Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Broken Pull Start Rope, recoil starters, ariens snowblower

Question
Hi

I went to start my Ariens snowblower this afternoon and when I pulled the cord it broke off in my hand. I cant pull the rope back out to try and re attach.  This is a very old Ariens Model and unfortunately I dont have a model number for you.  How do I take it apart so I can fix and re string the cord

Thank you very much for your help

Answer
Hello Mark:

No Worries. The Following is a Basic Instruction File for Replacing the Rope in Standard Recoil Starters. Any Input is Appreciated. **If the Rope has Broken and the Spring is Good, then Remove the Blower Housing (metal engine cover and recoil Starter). Remove the Old Rope from the Recoil Pulley. Now Turn the Pulley in the Same Direction that the Pulley would Turn if the Rope was Turning it. Once the Pulley will Turn No More, then Reverse Direction 1 or 2 Turns and Thread the New Rope Through the Hole in the Center of the Pulley and Out the Hole in the Blower Housing. Pull the Rope Through Until it is Tight Against the Pulley. Now Tie a Slip Knot in the Rope to Hold the Pulley in Place While the Handle is Attached to the Rope. Once the Handle is Attached, Release the Slip Knot and the Rope Should Retract Into the Housing. Reassemble the Blower Housing Onto the Engine.**  If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John