How do I replace the ripcord from a Craftsman lawn mower?

Question

I own a 4 -5 year old push style Craftsman lawn mower. The other day when trying to start it the entire ripcord pulled completely out. I called my local mower repair shop and they said it's going to cost me $45 to 55 bucks to repair.

Is this something I can do myself?

Answer 1

You will have to remove the starter assembly from the engine. Get some cord the same size and length as the original. As you remove the old cord you will see where it goes and where the knot is tied.. Once you get the new cord in place and knoted you will have to "wind" the cord around the pully to tension the spring. It is not a hard job but you have to remove several screws to get the starter off.

Answer 2

just take the top off, grab the string put it threw the hole tie it to something you should still have the handle and put the top back on. sometimes they have the coil on the outside and u will have to wind it back up but 4-5 years old the coil is probably on the inside of the contraption that makes the string wind back up so its even easier