Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): pull rope on honda lawnmower doesnt fully return; could also use a new rope, honda lawnmower, starter rope

Question
I just want to make sure I understand. Basically, I don't need to replace any parts, only a new rope. Just by winding the spring and installing the new rope, that should take up any slack and allow the rope to fully retract after starting. Correct?
If so, how would I know if any parts would ever need to be replaced?
Thank you!


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Followup To
Question -
The pull rope doesn't fully return while starting or after starting. I'm not sure if I need a new recoil spring, adjust the old one, or something else. I'd like to replace the rope as well. It's about 14 years old. I would like to do this myself. Is this something I can do and can you provide any help? Thank you!
The mower is a Honda HR215HXA, 1990 and has never been repaired.
Answer -
http://www.lawn-mower-shop.com/trstrt.htm

Check out the link above...the repair will be very similar.

You should not have to remove any parts other than the old rope.  Remove the string, wind the pulley by hand, which winds the spring and just install the new rope.  An ice-pic and needle nose plyers will help get the string through the starter housing eyelet and the pulley hole.

Let me know if you have any other questsions.
Eric

Answer
You will wind the pulley first, and once it is tight install the string through the starter eyelet and then through the pulley.  Once through the pulley, tie a knot.  Release the string slowly as the wound spring pulls the rope in.

You can also put the string through the starter pulley first, then out the starter housing eyelet...this is usually easier.

You may have to let the starter pulley unwind some in order to line the starter pulley hole with the starter housing eyelet.  I usually wind the pulley tight by hand, then back it off one turn...this prevents breaking the spring is someone pulls too hard on the starter rope.

A small screwdriver or ice-pick works well to hold the pulley in place once it is wound.

As for parts, the only part that normally breaks is the spring, but this is rare.  If there is no tightening of the spring after 3-4 turns then the spring/pulley may be broke or you are turning the wrong way.

Let me know if this makes any sense at all.
Eric