How to Fix a Husqvarna String Trimmer Rope Starter

Just like any lawn tool, the Husqvarna weed eater string trimmer is bound to break down from time to time. Whether the problem is a broken weed eater head, a blocked engine or issues with the pull cord, rest assured there are ways to troubleshoot your small engine product. If your Husqvarna weed eater pull cord won't pull, it can be especially frustrating, but solving the problem may be easier than you think.

These string trimmers are built with manual recoil starters (ropes) that start the combustion process. Sometimes, the rope rips or gets dislodged from its pulley or the recoil spring breaks. Do not pull on the cord too hard because doing so could damage the weed whacker. Usually, when pull cords are stuck, it is because the engine locked up, or the recoil assembly is jammed.

If your Husqvarna 128ld pull cord is stuck, you can try removing the recoil assembly from its housing with a screwdriver or a power tool. Place the screws where they will not get lost. Pull on the cord to see if it works. If it does, the problem is likely with the engine or with a part. You can see if the carburetor is leaking or if the spark plugs need to be replaced.

The engine could also be jammed with gunk or debris. Flush it with carburetor cleaner or WD-40 and then try to loosen the stuck parts with a wrench. You can then check the other components, like the muffler, to see if they are clogged or worn. Once all these steps have been completed, put the weed whacker back together again and try starting it. If it is still stuck, it is probably best to take it to a professional for repairs.

Husqvarna sells weed eaters for homeowners and heavier-duty models for commercial landscapers. The medium-duty sort are gas-powered or battery-powered. If the pull cord on a gas-powered weed whacker is stuck, it could be due to a dirty carburetor, a malfunctioning spark plug or recoil starter or a blocked air filter. It could also be the result of fuel problems, like a flooded engine.

On other weed whacker models, the recoil pulley needs to be held steady with a screwdriver. Then, the cord has to be fed through the holes that are located in the pulley hub and housing. After that, you can attach the handle, tie knots in the two ends and let the pulley unwind. To replace the pull cord, get a replacement from the manufacturer and remove the housing on the weed whacker. You can also use some similar rope if you have any handy in the same size.

Cut off about 5 feet and set it aside. Remove any remaining rope from the spool by pulling it out through the hole. Using a lighter, burn one end of the new piece of rope, as this will make threading it easier. Thread it through and tie a knot on the end in the spool. Secure it tautly, feed it in through the eye, trim to the right size and then feed it through the handle. Tie another knot and you should be able to use the cord again. These are fairly simple fixes, but if none of them work, it is best to take the tool to a dealer.