How to Replace a Pull String on a Push Mower

The pull string of a mower endures much wear and tear.

Manually starting a push mower requires effort. The pull string on the mower is jerked and tugged on every year. Sometimes it snaps, necessitating a repair.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Utility knife
• Tape measure
• Electrical tape

Instructions

1. Remove the spark plug wire from the plug to prevent the mower from accidentally starting during the repair.

2. Unscrew the starter housing on top of the mower. Remove the gas tank, if necessary, to reach the starter housing screws. The starter pulley is located inside the starter housing.

3. Unthread the old string from the starter pulley and discard. Cut 10 feet of new string with a utility knife. Any excess string can be trimmed after the installation.

4. Thread the end of the string into the starter pulley, and tie a knot in the end to secure it in place. Wrap the end of the string with electrical tape to hide the frayed end.

5. Enclose the pulley in the string two times and thread the end through the hole in the starter housing.

6. Reattach the starter housing to the mower and tighten the screws. Replace the gas tank if it was removed.

7. Pull the string up the length of the handle and secure it in the bracket mounted there. Thread the end of the string through the hole in the T-handle, sliding the handle to a comfortable height. Squeeze the staple of the handle around the string with pliers to secure it in place. Cut the excess string off with a utility knife. Wrap electrical tape around any frayed ends.

8. Replace the spark plug wire onto the spark plug, and pull the string to engage the mower.

References

• Cockeyed: How to Replace the Starter Cord on a Lawnmower
• This Old House: Lawn Mower Pull Rope