How to Start A Push Mower Without A Pull Cord?

14 minutes read

To start a push mower without a pull cord, you can use an alternative method such as using an electric starter, a key ignition system, or a recoil starter. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to start a push mower without a pull cord:

  1. Electric Starter: Some modern push mowers come equipped with an electric starter. Locate the electric starter button or switch on the mower's handle or body. Make sure the mower is set to the "start" position. Press and hold the electric starter button or switch to activate the starter motor. This will generate enough power to start the mower's engine.
  2. Key Ignition System: Similar to a car, some push mowers have key ignition systems. Locate the ignition key slot, usually positioned near the handle. Insert the key into the slot, ensuring it's fully engaged. Turn the key clockwise to the "start" position. This will engage the mower's engine and start it running.
  3. Recoil Starter: If your push mower doesn't have an electric starter or key ignition system, it may have a recoil starter. To use this method, locate the starter grip, usually positioned on the top of the engine. Hold the mower's handle with one hand and firmly grasp the starter grip with your other hand. Pull the grip upwards quickly and forcefully, then let it snap back to its original position. Repeat this pulling motion a few times until the engine starts running.


Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when starting the push mower without a pull cord. Additionally, ensure the mower's blade control lever or safety handle is properly engaged before attempting to start the engine.

Best Push Lawn Mowers of 2024

1
YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels

Rating is 5 out of 5

YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower with High Rear Wheels

  • Single-lever deck adjustment for quickly setting your mow height
  • MAXFlow Deck Technology – volute spiral deck design for better airflow and mulching
  • Heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck
  • Durable, one-piece seamless steel deck reduces vibration
  • Seven cutting heights from 1.25″ to 3.75″
  • Double-ball-bearing wheels for easy, smooth mowing with less pushing effort
  • Adjustable, durable 3-position handle height
  • Folds for space-saving storage
  • 7 in. front and 11 in. rear wheels for stability and control
2
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21 Inch 2-in-1 with 144CC 4-Stroke Engine, Push Mower Gas Powered DB2321CR

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21 Inch 2-in-1 with 144CC 4-Stroke Engine, Push Mower Gas Powered DB2321CR

  • 144CC OHV ENGINE: reliable engine, recoil starter for easy start, forced air cooling system continuously deliver unbeatable grass cutting effect.
  • 21 INCH CUTTING DECK: patented cutting system with 21 inch cutting deck, wider mowing path helps you trim sizable yard fast.
  • 2-IN-1 PUSH MOWER: side-discharge easily pass thick grasses for quickest mowing, mulching lawn mower minces grass into super-fine bits for recycle.
  • GRASS HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE: 6 positions for adjust cutting height from 1.5" to 3.9", suitable for all kinds of grasses.
3
BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 2 in 1 170cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine Cordless Lawnmower, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Push Mowers for Lawn, Yard and Garden

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 2 in 1 170cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine Cordless Lawnmower, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Push Mowers for Lawn, Yard and Garden

  • Auto Choke Engine - 170cc 4-stroke OHV engine, 6.5 ft.lb torque, 20 inch cutting deck.
  • Cutting Height - 8-position single lever four-wheel synchronized height adjustment from 1.2" to 3.2".
  • Mowing Convenience - 7" rear/6“ front double ball-bearing wheels achieve smooth movement, comfortable foam-wrapped angled grip eliminates grasp fatigue.
  • Durable Cutting Deck: 20" cutting deck and specialized blade delivering a clean, even cut. Enjoy years of high efficient mowing with superior cutting quality
4
Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Greenworks 40V 16" Cordless (Push) Lawn Mower (75+ Compatible Tools), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included

  • CORDLESS LAWN MOWER – Get more done, faster, with Greenworks electric lawn mowers. This 40v push lawn mower provides the power you need with up to 45 minutes of runtime on a fully charged 4.0Ah battery. The battery completely charges in 120 minutes.Brushless motor : No
  • LIGHTWEIGHT, EASY TO USE – A lightweight 16” cutting deck allows for easy maneuvering through small to medium yards (up to ½ acre) more efficiently. Easy push button start and lighter weight make it a great choice for your lawn.
  • VERSATILE – Battery powered lawn mower has a single lever 5-position height adjustment with a cutting height range from 1-1/4" to 3-3/8" for the best cut in all environments. The 2-in-1 feature offers versatile use with mulching and rear bagging options.
  • MAINTENANCE FREE – This walk behind lawn mower is virtually maintenance free, with no gas, no oil and no emissions. It starts instantly and is quiet but delivers gas-like power for your toughest projects.
5
Yard Machines 11A-02BT729 20-in Push Lawn Mower with 125cc Briggs & Stratton Gas Powered Engine, Black and Red

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Yard Machines 11A-02BT729 20-in Push Lawn Mower with 125cc Briggs & Stratton Gas Powered Engine, Black and Red

  • A 125cc OHV Briggs & Stratton engine delivers reliable power to quickly tackle your yard
  • Push mower ideal for small yards with minimal obstacles
  • 20-in. deck with side discharge to efficiantly spread grass clippings
  • 7-in wheels provide reliable traction to navigate your yard
  • Choose from 3 cutting heights
6
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded (BEMW472BH)

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, 10-Amp, Corded (BEMW472BH)

  • Lightweight corded electric mower gasless 10 Amp 15 inch electric mower for powering through rough grass.Ideal for 1/8 acre.Voltage : 120 V. Product Application : Cleaning.
  • Comfort grip bike handlebar design reduces friction and enhances maneuverability for small lawns
  • Enhanced clipping collection winged blade yields 30% better clipping collection
  • Push button start no-hassle startup easy-to- use features
  • Adjustable cutting height 6 adjustable cutting heights ranging from 1 inch to 3 inch
7
CRAFTSMAN Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21-inch Push Mower, 140cc (M105)

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

CRAFTSMAN Gas Powered Lawn Mower, 21-inch Push Mower, 140cc (M105)

  • POWERFUL ENGINE: 140cc BRIGGS & STRATTON engine with auto-choke
  • MOWING CONVENIENCE: 21 in., 3-in-1 convertible deck lets you side discharge, mulch, or rear bag grass clippings
  • CLIPPING COLLECTION: Rear bag collects grass clippings for easy cleanup or composting
  • HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT: Dual-lever, 6-position height adjustment makes it easy to change cutting heights from 1.25 in. to 3.75 in. high
  • COMFORT: Adjustable loop handle for comfort while mowing. MULCH KIT: Included to help put nutrients back into soil for a healthy lawn
8
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 String Trimmer/Edger & Lawn Mower, 6.5-Amp, 12-Inch, Corded (MTE912) (Power cord not included), Black/Red

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 String Trimmer/Edger & Lawn Mower, 6.5-Amp, 12-Inch, Corded (MTE912) (Power cord not included), Black/Red

  • 3N1 DESIGN – Electric mower easily converts to string trimmer and edger via a built-in foot pedal for versatile use.
  • 6.5 AMP MOTOR – Supplies the ideal amount of power when trimming grass, weeds, and overgrowth.
  • GEAR DRIVE TRANSMISSION – For tackling tougher, thicker grass without getting bogged down.
  • AFS AUTOMATIC FEED SPOOL – Continuously feeds trimmer line without bumping for seamless, uninterrupted trimming.
  • ADJUSTABLE MOWER DECK AND TRIMMER HANDLE – Lawn mower deck and string trimmer handle are adjustable for ideal grass- cutting height and added comfort.
  • CORDED – Corded design offers unlimited runtime for even the biggest jobs.
  • INCLUDES – (1)GH912 trimmer/edger, (1) MTD100 detachable mower deck, (1) AF-100 spool, (1) auxiliary handle, (1) guard.
  • Note: Item requires power cord. Power cord not included


What is the role of a spark plug in kick-starting a push mower?

The role of a spark plug in kick-starting a push mower is to create the spark necessary to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's combustion chamber. When the starter rope is pulled to kick-start the mower, it rotates the engine flywheel, which in turn rotates the magnet that passes by the ignition coil. This magnet induces an electric current in the coil, creating a high voltage electrical discharge across the spark plug gap. The spark plug then ignites the fuel-air mixture, initiating the combustion process and starting the engine. Without a functioning spark plug, there would be no spark, and therefore, the engine would not start.


How to troubleshoot a broken pull cord on a push mower?

If you have a broken pull cord on your push mower, here are the steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

  1. Safety first: Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. This will eliminate the risk of injury while working on the pull cord.
  2. Remove the top cover: Typically, there are a few bolts or screws that hold the top cover of the engine in place. Unscrew and remove them to access the pull cord mechanism.
  3. Inspect the pull cord: Determine the extent of the damage to the pull cord. If it is completely detached, you will need to replace the cord. If it's frayed or damaged, it may be possible to repair it.
  4. Replace the pull cord: If the cord needs to be replaced, purchase a replacement cord from a local hardware store or mower repair shop. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the new cord. This involves winding it around the pulley and securing it with a knot.
  5. Check the recoil spring: The recoil spring is responsible for retracting the cord after it has been pulled. Ensure that the spring is in good condition and properly wound. If it is damaged or loose, you may need to replace it.
  6. Reassemble and test: Put the top cover back on, and secure it with the bolts or screws. Reconnect the spark plug wire and give the pull cord a few gentle tugs to check if it retracts smoothly. If everything appears fine, your pull cord should be fixed.


If these troubleshooting steps do not solve the issue, it may be best to consult a professional mower repair service to avoid causing further damage.


What is the alternative method for starting a push mower without a pull cord?

An alternative method to start a push mower without a pull cord is to use an electric start feature or a key ignition system. These methods require an electric starter motor or a battery-powered ignition, respectively. Electric start push mowers typically have a button or switch that needs to be pressed, while key ignition systems require turning a key to start the engine. These alternative methods eliminate the need for a manual pull cord and make starting the push mower easier.

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