Unlock the Secrets of Lawn Care: Mastering How to Coil Pull Start Spring

Are you tired of a sluggish pull start on your small engine? Is the recoil spring in your lawnmower, generator, or chainsaw losing its spring? If so, you’re not alone! Many people face this common issue, and it can be frustrating to deal with. But fear not, because today we’re diving into the world of pull start springs and uncovering the secrets of how to coil pull start spring like a pro. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to tackle this task with confidence.

Understanding the Importance of a Coiled Pull Start Spring

Before we jump into the coiling process, let’s understand why this spring is so crucial. The pull start spring is the heart of your engine’s starting system. It stores energy when you pull the cord and releases it with a powerful jolt, spinning the engine’s crankshaft and igniting the combustion process. A properly coiled spring ensures smooth and effortless starting, while a worn or poorly coiled spring can lead to a sluggish start, difficulty pulling the cord, or even damage to the starter mechanism.

Essential Tools for the Job

To embark on this coiling adventure, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• A sturdy work surface: A table or workbench will provide a stable foundation for your spring coiling.
• A pair of pliers: These will help you manipulate the spring and hold it securely during the coiling process.
• A flathead screwdriver: This will be helpful for adjusting the starter housing and ensuring proper spring tension.
• A measuring tape: You’ll need this to measure the spring’s length and ensure you’re coiling it to the correct specifications.
• Safety glasses: Always protect your eyes when working with springs, as they can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

Preparing the Spring for Coiling

Now that you have your tools ready, let’s prepare the spring for coiling:

1. Inspect the spring: Before you begin, carefully inspect the spring for any signs of damage, rust, or wear. If the spring is broken or severely damaged, it’s best to replace it with a new one.
2. Clean the spring: If the spring is dirty, use a wire brush or a damp cloth to remove any debris or dirt. This will ensure smooth coiling and prevent any potential damage to the spring.
3. Measure the spring: Measure the overall length of the spring using a measuring tape. This will serve as your reference point for coiling.

The Coiling Process: Step-by-Step

Now comes the crucial part: coiling the spring. Follow these steps to ensure a successful and secure coil:

1. Start with a small loop: Hold the spring in your hand and use your pliers to create a small loop at the end of the spring. This loop will serve as the anchor point for your coil.
2. Wind the spring: Begin winding the spring around the loop you just created. Keep the coils tight and consistent, ensuring that they are evenly spaced.
3. Maintain tension: As you coil the spring, maintain a steady tension to prevent the coils from becoming loose or uneven.
4. Check the diameter: While coiling, check the diameter of your coil. It should be consistent with the original coil and match the specifications of your starter housing.
5. Secure the end: Once you’ve coiled the spring to the desired length, use your pliers to secure the end of the spring. This will prevent the spring from unraveling.

Installing the Coiled Spring

With the spring successfully coiled, it’s time to install it into your pull start mechanism:

1. Remove the starter housing: Carefully remove the starter housing from your engine. This will expose the spring and allow you to install the newly coiled spring.
2. Attach the spring: Attach the coiled spring to the starter housing, ensuring that the end of the spring is securely fastened.
3. Adjust the tension: Using a flathead screwdriver, adjust the tension of the spring by turning the adjustment screw on the starter housing. The goal is to achieve a balance between ease of pulling and sufficient tension to start the engine.
4. Reassemble the starter housing: Once the tension is adjusted, reassemble the starter housing, ensuring that all components are securely fastened.

Tips for a Successful Coiling Experience

Here are a few additional tips to help you achieve a smooth and effective coiling experience:

• Practice makes perfect: If you’re new to coiling pull start springs, it’s a good idea to practice on a spare spring before tackling your actual engine. This will help you get a feel for the process and avoid any mistakes.
• Use a vise: For larger springs or those that require more tension, using a vise can be helpful. Secure the spring in the vise to keep it stable while you coil.
• Be patient: Coiling a spring can be a bit time-consuming, so be patient and take your time to ensure a proper coil.
• Don’t over-tighten: Over-tightening the spring can lead to premature wear and damage. Use just enough tension to achieve a smooth and effortless pull.

The Final Stretch: Testing and Enjoying Your Work

Now that you’ve successfully coiled and installed the spring, it’s time to test your handiwork:

1. Pull the cord: Pull the cord a few times to test the spring’s tension and ensure it’s working correctly.
2. Adjust if necessary: If the spring is too loose or too tight, adjust the tension using the adjustment screw on the starter housing.
3. Start the engine: Once the tension is adjusted to your liking, start the engine and enjoy the smooth and effortless starting experience.

A New Lease on Life for Your Engine

By mastering the art of how to coil pull start spring, you’ve not only saved money on repairs but also gained a valuable skill that will come in handy for years to come. You’ve breathed new life into your small engine, ensuring it starts smoothly and reliably whenever you need it.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I coil or replace the pull start spring?

A: The lifespan of a pull start spring depends on its quality and how often the engine is used. Typically, a spring should last for several years. However, if you notice a sluggish start, difficulty pulling the cord, or any signs of wear on the spring, it’s a good idea to replace it.

Q: What if I don’t have the original spring?

A: If you don’t have the original spring, you can purchase a replacement from a local hardware store or online retailer. Be sure to specify the make and model of your engine to ensure you get the correct spring.

Q: Can I use different types of spring for coiling?

A: It’s not recommended to use different types of spring for coiling. Each spring is designed for a specific application and using an incorrect spring can lead to damage or malfunction.

Q: Is there a way to prevent the spring from unraveling?

A: Once you’ve securely coiled the spring, it’s unlikely to unravel. However, if you’re concerned, you can use a small amount of glue or epoxy to secure the end of the spring to the coil.

Q: What if I’m struggling to coil the spring?

A: If you’re finding it difficult to coil the spring, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can assist you in coiling and installing the spring correctly.