Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 5.5 push lawn mower, sears craftsman, recoil starter

Question
Hi John

My Dad wants me to repair a 4 or 5 year old Sears Craftsman 5.5 lawn mower, the one with the big wheels on the ass end.  But the starter cord has broken off, and I'm not quite sure how to go about doing this.  I have tried taking it apart but didn't dare to go much further.  The engine will crank over, I just don't quite know if I have to screw with the spring???? If you can help, it would certainly be appreciated.   Thanks in advance.  ( I live in Maine so i've got like two more months worth of lawn mowing left, it's not a huge problem, just one I'd like to fix for Dad)

Answer
Hello Rusty:

Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. They are the XXX.XXXXXX Numbers I Require. However, 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 (this tightens the recoil spring). 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. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John