What size is a lawn mower pull cord?

The size of a lawn mower pull cord can vary depending on the specific model and make of the lawn mower. However, most standard walk-behind push lawn mowers have a pull cord that is between 36 and 45 inches long.

What is the purpose of a lawn mower pull cord?

The pull cord on a lawn mower, also known as a starter rope, is used to start the engine. Here’s how it works:

• The pull cord is attached to the starter pulley underneath the mower.
• When you grab the cord’s handle and pull, it turns the pulley.
• This spinning motion rotates a flywheel attached to the pulley.
• The flywheel then engages the starter gear against the engine’s flywheel ring gear.
• This contact creates the torque needed to crank the engine to life.

So in summary, you pull the cord to start the mechanical process that gets the mower’s engine running.

What are the standard lawn mower pull cord lengths?

As mentioned earlier, a typical walk-behind lawn mower has a pull cord length between 36 and 45 inches. Here are some more details on standard sizes:

• 36 inches – This is on the shorter end but common for basic push mowers with smaller engines.
• 40 inches – This is an average size that works well for most mowers.
• 45 inches – This is at the long end but provides extra leverage for starting larger mower engines.

Lawn tractor mowers sometimes have longer cords up to 50 inches since they have larger engines that require more torque. But for regular push mowers, 36-45 inches is the norm.

What affects the ideal lawn mower pull cord length?

The best pull cord size depends on several factors:

• Engine size – Larger engine displacements need more leverage for starting, so longer cords are preferable.
• User height – Shorter users may opt for longer cords to eliminate bending or straining.
• Cord thickness – Thicker rope diameters are heavier and require more force, which may mean using a longer cord.
• Number of pulls – More pulls during starting requires more endurance, so a longer cord could help.

In general, the largest engine a cord will service determines the ideal maximum length. But within a standard range like 36-45 inches, user height, cord thickness, and starting difficulty can all influence the choice.

How to measure and replace lawn mower pull cords

If you need to replace an old lawn mower pull cord, it’s pretty straightforward:

1. First remove the old cord by detaching it from the rope guide on the handle.
2. Measure the overall length of the old cord.
3. Cut a new section of starter rope to the same length.
4. Feed the new rope through the rope guide and tie a knot at the end.
5. Attach the other end to the pulley mechanism.

Some key tips:

• Use a heavy starter rope specifically made for mowers.
• Wear gloves to avoid rope burns.
• Tie a tight knot so the rope doesn’t detach.
• Make sure the new rope moves smoothly in the rope guide.

Replacing a lawn mower pull cord is usually simple DIY maintenance. Just match the new rope to the original size for optimal starting capability.

Factors that determine lawn mower pull cord replacement time

How often you need to replace a mower’s pull cord depends on several factors:

• Usage frequency – The more often the mower is used, the faster the cord will wear out.
• Exposure to elements – Sunlight, heat, and moisture can degrade the cord over time.
• User pulling force – Too much excessive force when pulling can strain the rope.
• Rope path obstructions – Hitting debris can fray the cord ends.
• Animal damage – Pets may chew on exposed starter rope ends.

Under normal usage, expect to replace a mower pull cord every 2-3 years. But with heavy use or damage, it may need yearly replacement. If the rope feels frayed or weakened, replace it before it snaps.

Options for lawn mower pull cord sizes

When shopping for replacement lawn mower pull cords, you’ll find options in different sizes:

Pull Cord Size	Length Range
Light duty	24-28 inches
Medium duty	36-40 inches
Heavy duty	40-50 inches

Light duty cords are for smaller mowers like electric or push reel models. Medium duty cords are ideal for average sized gas push mowers. Heavy duty cords are for larger mower engines.

Make sure to match your replacement rope size to the original factory cord length. Measure the old cord before buying a new one.

Best practices for using lawn mower pull cords

Follow these tips when using and maintaining mower pull start cords:

• Check the cord periodically for wear or fraying.
• Apply lubricant to the rope guide to prevent friction damage.
• Pull the cord gently until you feel resistance, then pull firmly.
• Let the cord retract slowly back into the guide after starting.
• Replace excessively frayed or damaged pull cords.

Proper pull cord care will keep your mower starting smoothly for years. Replace worn cords promptly to ensure reliable starting.

Conclusion

For standard walk-behind push lawn mowers, the pull start cord is typically 36 to 45 inches long. This provides the right amount of leverage to turn over the engine when starting. Actual ideal length depends on mower engine size, user height, rope thickness, and other factors. Replace fraying cords promptly and use proper pull cord maintenance techniques. With a little care, your mower pull cord should deliver reliable starting season after season.