10 Common Reasons Why Your Lawn Mower Cord Won’t Pull

As a gardener, there is nothing more frustrating than getting ready to mow the lawn, only to find that the lawn mower cord won’t pull. This can be a common issue with lawn mowers, and can have a variety of causes.

It can be tempting to immediately call a professional for repairs, but there are a few things you can check first to see if you can fix the issue yourself.

In this article, we will go through a step-by-step guide on why your lawn mower cord may not be pulling and what you can do to fix it. We will cover basic issues such as the fuel level and air filter, as well as more complex issues such as the carburetor, recoil starter assembly, and flywheel brake.

By following these steps, you can hopefully get your lawn mower up and running again and get back to maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. So, let’s dive in and see what may be causing your lawn mower cord to not pull.

Step 1: Check the Spark Plug

If you can’t pull the cord on your lawn mower, the first thing you should check is the spark plug. A dirty or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult or impossible to pull the cord. To check the spark plug, remove the spark plug wire and use a spark plug socket to remove the plug. Inspect the plug for signs of damage or wear, and clean or replace it as needed.

Step 2: Check the Blade

Another possible cause of a lawn mower cord that won’t pull is a seized blade. If the blade is stuck or jammed, it can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult to pull the cord. To check the blade, turn the mower over and inspect the blade for any signs of damage or obstruction. If the blade is damaged or stuck, you may need to replace it or take the mower to a professional for repairs.

Step 3: Check the Flywheel Brake

Another potential issue that can make it difficult to pull the cord is a malfunctioning flywheel brake. This is a safety feature that is designed to stop the engine from running when you release the handle on the lawn mower.

To check the flywheel brake, locate the brake control lever on your lawn mower. This is usually located on the handlebar. Depress the lever and attempt to pull the cord. If the cord pulls freely with the lever depressed, the flywheel brake is not the problem.

If, however, the cord is still difficult to pull with the brake control lever depressed, the flywheel brake may be engaged. This can be caused by a loose or worn brake cable or a faulty brake mechanism. In either case, the brake assembly will need to be inspected and repaired or replaced if necessary.

Step 4: Check the Starter Rope

The starter rope is the cord that you pull to start the engine. If the starter rope is damaged or jammed, it can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult to pull the cord. To check the starter rope, remove the starter cover and inspect the rope for any signs of damage or obstruction. If the rope is damaged or jammed, you may need to replace it or take the mower to a professional for repairs.

Step 5: Check the Recoil Spring

The recoil spring is the component that pulls the starter rope back into the mower after you’ve pulled it. If the recoil spring is damaged or worn, it can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult or impossible to pull the cord. To check the recoil spring, remove the starter cover and inspect the spring for any signs of damage or wear. If the spring is damaged or worn, you may need to replace it or take the mower to a professional for repairs.

Step 6: Check the Carburetor

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the engine. If the carburetor is dirty or clogged, it can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult to pull the cord. To check the carburetor, remove the air filter cover and inspect the carburetor for any signs of dirt or obstruction. If the carburetor is dirty or clogged, you may need to clean it or take the mower to a professional for repairs.

Step 7: Check the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is responsible for filtering out dirt and debris from the fuel before it enters the engine. If the fuel filter is dirty or clogged, it can prevent the engine from turning over, making it difficult to pull the cord. To check the fuel filter, locate it on your mower and inspect it for any signs of dirt or obstruction. If the fuel filter is dirty or clogged, you may need to replace it or take the mower to a professional for repairs.

Step 8: Check the Fuel Tank

If your lawn mower still won’t start after checking the above components, it’s possible that the fuel tank is empty or that the fuel has gone bad. Check the fuel level in the tank and fill it with fresh, clean fuel if necessary.

Step 9: Check the Recoil Starter Assembly

If the problem still persists after cleaning the air filter, spark plug, and carburetor, the issue could be with the recoil starter assembly. This is the part that you pull on to start the engine. Over time, the recoil starter assembly can become damaged or worn, making it difficult or impossible to pull.

To check the recoil starter assembly, you will need to remove the cover that houses it. This can usually be done with a screwdriver or socket wrench. Once the cover is off, inspect the assembly for any signs of damage or wear. If the assembly appears to be damaged or worn, it will need to be replaced.

Step 10: Take Your Lawn Mower to a Professional

If you have followed all of these steps and your lawn mower cord still won’t pull, it may be time to take your lawn mower to a professional. A professional lawn mower repair technician will have the expertise and tools needed to diagnose and repair any issues with your lawn mower. They may also be able to provide advice on how to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

How can I safely and effectively clean or replace parts that could be causing the cord to be stuck?

If you have determined that a specific part is causing your lawn mower cord to be stuck and not pull, you may need to clean or replace that part. Here are some steps to safely and effectively clean or replace parts that could be causing the cord to be stuck:

1. Read the Owner’s Manual: Before attempting any repairs on your lawn mower, it’s important to read the owner’s manual carefully. This will help you understand the specific components of your lawn mower and provide guidance on how to repair or replace them safely.
2. Wear Protective Gear: When working on your lawn mower, it’s important to wear the proper protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. This will help protect you from any potential injury or harm.
3. Disconnect the Spark Plug: Before starting any repairs, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
4. Remove the Cover: Depending on the part you need to access, you may need to remove the engine cover or other components. Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual carefully to remove any necessary parts safely.
5. Clean or Replace the Part: Once you have accessed the part, clean it thoroughly with a brush or compressed air. If the part is damaged or worn, you may need to replace it with a new one. Be sure to use the appropriate replacement part for your specific lawn mower model.
6. Reassemble the Lawn Mower: Once the part has been cleaned or replaced, carefully reassemble the lawn mower in the reverse order that you disassembled it. Be sure to tighten all bolts and screws securely.
7. Test the Lawn Mower: Before using the lawn mower again, test it to ensure it’s working properly. Reconnect the spark plug wire and try pulling the cord to start the engine. If the cord pulls smoothly and the engine starts, you have successfully repaired the problem.

Are there any warning signs or sounds to listen for that could indicate a problem with the cord or engine?

Yes, there are some warning signs and sounds to listen for that could indicate a problem with the cord or engine. Here are some things to watch out for:

1. Cord Resistance: If you feel resistance when pulling the cord, it may be due to a problem with the engine or the cord itself. This could be a sign that the cord is tangled or that the engine is not turning over properly.
2. Grinding Noise: If you hear a grinding noise when pulling the cord, it could be a sign that the starter gear is damaged. This is a common problem in lawn mowers and can be fixed by replacing the starter gear.
3. Smoke or Strange Smell: If you notice smoke or a strange smell coming from the engine when attempting to start the lawn mower, it could be a sign of a serious problem. This could indicate that the engine is overheating or that there is a fuel leak.
4. Engine Sputtering: If the engine sputters or runs rough when attempting to start the lawn mower, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the fuel system or spark plug.
5. Loose or Worn Cord: If the cord is loose or worn, it may not engage the engine properly when pulled. This could be due to a worn recoil spring or a damaged cord.

It’s important to address any warning signs or sounds as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the engine and ensure safe operation of the lawn mower. If you are unsure about the cause of the problem, it’s best to consult a professional for repairs.

Could the blade or other components of the lawn mower be damaged and causing the cord to not pull?

Yes, it is possible for the blade or other components of the lawn mower to be damaged and causing the cord to not pull. Here are a few possible scenarios:

1. Blade Damage: If the lawn mower blade is bent or damaged, it can cause the engine to seize up, making it difficult or impossible to pull the cord. This can happen if you accidentally hit a rock or other hard object while mowing.
2. Belt or Pulley Damage: The belt and pulley system in your lawn mower can also cause problems with the cord. If the belt is worn or the pulleys are damaged, it can prevent the engine from turning over properly.
3. Engine Damage: If the engine itself is damaged, it can cause the cord to be stuck. This can happen if the engine has been run without oil or has overheated.
4. Recoil Starter Assembly: The recoil starter assembly is the mechanism that engages the engine when you pull the cord. If this assembly is damaged or worn out, it can prevent the cord from pulling properly.

If you suspect that any of these components are damaged, it’s important to stop using the lawn mower and have it inspected by a professional. Attempting to use a damaged lawn mower can cause further damage and may even be dangerous.

Is it possible that the carburetor is dirty and preventing the engine from starting and the cord from pulling?

Yes, a dirty or clogged carburetor can prevent the engine from starting and the cord from pulling properly. The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel in the right proportions for combustion in the engine.

If it becomes clogged with dirt, debris or old fuel, it can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. In some cases, a dirty carburetor can also make it difficult to pull the cord because the engine is not able to turn over.

If you suspect that the carburetor is dirty, it’s important to clean it properly. This involves removing the carburetor from the engine, disassembling it, and soaking the parts in carburetor cleaner to dissolve any buildup.

After cleaning, the carburetor should be reassembled and reinstalled on the engine. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to have a professional handle the job to ensure that it’s done correctly.

Regular maintenance of the carburetor can also prevent problems from occurring in the first place. This includes changing the fuel filter and air filter regularly, and using fresh fuel that is properly mixed with the correct amount of oil. By taking care of your lawn mower’s carburetor, you can ensure that it runs smoothly and the cord pulls easily.

Is it possible that a clogged air filter is preventing the cord from pulling?

It is unlikely that a clogged air filter is directly preventing the cord from pulling, but it can indirectly cause problems with the engine that make it difficult to start and thus, hard to pull the cord. The air filter is responsible for preventing dirt and debris from entering the engine and causing damage.

If the air filter becomes clogged, it can restrict the amount of air that enters the engine, which can cause the fuel to burn poorly or not at all.

A poorly running engine due to a clogged air filter can make it difficult to pull the cord, as the engine is not able to turn over properly. However, a clogged air filter in and of itself should not prevent the cord from being pulled.

To prevent problems with the air filter, it’s important to clean or replace it regularly, especially if you mow in dusty or dirty conditions. Consult your owner’s manual to see how often your air filter should be serviced.

If you suspect that a clogged air filter is causing problems with your lawn mower, it’s best to replace it or clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This can help ensure that your lawn mower runs smoothly and the cord is easy to pull.

What should I do if the cord is stuck but the blades still move freely?

If the cord is stuck but the blades still move freely, it’s likely that the problem is related to the starting mechanism rather than the blades or cutting deck. Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Disconnect the spark plug: Before you attempt to work on the starting mechanism, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Check for obstructions: Look for any obstructions in the starting mechanism that could be preventing the cord from moving freely. Remove any debris or objects that may be blocking the movement of the cord.
3. Lubricate moving parts: If the starting mechanism is rusted or the components are not moving smoothly, lubricate the parts with a silicone spray or oil. This can help loosen any rust and make the parts move more easily.
4. Check the recoil spring: The recoil spring is responsible for pulling the cord back into the starting position after each pull. If the spring is broken or damaged, it can prevent the cord from moving. Inspect the recoil spring and replace it if necessary.
5. Check the flywheel brake: The flywheel brake is a safety feature that stops the engine when the handle is released. If the brake is engaged, it can prevent the cord from being pulled. Check the brake and make sure it’s disengaged before attempting to pull the cord.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to take your lawn mower to a professional for repair or further diagnosis. Attempting to repair more complex issues without the proper training and tools can be dangerous and cause further damage to your lawn mower.

Facts

• According to a survey by Consumer Reports, one of the most common reasons for a lawn mower not starting is a clogged air filter, which can affect the cord’s ability to pull.
• A study by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers found that the recoil starter assembly is a common area for failure in small engines, including lawn mowers.
• A report by the Small Engine Information Center states that the carburetor is another common area for issues with small engines, which can cause the cord to not pull.
• In a survey by Briggs & Stratton, a leading manufacturer of lawn mower engines, 57% of respondents reported experiencing issues with their lawn mower starting or running properly.
• The same Briggs & Stratton survey found that 26% of respondents reported having issues with the recoil starter, which can prevent the cord from pulling.
• A report by Mowers Direct suggests that a damaged flywheel brake can also cause issues with the lawn mower cord, as it may be preventing the engine from turning over properly.
• According to the Lawn Mower Wizard, a common issue with corded electric lawn mowers is that the cord can become tangled or knotted, which can prevent it from being pulled.

Final Decision

A lawn mower cord that won’t pull can be frustrating, but with a little bit of troubleshooting, you may be able to identify and fix the issue yourself. Always start by checking the basics, such as the fuel level, air filter, spark plug, and carburetor. If these are not the problem, move on to more complex issues such as the recoil starter assembly and flywheel brake. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to take your lawn mower to a professional for repair.