wound onto the spool, you need to secure it in place.
- Retaining clip: Many mowers have a retaining clip that holds the cord in place. Ensure this clip is properly engaged, locking the cord onto the spool.
- Spring tension: The recoil spring helps retract the cord. Make sure it is properly tensioned. A worn spring needs replacement.
- Test the cord: After securing the cord, test it by pulling it out and releasing it. It should retract smoothly without any resistance or tangles.
## Putting it All Back Together
After successfully rewinding the cord, it’s time to reassemble the mower.
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Reinstall the cover: Place the cover back onto the mower, ensuring it sits flush against the housing. Secure it with the screws or clips you removed earlier. Make sure you re-assemble everything in the correct order.
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Test the cord: Finally, pull the cord several times to ensure it retracts smoothly and the mower starts without any problems.
## Preventing Future Problems
To prevent your pull cord from getting tangled or broken again, follow these simple tips:
- Store the mower properly: When not in use, store the mower in a dry, clean area. Avoid storing it in areas with excessive dust or dirt, which can clog the rewind mechanism.
- Clean the rewind mechanism: Regularly clean the rewind mechanism with a soft brush or compressed air. This will remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated, preventing tangles.
- Inspect the cord: Check the cord for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or cuts. Replace the cord promptly if you notice any damage.
## Conclusion
Rewinding a pull cord on a lawn mower is a simple but essential task that can save you time and money. By understanding the process and following the steps outlined above, you can easily get your mower back in working order. Remember, always prioritize safety and use the appropriate tools and techniques to ensure a smooth and successful repair. A little bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping your mower running smoothly and preventing future pull cord issues. So go ahead, tackle that rewind job and get back to enjoying a perfectly manicured lawn!
FAQs
1. What is a pull cord and why does it need rewinding?
The pull cord on a lawn mower is the rope that you pull to start the engine. It’s connected to a spring inside the mower that stores energy to spin the engine’s crankshaft. Over time, the spring can become weakened or stretched, causing the cord to pull out too far and become difficult to start the mower. Rewinding the cord helps to reset the spring and restore its proper tension.
This makes the pull cord easier to pull and can also improve the starting performance of your lawn mower.
2. What tools do I need to rewind a pull cord?
You will need a few basic tools to rewind a lawn mower pull cord. These include:
- A Phillips head screwdriver for removing screws on the starter housing
- A pair of pliers for holding and pulling the cord
- A small flathead screwdriver for prying open the starter housing
- A rag or cloth to clean any dirt or debris
These tools are readily available at most hardware stores and are inexpensive, making it an affordable repair.
3. How do I know if my pull cord needs rewinding?
There are several signs that your pull cord needs rewinding. These include:
- The cord pulls out too far before the engine starts.
- You need to pull the cord several times before the engine starts.
- The cord feels loose or floppy.
- The cord is frayed or damaged.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to rewind the pull cord to prevent further damage and ensure your mower starts reliably.
4. Can I rewind the pull cord without removing the starter housing?
It is generally not recommended to try to rewind the pull cord without removing the starter housing. This is because you need access to the spring and the cord reel inside the housing. Attempting to rewind the cord without removing the housing can damage the spring or the cord reel, making the repair more complicated.
Therefore, it is safer and more effective to remove the starter housing to ensure a proper rewind and a successful repair.
5. How do I remove the starter housing?
To remove the starter housing, first, locate the screws that hold it in place. Typically, there will be two or three screws, and they can be found on the top or bottom of the housing. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove these screws. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to gently lift off the starter housing.
You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the housing if it is stuck. Always be careful when prying to avoid damaging the housing.
6. What should I do if the pull cord is damaged?
If the pull cord is damaged, you will need to replace it. You can find replacement pull cords at most lawn mower repair shops or online retailers. Make sure to purchase a pull cord that is specifically designed for your lawn mower model.
When replacing the pull cord, follow the instructions provided with the new cord. Make sure to thread the cord through the starter housing and connect it to the spring correctly.
7. What are some safety precautions to take when rewinding a pull cord?
It’s crucial to prioritize safety when rewinding a pull cord. Here are some precautions to take:
- Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Make sure the lawn mower is turned off and unplugged.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Be careful when handling the spring as it can be under tension.
- Avoid bending or twisting the pull cord as this can damage it.
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and successful repair.