If you’re having trouble starting your lawn mower, one of the first things you should check is the rip cord. The rip cord is responsible for engaging the starter mechanism, which in turn starts the engine. If the rip cord is broken or damaged, it will need to be replaced in order to get your mower running again. Replacing a rip cord is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with a few basic tools.
To replace the rip cord, you will need a new rip cord, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver. First, remove the old rip cord by unscrewing the bolt that holds it in place. Once the bolt is removed, the rip cord will be able to be pulled out of the starter mechanism. Next, insert the new rip cord into the starter mechanism and pull it until it is tight. Finally, screw the bolt back into place to secure the rip cord. Once the new rip cord is installed, your mower should be able to start again.
If you are still having trouble starting your mower after replacing the rip cord, there may be another problem with the starter mechanism. You may need to take your mower to a qualified repair technician to have it diagnosed and repaired.
Identifying the Problem
Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to pinpoint the root cause of the faulty rip cord. This involves thoroughly inspecting the cord and its surrounding components to identify potential issues. Here are some common problems that may hinder the smooth operation of the rip cord:
– **Broken Cord:** Carefully examine the entire length of the cord for any visible breaks or tears. If the cord exhibits signs of physical damage, it may require replacement.
– **Loose Connections:** Inspect the connection points between the rip cord and the engine. Ensure that all screws or bolts are securely tightened. Loose connections can disrupt the transfer of force from the cord to the engine.
– **Spring Issues:** The recoil spring is responsible for retracting the cord after being pulled. Check if the spring is damaged or stretched. A faulty spring can hinder the cord’s proper function.
– **Engine Blockage:** If pulling the cord becomes increasingly difficult, there may be an obstruction in the engine itself. Remove the spark plug and insert a small object, such as a screwdriver, to check for any debris or blockages that may prevent the engine from turning over.
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
|:—|:—|
| Cord won’t pull | Broken cord |
| Cord pulls hard | Engine blockage |
| Cord recoils slowly | Faulty spring |
| Cord broken near handle | Loose connection at handle |
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
The first step in fixing a lawn mower rip cord is gathering the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:
Tools:
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
Materials:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| New rip cord | The replacement cord should be the same length and type as the original. |
| Carburetor cleaner | Used to clean the carburetor and remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the cord to stick. |
| WD-40 | Lubricates the cord and pulley system, reducing friction and making the cord easier to pull. |
Once you have all the necessary tools and materials, you can proceed with the repair process.
Locating the Rip Cord Assembly
The rip cord assembly is essential for starting a lawn mower. It consists of a cord, a handle, a spring, and a pulley. If the rip cord assembly is not working properly, you will not be able to start your lawn mower. To locate the rip cord assembly, follow these steps:
Identifying the Components
The rip cord handle is typically located on the side or back of the lawn mower. It is usually made of plastic or metal and has a loop for your hand to fit into. The cord is attached to the handle and runs through a pulley. The spring is located inside the recoil starter housing and helps to rewind the cord after you pull it. See the table below for the typical function of each component:
| Component | Function |
| ———– | ———– |
| Handle | Provides a grip for pulling the cord |
| Cord | Transmits the pulling force to the recoil starter |
| Spring | Rewinds the cord after pulling |
| Pulley | Guides the cord and reduces friction |
The Location of the Assembly
The recoil starter housing is typically located on the side or back of the engine. It is usually made of metal or plastic and has a cover that can be removed to access the inside. The rip cord assembly is located inside the recoil starter housing.
Checking the Assembly
To check the rip cord assembly, pull on the handle and release it. The cord should rewind smoothly and quickly. If the cord does not rewind or rewinds slowly, there may be a problem with the spring or the pulley. You should also check the cord for any signs of damage, such as fraying or cuts.
Removing the Old Rip Cord
4. Removing the Drive Pulley
To remove the drive pulley, locate the bolt that holds it in place on the engine’s crankshaft. Using a wrench or socket, loosen and remove this bolt. Be careful not to drop the bolt or lose any of the small washers or spacers that may be present. Once the bolt is removed, remove the drive pulley by gently pulling it straight off the crankshaft. Use caution when doing so, as the teeth on the pulley may be sharp.
Note that some lawn mowers may have a different type of drive pulley that is not secured by a bolt. Instead, it may be held in place by a circlip or a snap ring. If this is the case, refer to the specific instructions for your lawn mower model to determine how to remove the drive pulley.
The following table provides a summary of the steps involved in removing the old rip cord:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unhook the ripcord from the engine recoil starter. |
| 2 | Remove the recoil starter cover by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. |
| 3 | Pull the recoil starter out of the engine housing and unhook the spring from the starter mechanism. |
| 4 | Remove the drive pulley from the engine crankshaft (see detailed instructions above). |
| 5 | Remove the old rip cord from the recoil starter. |
Installing the New Rip Cord
Step 1: Remove the Old Rip Cord
* Locate the recoil starter assembly on the side of the lawn mower engine.
* Grasp the old rip cord firmly and pull it out of the recoil starter housing.
* If the cord is stuck, gently twist and pull it to loosen it.
Step 2: Clean the Recoil Starter Housing
* Use a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the inside of the recoil starter housing.
* Check for any damage or wear on the housing or components.
Step 3: Lubricate the Starter Pawls
* Apply a small amount of lubricant to the starter pawls inside the recoil starter housing.
* Use a cotton swab or a few drops of oil to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Install the New Rip Cord
* Insert the new rip cord into the hole in the recoil starter housing.
* Pull enough cord out to reach the handle and leave some slack.
* Tie a knot in the end of the cord to prevent it from coming out.
Step 5: Adjust the Rip Cord Tension
* Pull the rip cord out until it engages with the starter pawls.
* Hold the cord steady and turn the recoil starter housing clockwise until the cord winds around the spool.
* Release the recoil starter housing and let it recoil back to its original position, winding the cord onto the spool.
* Repeat the process several times to ensure proper tension. The cord should have enough tension to engage the starter but not be overly tight.
Step 6: Secure the Recoil Starter Housing
* Insert the recoil starter housing back into its place on the engine mount.
* Tighten the bolts or screws that secure the housing in place.
* Test the rip cord to ensure it is working smoothly and starting the lawn mower.
Adjusting the Tension
Once you have located the tension spring, you will need to adjust it to ensure that the rip cord is tight enough to engage the starter but not so tight that it is difficult to pull. To adjust the tension:
- Locate the tension spring on the side of the engine
- Use a screwdriver or wrench to turn the tension screw clockwise to increase the tension or counterclockwise to decrease the tension
- Pull the rip cord gently to test the tension; it should have enough resistance to engage the starter but not so much that it is difficult to pull
Tips for Adjusting the Tension
- If the tension is too tight, the rip cord may be difficult to pull and could potentially break.
- If the tension is too loose, the rip cord may not engage the starter properly, preventing the engine from starting.
- It is best to adjust the tension in small increments until you find the setting that works best for your lawn mower.
As a reference, here is a table summarizing the steps for adjusting the tension on a lawn mower rip cord:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the tension spring on the side of the engine |
| 2 | Use a screwdriver or wrench to turn the tension screw clockwise to increase the tension or counterclockwise to decrease the tension |
| 3 | Pull the rip cord gently to test the tension; it should have enough resistance to engage the starter but not so much that it is difficult to pull |
Lubricating the Assembly
Regular lubrication is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of the rip cord. Follow these steps to lubricate the assembly:
- Gather Materials: You’ll need a light oil (such as sewing machine oil or WD-40), a small brush or cotton swab, and a clean cloth.
- Remove the Spark Plug Wire: Safety first! Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental ignition.
- Access the Pulley and Spring: Slide the recoil assembly up to expose the pulley and recoil spring.
- Apply Oil to Pulley: Using the brush or swab, apply a thin layer of oil to the inside and outside grooves of the pulley.
- Lubricate Spring: Apply a small amount of oil along the inner coils and outer surface of the recoil spring.
- Wipe Away Excess Oil: Use the clean cloth to gently wipe away any excess oil from the assembly.
- Test Operation: Pull the starter cord slowly to distribute the oil throughout the assembly. If it moves smoothly and retracts quickly, the lubrication is successful.
| Lubrication Points | Lubricant Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pulley Grooves | Thin layer |
| Recoil Spring | Small amount |
Reassembling the Mower
Once the new cord is fed through the handle, it is time to reassemble the mower.
1. Slide the handle back into the upper housing.
2. Insert the bolt and nut that hold the handle in place. Tighten the nuts until snug.
3. Reattach the starter cord to the starter motor. The cord may need to be pulled out a bit to allow it to fit over the starter motor.
4. Pull the starter cord to start the mower.
5. Attach the recoil starter cover. The recoil starter cover is usually held in place by a few screws.
6. Reattach the air cleaner cover. The air cleaner cover is usually held in place by a few screws.
7. Reattach the spark plug wire. The spark plug wire should be pushed onto the spark plug until it clicks into place.
8. Double-check all of the connections. Make sure that all of the bolts, nuts, and screws are tight. All of the covers should be securely in place. The starter cord should be pulled out so that there is no slack in the cord. The spark plug wire should be firmly attached to the spark plug. Make sure that the recoil starter cover is aligned with the pulley and that the starter rope is routed through the handle correctly.
The mower should now be ready to use.
Testing the Repair
Once you have replaced or repaired the rip cord, it’s important to test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Follow these steps to test the repair:
1. Reset the control lever: Make sure the control lever is in the “start” position.
2. Pull the rip cord: Grasp the rip cord handle and pull it smoothly and firmly. The starter mechanism should engage, and the engine should start running.
3. Check for resistance: As you pull the rip cord, you should feel some resistance. If the cord pulls too easily or gets stuck, it may indicate a problem with the repair.
4. Repeat the process: Repeat steps 1-3 to ensure the engine starts consistently.
5. Check for leaks: After the engine has started, check for any fuel or oil leaks around the starter mechanism. If you notice any leaks, tighten the bolts or replace the gaskets as needed.
6. Check for overheating: If the engine starts but overheats quickly, it may indicate an issue with the starter mechanism or engine. Stop the engine and let it cool down before attempting to restart it or seeking professional assistance.
7. Check the recoil starter mechanism: If the engine doesn’t start or the recoil starter mechanism seems sluggish, check for any binding or damage. Clean or lubricate the mechanism as needed.
8. Inspect the carburetor: If the engine starts but runs rough or stalls, inspect the carburetor for any debris or blockages. Clean or adjust the carburetor as necessary.
9. Consult a professional: If you encounter any issues during the repair or testing process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional lawn mower mechanic for further assistance. They can diagnose the problem and provide the appropriate solution.
| Signs of a Problematic Repair | Possible Causes |
|---|---|
| Rip cord pulls too easily | Damaged starter mechanism, weak recoil spring |
| Rip cord gets stuck | Misaligned parts, binding in the recoil housing |
| Engine doesn’t start consistently | Fuel or spark plug issues, carburetor problems |
| Engine overheats quickly | Starter mechanism malfunction, engine overheating issues |
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to fix the rip cord on your lawn mower, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Follow these precautions to minimize any potential risks:
1. Disconnect the Spark Plug: Locate and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting accidentally.
2. Allow the Engine to Cool: Let the engine sit for a sufficient amount of time to cool down before handling any components near it.
3. Wear Protective Gear: Consider wearing gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from potential hazards.
4. Use Proper Tools: Ensure you have the appropriate tools, such as a screwdriver and pliers, for the repair.
5. Work on a Stable Surface: Place the lawn mower on a level and sturdy surface for stability during the repair process.
6. Check the Fuel Level: Make sure the fuel tank is empty or at a low level to minimize the risk of fuel spills.
7. Be Aware of Sharp Edges: Be cautious of sharp edges on the mower’s components, such as the pull cord assembly.
8. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: If available, refer to the lawn mower’s user manual for specific instructions on repairing the rip cord.
9. Avoid Overtightening: When tightening screws or bolts, exercise caution to prevent overtightening, which can damage the components.
10. Consider Seeking Professional Help: If you are not comfortable or confident in performing the repair yourself, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or lawn mower service center.
How to Fix a Rip Cord on a Lawn Mower
A rip cord is a vital part of a lawn mower that allows you to start the engine. If the rip cord breaks, you will not be able to start your lawn mower. Fortunately, fixing a rip cord is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.
Here are the steps on how to fix a rip cord on a lawn mower:
- Gather your materials. You will need a new rip cord, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire. This is a safety precaution that will prevent the engine from starting while you are working on it.
- Remove the recoil starter cover. This is the plastic cover that houses the recoil starter.
- Remove the old rip cord. Pull the rip cord out of the recoil starter until it is completely removed.
- Install the new rip cord. Insert the new rip cord into the recoil starter and pull it until it is tight.
- Reattach the recoil starter cover. Replace the plastic cover that houses the recoil starter.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire. This will complete the repair and you will be able to start your lawn mower.
People Also Ask
How do you replace a recoil spring on a lawn mower?
To replace a recoil spring on a lawn mower, you will need to remove the recoil starter cover and unhook the old spring. Then, hook the new spring onto the recoil starter and reattach the cover.
How do you fix a lawn mower that won’t start when you pull the cord?
There are several reasons why a lawn mower may not start when you pull the cord. Some of the most common causes include a dirty carburetor, a fouled spark plug, or a faulty ignition coil.
How do you fix a lawn mower that starts but dies immediately?
There are several reasons why a lawn mower may start but die immediately. Some of the most common causes include a clogged fuel filter, a dirty carburetor, or a faulty ignition coil.
