Yes, you can fix it yourself – learning how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower is a simple repair that saves you money and time. I’ve done this fix many times, and you only need a few basic tools to get your machine running again.
That feeling when you pull the cord and nothing happens is the worst. The cord might snap back or just feel loose and useless. Your snowblower is stuck, and a big storm is on the way.
Don’t worry, this is a common problem. The good news is the fix is often easy. I will walk you through the whole process step by step.
This guide will show you how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower safely. You will learn to take it apart, see what’s broken, and put it back together. Let’s get your machine ready for the next snowfall.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
First, let’s talk about what you’re dealing with. The pull cord assembly is inside the starter housing on top of the engine.
It has a few main parts. There’s the pulley that holds the spring, the cord itself, and the handle. When you pull, the spring winds up to pull the cord back in.
The most common issue is a broken cord. It frays and snaps from lots of use. Sometimes the spring inside can also break or come loose.
You need to figure out how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower for your specific model. The basic steps are the same for most machines. I will give you tips for different types.
Gather your tools before you begin. You will need a screwdriver, pliers, and a new pull cord. A socket set helps for some models too.
Always disconnect the spark plug wire first. This is a critical safety step. You don’t want the engine to start by accident while your hands are inside.
Gathering the Right Tools and Parts
You don’t need fancy tools for this job. A basic home toolkit has almost everything you need.
Get a set of screwdrivers, both flathead and Phillips head. You will need pliers to hold parts and maybe a socket wrench. The bolts on the starter cover are often 10mm or 1/2 inch.
The most important part is the new pull cord. You can buy a universal replacement cord at any hardware store. Measure your old cord first to get the right length and thickness.
Some people ask if they can use any strong rope. I don’t recommend it. Proper pull cord is made to handle the stress and heat.
You might also need a new handle if yours is cracked. A can of lubricating spray is good to have for the spring. A clean workspace with good light makes the job easier.
Having the right stuff before you start is key. It stops you from getting stuck halfway through the repair. Now you’re ready to open it up.
Step-by-Step: How to Fix the Pull Cord on a Snowblower
Let’s get into the actual repair. Follow these steps in order. Take your time and be careful with the spring.
First, disconnect the spark plug wire. Pull it off the spark plug and set it aside. This ensures the engine cannot start.
Next, remove the starter housing cover. It’s usually held on by three or four screws. Use your screwdriver to take them out and set them in a safe place.
Lift the cover off gently. You will now see the pulley and spring assembly. Be careful, as the spring may be under tension.
If the old cord is still attached, unwind it from the pulley. You may need to hold the pulley with pliers to keep it from spinning. This is the core of learning how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower.
Take out any pieces of the broken cord. Clean out any dirt or old grease from inside the housing. A clean part works much better.
Now you are ready to install the new cord. The next section will show you exactly how to wind the spring and thread the cord.
Winding the Recoil Spring Correctly
This step seems tricky, but it’s simple once you know how. The spring makes the cord retract back into the housing.
First, you need to pre-wind the spring. Turn the pulley in the direction the cord pulls out. You will hear clicks as it tightens.
Do this about two or three full turns. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says to always wear gloves for this. The spring can snap and cut you.
Hold the pulley in place with your pliers. Do not let it spin back yet. You have to keep that tension while you thread the cord.
Find the hole in the pulley for the cord. Feed one end of your new cord through this hole. Tie a strong knot, like a double overhand knot.
Slowly let the pulley turn back, pulling the cord into the housing. Keep control so it doesn’t spin wildly. This is the main skill for how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower.
Leave about six inches of cord hanging out of the housing. You will attach the handle to this end after you put the cover back on.
Reassembling the Starter Housing
You’re almost done. Now you need to put everything back together. Make sure the cord is wound neatly on the pulley.
Place the housing cover back over the assembly. Line up the screw holes carefully. You don’t want to pinch the cord or damage the spring.
Insert and tighten the screws by hand first. Then use your screwdriver to snug them down. Don’t overtighten, as you can strip the plastic.
Now feed the loose end of the cord through the hole in the housing cover. Pull a good length through so you can attach the handle.
Attach the new handle to the cord. Follow the instructions that came with it. Usually, you feed the cord through and tie another secure knot.
Give the cord a gentle test pull. It should pull out smoothly and retract all the way back in. If it doesn’t, you may need to adjust the spring tension.
Reconnect the spark plug wire. You have now completed the main task of how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower. Give it a real test start.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People make a few simple errors. Avoiding them will save you a lot of frustration and extra work.
The biggest mistake is forgetting to disconnect the spark plug. This is a major safety risk. Always make it your first step.
Another error is letting the spring unwind too fast. If it gets away from you, it can become a tangled mess. Go slow and keep control.
Using the wrong type of cord is a problem. Don’t use regular rope or string. It will break again very quickly under the strain.
Not winding the spring enough is common. If you don’t pre-wind it, the cord won’t retract properly. It will just hang out of the housing.
Overtightening the housing screws can crack the plastic cover. Finger tight plus a little more is enough. The cover just needs to stay in place.
Rushing through the steps leads to mistakes. Take your time, especially the first time you learn how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower. It gets easier with practice.
Tips for a Smooth and Lasting Repair
A few extra steps can make your repair last for years. These tips come from my own experience and from other mechanics.
Lightly lubricate the spring and the pulley post before reassembly. Use a dry lubricant spray or a tiny bit of white lithium grease. This reduces wear.
When you buy cord, get a little extra. Cut it to the exact length of your old one. Too long and it will get tangled inside.
Consider replacing the handle even if it looks okay. A new handle has a better grip and is cheap insurance. The Consumer Reports guide to small engine care suggests updating worn parts.
After you finish, store your snowblower with the cord retracted. Don’t leave the handle hanging out. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the housing.
Test the pull a few times before you need the machine. Do this on a nice day, not when a storm is coming. You want to find any issues early.
Write down the cord length and size you used. Tape it inside the housing or your tool box. This makes the next repair even faster.
When to Call a Professional
Most pull cord fixes are DIY jobs. But sometimes, the problem is bigger than just the cord.
If the spring is broken or the pulley is cracked, you might need a whole new starter assembly. These parts can be hard to find for old models.
Call a pro if you open it up and see lots of rust or damage. A corroded spring can be dangerous to handle. It can shatter when you try to wind it.
If the cord broke because the engine is seized, that’s a different issue. A seized engine won’t turn over no matter how hard you pull. This needs a mechanic’s diagnosis.
You should also get help if you try the repair and it still doesn’t work. Maybe the spring came un-hooked from its anchor point inside. A pro can fix that quickly.
According to the Small Engine Suppliers Association, complex recoil repairs are a common shop job. There’s no shame in asking for help if you feel stuck.
Knowing when to call someone is part of learning how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower. It saves you from making a small problem worse.
Preventing Future Pull Cord Problems
Good maintenance stops the cord from breaking again. A little care goes a long way for your machine’s life.
Always pull the cord straight out. Don’t yank it at an angle. This causes uneven wear and fraying on one side.
Don’t pull the cord all the way out to its very end. Stop when you feel resistance. Pulling it to the max strains the knot and the spring.
Keep the starter housing clean. Wipe off snow, grass, and dirt after each use. Debris can get inside and jam the mechanism.
At the end of the season, give the area a quick spray with a moisture-displacing lubricant. This prevents rust on the spring during summer storage.
Check the cord for fraying once a year. Look at the spot where it goes into the housing and where it ties to the handle. Replace it at the first sign of wear.
Following these tips means you might not need to remember how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower next year. A good cord can last many seasons with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pull cord is broken?
You will pull the handle and feel no resistance. The cord might also be visibly snapped. Sometimes it just pulls all the way out and doesn’t come back.
Can I use any rope to fix my snowblower cord?
No, you should use a proper replacement pull cord. It is made from a special, durable material. Regular rope will fray and break too fast.
Is it hard to learn how to fix the pull cord on a snowblower?
No, it’s one of the easiest small engine repairs. Most people can do it in under an hour. Just follow the steps and be careful with the spring.
Why does my new cord not retract all the way?
This usually means the recoil spring is not wound enough. You need to take the cover off again. Pre
