How to Start a Lawn Mower When the Hand Pull Is Stuck

A lawn mower is an essential appliance for any homeowner with a yard. If the pull rope on the lawn mower is stuck or your lawn mower pull cord is stuck out, you may need to learn how to fix lawn mower pull cord springs. Before working on any lawn mower repairs, you should disconnect the spark plug to prevent the machine from accidentally powering on. Empty the gas and oil tanks to avoid spills and wear gloves if you'll be working near the blades.

First, you'll need to determine whether the mower pull cord is stuck outside or inside the mower. Make sure that you don't try to fix the problem with more force, as you could damage the mower engine and cause further issues if you keep trying to pull a stuck cord.

Spray lubricant is the best thing to use if you have a problem with the pull cord not engaging flywheels. If the lawn mower pull string stuck in the mower, spray a minimal amount of WD-40 or another spray lubricant on the exposed part of the cord. Try to work some into the compartment. Keep pulling gently, applying lubricant as you go until you can work the cord like usual.

The mower's alignment might be the issue with the pull cord. Loosen the bolts that hold the mower blower in place if it is. With the bolts loosened but not off, strike the housing with your palm. That should knock the alignment back and cause the rope to retract immediately.

If your mower's pull cord isn't working, there's a good chance that something is wrong with the pull cord spring. You can replace this small part. Begin by removing the recoil housing cap with a screwdriver. Refer to your owner's manual if you don't know where the parts are located.

Untie the pull cord using needle-nose pliers, which you should wrap around the pulley. Locate the spring and remove it and then replace it with the new one in the same place. Be sure to order your replacement part from the manufacturer or a retailer who directly sources from the manufacturer. You will likely need to recoil the spring by turning it several times until it is tight.

Re-thread the pull cord around the pulley and replace the recoil housing cap. Finally, you'll want to tighten the screws and reconnect the spark plug so you can test that the engine starts properly.

There are several options that you can try to keep your pull cord working well. If the lawn mower start string being stuck is an ongoing problem, you should spray a small amount of WD-40 as needed, whether that's every time you use it or a few times each year.

The debris can also cause issues with the pull cord. You should clean your mower after each use and keep the blades sharp to make the lawn mower easier to pull-start. Finally, you should replace the dull blades before using the appliance.

As always, you will want to be sure to maintain your mower by changing the oil annually and replacing the spark plug. You should clean the air filters regularly and change them every one or two years. If you won't be using the mower for 30 days or more, you should empty the fuel and oil tanks.