Honda Petrol Lawnmower?

Andy, depends on the model in some instances. But in general:

You will need to remove the entire cooling shroud. There should be 4 bolts on the sides. You might need to remove the fuel tank also. 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.

Or take it to a repair shop. They can replace the rope in about 5 mins for a few quid or USD 10.00.

Dave
August 2008