Lawn mower handle loose. How to Fix a Lawnmower Pull Cord

21st August 2023

How To Fix A Lawnmower That Will Not Start

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The two basic requirements that allow a lawnmower’s engine to startup are fuel and a spark. If you are experiencing fuel starvations (when fuel is not getting to your engine), or if you are not getting a spark at the plug, your engine will not be able to startup.

Bad compression can also be a reason for experiencing difficulty while trying to start the lawnmower’s engine. If you pack the lawnmower away for the winter with fuel still in the tank, the seals, valves, and pumps in the lawnmower’s carburetor can become blocked up with varnish deposits. Along with this, dirt and dust can get collected and end up blocking the fuel system or clog filters.

Before You Start Troubleshooting On Your Mower You Should:

Proceed with caution when working with your mower. You should first start by removing any sources of ignition. This includes cigarettes, naked flames, sparks, stoves, or other hot objects that are in the same area that you intend on working on the tank or fuel lines.

Be sure to do this if you need to remove any clumps of grass that may be jammed under the deck.

This is to avoid the oils in the mower from spilling, as this is likely to happen if left on its side.

This can be avoided if there is a small amount of gas in the tank, or if you do not think that it will reach the tank cap. However, if you are unsure of this then it would be best to just drain the tank. Another trick is to open the cap and then place a plastic bag over the opening and then put the cap back on.

You are likely to cause premature engine wear if the oil level is low. Added to this, an engine can seize quickly if there is no oil present in the lawnmower.

Checking On The Oil Level Of Your Lawnmower:

Before starting the process of troubleshooting, you should make sure that the oil level in the lawnmower is deemed acceptable. You can do this by:

Move the lawnmower to a surface that is level.
Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.
Place it back in the lawnmower and then remove it again.
Check to see where the marking is. If it is relatively low, top it up to the necessary level.

You should make a mental note that the oil in the tank should be changed after every 25 to 50 hours of run time or as advised in your engine manual.

Tips To How To Get Your Lawnmower Started:

How Do You Start A Lawnmower With Old Gas?

Although, it is recommended to drain the lawnmower’s gas tank before it sits for a long period of time without any use. However, most people do not do this. The result of not draining the gas tank causes residue build-up. If this occurs, you should refer to your lawnmower’s manual for information on how to remove this build-up from the fuel tank effectively, as well as for service procedures. Or see our guide on this problem.

As soon as the build-up has been cleaned out, gather all the old gasoline and put it in a container to dispose of it properly. This can be done by running a siphon hose from the gas tank to the container and then pumping the bulb a few times. In doing this, you are moving the gas from the fuel tank and draining it into the container, which thereby cleans out the lawnmower’s fuel tank.

If your lawnmower still is not working after you have cleaned out the fuel tank and adding new gasoline to the mower, you should make sure that your spark plug is working. There is a large possibility that the spark plug wire will become loose after being stored for long periods at a time.

A common problem found when trying to restart a lawnmower that has been stored in that the carburetor gets flooded. Be sure to note the smells and sounds of the lawnmower while you are trying to start it. A strong gasoline smell could mean that the carburetor has been flooded, and as a result, the lawnmower will not start. In this case, you should wait a few minutes before you try to start the mower again.

How Do You Dispose Of Your Lawnmower’s Oil?

When cleaning out the oil in your mower, be sure to collect in a bottle-like container that screws shut. This is to prevent any spilling. Your local mechanic or oil change shop should usually take your used motor oil to dispose of properly. However, if this is not possible, there may be disposal programs for motor oil at your local dump.

If smoke is coming out of your mower, this could be a sign that the oil needs to be checked and changed. However, a lawnmower that will not start obviously will not smoke. Nonetheless, this is a good sign to look out for as it will allow you to stay on top of your lawnmower maintenance. Added to this, smoke coming from a mower could show that there is a leak somewhere. The leak causes the oil to burn when it lands on hot surfaces such as hot metal. Along with this, smoke can also indicate that there is not enough oil in the lawnmower. Not enough oil has the potential to cause permanent damage to the engine of the mower.

What Are The Options For No-Hassle Gas?

One form of no-hassle gas is a product called TruFuel and it is available in most hardware stores. Known to be “old school” gasoline that has no added ethanol. What is so great about this product is that you do not have to add any fuel stabilizers. It runs clean and can sit in storage all winter and will still start up very easily.

However, it is more expensive than regular gas. Nonetheless, when you weigh in that while using no-hassle gas you will not need to pay to replace your lawnmower or carburetor every few years.

So after reading my post on how to start a lawnmower that won’t start and you decide that it’s easier just to buy a new one, then be sure to check out my post on the best mowers that are under 300.

Hi, Alex Kuritz here. Growing up I remember that my family had one of the best lawns in the neighborhood. Richly green and lush. I did a lot as I grew up in terms of caring and tending for not only my family’s lawn but also my neighbors. I can say I have years of experience, and I am here to share it with you.

How to Fix a Lawnmower Pull Cord

Few things are more frustrating than going to cut the grass or clear your driveway of snow and ending up with the starter cord in your hand. Eventually, it happens to everyone. When it does, check out this video on how to fix a lawnmower pull cord.

) Remove the recoil

First, remove the recoil from the engine. Most are held in place with three to five bolts. After removing the recoil, remove the broken cord.

) Measure and cut the old cord

Next, measure the old pull cord. Add about four inches to the overall length to account for the knots you need to tie on either end. Add additional length as needed if the cord broke farther from the handle.

Most of the time, however, the cord will break at the handle. In this case, you can simply reuse the existing cord. However, consider upgrading to a high-quality nylon cord for added durability.

Cut the rope to the appropriate length. Then, use a lighter to melt the ends. This seals the fibers and makes it much easier to thread the cord.

) Tie on the handle

Remove the old lawnmower pull cord from the handle, feed through the new cord and tie a simple knot. Make sure the knot is nice and tight. Pull it back through the handle to help tighten the knot.

) Load the recoil spring

The next thing you’re going to do is load the recoil spring. Turn the recoil in the direction that causes the engagement lugs to protrude. The engagement lugs connect the recoil to the engine and spin the flywheel.

Continue turning the recoil, making sure to apply enough pressure to prevent the spring from releasing and bloodying your knuckles.

Once you feel full tension on the spring, locate the hole on the pulley through which the starter cord threads. Align it with the outside hole on the recoil body.

) Thread the new pull cord

With the two holes aligned, thread the new cord through about 12 inches. Make sure the cord isn’t tangled and then slowly release pressure on the recoil, letting it wind the cord for you until the handle is sitting against the recoil.

Next, tie a knot on the end of the cord. Pull the handle until the knot you just tied locks into place in the recoil pulley. Slowly let the cord retract.

) Reattach the recoil to the engine

Finally, attach the recoil to the engine and you’re done. You just fixed your lawnmower pull cord.

What if the cord is too long?

You don’t have to go back and do everything over. Mark with a Sharpie where the cord meets the recoil. That’s where the handle should be.

Pull the cord out, keeping tension on the recoil. Make a loose knot near the recoil.

This provides slack to make a new knot where you made your mark earlier. Tie a good, tight knot and pull the cord back out, again keeping some pressure on the recoil so it doesn’t snap back. Untie the temporary knot you made earlier.

That’s how you fix a lawnmower pull cord. You’re ready to get back to cutting the lawn or blowing snow.

How to Replace Pull Cord on Lawn Mower – Easy Guide

Do you have a lawn mower that won’t start because the pull cord is broken or missing? Don’t worry; it’s a common problem, and we can show you how to fix it! In this easy guide, we will walk you through the steps of how to replace the pull cord on your lawn mower’s small engine. It’s a job that can be done in just a few minutes and doesn’t require special tools or skills. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Remove Starter from Mower

Before you can repair the pull cord, you’ll need to remove the starter from the lawn mower. Begin by locating the mounting bolts that hold the starter in place. Then remove the mounting bolts and carefully lift the recoil assembly up and away from the lawn mower.

Step 2: Remove Broken Pull Cord from Starter

Once you have the starter removed, locate the broken pull cord. Carefully remove it from the starter housing.

Step 3: Measure Broken Cord (both Pieces) – Cut New Rope and Burn Ends

Measure the length of both pieces of the broken cord. Cut a new piece of rope the same length as both pieces combined to ensure you get the correct length, and burn the ends of the rope.

Burning the rope ends will prevent fraying and ensure your new pull cord is secure when you replace it.

Step 4: Wind Spring Counter Clockwise to Put Load on Spring. Hold in Place

When rewinding the starter, it’s important to wind the coil spring counterclockwise. This will load the spring and help keep the pull cord tight once you change it. Hold the spring in place with one hand while winding with the other.

Step 5: Line up Hole on Starter Housing and Rope Rotor

Line up the hole in the starter cord housing with the rope rotor hole. This is where you will insert the rope.

Step 6: Insert New Cord Into Hole on Starter Housing and Rope Rotor. Tie Knot

Once the holes are aligned, insert the new cord into the starter housing and rope rotor, also called the starter pulley. Tie a knot at the rope’s end to secure it in place. Keep a tight hold on the rope rotor to keep it from sucking the rope back in completely.

Step 7: Holding Rope – Release Spring to Pull Rope In

Once the rope has been inserted and secured, you can release the spring. This will pull the rope in and wrap it around the rotor. Keep a tight hold on the rope to prevent it from being sucked in completely.

Step 8: Insert Rope Into Starter Handle and Tie Knot

Once the rope has been rewound, insert the outside end into the pull handle. Tie a double knot at the end to secure it in place. The knotted end will keep the rope from pulling out of the handle.

Step 9: Pull Rope Handle to Check the For Proper Recoil

Pull on the rope handle to check for proper recoil. If it doesn’t recoil properly, try rewinding the spring and adjusting how much rope is pulled in.

Step 10: Reinstall Starter on Mower.

Once the pull cord works properly, you can re-install the starter onto the mower. Make sure all mounting bolts are tight and double-check how the pull cord works again for good measure.

And there you have it! Now you know how to fix a broken or missing pull cord on your lawn mower.

If you follow these steps correctly, you can get back to smooth-running and healthy lawn maintenance in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Is Mower Pull Rope?

When you need to replace lawn mower pull cord make sure you use the correct size. Most lawn mower pull cord ranges from #4.5 to #6.5 rope diameters.

Is It Hard to Replace Pull Cord on Lawn Mower?

Starter rope on a lawn mower is not difficult to do. Anyone can easily replace the starter rope of a pull cord assembly if they know how. Refer to the ten steps above to replace the pull cord on a lawn mower.

How Do You Fix a Limp Pull Cord?

A lawnmower pull cord can sometimes not recoil all the way back into a starter and appear limp. If this happens, it means that the recoil spring is not strong enough to pull the cord back into the starter. Try rewinding the recoil spring and adjusting how much rope is pulled in. Either that or cut off excessive rope if the lawnmower pull cord is too long.

What Kind of Rope Is Lawn Mower Pull Cord?

Most rope used in a lawn mower starter assembly is made of nylon. Nylon is a durable and flexible material that can withstand extreme temperatures and heavy loads without breaking or fraying. It’s also relatively easy to find and replace.

Are all lawn mower pull cords the same?

No, all pull cords are not the same. Depending on the size of the engine and the way the rope is mounted, the rope can be different. A larger engine like a Honda GX390 will require a larger diameter rope than a Honda GC160. Check your manual and replace the pull cord with the size specified.

How do you fix a pull cord that won’t retract?

If the pull cord does not retract and recoil properly, there are a few things that you can do. First, check if the rope is frayed and replace it if necessary.

Second, ensure the spring is wound properly to pull the rope back in and that the assembly does not have worn pawls. If the pawls are plastic and worn, they will need to be replaced with new pawls before the repair can be completed. Some engines use metal components for the pawls and are less likely to get damaged or worn.

Third, check how taut the rope is and adjust how much it recoils into the assembly. Finally, check how tight the starter housing screws are. If they are loose, re-tighten them for proper recoil repair.

How do I fix my lawn mower pull cord not retracting?

If your lawn mower pull cord does not retract properly, the first step is to check how tight the starter housing screws are. If they are loose, re-tighten them. Next, check how taut the rope is and how much it is drawn into the assembly.

Adjust as necessary if needed, and then rewind the spring. Finally, check for frayed rope or worn parts, and replace any damaged ones. Following these steps should help to get your pull cord retracting properly.

Wrapping Up

Replacing the pull cord in a lawn mower is an easy task that can make all the difference in keeping your lawn healthy and looking great. Just make sure to follow the steps and use the right size rope for your mower.

The proper diameter and length of the starter cord can be determined by measuring the old cord. The starter cord replacement process should take 20 minutes or less, and you are back to cutting your grass.

You can return to mowing with a working pull cord in no time.

As a shop owner, I can say this with 100% confidence. A new lawn mower can have a broken recoil rope, just like an old lawn mower. A new mower is no immune to a broken rope. It is important to know how to fix this issue to save you money by not having to take your mower to a repair shop.

Also, the same principles apply to repairing a recoil rope on all equipment, like a leaf blower or chainsaw.

Most homeowners never think about the starting rope until it breaks. Replacing the recoil cord on an engine can be pretty easy and should be done during your annual equipment tune-up to avoid any equipment downtime.

Good luck and happy mowing!

I have been part of the chainsaw and outdoor power equipment business in one way or the other for over 35 years. There are not many things that I have not seen in the business. From repairs, sales, equipment operation, and safety I can help you with your questions.

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Ryobi Lawn Mower Won’t Start: Reasons And How To Fix It?

The Ryobi lawn mower is a self-propelled lawn mower that has a 48-volt battery cell. It can adjust its height from 1.5 to 4 inches to accommodate different grass lengths and surfaces. The battery can be recharged, reducing noise while also being more eco-friendly than typical gas-powered lawn mowers.

However, despite the many advantages of the Ryobi lawn mower, several issues may develop during operation that users will need to resolve.

Reasons Why The Lawn Mower Won’t Start

Several customers have raised complaints about the system’s failure to start up. The purpose of this section would be to discover and explore the potential causes of the mower not starting.

Ignition Source

One of the explanations why your lawn mower isn’t operating is because the spark plug has worn out. This usually happens when the porcelain insulator cracks.

When an electrode is fractured, it indicates that it has been burned, or damaged or that it has been coated with a heavier electrode. Whether this is the case, check the spark plug with a spark plug test to see whether it needs to be replaced.

On/Off Switch

With a multimeter, check the start switch to determine whether it’s broken. Checking for continuation can help you figure out what’s wrong.

Key to the Flywheel

The flywheel key of your lawn mower may fracture if it collides with something hard. This happens in order to protect the motor in the event of a crash. If the flywheel key on your lawn mower is broken, the engine will not start. The problem can be solved by changing the flywheel key.

Coil of Ignition

The ignition coil supplies voltage to the spark plug during operation. The engine will not start if the coil has been damaged. You can use a tester to examine the coil and replace it if necessary. You can use a tester to examine the coil and change it if needed.

Recoil Spring

If the recoil spring is broken, the rope will not recoil on to the pulley to start the engine. If the spring is damaged, you must replace the starter system.

Fuse Breaker

Even after you’ve inserted the fuse switch, the lawn mower may still not work. It usually means that the fuse switch has blown. Check the fuse switch for continuity using a multimeter and restore it if necessary.

Starter for Recoil

The recoil mechanism, which allows the engine to move, activates the crankshaft. If the recoil starter is destroyed, the motor will not function. To determine the source of the problem, remove the starting assembly and inspect it for correct operation.

Whenever you pull on the starter rope, the tabs from the pulley as well as the cam must contact the hub on the engine, forcing the engine to turn. The tab retracts as well as rewinds within the pulley when you loosen the rope. As a response, if the recoil starter stops working, it’s time to get it replaced.

Pulley for Recoil Starter

When the starter rope is not in use, the recoil starter pulley pulls it back. If the recoil pulley is broken, the rope would not rewind as well as the motor will not start. If the recoil starter pulley is damaged, you must replace it.

Rewind pulley and Spring

Under some circumstances, the rewind spring can also be broken. After the starter rope is released, it has recoiled. If the rewind springs or the pulley is broken, the rope will not be able to recoil up into the pulley.

As a result of this event, the motor will not start. To fix the problem, you’ll need to replace the rewind spring. Now, watch this video to understand what to look for when you’re getting ready to start the Ryobi mower.

The Best Way To Start A Ryobi Lawn Mower

An electrical lawn mower operates differently from a traditional gas mower. If you want to learn how to use your Ryobi lawn mower, follow the instructions below:

How To Adjust A Non-Adjustable Lawn Mower Cable

The Energizer

To begin, make sure the battery is fully charged and properly inserted in the mower. If the battery is not installed correctly, the device would not function properly.

The Key to the Fuse

Keep your eyes peeled for a fuse key. The fuse key is responsible to complete the electrical circuits within the engine, which ultimately turns on the machine.

The key can be inserted into a slot just on the handle or placed near the battery. The use of a key to power the mower prevents it from switching on by accident while it is being serviced.

Toggle on the Switch

An electric switch positioned near the handle turns on and off the Ryobi mower. If you press as well as hold the switch, it will start.

Remove the Ryobi Lawn Mower Fuse Key when not in use

The Ryobi Lawn Mower fuse key is necessary for the device to work. For the machine to work, you must first insert the fuse key. Nevertheless, you must first put the machine together. Failing to do so could actually be harmful to the machine, or you may sustain an injury.

Whenever the fuse is not being used, you must therefore remove the fuse key, which should be withdrawn and stored dry. It makes it impossible for the machine to start on its own. Pause for the blades to come to an abrupt halt before withdrawing the fuse key.

When dusting the lawn mower, be sure to remove the fuse key as well. It ensures that it is free of water splashes. It is possible that if water comes into contact with the fuse key, it will cause damage.

How to fix a broken Self-propelled Ryobi Lawn Mower?

The Ryobi self-propelled lawn mower might not be working for a variety of reasons. Let’s just have a look at a few of them:

V-Belt

The V-belt is responsible for driving the lawn mower wheels by turning the drive pulleys. The wheels are unable to turn due to wear and tear, which can be rectified by replacing them.

Pulley for driving

The driving pulley is connected to the engine crankshaft. If the wheel assembly is damaged, the transmission will not allow it to interact. The driving pulley should be replaced if it is damaged.

Assembly of the Wheels

The wheel assembly is responsible for engaging the transmission’s drive gear. The gears within the wheel assembly will not engage if they are worn out.

If the pulleys rotate but still the lawn mower wheel doesn’t really, the gearbox is most likely broken. Once the damaged gears are replaced, the device will continue to work.

Handle assembly adjustment

If a Ryobi mower handlebar isn’t the appropriate height, remove the knobs per each side of the handlebar in a counterclockwise direction to adjust the handle assembly.

Raise the upper handle back and up to elevate the handle to the proper height, making that the handle locks into place securely. Then, in a clockwise direction, twist the handle knobs per each side of the handle to secure it, making sure that the carrier bolts are placed appropriately.

When altering the handle height, don’t really pull or catch any of the cables in the handle.

Blade Re-adjustment

If the mower isn’t mowing the grass as well as it should, change the blade height. In cool weather, the blade must be set such that the lawn is 1 to 2 inches tall, and in warm weather, the lawn should be 2 to 3 inches tall.

Then, by pressing the height-adjustment handle on the side of the mower and dragging it toward the back, adjust the blade length as needed.

If the mower is hard to move, the grass cuttings are not being bagged correctly, or the engine quits while mowing and the battery is completely charged, raise the cutting height.

Move the height-adjustment gear toward the front to lower the blade elevation as desired.

Transmission

The transmission is driven by the drive belt, which would be connected to the engine crankshaft. The engine powers the drive belt, which enables the lawn mower wheels to rotate.

Checking for problems is as simple as turning on the mower. The gearbox is dysfunctional if the transmission pulley rotates but the mower wheels do not.

However, the transmission is beyond repair. As a result, any anomalies discovered must be replaced.

Cable for Traction Control

In some circumstances, the traction control cable may be worn out or misplaced. Examine the controller cable to see whether it’s in good working order.

Pour a small quantity of oil further into the end of the cable if it’s not moving freely to eliminate friction. You should replace the cable even if it is still functional.

Final Words

Some lawn mower brands should be avoided, but Ryobi isn’t one of them. The Ryobi lawn mower is notable for its versatility in grass lengths and surfaces, as well as its ability to recharge and reduce noise pollution.

But, just like any other brand, it might stop operating or keep starting over! As a result, always be aware of the reasons for it as well as potential solutions.

Sources:

https://www.crabgrasslawn.com/how-to-fix-a-lawnmower-that-will-not-start/
https://blog.amsoil.com/how-to-fix-a-lawnmower-pull-cord/amp/
https://chainsawace.com/how-to-replace-pull-cord-on-lawnmower/
https://www.growingmagazine.com/reasons-for-ryobi-lawn-mower-wont-start/

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