How to Remove a Recoiler From a John Deere JS63

Unlike riding mowers designed by John Deere that use an electrical starter and key ignition system, the company's push lawn mowers use a recoil starter to start the mower. A recoiler, or recoil starter, consists of a spring, starter assembly and a pull rope. Over time the starter rope can become frayed, or twigs, leaves or other debris can get caught up in the recoil starter assembly. Whatever the case may be, it's possible that you may have to remove the recoil starter.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers
• Wrench

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Remove the mower's spark plug wire from the plug.

   • 2

     Unscrew the eye-bolt on the upper right-hand side of the mower handle the starter rope runs through. Push the end of the starter rope through the rubber handle. Untie the knot and pull the rope out.

   • 3

     Use a screwdriver to remove the plastic engine cover on the mower.

   • 4

     Use a nut driver to remove the four nuts holding the starter cover in place.

   • 5

     Use a screwdriver to pop the recoil starter spring out.

   • 6

     Unwind and remove the old rope and then slide the starter assembly out.