Restringing a lawn mower means replacing or rewinding the starter rope (pull cord) inside the recoil starter assembly. The process involves removing the starter housing from the engine, taking out the old rope and recoil spring, installing a new rope of the correct length and diameter, and reassembling the starter so the spring tension pulls the rope back in. You’ll need basic hand tools, a replacement rope, and patience to keep the spring from unwinding unexpectedly.
What You Need Before Restringing a Lawn Mower
Before you begin, gather the right tools and parts. Having everything ready makes the job smoother and reduces the chance of losing small components.
Tools Required
Most starter rope replacements only require basic hand tools. You will typically need a socket set or wrenches to remove the bolts holding the starter housing to the engine. A flathead screwdriver helps pry off retaining clips or covers. Needle-nose pliers are useful for pulling the rope through the spool and handle, and a utility knife or scissors will cut the new rope to length. A small punch or awl can help hold the spool in place while you wind the spring.
Choosing the Right Replacement Rope
The replacement rope must match your mower’s specifications. Most lawn mower starter ropes are between 3/16 and 1/4 inch in diameter, though you should verify the size for your specific model. The length also varies, but a common length is around 6 to 8 feet. Check your owner’s manual or the old rope for the correct dimensions. Using a rope that is too thick can jam the spool, while one that is too thin may slip or break under tension.
Replacing the Recoil Spring
You do not always need a new recoil spring. If the old spring is intact and still provides tension, you can reuse it. However, if the spring is broken, rusted, or has lost its tension, replace it. Springs are inexpensive and often come in kits with the rope. Inspect the spring carefully before deciding to reuse it, as a weak spring will cause the rope to retract poorly.
How to Remove the Starter Housing Safely
Removing the starter housing requires care to avoid damaging parts or losing spring tension. The recoil spring is under tension, so it can unwind suddenly if handled incorrectly.
Detaching the Housing from the Engine
Start by disconnecting the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from accidentally starting. Locate the starter housing on top of the engine, usually held in place by three or four bolts. Remove these bolts with a socket or wrench and lift the housing straight up. On some models, you may need to remove a flywheel cover or other components first. Keep the bolts in a safe place so you do not lose them.
Controlling the Recoil Spring
The recoil spring sits inside the housing and is wound under tension. When you remove the housing, the spring may try to unwind. To prevent this, hold the spool firmly while lifting the housing. Some starters have a retaining clip or pin that holds the spool in place; remove this only after the housing is free. If the spring does unwind, it is not damaged, but you will need to rewind it during reassembly. Work over a clean, flat surface so small parts do not roll away.
Step-by-Step: Removing the Old Rope and Spring
With the housing removed, you can now extract the worn rope and inspect the internal components.
Removing the Old Starter Rope
Pull the rope out of the spool until you reach the knot that secures it. On many starters, the rope passes through a hole in the spool and is tied in a knot on the underside. Use needle-nose pliers to loosen the knot and pull the rope free. If the rope is broken, you may need to unwind the remaining portion from the spool. Take note of how many times the rope wraps around the spool, as this will guide you during reinstallation.
Inspecting the Recoil Spring
Once the rope is removed, examine the recoil spring. Look for signs of rust, cracks, or breaks. The spring should be coiled tightly and provide even tension. If the spring is damaged or has lost its shape, replace it. If it looks fine, leave it in place and rewind it carefully. Handle the spring with gloves or a cloth, as the edges can be sharp.
How to Install the New Rope and Rewind the Spring
This is the core of the job. Proper installation ensures the rope retracts smoothly and the starter engages reliably.
Tying the Knot Securely
Thread the new rope through the hole in the spool from the outside in. Tie a knot on the underside of the spool, similar to the original. A figure-eight knot or a simple overhand knot works well. Make sure the knot is snug and will not pull through the hole when tension is applied. Trim any excess rope close to the knot so it does not interfere with the spring.
Winding the Rope Around the Spool
The number of wraps depends on your mower, but most starters require the rope to be wound around the spool several times. A common guideline is to wind the rope until the spool is nearly full, leaving enough rope to reach the handle. Check your owner’s manual for the specific number of wraps. Too few wraps will not provide enough pull, while too many can cause the rope to jam.
Rewinding the Recoil Spring
To restore tension, wind the spool against the spring. Turn the spool in the direction that tightens the spring, usually clockwise, until you feel resistance. Some starters have a notch or hole to hold the spool in place while you work. Once the spring is wound, feed the rope through the housing and out the rope guide. Hold the spool to prevent it from unwinding while you reassemble the housing.
Reassembling the Starter and Testing the Pull
After installing the rope and winding the spring, you can put the starter back together and verify it works.
Reattaching the Starter Housing
Place the housing back onto the engine, aligning it with the mounting holes. Insert and tighten the bolts, but do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads. Ensure the housing sits flush against the engine and that the rope guide aligns with the pull cord opening.
Attaching the Pull Handle
Thread the free end of the rope through the pull handle and tie a secure knot. The handle should sit comfortably in your hand. Pull the rope out a few inches to check that it moves freely and retracts smoothly. If the rope does not retract, the spring may not be wound tightly enough.
Testing the Starter
With everything reassembled, test the starter by pulling the rope several times. The rope should extend smoothly and retract fully without sticking. The engine should turn over when the rope is pulled. If the rope feels loose or does not retract, you may need to rewind the spring with more tension.
Troubleshooting Common Starter Rope Problems
Even with careful installation, issues can arise. Here are common problems and how to fix them.
Rope Won’t Retract
If the rope does not retract after restringing, the recoil spring is likely not wound tightly enough. Disassemble the starter and rewind the spring with more tension. Also check that the rope is not binding on the spool or guide, which can happen if the rope is too thick or wound unevenly.
Rope Too Short or Too Long
If the rope is too short, it may not reach the handle or provide enough pull. If it is too long, it may not retract fully. Measure the old rope before cutting the new one, or consult your owner’s manual for the correct length. Adjust the number of wraps around the spool to fine-tune the length.
Rope Feels Loose or Has No Tension
A loose rope usually indicates a weak or broken recoil spring. Inspect the spring for damage and replace it if necessary. Also ensure the knot on the spool is secure, as a slipping knot will cause the rope to lose tension.
Safety Tips for Working on a Lawn Mower Starter
Working on a lawn mower starter involves a few hazards, mainly from the spring and the engine. Follow these precautions to stay safe.
Disconnect the Spark Plug
Always disconnect the spark plug wire before servicing the starter. This prevents the engine from accidentally starting while you work. Even if the engine is off, the flywheel can turn if the starter is pulled, so removing the spark plug wire is essential.
Handling the Recoil Spring Safely
The recoil spring is under tension and can unwind suddenly, causing injury. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. When removing or installing the spring, hold it firmly and work slowly. If the spring is damaged, handle it carefully and dispose of it properly.
Restringing a lawn mower starter is a manageable task for most DIYers. With the right tools, a correct replacement rope, and careful attention to the spring, you can restore your mower’s pull cord and get back to mowing in under an hour.
