How to Install a Craftsman Lawnmower Starter

Cut the rope at the handle with a utility knife.

Remove any accessories that block your access to the bolts that hold the starter pulley housing in place. In most cases, the only accessory you must remove is the gas tank and this will only apply to certain models. If you must remove the gas tank, locate the mounting bolts and remove them with a socket. Do not unhook the gas line; simply move the gas tank out of your way so you can access the screws that hold the starter pulley housing in place.

Remove the screws that hold the starter pulley housing in place and then pull the starter pulley housing off and discard it. The spring-loaded coil mounts inside the starter pulley housing.

Thread the new rope through the eyelet hole on the outside of the starter pulley housing and then thread the rope into the pulley on the starter housing. Tie a small knot in the end of the rope to keep it in the pulley.

Wrap the rope around the pulley until you have about 3 inches left unwound. Slide the remaining rope through the pull handle and then tie a knot in the rope to keep the handle trapped on the rope.

Place the starter pulley housing onto the top of the motor and then reinstall the screws.

Reinstall the gas tank and any other accessories that you removed during the initial tear-down process.