Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawnmower rope broke, vise grip pliers, rope thread

Question
The last time I used my lawnmower the starter rope broke.  I have a Craftsman Lawnmower about 9 years old (model 917 387020) with the eager 1 starter.  I bought a replacement rope and took off the recoil housing.  After I took it off there is a metal cup underneath but I do not see anywhere to thread the rope through.  The underside of the recoil housing has 2 metal clamps but I am at a loss as to where to thread the rope.  Meanwhile...the grass in my backyard is getting higher.  Please help.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Tiffanie,

I'm not sure what the clamps are, that you are describing.  If you need to, you can remove parts to get at the reel but usually the rope can be replaced without removing the rope reel while leaving the spring inplace.  On the inside of the reel, look for the old rope's knot and pull that out.   
Pre-wind the recoil reel by hand [about 6 turns, to set the spring tension] and clamp it with Vise-Grip pliers. Remove the old rope. Thread the new rope through the shroud housing eyelet and to the reel hub. Let
the reel re-wind itself until it is full. If there is not enough spring tension you can wind it a couple of turns more by slipping the rope around between the reel and shroud. Re-clamp the reel. Cut the rope to length and
thread it though the handle. At all knots, burn and melt the rope with a lighter to prevent untying. Re-assemble.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael