Husqvarna Chainsaw Starter Rope Replacement

This Husqvarna chainsaw starter rope replaces the pull cord in the recoil starter. A frayed cord tends to snap at the worst time, usually on a cold morning in the middle of a job, so it is worth swapping at the first sign of wear.

Why starter cords wear out

Every pull drags the cord across the starter housing eyelet. Over time it frays, glazes or wears thin. Pulling the cord at an angle, letting it snap back, or yanking it all the way to the end of its travel speeds that up.

Small and top-handle saws often use a thinner cord than larger saws, so confirm the right size for your model.

Carry a spare cord in the saw box. Restringing in the field is easier than walking back to the truck, and a snapped cord at the top of a removal can stop a whole crew. Cut the cord to the same length as the old one. A cord that is too long can tangle inside the starter, and one that is too short makes the saw harder to start.

Restringing tips

Remove the starter housing, release spring tension carefully and remove the old cord. Thread the new cord, tie the knot as the old one was tied, and wind the pulley to preload the spring per the service manual. The handle should sit snug against the housing at rest. Wear eye protection when working with recoil springs.

Start the saw with a smooth pull, not a jerk. More service items are in our chainsaw parts section.