My Lawn Mower Will Not Rewind

Removing the Starter

• The starter assembly sits on the top or side of most lawn mower engines. This allows the operator to get the greatest power behind the flywheel. To remove the starter from the engine, unscrew the rope guide, which is on the handle or near the top of the starter on most mowers. Unscrew the bolts holding the starter assembly to the engine. Use the tip of the screwdriver to wedge loose the cover lightly, if it gets stuck. Take the cover off and turn it over to access the starter assembly.

Disassembling the Starter

• As the spring is still likely under tension, always take care when removing and installing the starter. Pull the starter rope, if possible, out at least 10 inches. Form a loop in that section and gently wigging the loop and pulley back and forth lightly until the recoil spring unhooks from the pulley. Let out the tension on the recoil spring. Cut away the rope if you would also like to replace it during disassembly. Unscrew the pulley from the starter cover and pry the recoil spring out of the back of the pulley.

Cleaning and Repairs

• Inspect the recoil spring and pulley for any signs of damage. Bent, broken or loose ends on the recoil spring causes the rope and pulley not to retract. Cracks, chips and other damage to the pulley may make recoil difficult, as the pulley can't spin smoothly inside the starter cover. Check for damage to the starter post and that the washer still fits in place. Replace any broken or damaged parts, as they can't be fixed.

Putting it Back

• To put the recoil starter assembly back together, assemble the parts in reverse sequence. Connect the recoil spring to the center of the pulley and fit them onto the starter post. Fit the washer and screw them in place. Reconnect the starter rope to the pulley and handle. Twist another loop in 10 inches of rope and wiggle the pulley back and forth to engage the recoil spring. Wind the loop and pulley until the recoil spring has sufficient tension. Let go of the rope and let it wrap back around the pulley. Fit the starter cover back in place to the mower.