As a gardener, you must have been a victim of a malfunctioning pull string on a weed eater at least once.
The engine and the strings may face wear and tear with regular trimming and at times the strings are displaced or broken. In extreme cases, it is the engine that malfunctions. If you are facing a similar problem, worry no more!
Keep reading to know what causes the problem and how to fix it!
What Causes The Pull String To Get Stuck?
Let's take a look at some of the most common issues that give rise to this problem.
1. Build-Ups
Before you get worried that a device is malfunctioning when the pull cord gets stuck, check for debris and build-ups first. Often, weed, grass, and other build-ups find their way to the blade, preventing it from turning.
As the blade is directly connected to the starter coil, if its movement is hindered, it will likely stall the pull cord. If you notice the pull string moving slightly, it is most likely that there are unwanted build-ups that need to be removed for the motor to function correctly.
To sort this issue, you can remove the housing and take a peek to check if it is build-ups that are causing the problem. If you notice that debris has collected around the motor, it is best to use a screwdriver to get rid of them.
While you are at it, do not forget to check the string and the pulley disc to see if there's anything that's hindering their functioning.
2. Malfunctioning Auto Brake
I often get this question from my readers: why is the pull string stuck on my weed eater? Many times, the problem persists even after you have cleared the debris. In case you get stuck in a similar mess, check the automatic brake.
You might encounter quite a lot of resistance when trying to pull the cord. If that happens, it is most likely that the automatic brake is not functioning optimally. These brakes are placed to ensure that the engine of your weed eater can be automatically stopped.
For restarting the machine, you would need to depress the brakes manually before pulling on the starter string. It is a very common problem, and your DIY skills can come to your rescue!
3. Issues With The Recoil Starter
As I have already mentioned, when the resistance is high on the pull cord, it's likely that there is debris where it shouldn't be.
However, the recoil starter is likely damaged if the pull string is totally stuck. When rewinding, the pull string crosses over itself at times, leading to the problem. Simply put, the pull string can get tangled.
But, it is wise to not rule out the idea that it can be damaged as well. In that case, it calls for a replacement. Make sure you conduct a proper inspection to figure out whether the cord is tangled or broken.
Check for signs of damage and have the pull string replaced if the need be!
How To Avoid The Problem?
Following a few simple steps and abiding by a few rules can help eliminate this problem in the future. The first thing to keep note of is your rowing habits. I would recommend that you row cautiously to prevent debris from collecting.
It is also crucial that you check the recoil starter from time to time. In case you are facing an issue pulling the string and feel it is completely stuck, you should get it replaced. The trick is to check regularly to tackle the problem before it arises.
Final Words
And that's a wrap, my friends!
I hope you had a great time going through this guide. Always know that a machine performs the best when used correctly. Like any other tool, a weed eater must be maintained to ensure that its pull string functions adequately.
There are numerous different reasons why a pull string on your weed eater can get stuck. You might feel irritated when your work gets interrupted. But, trust me, once you locate the problem, fixing it is super easy.
For more interesting reads, do not forget to check this space. Until next time, take care!