Surprisingly, the starter rope for most gas-powered lawn mowers is not the element that most often needs repairs. It is fairly protected from damage by plastic or metal plate covering the top of the motor. It is possible, however, for the rope to free itself from the pulley, or even fray and lace. In both cases, replacement for a new, pristine rope is better than trying to reconnect or splice together from an existing one.
Instructions
1 Remove the top cover. For most mowers, the deck has a clip-based release mechanism or a series of screws that must be removed to reach the pulley and starter rope. To mount the Bolt, a set of tubes is the fastest way to remove them.
2 Rewind the pulley and the spring force to extend completely. Use a clamp to hold it in place and gain access to the pulley where it aligns with the hole.
3 Remove the old cable if it is still connected, and clean the feed area of the pulley and line. If the old cable is reusable, it may reconnect; Otherwise, use a new traction cable. Connect one end of the string to the inside of the pulley and a knot to hold it in place, then roll the rest of the cable around the power base.
4 Push the other end of the new rope through the hole in the cover plate using a thin screwdriver. Lubricate the steering wheel and any other areas you may need while the lid is open. Remove the clamp and let the spring relax. Hold the end of the rope and allow it to retract slowly in the feeding area.
5 Replace the top cover and reconnect the fastening screws or clamps. Pull the cable at once to make sure there is no slack in the line. Inserting the end of the line into the traction handle is supplied with the new cable. Tie a knot in the handle, and let go of the line to make sure the winds back and stop at the handle.
6 Pull the cable a couple of times, slowly so that the motor does not start. This will work no lubrication on the components and also check that the cable is working well. Trim any excess cable near the handle, and when satisfied, start the engine with the new cable.
Tips and warnings
- If the existing cable has loosened but is still in good condition, still consider replacing it with a new one, as long as it is going to work inside the casing. This will help safeguard against a second subsequent repair.
- Before working on the lawnmower, place a block of wood between the blade and the frame, and disconnect the spark plug ignition wire for safety.
- Be careful not to let the starter rope snap back into the mower when the spring is released. This could damage the rope.