How to Repair a Recoil Pull Cord

Remove the spark plug wire from the mower or lawn tool you are working on; use pliers.

Remove the housing cover with a screwdriver or a socket set. The housing cover is typically a plastic cover that shields the recoil starter mechanism. The type of tool and fasteners used to hold the cover in place will dictate what type of tool you'll use. On most lawn mowers, small bolts hold the cover in place. You can remove with a socket set. Screws hold the cover on blowers and trimmers. You can remove the cover by removing the screws with a screwdriver.

Lift the starter pulley from the mower or other lawn tool. Carefully pry the recoil spring out with pliers. The spring is under tension, so be careful when removing it.

Push the old rope out through the top of the rubber handle and cut it off. Unwind the rest of the old rope from the pulley.

Place the new rope into the pulley and notch it into place on the small notch at the base of the pulley. Wind the rope around the starter pulley.

Set the spring back into place, then slip the pulley back into the housing. Wind the spring into place and use the pliers to lock the free end of the spring into the small spring hole.

Set the starter assembly back into place on the mower or other lawn tool, then slip the free end of the new starter rope through the rubber handle. Tie a knot in that end of the rope and pull it flush against the inside of the rubber handle.

Replace the starter cover and the spark plug wire.