Yes, you can fix it yourself – learning how to fix snowblower pull cord is easier than you think. I’ve done this repair many times, and you just need basic tools and a bit of patience.
That awful feeling when you pull the cord and nothing happens is the worst. Your snowblower just sits there, and the snow keeps piling up. You might think you need a pro, but that’s not true.
I’ve fixed dozens of these pull cords over the years. It’s a common problem with a simple fix. You can save a lot of money and time by doing it yourself.
This guide will walk you through the whole process step by step. I’ll show you how to fix snowblower pull cord issues safely and correctly. Let’s get your machine running again.
What You Need to Know First
Before you start, you need to understand the main parts. The pull cord system has a few key pieces that work together.
The recoil starter is the housing that holds the spring and cord. The pulley inside winds up the cord when you pull it. The rope itself attaches to this pulley with a knot.
A rewind spring makes the cord go back into the housing. This spring can break or lose its tension over time. The handle on the end of the cord is what you pull to start the engine.
Knowing these parts helps you figure out what went wrong. The problem is usually in one of these spots. Learning how to fix snowblower pull cord starts with knowing what you’re looking at.
Most repairs need just a screwdriver, pliers, and a new cord. You can buy replacement cord at any hardware store. Make sure to get the right thickness and length for your model.
Always check your owner’s manual first. It has specific details for your snowblower. Safety is the most important thing when working with these machines.
Common Pull Cord Problems
The cord won’t pull out at all. This happens when the pulley is jammed or the spring is broken. You might hear a clicking sound when you try to pull it.
The cord pulls out but won’t retract. The spring has likely lost its tension or come unhooked. Sometimes the cord gets tangled inside the housing.
The cord is broken or frayed. This is the most common issue I see. The rope wears out from years of use and finally snaps.
The handle comes off the end of the cord. The knot comes undone or the handle breaks. This is an easy fix that takes just a few minutes.
The cord pulls out too easily. The engine doesn’t turn over when you pull. This means the pulley isn’t engaging with the engine shaft.
Knowing which problem you have helps you fix it faster. Each issue has a different solution. Learning how to fix snowblower pull cord means diagnosing the right problem first.
Safety Steps Before You Start
Always disconnect the spark plug wire first. This prevents the engine from starting accidentally. Wrap the end of the wire so it can’t touch the plug.
Make sure the snowblower is on a flat, stable surface. You don’t want it tipping over while you work. A workbench or sturdy table works best.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes. Small springs and metal pieces can fly out. Gloves help protect your hands from sharp edges.
Have a clean workspace with good lighting. You’ll be dealing with small parts that are easy to lose. A magnetic tray helps keep screws organized.
Take pictures as you disassemble the recoil starter. This helps you remember how everything goes back together. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
These steps might seem simple, but they’re important. Safety should always come first when you learn how to fix snowblower pull cord. A few minutes of prep prevents accidents.
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
First, remove the recoil starter cover. It’s usually held by three or four screws. Keep these screws in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
Carefully lift the cover off to expose the pulley inside. Don’t let the spring fly out suddenly. Go slow and keep pressure on the cover as you lift.
If the cord is broken, remove the old pieces from the pulley. Untie any knots and pull out all the old rope. Clean any debris from inside the housing.
Wind the rewind spring back into position if needed. This is the trickiest part of learning how to fix snowblower pull cord. Take your time and follow the spring’s natural direction.
Thread the new cord through the hole in the pulley. Tie a secure knot that won’t come undone. Leave enough cord to reach the handle with some extra length.
Wind the pulley to create tension, then install the cover. Make sure the cord comes out through the proper guide hole. Test the pull action before you fully tighten all screws.
Replacing the Pull Cord
Buy the right replacement cord for your model. Check the diameter and length in your owner’s manual. Most hardware stores sell universal pull cord by the foot.
Cut the new cord about six inches longer than the old one. You can always trim it later if it’s too long. Better to have extra than not enough.
Melt the ends of the cord slightly with a lighter. This prevents fraying and makes threading easier. Be careful not to burn yourself or the cord too much.
Thread one end through the hole in the pulley. Tie a double knot or figure-eight knot that won’t slip. Pull it tight against the pulley.
Wind the pulley in the direction of the arrow marked on it. Usually this is clockwise. Wind it until you feel good tension, then give it one more turn.
Hold the pulley in place and thread the cord out the housing. Attach the handle and tie another secure knot. Trim any excess cord leaving about an inch past the knot.
This process is the core of how to fix snowblower pull cord issues. Take it slow and double-check each step. Rushing leads to mistakes and rework.
Fixing the Rewind Spring
The rewind spring can lose tension or break completely. This is why the cord won’t retract after you pull it. Replacing it takes more work but is still doable.
Remove the pulley from the housing carefully. The spring is underneath it and wants to unwind. Keep your fingers clear and work on a flat surface.
If the spring is just unhooked, you can reattach it. Hook the inner end into the center post of the housing. The outer end hooks into the slot on the pulley.
A broken spring needs replacement. Buy the exact spring for your snowblower model. Generic springs might not fit or work correctly.
Wind the new spring into the housing before installing the pulley. This is the hardest part of learning how to fix snowblower pull cord spring issues. Use gloves and go slowly.
According to OSHA, proper tool maintenance prevents injuries. A working pull cord means you don’t have to yank hard and strain yourself.
Once the spring is in place, test the tension before final assembly. The pulley should spin freely and retract when released. If it doesn’t, the spring isn’t hooked correctly.
When to Call a Professional
If the engine shaft is bent or damaged, you need a pro. This isn’t a pull cord problem but an engine issue. Trying to fix it yourself could cause more damage.
When the recoil starter housing is cracked or broken. Plastic housings can crack in cold weather. Metal ones can get damaged from impacts.
If you’ve tried everything and it still doesn’t work. Sometimes there are multiple problems at once. A technician can diagnose issues you might have missed.
When you don’t feel comfortable working with springs. The rewind spring has a lot of stored energy. If you’re nervous about it, pay someone to do it safely.
For expensive or new snowblowers still under warranty. DIY repairs might void the manufacturer’s warranty. Check your warranty terms before doing any work yourself.
Learning how to fix snowblower pull cord includes knowing your limits. There’s no shame in getting help when you need it. The goal is a working machine, not proving you can do everything.
Prevention and Maintenance Tips
Store your snowblower properly in the off-season. Keep it in a dry place away from moisture. This prevents corrosion in the recoil mechanism.
Lubricate the pulley and spring occasionally. Use a dry lubricant spray made for small mechanisms. Don’t use grease or oil that attracts dirt.
Check the cord for fraying at the start of each season. Replace it before it breaks completely. This is easier than dealing with a broken cord during a snowstorm.
Pull the cord straight out, not at an angle. Angled pulls wear out the cord and guide faster. Use smooth, even pulls instead of yanking hard.
Let the cord retract fully before pulling again. Don’t pull against the retracting motion. This puts extra strain on the spring and cord.
The Consumer Reports says regular maintenance extends tool life. Taking care of your pull cord means fewer repairs later. Learning how to fix snowblower pull cord is good, but preventing problems is better.
Tools You’ll Need for the Job
A set of screwdrivers in different sizes. Most snowblowers use Phillips head screws. Some might have hex head or Torx screws instead.
Needle-nose pliers for handling small parts. These help with springs and knots. Regular pliers work too but aren’t as precise.
A utility knife or sharp scissors for cutting cord. You need a clean cut without fraying. The melted end method works better than cutting alone.
A lighter or matches for melting cord ends. This seals the fibers so they don’t unravel. Be very careful with open flames around gasoline engines.
Replacement pull cord of the correct size. Measure the old cord or check your manual. Buy extra so you have some for future repairs.
A clean cloth and some degreaser for cleaning. Dirt and grime build up inside the housing over time. A clean mechanism works smoother and lasts longer.
Having the right tools makes learning how to fix snowblower pull cord much easier. You don’t need fancy equipment, just these basics. Gather everything before you start the repair.
Troubleshooting After Repair
The cord still won’t retract properly. The spring might not be wound enough or is hooked wrong. You’ll need to open it up and check the tension.
The cord pulls out but the engine doesn’t turn. The pulley might not be engaging with the engine shaft. Check for worn teeth or a broken engagement mechanism.
The handle keeps coming off the cord. Your knot might be slipping or the handle is cracked. Try a different knot or replace the handle entirely.
The cord frays quickly after replacement. The guide hole might have a sharp edge. File it smooth or install a metal grommet to protect the cord.
There’s a grinding noise when you pull the cord. Something is rubbing inside the housing. Check for misalignment or foreign objects in the mechanism.
The cord retracts too fast and slams the handle. The spring has too much tension. You might have wound it too many times during installation.
Learning how to fix snowblower pull cord includes solving these common issues. Don’t get frustrated if it doesn’t work perfectly the first time. Most problems have simple solutions once you find the cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fix a snowblower pull cord that won’t retract?
The rewind spring probably needs attention. Open the recoil housing and check if the spring is hooked properly. You might need to rewind it or replace it if it’s broken.
What size cord do I need for my snowblower?
Check your owner’s manual for the exact specifications. Most use 3/16-inch or
