I have a lawnmower that stalled while running, now the I can't pull the cord to start it. What happened?

Question

I have a lawnmower that stalled while running, now the I can't pull the cord to start it. What happened?

Answer 1

it broke

Answer 2

If the cord will not pull at all and the engine not rotate in the slightest, it's possible that the engine has seized. This happens when the engine runs out of oil, either from a leak or from normal use. If this happened, the engine is ruined and you'll need a new engine or a new mower.

It's also possible that you got a chunk of wood stuck in the blade... have you looked?

If nothing is blocking the blade, remove the spark plug. Tilt the mower so that you can grab the blade and attempt to turn it. If it will not turn, the engine is seized and ruined. If it does turn, something has gotten stuck in the pull-rope mechanism. See a small engine mechanic for a replacement mechanism.

Answer 3

It has seized up..but I'm laughing about the oil pump going bad..Lawnmowers do not even have an oil pump lol

Answer 4

This happened to me once last summer.  The cord slipped out of the little notch that keeps it in place near the handlebar and it got all wrapped and tangled inside the mower.  We had to remove the spark plug and take the top casing of the mower.  Then we very carefully unwound the cord.  The mower still works just fine.  Hopefully this is the problem rather than seizing.  Good luck!

Answer 5

There was probably no oil in it and now the motor is siezed.  It won't be any more good.  Always check the oil.  No oil, the engine gets so hot it melts and siezes.

Answer 6

Did you check under it for a lump of grass clogging the blade?