How to fix a lawnmower pull cord that is stuck, step by step

You have finally decided to take your lawnmower out to give your grass a nice, elegant look. Just as you try to pull the starter rope on your handle, it seems badly jammed. You don’t want to damage your cable, so you stop pulling it right away. You can’t resume your mowing unless you fix the pull cord. Luckily, fixing isn’t a lengthy procedure and can be performed in less than an hour. There can be several reasons for a stuck pull cord, and we shall investigate those causes separately in this blog post.

How to fix a lawnmower pull cord that is stuck, step by step:

Step 1: To start, inspect your blade for any stuck strands of grass or debris. Remove them as they cause the pull cord to get stuck.
Step 2: Open the blower housing and inspect the recoil starter. If it appears damaged, you need to replace it.
Step 3: Check if the engine is hydro-locked, remove the spark plug and pull the rope repeatedly to restart the engine.
Step 4: Inspect if there’s some structural failure in the engine, such as a bent crankshaft.

The pull cord on a lawnmower is connected to a hub that spins the crankshaft of your mower’s engine, thus causing the blades to turn. At the same time, the engine draws an air-fuel mixture from the carburetor. The firing of the spark plug initiates the ignition. Hence, your engine starts over. If there are obstructions within the mower blades or the engine’s starter hub, you won’t pull the starter cord.

If you are looking for an elaborated description of the fixes mentioned above, you should stay tuned to this blog post as we shall provide you with insight regarding the pull cord-related problems.

Contents

1 Causes and fixes of a stuck pull cord on a lawnmower:
2 Related Questions:
3 Final Remarks:
4 Steps to Fix a Lawnmower Pull Cord That’s Stuck
5 Maintaining Your Lawn Mower: Step-By-Step Guide

Causes and fixes of a stuck pull cord on a lawnmower:

A stuck pull cord on a lawnmower may be an outcome of various issues. We shall address them one by one as mentioned below:

Equipment needed:

For performing these fixes, you don’t need sophisticated equipment. Just make sure you have a screwdriver, wrench set, a rag, and a pair of safety gloves at your disposal.

● Step 1. Inspect for blade obstruction:

You may often witness a situation when the blade gets stuck with debris or any branch. This condition prevents It from spinning due to obstruction between the blade and the mower deck. As said before, the pull cord is responsible for spinning the mower blades that eventually start the engine. Hence, blades not able to spin mean that the cord cannot be pulled.

– Fix: Tilt the mower to dislodge the obstruction:

To free the blades from any debris caught, you should tilt it over first. However, you should do that with your air filter pointing upwards. It is better to remove the spark plug cable so that the engine doesn’t start over. Now check if debris, grass, or a branch getting stuck between the debris curtain and the blade prevents the blades from spinning. If it does, you should remove it. Putting the spark plug back on and tilting the mower back shall now fix your problem with the pull cord.

● Step 2. Check and fix the recoil starter:

If there isn’t any debris preventing the blades from spinning, then the chances are that your recoil starter might be damaged. For such walk-behind lawnmowers, the recoil starter is easy to find and replace.

– Fix: Remove the mower housing to view the starter:

The recoil starter is situated under the blower housing. Before doing anything, ensure that the spark plug wire is removed. Also, release the starter cable or the pull cord from the mower handle. Now, remove the screws securing the blower housing.

Check the recoil starter for any damage. Check whether it can spin by pulling the starter cable right near to it. Also, see if it is free from any debris or obstruction that may prevent it from spinning. If the cable appears tangled, you should rewind it.

Replacing the recoil starter:

Replacing a recoil starter is seldom difficult. To perform the replacement, remove the recoil starter guard. Next, use a screwdriver to remove the tabs connecting it to the blower housing.

Remove the old starter and add the identical one to its place in the tabs. Reinstall the guard and attach the blower housing back onto the mower.

Note: Please make sure that you go through your owner’s manual to search and purchase the recoil starter precisely in accordance with your device’s model number.

● Step 3. Check for hydro-locking:

Hydro-locking of the engine is a condition when oil escapes from the crankcase into the cylinder casing. The high viscous fluid jams the cylinder, thus preventing it from sliding and thus rotating the crankshaft. Hydro-locking generally occurs when you have tilted the mower upside down with the air filter pointing downwards. If you’ve heard about this for the first time, then don’t worry as the remedy to this problem isn’t much difficult.

But first, you need to diagnose whether the problem actually is hydro-locking or not. To check for this, remove the spark plug and the spark plug wire. Clamp the control bar at the mower handle to release the blade brake. With the blower housing removed, manually rotate the starter cup to see if the engine turns. If it turns, reinstall the blower housing.

– Fix: Remove the spark plug and pull the rope:

To fix this, make sure that the spark plug is removed along with its wire. Place a dry cloth near the spark plug hole since we will spray the oil out of the engine. Try to start your engine by pulling the rope several times. You shall notice oil being thrown out of the spark plug hole.

When the oil has stopped spraying out, reattach the spark plug and connect the wire back to the plug. Pull the rope again to see if the engine starts. When the engine starts, it might run erratically and throw out some white smoke. That is due to it being burning oil remnants along with the fuel. It shall start running smoothly once the oil has been completely burnt away.

Note: To prevent the hydro-locking of your engine in the future, we recommend that you consult the owner’s manual regarding the tilt instructions. Generally, for most walk-behind mowers, tilting the deck with the air filter pointing up is the way to go.

● Step 4. Engine seizure:

While diagnosing for hydro-locking, if the engine’s starter cup doesn’t turn at all, it indicates your engine’s serious problem. This condition means that the engine has either encountered a bent crankshaft or a stuck piston.

– Fix: Spraying lubricant in the plug’s hole:

Although engine-related faults can seldom be repaired, some ways of fixing a stuck cylinder involve spraying a lubricant in the spark plug hole and turning the blades with the spark plug fixed back on. Don’t forget to wear gloves while dealing with the blades. If the engine seizure can’t be fixed, then you don’t have any choice other than to buy a new lawnmower.

Final Remarks:

When the pull cord from your lawnmower is stuck, it means you can not start. There can be several reasons why this happens. This blog post helps you check the various causes and help you fix them. If you look at the multiple reasons, you will notice that proper maintenance is not always the cause, but it will prevent many problems. It will ensure a long and relatively trouble-free usage for many years to come.

• Dealing with a Stuck Pull Cord: Potential Causes

– Knotted or Tangled Pull Cord

One typically overlooked reason for a stuck pull cord on your lawnmower could be a knotted or tangled cord. Over time, the motion of pulling the cord can cause knots or tangles to form.

To troubleshoot, carefully uncoil the pull cord, straightening it out to identify any knots or twists. Detangle them gently to avoid causing further damage.

– Worn or Damaged Pull Cord

Another potential cause for an uncooperative pull cord could be wear and tear. Just like any other component, the pull cord is susceptible to degradation over time.

It may fray, snap, or become too stretched to function properly. If you see visible signs of wear, like fraying or thinning, I recommend replacing the pull cord.

• Key Steps for Lawnmower Maintenance

– Inspecting and Cleaning the Carburetor

If your pull cord doesn’t seem to be the problem, turn your attention to the carburetor. A dirty or clogged carburetor could prevent your lawnmower from starting.

Examine this crucial element for any buildup of debris and clean it out meticulously. For a proper demonstration of how to tackle this particular task, visit this educational resource.

– Checking and Replacing Fuel

Fuel can also affect your lawnmower’s operation. Old fuel or an inadequate fuel level can lead to problems with starting your equipment.

If your fuel has been sitting for a while, you might want to consider replacing it. Choose a high-quality fuel that suits your lawnmower model to ensure optimal performance.

– Ignition System and Spark Plug Assessment

The ignition system and spark plugs play a critical role in starting your lawnmower. If they are not in good shape, your pull cord may feel like it’s stuck or is hard to pull.

Regular checks on the ignition system and spark plugs can keep these issues at bay. Find potential faults early and rectify them to avoid further complications.

• Regular Lawnmower Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your lawnmower pays dividends in the form of long-term reliability.

– Cleaning and Lubricating Moving Parts

Dirt and debris can clog your lawnmowers parts, restricting movement and causing wear. By regularly cleaning your machine, you can prevent these issues. Don’t forget to lubricate moving parts afterward to reduce friction and enable smooth operation.

Following these steps will not only facilitate a smooth starting of your lawnmower but also its overall functionality. Proper care and occasional troubleshooting will extend your lawnmower’s lifespan while ensuring its optimum performance.

Steps to Fix a Lawnmower Pull Cord That’s Stuck

• Step 1: Inspect for Blade Obstruction

The first step in attending to a stuck pull cord problem is always inspecting the blade for any obstruction. During operation, lawnmower blades may collide with branches, rocks, or debris. Such obstructions can prevent the blade from spinning freely.

Remember, the pull cord’s fundamental function is to spin the mower blades, which in turn sparks up the machine’s engine. Therefore, any impediment to the blade’s smooth rotation directly affects the cord’s operability.

You might need to get your hands dirty, removing anything jammed between the blade and the mower deck to restore normal functionality.

• Step 2: Check and Fix the Recoil Starter

Suppose you have examined the blade and found nothing obstructing its rotation. In that case, the problem may likely be within the recoil starter – another essential component of the lawnmower that ensures it starts up without a glitch.

Predominantly with walk-behind types of lawnmowers, the recoil starter is conveniently located and, in most cases, easy to replace. By checking and repairing or replacing this critical part, you can resolve the stuck pull cord problem.

• Step 3: Check for Hydro-locking

Hydro-locking is a common engine issue where the oil unintentionally migrates from the crankcase into the cylinder casing. This displacement of the high-viscosity liquid barricades the cylinder, preventing it from sliding and consequently rotating the crankshaft.

The problem tends to occur when the lawnmower is unintentionally flipped upside down, with the air filter side pointing downwards. There’s no need to worry about hydro-locking since the solution isn’t complicated. Drain the oil properly to fix this issue.

• Step 4: Engine Seizure

Examining hydro-locking, you might discover that the engine’s starter cup doesn’t turn. This could denote a significant engine problem – engine seizure. Engine seizure conditions can happen due to a bent crankshaft or a stuck piston. Resolving this issue can require professional attention.

Consulting a professional manual such as the Small Engine Repair Manual from Michigan State University Libraries can provide useful insights regarding engine seizure.

• Maintenance Tips: Avoid Pull Cord Problems

Ensuring regular maintenance of your lawnmower can prevent a myriad of troubles with the pull cord. Such maintenance can include cleaning the mower blades regularly to avoid debris buildup, checking the recoil starter for any wear and tear, and appropriately storing your lawnmower to prevent accidental hydro-locking.

Additionally, if your lawnmower engine encounters a seizure, it’s advisable to engage a professional repair service. It’s essential to perform regular check-ups of the engine’s parts, especially the crankshaft and the piston, to avoid this problem.

Fixing a lawnmower’s stuck pull cord doesn’t have to be a problematic task. By following the provided steps, anyone can swiftly fix a stuck pull cord or even prevent the occurrence of this problem.

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower: Step-By-Step Guide

• Clearing Debris: Tilt and Clean

The first step to maintaining your lawn mower is to dislodge any trapped debris between the blade and the mower deck. Ensure to tilt the mower with the air filter pointing upwards. This precise tilting avoids any oil leakage from the engine to the air filter, which can clog it up.

In my experience, this step is crucial for consistent mower performance. Also, using a stiff brush or a blower can make this process a lot easier and effective.

Here, you can find additional mower maintenance tips from Oregon State University’s Extension Service.

• Recoil Starter: Check and Rectify

The second step is to examine the recoil starter. The recoil starter initially spins the engine, and any damage or tangles in the cable can lead to starting issues.

In case of tangled cables, unhook the end of the spring from the recoil assembly and relax it before removing the spring center coil. Once rectified, ensure it rewinds neatly without any overlaps.

• Dealing with Hydro-Lock: Release Excess Oil

When the engine of your lawnmower is hydro-locked, it simply means that there is an excess amount of liquid (usually fuel or oil) inside the combustion chamber. To release this, remove the spark plug and pull the recoil starter rope repeatedly.

You can prevent hydro-locking in the future by carefully following the tilt instructions in the owner’s manual, which generally suggests tilting such that the air filter points upwards.

Keep in mind this is not a regular occurrence but is oftentimes seen in mowers that have been tipped for cleaning without proper precautions.

• Starter Cup Inspection: Discover Major Faults

The rotation of the starter cup in the engine is crucial for its operation. If the starter cup does not turn, it might indicate major faults such as a bent crankshaft or a stuck piston.

In case of a bent crankshaft, it is advisable to bring the mower to a qualified service station. However, if it is a stuck piston, read on to find a possible solution.

• Fixing a Stuck Piston: Lubrication is Key

A stuck piston often leads to engine seizure. To fix such a scenario, try spraying a lubricant in the spark plug’s hole. After removing it, proceed to turn the mower blades slowly.

A great tip here would be to warm up the engine a bit before attempting this process, as it helps make the lubricant penetrate easily. Once done, reattach the spark plug and try restarting the mower.

• Safety Measures: Gloves and Awareness

As a seasoned lawn care specialist, I cannot stress enough the importance of safety when dealing with mowers. Remember always to wear safety gloves while dealing with the blades to prevent any accidental harm.

Additionally, engine-related faults that occur frequently or persistently can be an indication of a more serious issue requiring the purchase of a new lawnmower.

In such cases, consider investing in a more reliable model or brand, as it might save both time and money in the long run.

Preserving your lawnmower’s functionality not only enhances its lifespan but also warrants a neatly kept lawn. By adhering to these tried and tested steps, I assure you that you are well on your way to becoming a Lawn Mower maintenance expert!

• Blade Obstruction Concerns In Lawn Mowers

Blade obstruction is a common problem that can lead to the pull cord getting stuck. However, it’s essential to underline that a stick or rope getting caught under the deck can also present the same issue.

From personal experience, I recommend always clearing your yard before mowing to avoid such obstructions.

If you do experience blade obstruction, the University of New Hampshire Extension provides a useful guide on safely unsticking mower blades. Here is their guide.

• Seized Engine Risks In Lawn Mowers

While a seized engine in a lawn mower is indeed a serious issue, the role of oil in this risk is often not highlighted enough. A low level or complete lack of oil in the lawn mower’s crankcase could pose a significant risk. This situation can damage the engine or lead to it seizing up.

I recommend conducting regular checks of your mower’s oil levels to prevent engine seizing. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends changing this oil at least once every season. Here is their advice.

• Understanding Hydrolock in Lawn Mowers

Hydrolock is a potential problem for lawn mowers. By definition, hydrolock occurs when liquid gas or oil finds its way into the combustion cylinder, restricting the piston from compressing.

From my experience, I recommend keeping an eye on oil and fuel levels in the machine. Overfilling could potentially cause this problem. The Briggs & Stratton website offers a guide on avoiding common engine problems like hydrolock. Here is their guide.

• Malfunctioning Brake, Cable, or Lever Issues

A malfunctioning brake, cable, or lever is an indication that there could be some issues with your lawn mower’s functionality. However, the common scenario that excessive slack in the cable may be the cause of the problem is not widely understood. This scenario could signal the need for a cable replacement.

Taking preemptive action, such as regular inspection of these components, is what I personally recommend. Michigan State University Extension provides comprehensive instructions on mower maintenance. Here is their advice.

• Pull Cord Assembly Problems

Another common issue with lawn mowers is a malfunctioning pull cord assembly. However, the solution might be more straightforward than most owners realize. Repairing or replacing the troublesome assembly could resolve the issue.

In the interest of preventing this issue in the future, I recommend regular servicing of your lawn mower, focusing on the pull cord assembly. Find useful tips for such maintenance on the University of Florida IFAS Extension website. Here is their guide.

• Debris Inspection: Mower Deck’s Underside

The first step in maintaining a functioning mower involves a careful inspection of the machinery’s underside. Here, the goal is to identify any grass or debris buildup that may have accumulated due to regular usage.

These buildups can obstruct the smooth movement of the blade and interfere with the machine’s cutting efficiency. I recommend conducting this inspection regularly to ensure the device’s longevity and performance.

For further assistance, you may refer to comprehensive mower maintenance guidelines available on agriculturalequipment.edu.

• Removal of Obstructions

Next, after inspecting the underside, shift your focus to the removal of any debris you have found. Be it rocks, twigs, or anything else that seems to restrict blade movement.

Ensure your safety at all times while performing this step. Since handling heavy objects can cause injury, consider using tools to aid in the removal.

• Crankcase Oil Level Monitoring

The third step involves checking the oil level in the mower’s crankcase. Like any other machinery, mowers also require optimal oil levels for efficient operation.

While it’s vital to ensure that the machine is not running out of oil, it is also equally important not to overfill the crankcase. Adding oil only when necessary is the rule of thumb to follow in this regard.

• Manual Blade Movement

Sometimes, stuck pistons can hamper the mower’s functioning. An effective solution to this is manually turning the blades. For this task, it’s smart to use leather work gloves.

They not only provide the required grip but also ensure safety against any unexpected blade movement. However, professional assistance may be required if you still struggle with a stuck piston.

• Recoil Starter: Removal and Assembly

Next, the focus turns towards the mower’s engine housing. The recoil starter needs to be carefully removed. Throughout the process, being cautious about the recoil springs’ tension is crucial. A sudden release can cause injury, so it’s essential to maintain a controlled release.

• Spring Replacement

Often, a faulty recoil spring might be the cause of your mower-plagued performance. It may not be an issue all the time, but it’s wise to inspect and replace it if necessary.

Ensure to follow a systematic process to reassemble the starter after replacing the spring. Each part should return to its original position to guarantee the mower’s correct functioning.

Remember, lawnmowers are potent machines that require periodic inspection and maintenance. Keeping them in prime operating condition not only aids performance but significantly increases their lifespan.

By following these maintenance steps and implementing the technical knowledge shared in this article, you will achieve optimum mower efficiency.

On a final note, do refer to the National Agriculture Library for a wealth of information on the care and maintenance of gardening and agricultural equipment. No matter what your level of expertise, they offer resources that can prove beneficial.