Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower- pull string replacement :(, rope and pulley, recoil starter

Question
Ok, so I have a Craftsman, Rotary Lawn Mower 4.5hp, 21" rear discharge(model#:917.388040). The pull string broke recently, and i bought a new one, the only problem is i have NO CLUE whatsoever how to fix it. Please help a poor, non- mechanic girl :(  

Answer
Hello Laura:

LOL  No Worries. Go to this Addy, Please. http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers 143.034504. This is the Engine Model Number for the Engine on your Mower. Download the Breakdown/IPL File for Online Viewing. The First Page has All the Components for this Procedure. Remove the Gas Tank (#300). **On Some Models you Only have to remove the Recoil Starter (#390).** If the Recoil is Not Removable, then Remove the Blower Housing (Metal Engine Cover). Look Into the Blower Housing and you can See the Recoil Pulley. Remove the Old Rope from the Pulley. Take the New Rope and Tie a Knot in One End. Once the Rope has been Removed, Turn the Pulley Clockwise Until the Pulley Will Not Turn Anymore. Now Reverse the Pulley 1 to 2 Turns and Line Up the Hole in the Pulley with the Hole in the Recoil Housing. Thread the New Rope Through the Hole in the Pulley and Out the Hole in the Recoil Housing. Tie a Slip Knot in the Rope to Hold the Rope and Pulley in Place while the Handle is Attached to the Rope. Release the Slip Knot and the Rope should Return into the Recoil Housing. Re-Assemble the Blower Housing and Replace the Tank. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John