Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Replacing pull cord on Tecumseh 6.0 hp engine, recoil starter, slip knot

Question
John,

I have a newly acquired Yerf Dog Go-Cart that has a Tecumseh 6.0 hp motor (I believe it is an OHH60-71216E 6 HP Tecumseh Powersport Engine).  After the first day of use, the pull cord broke (otherwise the engine is running great).  When I went to try to replace it, there are not 'bolts' to remove in order to get the housing off.  It appears that there are only several rivets.  I have never encountered this.  Does this mean that in order to get the housing off I will have to pry it until it snaps the rivets, then replace the rivets after replacing the pull cord?  OR, is there something I'm not seeing here.  Thanks!  Rustin

Answer
Hello Rustin:

The Blower Housing has to be Removed. The Rivets are Not Removed. **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. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John