How to replace a snow blower pull cord

A broken pull cord on your snow blower can be frustrating, especially when you’re all set to tackle a fresh snowfall. The good news is that replacing a pull cord isn’t as hard as it might seem. With just a few tools and some simple steps, you can get your snow blower back in action in no time. 

Note: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes, and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Safety precautions   

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• If working indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a serious risk.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Never attempt to service or repair while it is running or when the engine is still warm. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
• Exercise extreme caution when working near blades, augers, or any other moving parts. Keep your hands, fingers, and clothing clear of these areas at all times.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any hot parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Empty the gas tank before beginning any work. Refill using fresh fuel. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• When not in use, store the machine in a safe and dry location.

Read more: How to replace a snow blower auger belt

Replacement steps

To repair or replace the pull cord, you’ll first need to access the starter assembly, which houses the cord and recoil mechanism. The starter housing is usually mounted on the engine. Refer to your snow blower manual if you’re not sure where it is.

1. Use a screwdriver or wrench to unbolt the starter housing from the engine. Keep the screws or bolts in a safe place to avoid losing them.
2. Lift the starter housing away from the engine, being cautious of the recoil spring inside.
3. Note how the recoil spring and pulley are positioned to make reassembly easier later.
4. Check the cord for fraying, knots, or signs of wear. If the cord is snapped or severely worn, it will need to be replaced.
5. Pull the cord gently to see if it retracts smoothly. If the cord doesn’t retract, the recoil spring may be damaged or have lost tension.
6. Rotate the pulley manually to ensure it moves freely without obstruction. Look for cracks or damage that could affect the cord. 
7. If the recoil spring or pulley appears damaged, you may need to repair or replace them along with the pull cord.

How to replace the pull cord:

1. Untie or cut the old cord from the starter handle.
2. Use pliers to remove the cord from the starter pulley.
3. Measure the new pull cord against the old one to ensure it’s the correct length.
4. Use a utility knife to trim the new cord to the appropriate size, if necessary.
5. Thread one end of the new cord through the hole in the starter pulley.
6. Tie a secure knot to keep it in place.
7. Wind the cord around the pulley evenly, ensuring there’s enough tension for the recoil spring.
8. Thread the other end of the cord through the starter handle.
9. Tie a knot at the end of the cord to secure it to the handle.
10. Pull the cord gently to ensure it retracts smoothly and the tension is correct.

How to replace the recoil spring:

1. Pull the cord to check if the spring retracts the pulley smoothly.
2. If the cord doesn’t retract or the spring feels weak, the spring may need repair or replacement.
3. Carefully detach the spring from the starter housing or pulley. Be cautious, recoil springs are tightly wound and can snap back unexpectedly.
4. Align the new spring with the starter housing or pulley, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Wind the spring carefully, ensuring it’s not overtightened or tangled.
6. Pull the cord to confirm the spring retracts the pulley properly and maintains tension.

How to reassemble the starter housing:

1. Carefully place the starter housing back onto the engine, ensuring the cord and recoil spring are properly aligned.
2. Check that the cord runs freely through the housing and is not pinched or tangled.
3. Use the screws or bolts you removed earlier to reattach the starter housing.
4. Tighten them evenly to ensure the housing is securely mounted.
5. Attach the spark plug wire to restore power to the engine.
6. Pull the cord a few times to ensure it retracts smoothly and starts the engine without resistance.

Read more: Snow blower won’t shift: A troubleshooting guide

Differences in pull cord replacement for different snow blower types

While the general steps are similar, the process of replacing a pull cord can vary depending on the type of snow blower you have. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Single-stage snow blowers: The engine is simpler, with fewer components to navigate. Accessing the starter assembly is usually straightforward. Removing and replacing the pull cord may take less time due to the compact design.
• Two-stage snow blowers: These models have a separate auger and impeller system, adding complexity to the engine area. You may need to remove additional parts or covers to access the starter housing. 
• Three-stage snow blowers: With an accelerator added to the auger and impeller system, these models have the most complex design. Be prepared for extra steps to access the starter assembly, as more parts may need to be moved or disconnected.

Pro tip: Always consult your user manual for specific details about your snow blower’s design to avoid confusion or errors during the repair.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Snowblower

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you still need replacement parts, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need help finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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