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Quick Answer
The cost to replace a pull cord on a lawn mower typically ranges from $10 to $30 for a DIY repair. Hiring a small engine mechanic to replace the pull cord will likely cost $50 to $100 or more, including labor. The exact cost depends on the specific lawn mower make and model, any parts needed beyond the new pull cord, and hourly service rates for repairs in your area.
What is a Lawn Mower Pull Cord?
The pull cord on a lawn mower is the rope and handle you pull to start the engine. It connects to the starter recoil spring and engages the flywheel to spin the engine to life when pulled. Over time, the pull cord can become frayed, break, or detach from the recoil spring assembly due to wear and tear. If the lawn mower won’t start or the pull cord is damaged, replacing it is necessary to get the mower running again.
Pull Cord Replacement Cost
DIY Replacement
Doing a pull cord replacement yourself will cost somewhere between $10 and $30, depending on the specific mower and parts required. The most affordable option is purchasing a universal pull cord kit for $10 to $15. This will include the starter rope and handle ready to install.
For some mowers, you may need to buy individual parts like the recoil spring and rope separately. This may run $15 to $30 total. Consult the owner’s manual to see if the universal kit will work or if OEM parts are required for your model.
In addition to the pull cord parts, you may need new spark plugs, air filters, or other basic tune-up items which would add $5 to $15 or more to the overall cost. Watching DIY pull cord replacement videos can help you decide if this is a repair you can tackle or if hiring a pro is better.
Hiring a Mechanic
The starting rate for a small engine mechanic to replace a lawn mower pull cord is around $50 per hour. The full repair may take one hour or less, so expect to pay $50 to $75 in total labor costs. The mechanic may also add on costs for new parts like the pull cord kit, spark plug, or other items that should be replaced, which could add $10 to $30 or more to the final price.
Many mechanics have minimum service call fees of $50 or more that cover their drive time and diagnostics. This means even a quick 30 minute pull cord replacement might cost $75 to $100 after the minimum fee and parts are added in. Always ask for an estimate before approving repairs.
Factors That Impact Cost
Several factors determine the final price to replace a lawn mower pull cord, including:
– Mower make and model – More complex mowers may require more labor and specialized OEM parts. Simple gas mowers tend to be more DIY-friendly.
– Parts needed – At minimum the pull cord must be replaced. But items like the recoil spring, spark plug, air filter, fuel filter, and carburetor cleaning may be needed for optimal performance. This adds parts and labor costs.
– Mechanic hourly rate – Independent repair shops often charge $50 to $100 per hour. Dealerships may charge up to $125 per hour. Experience and location also impact rates.
– Minimum fees – Expect a minimum diagnostic or service call fee of $50 or more, even for quick repairs. This covers the mechanic’s drive time and troubleshooting.
– Age and condition – With very old mowers, other parts may wear out requiring more complex repairs. Well maintained mowers just need the pull cord.
– DIY skill level – Your ability to follow instructions and troubleshoot issues affects whether DIY is an option to save money.
With DIY repairs, you save on labor but must supply your own tools and skills. Hiring a professional takes more money, but provides experience anddiagnostic skills to get the job done properly.
DIY Pull Cord Replacement Instructions
Here are the basic steps for a DIY pull cord replacement if you want to try it yourself:
Supplies Needed
– Universal pull cord kit or OEM starter rope and handle
– OEM recoil spring if required
– Spark plug wrench
– Socket wrench set
– Needle nose pliers
– Flathead screwdriver
Disconnect Spark Plug Wire
Locate and disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug before you begin. This prevents accidental starting of the engine while working on it.
Remove Recoil Starter
The recoil starter assembly that houses the pull cord must be removed from the mower deck in most cases. Refer to the owner’s manual for bolt locations. You’ll usually find 2-3 bolts holding it in place. Support the starter while removing the last bolt so it doesn’t fall and get damaged.
Unwind Old Pull Cord
Hold the recoil starter assembly firmly and pull the cord all the way out. Tie a slip knot or have someone hold it while it’s extended. This releases tension on the recoil spring inside so it doesn’t fly open when disassembling.
Remove Starter Gear and Pawls
The starter gear and pawls are located on the pulley inside the starter housing. Note their orientation so you can replace correctly. Use pliers and a screwdriver to remove the gear, pawls, any clips, and old cord from the pulley.
Check Components
Inspect the starter housing, pulley, pawls, gear, and recoil spring. Look for excessive wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any faulty parts. Lubricate parts with spray oil if they are sticking.
Install New Pull Cord
Thread your new starter cord through the starter housing and pulley following any routing guides. Secure it with a knot and reinstall the spring, pawls, clips, and starter gear in the proper original locations.
Wind and Reconnect Pull Cord
Carefully allow the recoil spring to retract and wind the new cord onto the pulley. Reinstall the starter assembly using your original hardware. Return the engine to its operating position and reconnect the spark plug wire.
Test Lawn Mower
Start the mower’s engine and test it out. The new pull cord should retract smoothly and start the mower with one or two pulls. If not, double check the pawls, gear, and recoil spring are installed correctly so the engine engages properly.
When to Replace the Pull Cord
Here are signs it’s time to replace the pull cord on your lawn mower:
– Difficult starting – The mower takes several pulls to start or fails to turn over.
– Visible damage – The cord is fraying, disconnected, or has exposed spring coils.
– No recoil – The cord will not retract fully back into the starter.
– Loose handle – The starter handle is wiggly or dislodged when pulled.
– Constant knot issues – The cord often slips off the pulley requiring frequent knot re-tying.
– Loose windings – The cord develops loops around the pulley rather than tight spring-like windings.
Replacing the pull cord periodically as part of regular mower maintenance can prevent starting issues and save money over costly engine repairs if the mower fails to start.
FAQs About Lawn Mower Pull Cord Replacement
Can I replace the pull cord myself?
You can replace a lawn mower pull cord yourself if you have some DIY mechanical skills and proper tools. Watching informational videos to prepare is highly recommended before tackling this repair yourself. Sometimes extensive disassembly is required depending on mower model.
How long does it take to replace a pull cord?
The time required to replace a lawn mower pull cord can vary greatly. As a DIY project expect 1-3 hours for your first time. With practice you may get it down to 30-45 minutes. Professional mechanics often can replace a pull cord in under an hour.
Does the pull cord need to be oiled?
The lawn mower pull cord itself does not require lubrication. However, you should periodically lubricate other recoil starter components like springs, bushings, bearings, and rachet gears. This can extend the life of the starter assembly.
Can I convert an electric mower to manual start?
Gas mowers require a pull cord and recoil starter to run the engine. But electic mowers use an electric starter motor and do not have pull cords. You cannot easily convert an electric mower to manual start since the engine components like a flywheel and carburetor are missing.
Why does my new pull cord keep breaking?
If a brand new replacement pull cord keeps breaking, the cause is likely an underlying issue with the recoil spring or pulley misalignment. The spring may be fatigued and no longer winding properly to retract the cord. Inspect these components and replace any faulty parts.
Key Takeaways on Pull Cord Replacement Cost
– Expect to pay $10-$30 or more for DIY pull cord replacement, depending on lawn mower model and parts needed.
– Hiring a small engine mechanic costs roughly $50-$100 in total for parts and professional installation.
– Factors like mower type, parts required, labor rates, and DIY skill level determine overall repair costs.
– Learn to do this repair yourself to save money and keep your mower running smoothly.
– Replace the pull cord preventively along with other maintenance items for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Replacing a worn or broken pull cord is an essential repair to keep your lawn mower starting and running properly. Doing a DIY replacement can cost as little as $10-$30 in supplies. Hiring a professional for an hour of labor will add $50-$100 or more to the final cost. With some effort, this is a DIY repair most homeowners can successfully tackle themselves after watching some how-to videos and gathering the right replacement parts. Investing in preventive maintenance like a new pull cord periodically will extend the overall life of your mower and prevent bigger issues down the road.