Lawn mower wire cable. Do I have to lay the boundary wire underground

Do I have to lay the boundary wire underground?

For most robotic lawnmowers, laying the boundary wire is a prerequisite for initial start-up. Of course, laying it underground is a bit more complicated than laying it above ground. Therefore, many hobby gardeners ask themselves: do I really need to lay the boundary wire underground?

The vast majority of robotic lawnmowers navigate using a boundary wire. This tells the robotic lawnmower via a signal which areas are to be mowed and which are not. Laying the cable is therefore the most important step before the mower’s first start-up. For many first-time owners of a robotic lawnmower, this raises the question of whether it is really worth the effort to lay the cable underground or whether the above-ground variant will suffice.

Laying the perimeter wire is probably one of the most important steps on the way to a functioning robotic lawnmower unless it is a robotic lawnmower with a grass sensor. Here, the wire serves as a signal generator for the device, so that it is clear which areas the robot should traverse, and which are no-go areas. If the robotic lawnmower drives through a flower bed or falls into the garden pond, there will be negative consequences. Accordingly, the first step is to mark the obstacles that the robotic lawnmower cannot detect due to natural barriers. Precise installation of the wire around the edges of the lawn is even more crucial when the mower has edge cutting capabilities for a fine finish.

However, not all laying is the same. There are two different methods: each that come with some advantages and disadvantages. The above-ground version is much easier and faster but is also more prone to damage. With that being said, it is by no means necessary to lay the boundary wire underground. Sometimes it just lends itself, as the extra effort also brings some benefits

How the perimeter wire works

The perimeter wire is fixed to the charging station and laid once completely around the lawn before arriving back at the charging station. The charging station sends out a low but perceptible electrical signal through the wire, which creates a magnetic field and serves as an orientation for the robotic lawnmower to navigate. For this to work properly, two aspects in particular are important:

• The perimeter wire must not be damaged.
• The maximum length of the manufacturer’s specification must not be exceeded.

Quick start with easy installation

The start-up of a robotic lawnmower itself is very simple. You simply place the charging station in a suitable place in the garden, connect it to the electric grid, lay the boundary wire around the lawn and use the quick installation of your robotic lawnmower. This helps to define the mowing times, for example.

The first test run can already begin. Laying the boundary wire is probably the most time-consuming of the tasks you will face before the first test run. You have two different options:

When to lay the perimeter wire above ground

The above-ground installation of the perimeter wire is undoubtedly the simpler option. You simply lay the wire once around the lawn (be sure to include flower beds and other obstacles from the outside) and simply fasten the wire to the distance specified by the manufacturer along the lawn edge with lawn nails. The lawn will grow and cover the wire in about 2-4 weeks, and will then become almost invisible.

Advantages of the above-ground laying of the perimeter wire

First, one clear advantage is that mistakes can be swiftly corrected, and you can quickly make changes to the layout (for example) when redesigning the garden.

If, after the first laying, you find that the lawn edges need readjustment because the distances may not be correct or the effort required for retouching is too great, the perimeter wire can easily be moved.

Disadvantages of laying above ground

Nonetheless, when the perimeter wire is laid above ground, it is also permanently exposed to external influences such as rain, ice, and snow. The risk of corrosion and weathering is incomparably higher than with underground laying. Over time, the wire can become permeable and may break. In this case, the only solution is repair, which is comparatively easy to underground installation.

At the same time, a properly tautly laid cable also carries the risk of being damaged during gardening work such as scarifying or when digging up flower beds. The blades of the scarifier or a careless spade can easily cut the cable, so caution is always critical. Other burdens, such as those caused by traction wheels or the blades of a lawn robot, on the other hand, generally do not pose a problem for the perimeter wire when the cable is laid properly.

Underground installation of perimeter wire

It is probably indisputable that a wire that is buried underground is less affected by the elements. This raises the question whether it makes sense to lay the cable underground as a matter of principle. Most manufacturers and 3 rd part providers offer professional underground installation services.

Advantages of underground laying

In addition to the lower risk of damage from wind and weather, one advantage is that the wire is invisible underground, significantly reducing the risk of damage from a scarifier or other garden tools. This means you can carry out gardening work worrying less about the perimeter wire.

Another advantage is, of course, the inconspicuous appearance. The cable is invisible even under paved passages, as you can simply run it under the stones. Most cables can transmit their signal with minimal problems up to a depth of about 7 centimeters.

Disadvantages of underground laying

The disadvantages of underground installation are obvious. Once the wire is laid, a change in your garden design turns out to be comparatively complicated, as the cable has to be dug up each time. In the event of an accident, this also makes troubleshooting more difficult if the cable has to be uncovered again. Wire breaks are not easy to detect visually, so a tool is always needed to locate the signal interference.

And, of course, the laying itself is also more complex. An initial channel, approximately 4 cm deep, must be dug for the wire. This usually works quite well with a lawn edger. However, unconventional methods such as discarded angle grinders or chainsaws are also suitable for making the channel. Those who do not want to make the effort themselves, but do not want to give up the convenience of underground laying, can hire a specialized company for this purpose. They have the correct equipment for digging. In any case, the channel should be laid to a uniform depth. Otherwise, the edge drive will be somewhat less accurate than when laying above ground.

Laying boundary wire. what to keep in mind

For both underground and above ground laying, the wire should be tautly stretched. It must not cross at any point, otherwise signal interference may occur and cause the robotic lawnmower to become disoriented. This is especially important if you include flower beds and the like in the center of the lawn in the induction loop, where the wire is routed from the outer edge to the center of the lawn and back.

Finally, it is important to keep the distances of the lawn edge and walls according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help minimize lawn-edge retouching and prevent damage to the robotic lawnmower.

Laying boundary wire underground for a rolled turf

It seems tempting to simply place the wire under the turf when laying the sod. However, this carries a r risk, as you won’t be able to test the functionality of the wire until the turf is in place. This means that troubleshooting can turn out to be costly.

We recommend placing the wire above ground first and starting the robotic lawnmower. This way, any problems can be detected in the first few days. It is important to know that after laying the sod, you have a 3-week window to place the perimeter wire underneath. After that, the rooting can become too strong.

As an alternative to simply sliding the wire under the sod, it’s perfectly okay to dig a channel in the grass where you can place the wire. This way you are completely independent when you dig the channel or when you purchase your robotic lawnmower.

Note, if you prefer the above-ground option, it is just as feasible with sod as with any other lawn.

Advantages and disadvantages for installation methods

Both above-ground and underground laying of the perimeter wire has advantages and disadvantages.

• simple and quick installation
• changes in the design of the garden can be easily made
• repairs are easier, as a broken wire can quickly be detected visually

• weather influences
• risk of damage by scarifiers and the like
• visually annoyance in the first weeks

• wire disappears visually from the overall picture immediately after installation
• less chance of damage by scarifiers and the like
• less wear and tear due to weather conditions

• laying is more time-consuming / more expensive (with a professional installer)
• troubleshooting can be complicated
• a change in the garden design can be costly

When is underground laying recommended

There is no answer to this question. It is simply impossible to give a blanket answer as to whether above ground or underground laying is better. It is certainly an ideal solution for gardeners who prefer an unobtrusive overall appearance, knowing that the garden design is completed for the coming years. To make sure that the robotic lawnmower works properly, it is also a good idea to install it above ground first. Although this involves twice the effort, it can help reduce the potential for errors afterwards. Anyone who is afraid of the hassle of laying the grass themselves can call in a professional service to do the work.

Lawn owners who regularly scarify their lawns are also better off laying the wire underground. After all, this helps minimize worry about accidentally cutting it with gardening equipment.

Conversely, above ground installation is recommended for people who like to remain flexible and prefer both easy installation and quick troubleshooting. over, any repairs can be done quickly, and the visual impact on an overall, harmonious appearance disappears after a few weeks.

How to Fix a Lawn Mower Throttle Cable

A broken throttle cable does not let the mower work efficiently and your dream of flaunting a pristine lawn goes haywire. You may own a huge lawn or a small yard. But if the mower gets damaged then it is a pain to book an appointment with an expert to get the mower repaired while in the meantime you feel completely handicapped not being able to do anything about your overgrown and shabby lawn.

Save yourself from this trouble and also save some money by taking out time to learn how to fix a lawn mower throttle cable. The article covers all the details on how to fix a lawn mower throttle cable. It does not matter which brand mower you own. Just get the tools and fix your lawn mower in no time.

What is a Lawn Mower Throttle Cable?

A throttle cable or an accelerator cable is a metal cable that connects the throttle plate and the gas pedal. The cable functions to facilitate the opening of the throttle when either the lever gets pushed or the pedal is pressed. The throttle thus controls the power of the machine or the vehicle and if there is any damage to its cable then it will not let the engine change speed.

To put the mower back to use it is important to identify and correct the glitch with the throttle cable to control the engine speed. Once the cable functions well it controls the speed of the blade when mowing.

Reasons for the Throttle Cable to Break

A throttle cable could break because of various reasons. However, the most common reason is wear and tear. The throttle cable comes under stress and gets damaged causing breakage.

Stretching the cable leads to a delay in throttle response. This delay in response is a sign that determines if or not the cable is close to breakage and would then need repair or replacing.

Exposing the throttle cable to elements causes it to rust and weaken. The case or the cover that encloses the cable could dry causing the cable to become stuck making it difficult to move.

Regardless of what may be the reason if there is a problem with the throttle cable it will not let the engine run fast. You may then have to either fix the cable or replace it completely.

Before we guide you on how to fix the lawn mower throttle cable here is what you need to be prepared with.

How to Fix a Lawn Mower Throttle Cable: Step-by-step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fix the throttle cable.

• Step 1: You need a 7-inch and #16 wire size aluminum cable. Bend it into a half. Since it is made of aluminum it should not be a trouble to turn it. After you bend it, flatten the cable using a pair of pliers. You may flatten it further using a wire flattening device.
• Step 2: After the wire is flattened hold it in an upright position using a flattener and twist the upper wire a few times. The wire should not break. Next, reproduce the original cables Z-bend on the top of the twisted wire using pliers to get a 90-degree angle.
• Step 3: Now that the twisted wire has been bent to a Z-shape you need to snip off one aluminum wire at the bottom. After you snip it off at one end place the original cable on a table and then keep the new wire that is bent below it. The placement should be such that both the wires have the other Z-tip kept parallel to one another. This will let you trace exactly where you need to cut the original cable.
• Step 4: You will need an aluminum crimp or a wire union device. Just go ahead and insert the original cable into one of the holes of the union device, put the z-bend of the twisted wire through the other hole, and tighten the device. Ensure that both the cables are placed securely. A flattening device or a hammer helps in tightening. Once done, the Z-bend tip of the throttle cable that was broken is repaired successfully.

Adjusting the Lawn Mower Throttle Cable

• Remove the cable housing on the mower handle to take the throttle cable off. You can use a pair of pliers to remove the housing. Or you may unscrew using a screwdriver.
• Removing the housing runs down the cable base. This can be detached completely from the cable by separating the cable and the throttle arm that is found in the engine.
• As per the lawn mower’s design, it is possible that there may be no holes for a cable or the holes may not be high enough to insert a new cable. If this is the case then just drill a hole in the position that seems comfortable and fasten the cable. Place the new cable on the handle and weave the wire in the housing. The cable wire should run down through the mower’s handle and the base and arm of the throttle.
• Measure the cable length that you need and add a little extra as a precaution. This little extra will let the wire stay loose in case you need to fold the mower handle. Remove the cable cover at the end of the cable to get access to enough wire length to form the z-bend. It should be done with care as the wire could get cut with the covering. Once the wire gets exposed with a plier or a z-blender from the z-blend.
• Fasten the cable to the throttles handle. It can be done by passing the cable first through the housing and then passing it into the handle. If the cable is not tight, put the throttle down and use pliers to pull it tighter. Twist the screw that locks it and replace the housing.
• Turn the mower on to see if it now works fine. If you notice that the mower is running very high when in an idle state, loosen the cable. It can be done by twisting the lock screw. Let more cable length pass through before you go ahead and tighten the screw. Test the throttle cable that you have adjusted and see if the working has improved.

Cleaning the Throttle Cable Arm

The cable might be unable to move because of grime or dirt that has collected on it and is stopping it from moving. If the arm is rusted then you will have to replace it. Else here is what to do.

• Disconnect the throttle cable by loosening the bracket to not let the tip get in the way. Insert the cable to spot any fraying or rust which is a sign that the cable is in a bad condition.
• Put some penetrating oil on the arm and let it sit for some time before you wipe it off. Use a lubricant and spray it on the arm. This will ensure that the arm does not get stuck again.
• To reconnect the cable, hook back the top onto the arm and then tighten the bracket.

Precautions

There are a few cautions that you should bear before and after you carry out the repair work.

• Always wear protective rubber gloves that will save you from injury.
• Unplug the spark plug to save you from a shock.
• When you fasten the cable to the handle of the mower do not screw it very tight as this will prevent the lever from working freely.

Tips and Tricks to Repair the Lawn Mower Throttle Cable

A single error can prove to be costly. Here are a few tricks to make the job seamless for you.

• Practice cutting. If you need to remove just a section of the wire, then you need to be careful. The cable inside is wound in the form of a screw and you need to be careful to cut the covering and nothing beyond it. It is wise to practice on an old cable first.
• While working on the mower it pays to take some time out to clean any junk from the motor. This will ensure that your machine stays in good and working condition.

To Conclude

If you use your lawn mower frequently then the throttle cable would break or need adjustments from time to time. You cannot escape this. When the throttle cable breaks you can call on an expert or get down on your knees and fix it yourself.

Learning how to repair the lawn mower throttle cable saves you from racking up a hefty bill and from days of waiting. This article covers all the details of how to repair and adjust the throttle cable. With these fixes, you can get your lawn mower up and running in no time.

Now that your lawn mower throttle cable is repaired, also read lawn mowing tips to get a perfectly manicured yard.

How to Fix a Lawnmower Throttle Cable. Here is how to diagnose and fix it

The lawnmower Throttle cable is responsible for controlling the speed of the engine. If the mower doesn’t respond or the engine dies down when using the throttle, the cable needs to be checked. In most modern push mowers, a throttle cable is connected to the carburetor’s intake valve. When the throttle cable breaks, the intake valve will stay put, and it is hard to start. Over time the cable gets stretched, worn out, and eventually can break. When broken, you can not really use the lawnmower anymore. In all cases, the cable needs to be fixed or replaced.

How to fix a lawnmower throttle cable. Here is how to diagnose and fix it:

The first step is to check the condition of the cable. Is the cable snapped? In that case, it needs to be replaced with a new one. If it is just hard to move, you can use some WD-40 to lubricate the cable. If the Z-tip is broken, replace it with a Z-end created from 7-inch #16 wire.

• 0.1 My throttle cable does not work. What is wrong?
• 0.2 How does a Lawnmower Throttle Cable Break?
• 0.3 Guide for Fixing the Z-tip from a Lawnmower Throttle Cable

• 0.3.1 Locating the throttle cable on your lawnmower
• 0.3.2 Collect the tools you need:
• 0.3.3 Step 1: Get a 7-inch #16 wire size cable:
• 0.3.4 Step 2: Twist one end of the new cable:
• 0.3.5 Step 3: Snip off the Z-bend ends of the wire:
• 0.3.6 Step 4: Combining new and old throttle cables:
• 0.3.7 Step 5: Replace the Z-tip of your original throttle cable:

• 0.4.1 Step 1: Remove the old throttle cable:
• 0.4.2 Step 2: Place new cable on the handle:
• 0.4.3 Step 3: Connect the new cable:
• 0.4.4 Step 4: Adjust the new cable:
• 0.4.5 Step 5: Test Drive:

My throttle cable does not work. What is wrong?

Your lawn mower’s throttle cable controls the throttle of the engine. It’s the part that kickstarts the engine and also commands the speed of your mower’s blades. If the mower doesn’t respond or the engine dies down to the throttle handle’s adjustments, it is a clear sign that something’s wrong with the throttle cable, and you may want to find out what’s wrong. A throttle cable may be very tiny, but it coordinates your mower’s engine parts’ functioning the moment you pull it. Modern lawn mowers have automatic throttle cables.

Before starting with the more detailed procedure to replace or fix the cable, you first need to diagnose the problem. First, check if the cable is broken. In that case, you can pull the cable out of the outer tube. If the cable is broken somewhere in the middle, it is simple. There is no other option than to replace the cable. If the Z-tip is broken, it may seem that the whole cable is broken. But that is not the case. If you pull the cable out of the outer tube, you can see that the whole cable length is still in one piece. If that is the case, probably the Z-tip is broken. That is something we can fix with a new Z-tip.

In case the throttle cable does not work well but is not broken, it can mean that it is just stuck. This is possible if the inner cable starts rusting or dirt has entered the outer tube. The best fix you can try is to use some WD-40 to lubricate the inner cable. Spray it and then try to move the cable a couple of times. If you notice that it works better, you can repeat the same process a couple of times. If it does not work, you should replace the throttle cable.

How does a Lawnmower Throttle Cable Break?

As you use your lawnmower over time, the cable gets stretched or worn out, resulting in breakage. A broken throttle cable is difficult to push, giving you an idea that it’s time to change the throttle cable. When the cable breaks, there won’t be enough power supplied to the mower’s engine, so a broken cable has to be replaced at the earliest.

When the throttle cable gets worn out, you may order a new cable for your lawnmower model. A throttle cable is quite easy to get. You can order it online or find one at a nearby hardware store.

Guide for Fixing the Z-tip from a Lawnmower Throttle Cable

Locating the throttle cable on your lawnmower

The throttle cable of a modern lawnmower can be found running from the throttle lever to the carburetor’s intake valve. You may consult your mower’s manual for the most accurate info in this regard for your model.

Collect the tools you need:

You will need some measuring tools, a z-bending tool, a new throttle cable, wire cutters, and a needle nose plier to complete this task for the Z-tip replacement.

With the right tools gathered, you may start the Z-tip replacement procedure, which is as follows:

• Step 1: Get a 7-inch #16 wire size cable.
• Step 2: Twist the new cable on one end. Twist it enough but make sure not to break it. Make a Z-bend of your cable. It should be the same as the original already installed throttle cable.
• Step 3: Snip off Z-bend ends of the wire
• Step 4: Combine the new Z-bend with the old throttle cable. Before combining, make sure to make new and old Z-bends are of the same size. So, if you have a long Z-bend, trim it from one of the ends to make it similar in size to the Z-bend of the old cable.
• Step 5: Replace the broken Z-tip of your original throttle cable with the Z-tip of the wire using a wire union device or a hammer if you don’t have a union device.

We will now look at the various steps in more detail:

Step 1: Get a 7-inch #16 wire size cable:

Get a 7-inch #16 wire size cable and bend it in half. We recommend getting an aluminum cable since it will be easier to twist and turn. Flatten the aluminum wire using a pair of needle-nose pliers. If you have any other wire flattener device, use it to press the two bent halves together even more.

Step 2: Twist one end of the new cable:

In this step, you’ll create two Z-bends, one on each end of the wire. To do this, hold the bottom two inches of the wire to a wire flattener device, or you can use any device that can hold a #16 wire upright so that you can twist the free length of the wire a few times. You may hold the wire using a couple of sturdy needle nose pliers if you don’t have a wire flattener. Twist the wire enough but make sure not to break it. Create a Z-bend on the wire by bending the top of the wire at a 90-degree angle using a pliers pair. Then, take a couple of needle-nose pliers to hold the first 90-degree bend with one as you try to make a second 90-degree angle on the other end using the other pair of pliers. You may copy the Z-bend on the original throttle cable for this step.

Step 3: Snip off the Z-bend ends of the wire:

Snip of the Z-bends of the aluminum wire.

Step 4: Combining new and old throttle cables:

The next step is to combine the old throttle cable with the Z-bend of the aluminum wire. Put the original wire above the Z-bend on a table so that both of their Z-tips are parallel. Use a marker to mark the part that you need to cut.

Cut the original cable just right at the tag. For the Z-bend of the aluminum wire, snip 1-2 centimeters extra from the marked point.

Step 5: Replace the Z-tip of your original throttle cable:

Carefully insert your original throttle cable into one of the holes of a wire union device, then insert your Z-bend aluminum wire into the other hole. Tighten up the device to secure the merger of the two cables.

If you don’t have a wire union device, you can use a hammer or a wire flattener for this step.

With this done, you have successfully replaced the broken Z-bend tip of your original throttle cable.

Lawnmower Throttle Cable Replacement and Adjustment

If you have observed a faulty throttle cable’s signs, the best solution will replace it with a new one. You may need to adjust the new throttle cable based on your mower’s behavior.

Replacing and adjusting the cable involves the following steps:

• Step 1: Remove the faulty throttle cable.
• Step 2: Place the new cable on the handle.
• Step 3: Connect the new cable.
• Step 4: Adjust the new cable. Check if your mower is always idle or running at high speed with the new cable. Based on that, you will have to stretch or relax the newly installed throttle cable.
• Step 5: A test drive

Step 1: Remove the old throttle cable:

Turn off your lawnmower and take off the old throttle cable by removing the cable casing with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Free the throttle cable from the throttle arm by opening the unit and pull and removing the lock screws on the handle. Pull out the freed throttle cable.

Step 2: Place new cable on the handle:

Place the new throttle cable on your mower’s handle. Look at the engine’s back for the wire base. Insert the cable through the base and the throttle arm. When installing the new cable on your lawnmower’s handle, you may need to drill new holes if there aren’t any holes already and a bolt to fasten the new cable.

Step 3: Connect the new cable:

Calculate the size of the cable and give it an extra inch for allowances. The allowance will also make the cable a little loose, allowing the handles to be folded down.

Slip the new cable through the housing and fasten it to the throttle handle. The cable should be tight enough for you to have the throttle down. Tighten the lock screw and reinstall the housing.

Step 4: Adjust the new cable:

Once the old cable has been replaced, you need to adjust the new throttle cable based on your mower’s behavior. For this purpose, restore the throttle to check if the tension is right. Now turn on the mower. If the mower is running too high in idle status, it means that the cable’s tension is too much, and the cable needs to be loosened.

Step 5: Test Drive:

Once the replacement and adjustment are made, try your mower and see if all works fine. If everything works fine, it means that the replacement has been done successfully.

Final Remarks:

Fixing a throttle cable is not difficult. First, diagnose the problem, and then fix or replace the cable. This blog post will take you through the process. Take precautionary measures and always work in a well-lit environment. Please consult the user manual if you are confused about the location of any of the parts mentioned, or consult a professional.

How To Fix Self Propelled Cable? – In 6 steps with pics

Pushing a mower isn’t fun, especially a self-propelled one. They’re heavy. Fitting a self-drive cable is a lot less effort than pushing.

The best fix for a self-propelled mower cable is to replace the complete cable. Replace a mower drive cable in six steps:

In this post, we’ll cover the process of replacing the self-propelled control cable and adjusting the drive system. If your mower is a Honda, check out “Honda mower self propelled slow”. If you need video help, check out “Self propelled troubleshooting video”.

Mower Repair Safety

Before working on your mower, go ahead and remove the spark plug wire, preventing accidental starting. In addition, turn your gas tap off (if fitted) and palace a plastic sheet over the gas tank filler. This helps to prevent gas spills when turning your mower over. If you’re not sure if you have a gas tap, check out this post “Honda shut off valve”.

Plug Wire Off – Twist and pull

Critical Cable Info

Self-propelled cables consist of a plastic outer casing and a metal braided inner cable. The braided cable is the part that breaks and does so, usually at the handlebar connector or at the transmission end. The ends are essential, and there are many different types. While it is possible to replace just the inner braided cable, most repair shops will only supply the complete cable (inner and outer).

It is critical to get the length of the cable correct, but also, the end types must match your old cable.

Cable Length – Mission critical

Getting this wrong will have you pulling your hair out trying to fit and adjust. I advise removing the old cable and either finding an identical part online that matches your model or visiting your local dealer, cable in hand. While, at first glance, a cable might look like yours, the number of possible cable lengths and connector end combos is endless.

Check before you purchase. See the Amazon link below.

Removing Cable Handlebar End

It doesn’t make any difference which ends you remove first. Since the mower is upright, we’ll begin by removing the handlebar cable end. The most common type of self-drive control is the bail lever, like Honda may use a thumb style control. Whatever you have, the repair is very similar.

Identify Cable – First, locate the drive cable. It leaves the handlebar and travels to the mower body. As most mowers are rear-wheel drive, it passes through the body at the rear just above the axle.

With the correct cable identified, locate the outer cables anchor point on the handlebar. The winged tab is the most common type anchor, however, some may be fastened with a bolt. To release the winged type, use pliers to press on the wings and pull the outer cable free.

Cable Fasteners – Some mowers like Honda may fasten the drive cable to the handlebar by means of a threaded cable end. Using two wrenches, hold one nut and loosen the other, now back off the nuts to release the cable outer end, and unhook the braided cable end from the bail lever, if not already disconnected.

(This fastener also doubles as the cable adjuster)

Unhook Bail Lever – For bail lever-type drive control, squeeze either side of the drive bail lever to unhook (most types).

Turn Mower Over

Now we’ll need to tilt the mower on its side. But there’s an incorrect way to turn your mower over, getting this wrong will cause hard or no starting and lots of white smoke. The correct way to turn your mower over is always with the air filter side facing skyward. I wrote a complete post about turning your mower over, “Which way to tilt your mower” or check out the video here.

Tilt Mower Over – Air filter up

Remove Cable Transmission End

The transmission cable end fitting is the most challenging part of this repair, you’ll need patience and tenacity, but you can do it. Real estate is tight, and if you have Shrek hands, you’ll need to dig deep. The outer transmission cable is anchored at the transmission, usually with a plastic winged connector, and the inner braided cable hooks into the transmission lever arm.

To release the cable, first, release the outer by pressing the plastic winged tabs and pulling free. Now you’ll need to unhook the braided cable from the transmission arm.

A long handle needle nose pliers, a soft kneeling pad, and light make this process a little easier. With the tab released and the inner unhooked, remove the old cable by pulling it from (upper deck side) the hole.

Fit Transmission Cable End

Before attempting to fit the new cable, be sure it’s correct. Check it using the old cable. Fit the transmission cable end through the mower body hole and push the winged outer connector into its anchor. Use your long nose pliers. Now connect the braided cable end into the transmission arm.

Use Pliers and Patience

Fit Handlebar Cable End

Fit Cable End – Go ahead now and stand your mower upright. Fit inner braided end to the bail lever and stretch the outer connector to seat in its anchor. Now you are ready to adjust.

Adjust Mower Drive Cable

Most mower drive cables will incorporate an adjuster. The adjuster simply shortens or lengthens the cable as required. Two types are common, the cable connector adjuster and the cable end adjuster. Although slightly different, the same principle applies.

In Cable Adjuster

Cable End Adjuster

Checking Cable Slack – With the cable in place and at rest, the braided cable at the bail lever should deflect by no more than a ¼ inch.

Open Lock Nuts – If your cable deflects more than ¼ inch, go ahead and open the lock nuts and unscrew the outer to remove the inner cable slack.

Test 1 – With the self-propelled lever applied (Bail lever) and engine off, pull the mower backways. The wheels should lock.

If not, continue to adjust until they do.

Test 2 – With the self-propelled lever released, pull the mower backways. If it’s stiff to reverse, you’ve over-adjusted, back it off, and test again.

If you need more help, check out the adjusting video here.

Don’t forget to refit the plug and turn the gas tap on after the repair.

Hey, I’m John, and I’m a Red Seal Qualified Service Technician with over twenty-five years experience.

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