Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Weedeater pull cord, pawls, freewheel


Question
Michael,

I inherited a John Deere gas weedeater model S1400 and the pull cord was stuck on it. I took it apart and the pull cord seemed to be working fine but the shaft was sticking. I the got the shaft turning somewhat and now the cord will pull out but won't ratchet back in. Can you help me?

Lee  

Answer
Hi Lee,

If the recoil assembly will wind back in, when it is not attached to the trimmer then we can narrow the problem down to the bendix device on the flywheel.  This is where the recoil drive mates with the engine.  The bendix should lock when rotated in the direction of the engine's rotation but slip and freewheel backwards, when the recoil tries to rewind.  Disassemble it and look for gummed or rusted parts.  Clean and lubricate it.  If the trimmer doesn't have a bendix, it may rely on pawls, located on the recoil assembly that open and retract.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael