Pull cord replacement mercury outboard?

Question

My pull cord came completely out of my 1963 mercury 9.8 outboard. The end of the rope has a pinhole in it that is still intact so it didn't rip the rope. How are these pull cords attached to the starter? Something else must have given. Is the rope maybe attached to something metal that broke. Any help would be great. Thanks

Answer 1

Alex sounds to me as though the recoil spring has broke, which in turn will not retract the starter rope.

If you don't know much about these type of starting systems your best bet is to remove the the complete recoil starter, take it in to the marine shop.

They will most likely have the parts that need replacing in stock, it's a quick job about 1/2 hour tops so shouldn't cost to much to repair.

p.s. Please don't be disappointed with you O/B after 45 yrs things are bound to malfunction I would know.

Answer 2

Not too hard to fix as it probably is the spring mentioned above. If you own that old a motor better start to learn now how to fix it. Disassemble carefully and lay the parts out in order as they come off. You will probably find the tang that attaches one of the coiled spring ends had pulled out or broke off. You may find a replacement part but it is unlikely. Always keep an eye out for a spare engine for your parts supply. Anyway if you have to fix a break in the spring end, shape it to the piece that broke and any major bends that need to be done might need some heat but you must then quickly give it a rapid cooling to prevent the metal from annealing. Worst case is you have to take your engine with a small bag of parts to a shop if you get stuck. If you have the money, just send it out but it may cost more than it is worth in the labor. This time of year the yards are busy too, and a replacement motor will cost a bit more, but save you the headache. Don't forget to put a fresh rope in when you finally get it together and get the spring tension right (a long trial and error). You would hate to break that old rope after your labors, and take it easy on the "arm" you put into starting.