How to Fix a Loose String on a Lawn Mower

Push-style lawn mowers typically have a pull cord used to start the engine. If someone pulls the cord too hard, it can become loose and may stop working. You can fix the defective cord relatively easily by rewinding it or replacing it. Replacement lawnmower cords are available at hardware and garden supply stores.

Screwdriver
9-foot replacement cord
Needle nose pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Pull or twist off the T-shaped handle at the end of the pull cord.
- 2
  Loosen the screws securing the starter pulley housing. Remove the housing to expose the pulley and the defective cord.
- 3
  Straighten out the old cord and inspect it to verify that it is tied to the starter pulley. If it isn’t secured, tie it to the pulley with a knot. If the cord is in poor condition, replace it with a 9-foot replacement cord.
- 4
  Wind the cord three times around the starter pulley. Using pliers, thread the end of the cord through the hole in the pulley housing.
- 5
  Replace the pulley housing and reattach it with the screws you removed earlier.
- 6
  Pull the cord a few times to test its tension. If it still feels slack, remove the housing again and wind the cord around the starter pulley another time.
- 7
  Replace the T-shaped handle. The lawn mower is now ready to use.

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