1. How to Change the Pull String on a Lawn Mower

Lawn mower pull string
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Taking care of your lawn is no easy feat, but it’s a worthwhile task that will pay off in the long run. One of the most important things you can do for your lawn is to make sure your lawn mower is in good working condition. This means keeping the blades sharp, changing the oil regularly, and replacing the pull string when it breaks.

If you’ve never changed the pull string on a lawn mower before, don’t worry – it’s a relatively easy task. With a few simple tools and a little bit of time, you can have your mower up and running again in no time. In fact, you can probably do it in under an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change the pull string on a lawn mower:

Materials You’ll Need:

New pull string
Phillips head screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Safety glasses
Gloves

Required Tools and Materials

Replacing the pull string on a lawn mower is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tools:

Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Needle nose pliers
Utility knife

Materials:

New pull string
Replacement recoil spring (if necessary)
Lubricating oil

Optional:

Safety glasses
Work gloves

Estimated Time:

15-30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Easy

Safety Precautions:

Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with sharp tools.
Disconnect the spark plug before working on the lawn mower.
Allow the lawn mower to cool down before starting work.

Safety Precautions

Before initiating any maintenance or repair work on your lawn mower, it is imperative to adhere to these crucial safety precautions to safeguard your well-being and prevent potential injuries:

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug:

By detaching the spark plug wire, you effectively disable the engine’s ignition system, preventing any unintended starting while you are servicing the lawn mower.

2. Wear appropriate safety gear:

Donning appropriate protective gear while performing maintenance tasks is essential for your safety. This includes wearing gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects, safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying debris, and closed-toe shoes to safeguard your feet.

Safety Gear
Gloves
Safety glasses
Closed-toe shoes

3. Ensure the lawn mower is stable and level:

To prevent the lawn mower from toppling over during maintenance, it is crucial to place it on a stable and level surface. This will provide a secure and stable work environment for you.

4. Allow the lawn mower to cool down:

Before commencing any repair work, it is essential to allow the lawn mower to cool down sufficiently. This will prevent burns from hot engine components and ensure a safe working environment.

Locating the Pull String Assembly

The pull string assembly is typically located on the side of the lawn mower, near the engine. It consists of a recoil starter, which is a spring-loaded mechanism that winds up and releases the pull cord. The pull cord is attached to the recoil starter and is used to start the engine.

Locating the Recoil Starter

To locate the recoil starter, look for a round or oval-shaped housing on the side of the lawn mower, usually near the top. The housing will have a small hole in it, through which the pull cord passes. Once you have located the recoil starter, you can proceed to remove and replace the pull string.

Tips for Locating the Recoil Starter:

Tip	Description
Check the side of the lawn mower	Look for a round or oval-shaped housing near the top of the lawn mower.
Look for a small hole	The housing will have a small hole in it, through which the pull cord passes.
Consult the lawn mower manual	If you are still having trouble locating the recoil starter, consult the lawn mower manual for assistance.

Installing the New Pull String

1. Identify the Starter Assembly

Locate the starter assembly on the side or back of the lawn mower. It’s a small box-like component with a pull handle attached.

2. Disconnect the Old String

Grip the pull handle and firmly pull it to its full length. Untie or unhook the old pull string from the hook or knot it was attached to inside the assembly.

3. Thread the New String

Insert one end of the new pull string through the hole in the pull handle. Pull it through until there are about 6 inches of slack left.

4. Secure the New String

Inside the starter assembly, locate a hook, screw, or knot where the other end of the pull string can be attached. Tie a knot in the end of the new string and secure it to the designated point.

5. Wind the New String

Turn the starter assembly counterclockwise while slowly releasing the pull handle. Wind the new string onto the starter assembly’s internal pulley, ensuring it’s tightly wound but not over-tightened. The ideal tension allows the pull handle to recoil smoothly while still providing enough force to start the mower.

Tension Adjustment

Too Loose	Too Tight
Pull handle won’t retract smoothly	Pull handle may break
Difficulty starting the mower	Increased wear on the starter assembly

Adjusting the Tension

Once the new pull string is installed, you will need to adjust the tension. This will ensure that the string pulls smoothly and does not slip when you start the engine.

To adjust the tension, follow these steps:

1. Pull the starter rope out until it is fully extended.
2. Locate the tension adjustment screw or knob on the starter assembly.
3. Turn the screw or knob clockwise to increase the tension.
4. Pull the starter rope again to test the tension. Adjust the tension until the rope pulls smoothly but does not slip.
5. Once the tension is adjusted correctly, tighten the screw or knob to secure the setting.
6.

Advanced Tension Adjustment (Optional)

– For more precise tension adjustment, you can use a torque wrench.
– Refer to your lawn mower’s maintenance manual for the recommended torque specification.
– Carefully follow the torque wrench’s instructions to achieve the optimal tension setting.
7. Pull the starter rope vigorously to ensure it operates properly and starts the engine smoothly.

Tying a Knot or Loop

The exact method for tying a knot or loop on the pull string will vary depending on the design of your lawn mower’s pull string assembly. However, here are some general guidelines to follow:

Create a small, tight knot at the end of the pull string.
Insert the knotted end of the pull string through the small hole on the starter pulley.
Pull the pull string through the hole until the knot is snug against the pulley.
Hold the pull string taut with one hand and wrap the remaining string around the starter pulley in a clockwise direction.
Wind the string around the pulley for 3-4 turns, keeping the string tight and overlapping.
Bring the free end of the pull string back through the hole in the starter pulley, crossing over the wound string.
Pull the free end of the string to tighten the knot and create a loop.

Step	Action
1	Create a small, tight knot at the end of the pull string.
2	Insert the knotted end of the pull string through the small hole on the starter pulley.
3	Pull the pull string through the hole until the knot is snug against the pulley.
4	Hold the pull string taut with one hand and wrap the remaining string around the starter pulley in a clockwise direction.
5	Wind the string around the pulley for 3-4 turns, keeping the string tight and overlapping.
6	Bring the free end of the pull string back through the hole in the starter pulley, crossing over the wound string.
7	Pull the free end of the string to tighten the knot and create a loop.

Lubricating the Assembly

Once the new pull string is installed, it’s crucial to lubricate the assembly to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear. Use a high-quality, lithium-based grease that is specifically designed for lawn mower applications. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to lubricate the pull assembly:

Step 1: Gather Materials

You will need a can of lithium-based grease, a cotton swab or small brush, a clean rag, and a pair of gloves.

Step 2: Remove the Recoil Housing

Locate the recoil housing, which is usually situated on the side of the engine. Remove the bolts or screws that hold it in place and carefully lift it off to reveal the internal components.

Step 3: Apply Grease to the Pulley

Use a cotton swab or small brush to apply a thin layer of grease to the outer circumference of the pulley. Ensure that it’s evenly distributed. Avoid over-greasing.

Step 4: Grease the Housing

Apply a small amount of grease to the inside of the recoil housing, where the pulley makes contact with the housing. This will reduce friction and prevent wear.

Step 5: Lubricate the Spring

Locate the recoil spring and apply a thin layer of grease to the coils. Do not over-grease, as this can attract dirt and debris.

Step 6: Check for Excess Grease

After lubricating, use a clean rag to wipe away any excess grease that may have gotten on the outside of the housing or the pulley.

Step 7: Reassemble the Housing

Carefully replace the recoil housing over the pulley and secure it with the bolts or screws. Ensure that the housing is properly seated and tightened.

Step 8: Test the Pull String

Start the lawn mower and gently pull the pull string. The string should retract smoothly without any hesitation or sticking. If the pull string feels stiff or difficult to retract, repeat the lubrication process until it operates effortlessly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The pull string is stuck or hard to pull

Check if the rope is tangled or jammed. If it is, carefully untangle it or remove any obstructions. Ensure the starter recoil is not rusted or seized. If it is rusted, use WD-40 or a similar lubricant to free it up. If it is seized, you may need to replace the starter recoil. Another potential issue could be a faulty spring in the recoil assembly. Replacing the spring should resolve the issue.

The pull string does not return after pulling

The recoil spring might be broken or worn out, causing it to lose tension and prevent the pull string from retracting. Check if the spring is damaged or has any gaps; if so, replace it with a new one. Examine the spring housing for any damage or nicks that could interfere with the spring’s operation.

The pull string breaks frequently

If the pull string snaps repeatedly, it could be due to excessive tension on the spring. Adjust the tension by loosening the nut that holds the spring in place. Use a screwdriver or wrench to loosen the nut and try pulling the string again. If the string still breaks, check for any sharp edges or burrs on the rewind assembly or guide that might be damaging the string. Smooth out any sharp edges to prevent further breakage.

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Pull string is stuck or hard to pull	Tangled rope, rusted recoil, or faulty spring	Untangle rope, lubricate recoil, or replace spring
Pull string does not return after pulling	Broken or worn spring	Replace spring or check spring housing for damage
Pull string breaks frequently	Excessive spring tension or sharp edges	Adjust spring tension or smooth out sharp edges

How to Change the Pull String on a Lawn Mower

If the pull string on your lawn mower breaks or becomes frayed, you will need to replace it. Changing the pull string is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.

Materials You’ll Need:

New pull string
Screwdriver

Instructions:

Unplug the spark plug. This is a safety precaution to prevent the engine from starting while you are working on it.
Remove the recoil starter cover. This is usually held in place by a few screws.
Locate the old pull string. It will be attached to a pulley or spool.
Remove the old pull string. Untie the knot that attaches it to the pulley or spool and pull it out.
Tie the new pull string to the pulley or spool. Make sure that the knot is secure.
Wind the new pull string onto the pulley or spool. Leave a few inches of slack at the end.
Replace the recoil starter cover. Make sure that it is securely fastened.
Plug in the spark plug. Your lawn mower is now ready to use.