Assessing the Problem with Your Lawn Mower Pull Cord
If you own a lawn mower, chances are you have encountered your pull cord breaking or not working properly. The issue could be something minor that can be fixed in under 10 minutes or something more severe that requires professional attention. In this article, we’ll help you diagnose the causes of a faulty lawn mower pull cord and provide you with some quick fixes.
The Pull Cord Does Not Move
If you pull the cord and find that it doesn’t move, then the issue could be related to a stuck flywheel or debris within the engine. The flywheel is a circular disc fitted with magnets that help to produce electricity to start the lawn mower engine. First, you’ll want to remove the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting accidentally. Next, check the flywheel for any obstructions and remove any debris. If it’s clean and you are still experiencing issues, use a tee bar or socket wrench to rotate the flywheel clockwise and counterclockwise. Doing this could fix a stuck flywheel if that’s the underlying issue.
The Pull Cord is Hard to Pull
If the pull cord requires more force than normal to pull, then the issue could be related to a dirty carburetor or air filter. The carburetor is responsible for mixing the air and fuel and supplying the mixture to the combustion chamber. Over time, the carburetor can get dirty or clogged, resulting in an under-mixed air/fuel combination that is harder for the engine to burn. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to remove and clean the carburetor. Also, ensure the air filter is clean and free from debris.
The Pull Cord is Loose
If you pull the cord and it doesn’t retract or feels loose, then the issue could be related to a broken recoil spring. The recoil spring is responsible for rewinding the cord back into the starter assembly after use. Over time, the spring can get worn or damaged, causing issues with retracting the cord. To fix this issue, you must remove the top cover of the engine and the starter assembly. Replace the broken recoil spring with a new one that fits your specific lawn mower model.
The Cord Breaks Frequently
If you frequently encounter issues with your pull cord breaking, then the issue could be related to several things. First, ensure that your cord is the correct length and diameter for your lawn mower model. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or by contacting customer service. If the cord is the correct size, then it could be related to excessive use or excessive wear and tear. Consider investing in a heavy-duty cord that can withstand frequent use and abuse.
The Cord is Difficult to Pull or Stuck
If you find that the cord is difficult to pull or feel stuck, then the issue could be related to a seized engine or an oil and gas mixture that is too rich. A seized engine occurs when the internal components of the engine stop working due to lack of oil or overuse. Ensure that your oil levels are where they need to be and that the oil mixture isn’t too rich. Also, check the internal components of the engine for any damage or debris.
Determining the problem with your lawn mower pull cord requires a bit of detective work and a basic understanding of the engine components. By following the tips mentioned above, you can fix most pull cord issues at home. However, if you’re unsure or unable to determine the issue, it’s best to consult a professional.
Tools Needed for the Job
If your lawn mower’s pull cord is damaged or broken, you don’t need to replace the entire machine. Instead, just replace the cord. Replacing a pull cord is much cheaper and easier than purchasing a new lawn mower. Fortunately, it doesn’t require a lot of tools to fix your lawn mower’s pull cord. Here are the tools you’ll need.
Screwdrivers
The first tool you’ll need is a set of screwdrivers. You’ll use these to remove the cover of the lawn mower and access the area where the pull cord is located. You may need both flat and Phillips-head screwdrivers, depending on the design of your lawn mower. Make sure to choose the size of the screwdriver that fits snugly on the screw and doesn’t strip it when turning the screwdriver.
Pliers
The next essential tool for fixing your lawn mower’s pull cord is a pair of pliers. Pliers are necessary to hold the starter pulley in place while you’re replacing the cord. You may also use it to remove the old damaged cord and thread the new one through the hole. There are different types of pliers, such as needle-nose or locking pliers, each with their own benefits. Make sure to get the pliers that best fit your needs and the task at hand.
Torque wrench
A torque wrench is not typically a common tool found in the garage or toolset, but it is an essential tool if you want to properly fasten screws and bolts without risking over or under-tightening them. It’s easy to apply too much force to the screws and damage the parts. The torque wrench with the right setting will let you safely tighten all the bolts and screws to the right specifications. You should always check your owner’s manual for the correct torque settings for your lawn mower.
New pull cord and starter handle
To replace the pull cord, you’ll need a new cord and a starter handle. There are different types of cords with varying thickness and durability, so choose one that suits your needs. The length of the cord should also match or exceed the original cord to avoid running out of cord while using it. A starter handle provides an ergonomic grip while pulling the cord. Make sure the handle is of good quality, so it doesn’t break off while in use.
Grease
Finally, you’ll need some grease to lubricate the moving parts of the lawn mower. This will reduce friction and help prevent future damages to the pull cord. Look for grease that has a high resistance to temperature and water for best performance and longevity. Some common types of grease include lithium grease, silicone grease, and white lithium grease.
Having these tools at hand will make the process of fixing your lawn mower’s pull cord much easier. With a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to complete the task and get your lawn mower up and running in no time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Broken Pull Cord
If your lawn mower won’t start or it suddenly stopped running, it’s possible that the pull cord is broken. The good news is that replacing a broken pull cord on your lawn mower can be done easily and inexpensively. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fix a broken pull cord on your lawn mower.
Step 1: Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire
Before you start working on your lawn mower’s pull cord, make sure to disconnect the spark plug wire. This will ensure that the engine won’t accidentally start up while you are repairing the pull cord. To disconnect the spark plug wire, locate the spark plug on the engine and pull the rubber boot away from the spark plug. This will disconnect the spark plug wire from the engine.
Step 2: Remove the Starter Assembly
Once the spark plug wire is disconnected, you can begin removing the starter assembly. Start by locating the bolts or screws that hold the starter assembly in place. Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to remove these bolts/screws and then carefully remove the starter assembly from the engine. Be sure to keep track of the bolts/screws you removed since you’ll need to put them back in their proper place later on.
Step 3: Replace the Pull Cord
Now that you have removed the starter assembly, you can begin replacing the broken pull cord. Start by removing any remaining pieces of the old pull cord from the starter assembly. Then, locate the small hole in the starter assembly that the pull cord goes through. Thread the new pull cord through the hole from the outside and secure it with a knot on the inside of the starter assembly. Thread the other end of the pull cord through the hole in the starter handle and secure it with a knot as well. Once you have secured the pull cord, carefully wind the pull cord around the starter assembly, following the direction indicated by the arrow on the assembly. Be sure to wind the pull cord evenly and tightly around the assembly without overlapping. Finally, attach the starter handle to the pull cord.
Step 4: Reinstall the Starter Assembly
Once the new pull cord has been installed and wound around the starter assembly, you can start reinstalling the starter assembly back into the engine. Carefully align the starter assembly with the bolts/screws you removed earlier and tighten them with your socket wrench or screwdriver. Make sure that the starter assembly is securely in place before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire
Finally, reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug by pushing the rubber boot back over the spark plug. This will restore power to your lawn mower and allow it to start up normally. Test the pull cord by giving it a few gentle tugs, and it should now retract smoothly and your lawn mower should start with ease.
In conclusion, fixing a broken pull cord on your lawn mower is a simple task that can be done easily with the right tools and some basic DIY skills. By following these simple steps, you can save a lot of money and get your lawn mower up and running in no time.
Tips to Prevent Future Pull Cord Damage
Fixing a lawn mower pull cord is a common DIY task but it can be frustrating when the cord breaks again soon afterwards. To save yourself from this trouble, there are a few things you can do to prevent future pull cord damage.
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1. Keep the Lawn Mower Clean
One of the main reasons why lawn mower pull cords break is because of debris buildup around the engine and blades. To prevent this, you should regularly clean your lawn mower after each use. Make sure that all the debris, dirt and grass clippings are removed from the blades, the engine and the pull cord. This is not only good for the pull cord but also for the longevity of your mower.
2. Use Good Fuel Quality
Using good quality fuel can help you avoid pull cord damage. Old, stale fuel can leave behind deposits that can clog the engine and make it harder to start. This creates additional strain on the pull cord and can cause it to break. To avoid this, only use fresh fuel from a reputable dealer and avoid using fuel that has been sitting around for more than a month.
3. Store Your Lawn Mower Properly
If you don’t store your lawn mower correctly, that can lead to several problems, including pull cord damage. You should store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to protect it from moisture and rust. Make sure that the fuel tank is empty or less than half full before storing it. This will prevent fuel from going bad and causing other problems that can lead to pull cord damage.
4. Pay Attention to Signs of Wear and Tear
In order to prevent future pull cord damage, you should pay attention to signs of wear and tear. This will keep you aware of when you need to replace the pull cord before it breaks. One of the main signs of wear and tear is fraying or damage to the cord itself. If you notice that the cord is starting to look worn out or damaged in any way, replace it as soon as possible.
Another sign to look out for are the pulleys, which can become damaged over time. If you start to notice that the cord isn’t retracting as smoothly as it used to, it could be a sign that the pulleys are wearing out. Replace the pulleys as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the pull cord or the engine.
By following these tips, you can help prevent future pull cord damage and prolong the life of your lawn mower. It’s always better to be proactive when it comes to your lawn mower maintenance than to wait until there is a problem. Doing these small steps can save you time, money and aggravation in the long run.
When to Seek Professional Help for Your Lawn Mower Pull Cord
If you’ve tried all the DIY fixes we’ve suggested and your lawn mower pull cord still isn’t working correctly, it may be time to call in a professional. Here are some signs that it’s time to seek help:
- The cord won’t retract: If the cord won’t go back into the lawn mower after you’ve pulled it, there may be an issue with the recoil spring. This can be a tricky fix, and it’s usually best to let a professional handle it.
- The cord is frayed: A frayed cord is a weak cord. If you try to use a frayed cord, it will eventually break entirely, and then you’ll really be stuck. Instead of waiting for that to happen, it’s best to have a professional replace it for you.
- The cord is stuck: If the cord is stuck, it could be for a few reasons. One possibility is that the recoil spring is broken, another is that something else is obstructing the cord’s movement. Whatever the reason, a professional will be better equipped to figure it out and fix it.
- The engine won’t start: If your lawn mower won’t start at all, it could be related to the pull cord or something totally unrelated. In any case, a professional will be able to diagnose the issue and get it fixed.
- You’re not comfortable working on your lawn mower: Last but not least, if you’re not confident in your ability to fix your lawn mower pull cord on your own, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. Trying to tackle a repair that you’re not sure how to do can cause more harm than good.
Remember, when it comes to repairing your lawn mower, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re not confident in your abilities, or if you’re not sure what the issue is, call a professional. They have the experience and know-how to get your lawn mower up and running again in no time.