Do you have a challenge with fixing the lawnmower cable? Has the propeller stopped driving? Well, there are several cases in which it can stop function. In most cases, when it has been in constant use for some time, the v-belt wears out.
Sometimes, the problem can even be larger than that. I would recommend that you carry diagnostic check-ups regularly to find out the cause of the problem.
In this article, we are going to look at the possible causes of the break-down of the self-propelled lawnmower. We shall also look at how to repair the mower cable. Please read on for more information.
What does the lawnmower cable do?
It connects the drive bail to the transmission. The cable also plays a role in regulating the speed of the mower. It has a cast connector that attaches the bail and the transmission using a metal hook or a cast connecter on either end of the mower.
At one end of the cable is an adjuster that allows you to adjust the tension of the belt. These drive cables wear out over the time of use and eventually fail to function completely. When that happens, repair becomes a necessity.
How do you know that it is time to repair or fix the lawnmower cable?
When the cable wears out, two things usually happen. They are:
- The cable keeps on snapping or even breaking into two.
- Either the cast connectors or metal hooks keep on breaking.
When either of the two problems keeps on recurring, then it is the right time to do the repairs. If you continue to use the lawnmower in such a state, then it will not serve you for long before it stops functioning. In some cases, other parts may break down as well.
How to fix self propelled lawn mower cable?
You can also do this in two ways. The first is to do some repairs on the existing cable, and secondly, you can replace the old cable with a new one.
I would advise you to go for a new cable as a replacement because if you do the repairs, it will not last long before it snaps again.
A new cable will serve you for a longer period than an old one that is under repairs. It is also costly in the long run to carry out periodic repairs on the cable.
How then does one fix the cable of the self-propelled lawnmower?
You will require a few items before you begin the work. Some of them include the pliers with a wire cutter edge and a hammer.
For the replacement, you will require a new cable together with all its components.
The procedure.
- Remove the old cable in preparation for placing it in a new one. You can always do this by taking off the pull bar and the connectors.
- Cut off the cable ties and remove the fasteners that hold the cable to the handle of the mower.
- You will need to check the underneath of the mower to access the cable transmission. In some cases, you will need to remove a panel at the rear of the mower to access the transmission.
- Remove the cable from the point where it attaches to the transmission. Make sure that the mower’s engine is off because the power it emits can cause serious damages.
- Connect the new cable in place of the old one.
- Pull the cable to extend it until you can attach it to the pull bar.
- Tighten it to the pull bar, leaving enough space to control the mower. If you leave it loose, you will need more effort to control the machine. On the other hand, if you tighten it so much, then you will find it difficult to control the mower.
- Adjust the tension on the drive belt. You will use the adjuster in this case, that is on the drive cable.
- Test out the mower. The cable should be able to function well. However, if it fails to meet the expectations, a few adjustments would be necessary.
Remember to have enough cable before cutting it to the correct size. It is also important to note that the cut cable may be sharp, and so can harm your hands. Be careful when handling it.
Repairing a broken cable is an easier task. It does not consume a lot of time, and the process is quite simple.
Please check on the health of the cable and the entire machine before and after you use it. Pay close attention when you are mowing the grass because damages majorly occur at that time. If you notice any problem, do not hesitate to make the adjustments.
How much does it cost to repair a self-propelled lawnmower cable?
It depends mostly on the region. Different territories charge different taxes on items of repair and maintenance. However, in the USA, for example, the average cost of repairs is about $70.
It is also important to note that labor costs also increase the cost of the repairs. In some garages, the cost can be $50 in the first hour, and a different rate can apply after that.
In essence, the cost of repairs is variable, and many factors can affect it.
Is it worth fixing a self-propelled lawnmower cable?
A lawnmower has a productive lifespan and also a less productive one. If yours is less than three years old, then it is still in its production stages. Any repairs done within this period are mostly minor and less costly.
In this stage, the repairs are worth, except when it is a major repair that would be too costly. However, some expensive ones might still be worth it.
On the contrary, when the mower is more than three years, then it will begin breaking down often. It will begin consuming more in terms of spares and repair costs.
When this happens, then it might not be worthy to carry on doing repairs. It would be better to buy a new one to replace the old one.
If you push a self-propelled lawnmower, will it get damaged?
No, it will not result in damages. In as much as the names suggest that it can move on its own, it is also worth noting that you can push it as well.
Doing so does not damage the transmission. The only problem is that such machines are heavier, and pushing it can be a challenge.
Conclusion.
The process of repairing a self-propelled lawnmower cable is not a hard task. If you follow the procedure that is in this article, then you will be able to do it with ease and within a short time.
Make sure that you observe some care when dealing with the cable as it might hurt you in the process. Remember to change your mower when it is more than three years old, and when it consumes a lot of spares!
