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Quick Answers
The cost to fix a lawn mower pull cord can range from $5 to $50 or more depending on the specific repair needed. Some quick answers include:
– Replacing a broken or frayed pull cord: $5-$20 for parts and about 15-30 minutes of labor.
– Replacing a broken recoil spring: $10-$15 for parts and 30-60 minutes of labor.
– Replacing a broken pulley/rewind mechanism: $15-$40 for parts and 1-2 hours of labor.
– Replacing a damaged starter housing: $30-$50 for parts and 1-2 hours of labor.
What is a Lawn Mower Pull Cord?
The pull cord on a lawn mower is connected to the starter mechanism which engages the engine to start it up. When you tug on the cord, it spins the pulleys and recoil spring which crank the engine to life. The pull cord is typically made of braided nylon rope. Over time, the constant pulling and releasing can cause the cord to fray, snap or become disconnected from the pulley. A damaged pull cord prevents the mower from starting properly.
Common Pull Cord Repairs and Costs
Replacing a Frayed or Broken Pull Cord
If the pull cord itself is frayed or broken, replacing it is a quick and easy fix. The replacement cord usually costs $5-$20 depending on the mower model and length needed. Installing a new pull cord takes around 15-30 minutes for most basic mower designs. Here are the steps:
1. Remove the starter cover to access the pulley and recoil spring.
2. Detach the broken pull cord from the pulley, making note of how it threads through the pulley mechanism.
3. Feed the new pull cord through the pulley following the same path as the old one.
4. Tie a secure double knot at the end attaching it to the pulley.
5. Wind the new cord around the pulley and reassemble the starter housing.
Total cost: Parts + 15-30 minutes labor = $10-$40
Replacing a Broken Recoil Spring
The recoil spring is responsible for retracting the pull cord after it’s tugged to start the mower. Springs can wear out and snap over time. Replacing a broken recoil spring costs around $10-$15 for the part and 30-60 minutes of repair work. The steps usually include:
1. Remove the starter assembly to access the recoil spring.
2. Unhook the old spring from the pulley and discard it.
3. Install the new spring, attaching it to the pulley and starter housing.
4. Wind the new spring 2-3 times to pre-tension it.
5. Reinstall the starter assembly and test the pull cord.
Total cost: Parts + 30-60 minutes labor = $20-$30
Fixing a Stuck or Broken Rewind Pulley
The rewind pulley is what the pull cord wraps around to engage the engine starter. If the pulley is stuck, binding or broken altogether, the pull cord will not retract properly. Replacing a damaged rewind pulley costs $15-$40 for parts and 1-2 hours of labor. The repair involves:
1. Taking apart the starter assembly and removing the stuck pulley.
2. Installing the new rewind pulley and making sure it spins freely.
3. Rerouting the pull cord through the new pulley mechanism.
4. Reassembling the starter housing and testing operation.
Total cost: Parts + 1-2 hours labor = $30-$80
Replacing a Damaged Starter Housing
For older mowers, the entire starter housing assembly may need replacement if it is cracked or faulty. The starter housing can cost $30-$50 for parts and takes 1-2 hours to replace. The repair steps include:
1. Detaching the recoil spring, pulley and pull cord from the old housing.
2. Installing these components into the new starter housing.
3. Attaching the new starter assembly onto the mower engine.
4. Testing to make sure the pull cord retracts properly.
Total cost: Parts + 1-2 hours labor = $60-$100
Factors That Affect Repair Cost
Several factors can increase or decrease the total cost to fix a broken lawn mower pull cord system:
– Mower brand/model – More complex starter designs take longer to repair.
– Accessibility – Easier access reduces labor time.
– Age of mower – Replacing rusted/damaged parts on older mowers costs more.
– DIY vs professional repair – Shops charge $40-$100 per hour for labor.
– Extent of damage – More repairs equate to higher costs.
– Parts availability – Common parts are cheap, hard-to-find parts are expensive.
DIY vs Professional Repair Cost Comparison
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Replace pull cord | $10-$20 | $40-$70 |
| Replace recoil spring | $20-$30 | $60-$90 |
| Replace pulley | $30-$50 | $100-$150 |
| Replace starter housing | $40-$70 | $140-$200 |
As shown, DIY repairs can save 50-75% compared to taking the mower to a small engine repair shop. However, DIY repairs require mechanical skills and the proper tools.
Tips to Prevent Pull Cord Problems
You can minimize pull cord repairs by following these maintenance tips:
– Check the pull cord before each use – Replace frayed sections immediately.
– Keep the pulley mechanism clean and lubricated.
– Be gentle when pulling the cord – Don’t yank aggressively.
– Replace the recoil spring every 2-3 years.
– Store mower properly during the off-season – Prevents corrosion.
Conclusion
Damaged pull start cords are a common lawn mower repair. Costs range from $5 for a basic cord replacement up to $200 if the entire starter needs rebuilding. Factors like DIY vs professional repair, parts pricing, and repair complexity affect the total fix cost. With some mechanical ability, minor pull cord repairs can be done cheaply at home. But for complex rewinds or starter rebuilds, you may need to go to a small engine repair shop for best results. With proper preventive maintenance, you can maximize the lifespan of your mower’s pull cord system.