Replacing the starter cord on a lawn mower is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions before beginning any work on your lawn mower. First, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting accidentally. Next, place the lawn mower on a level surface and secure it with wheel chocks to prevent it from rolling. Once the lawn mower is secure, you can begin the process of replacing the starter cord.
To replace the starter cord, you will need a new starter cord, a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a socket wrench. First, remove the old starter cord by unscrewing the bolt that holds it in place. Next, remove the starter assembly from the lawn mower by removing the bolts that hold it in place. Once the starter assembly is removed, you can remove the old starter cord from the assembly. To install the new starter cord, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old starter cord. First, insert the new starter cord into the starter assembly. Next, attach the starter assembly to the lawn mower by tightening the bolts that hold it in place. Finally, attach the new starter cord to the lawn mower by tightening the bolt that holds it in place.
Securing the Starter Cord
After replacing the starter cord, it is essential to secure it properly to ensure it functions effectively and does not pose any safety hazards.
Step 5: Secure the Starter Cord
To secure the starter cord, follow these detailed steps:
- Pull the Starter Cord: Pull the starter cord gently to create some slack in the cord, but avoid over-tensioning it.
- Locate the Starter Cord Knob: Identify the starter cord knob, which is typically a black or red plastic knob located on the engine housing near the starter pulley.
- Insert the Starter Cord: Insert the end of the starter cord into the hole on the starter cord knob. Make sure the cord is inserted securely and straight, aligning it with the pulley.
- Wind the Starter Cord: Start winding the starter cord onto the starter pulley clockwise. Wind it tightly by pulling it towards you while turning the pulley. Continue winding until the cord is taut but not over-tensioned.
- Secure the Cord Knob: Tighten the starter cord knob by turning it clockwise. Ensure it is securely fastened but do not overtighten it.
| Checkpoints | Importance |
|---|---|
| Alignment of Cord | Ensures smooth pulley engagement and reduces wear. |
| Tension of Cord | Proper tension prevents slippage and ensures efficient engine starting. |
| Tightness of Cord Knob | Prevents the cord from unwinding prematurely and ensures safe operation. |
Retracting the New Starter Cord
1. Pull the starter cord out fully to unwind it from the recoil housing.
2. Locate the hole on the recoil cover, typically at the bottom.
3. Insert the end of the new starter cord into the hole.
4. Slowly release the starter cord while guiding it into the hole, ensuring it does not get tangled.
Tying the Starter Cord Knot
1. Grasp the end of the starter cord that extends from the hole.
2. Form a loop with the end and pass it through the center of the starter cup.
3. Pull the loop tightly to create a secure knot around the cup.
4. Trim any excess cord after tying the knot.
Wrapping the Starter Cord
1. Retrieve the starter cord handle and align it with the starting position on the recoil housing.
2. Hold the handle firmly and begin rotating it clockwise to wrap the cord around the spool.
3. Maintain an even tension on the cord while winding it.
4. Continue winding until the recoil spring is fully compressed or the cord is fully retracted into the housing.
Testing the New Starter Cord
1. Ensure the lawn mower is on a level surface and that the fuel valve is open.
2. Grasp the starter cord handle and pull it out slowly until you feel resistance.
3. Pull the cord sharply with a smooth, even motion.
4. If the lawn mower starts, you have successfully replaced the starter cord.
5. If the lawn mower does not start, repeat steps 1-3 or consult a mechanic.
Starter Cord Resistance and Recoil Tension
The starter cord should have a slight resistance when pulled out. This resistance comes from the recoil spring, which helps to retract the cord. If the resistance is too low, the cord may retract too slowly or not fully retract, leading to tangles or the inability to start the lawn mower.
If the resistance is too high, it can be difficult to pull the cord. In this case, adjust the tension of the recoil spring by loosening or tightening the spring adjustment screw, which is usually located on the side or bottom of the recoil housing.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Starter cord does not retract | Cord tangled or knot loose | Unwind the cord and re-tie the knot securely |
| Starter cord retracts too slowly | Recoil spring weak | Adjust the tension of the recoil spring |
| Starter cord retracts too quickly | Recoil spring too tight | Adjust the tension of the recoil spring |
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before starting, ensure you have the following items: a new starter cord, a pair of pliers, a flathead screwdriver, and a socket wrench.
Remove the Starter Cover
Locate the starter cover on the side of the lawn mower and unscrew its bolts using the socket wrench. Carefully remove the cover.
Disconnect the Old Starter Cord
Identify the old starter cord and disconnect it from the pulley. Use the pliers to release the spring tension and unhook the cord.
Wind the New Starter Cord
Unwind the new starter cord until it is long enough to reach the pulley. Wind the cord around the pulley in the same direction as the old cord.
Connect the New Starter Cord
Hook the new starter cord onto the pulley and apply spring tension using the pliers. Ensure the cord is securely attached.
Reinstall the Starter Cover
Place the starter cover back on the lawn mower and tighten the bolts using the socket wrench.
Additional Tips for Success
Inspect the Starter Pulley
Check the starter pulley for damage or wear. If necessary, replace the pulley before installing the new cord.
Lubricate the Starter Mechanism
Apply a few drops of oil to the starter mechanism to prevent friction and ensure smooth operation.
Test the Starter
Pull on the starter cord to check if the lawn mower starts easily. If the cord does not retract or if the lawn mower does not start, there may be an additional issue that needs attention.
Additional Tips Table
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a high-quality starter cord | A durable cord will extend the lifespan of the replacement. |
| Wind the cord evenly | Uneven winding can cause the starter to fail. |
| Test the starter after replacement | Ensuring proper functionality before returning the lawn mower to operation. |
How To Replace The Starter Cord On A Lawn Mower
A lawn mower is an essential tool for keeping your lawn looking neat and tidy. However, like all machines, it can sometimes develop problems. One common issue is a broken starter cord. This can be a frustrating problem, but it is relatively easy to fix. Here are the steps on how to replace the starter cord on a lawn mower:
- Gather your materials. You will need a new starter cord, a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a wrench.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire. This is a safety precaution to prevent the engine from starting while you are working on it.
- Remove the starter cover. This is usually held in place by a few screws.
- Remove the old starter cord. This is usually attached to the starter pulley by a knot or a spring clip.
- Attach the new starter cord to the starter pulley. Make sure that the knot or spring clip is secure.
- Wind the starter cord around the starter pulley. Be sure to wind it in the correct direction.
- Reattach the starter cover.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
- Test the starter cord. Pull on the starter cord to start the engine.
