Things You'll Need
Screwdriver
Utility Knife
Braided Nylon Cord
Lighter
The starter cord on a gas blower is a key piece of the ignition system that starts the small engine that powers the blower. The cord can become worn or frayed with repeated use over time, and eventually snap, leaving it impossible to start the blower. The starter cord can be fixed by a professional, but this takes time and money that could be better spent on other projects. A starter rope can be replaced at home with only a few simple tools and basic mechanical knowledge.
Step 1
Use the screwdriver to remove the screws around the starter assembly housing. Separate the housing from the rest of the blower. The old starter rope will be wrapped around and knotted to the starter pulley.
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Step 2
Use the utility knife to cut the old cord from the pulley. Remove both ends of the old cord from the starter assembly. Use the old cord to measure the length for the new cord, and cut it to size.
Step 3
Use the lighter to briefly heat the cut end of the new cord to seal it and prevent it from fraying. String the end of the cord through the starter pulley and tie an overhand knot to keep it in place. Wrap the cord around the pulley twice in the same direction the old cord was wrapped.
Step 4
Remove the handle form the old cord by using the screwdriver to pry the top off of the handle. Thread the free end of the new cord out through the starter enclosure before putting the enclosure back on the blower. Refasten the screws that hold the enclosure in place.
Step 5
Slide the end of the cord through the handle until the handle sits against the enclosure. Tie a knot in the cord to keep the handle in place, and then snap the top of the handle back on.
Tip
If the old cord had already come off of the starter pulley, test the pulley by turning it slightly clockwise and counterclockwise. One of these directions will cause the pulley to recoil. This is the direction that the new cord should be wrapped.
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