Changing a pull starter cord on BS model 12S802 - Quantum XM35

[jft3875]

New on the forum with a stupid question:
The starter cord of my lawn mower just broke minutes ago.
Engine is Briggs & Stratton Model 12S802 - Type 0899-01, name plate is tagged Quantum XM35 (possibly it's an European market model). The engine is only ca 15y old but with a few hours (10y dry storage), no operating pb, starts easily and runs fine ... so far.

I took off the plastic cover which is on top of the engine.
The cover of the pull cord assembly seems to be riveted (not bolted), should I drill the rivets to change the cord or is there some trick?

Thank you for your help!
JFT

 

[Rivets]

I wouldn't drill out the rivets. Remove the four bolts and one small screw, to remove the entire shroud. Easy to do and will take less than 30 minutes to get you back running.

 

[jft3875]

I wouldn't drill out the rivets. Remove the four bolts and one small screw, to remove the entire shroud. Easy to do and will take less than 30 minutes to get you back running.

Thank you Rivets: indeed, I found the bolts after draining and removing the gas tank. Changing the cord is then a piece of cake .... if you have the right diameter cord: mine, a 4 mm one, was a bit to thick and I had to devise some engineering tricks to succeed forcing it in the guiding holes .... but at the end of the day it works and, hopefuly it may last another 10 y (if some other essential part does not breakdown meanwhile).

Anyway thank you for your kind support, I do appreciate.

 

[pugaltitude]

There is a way of not removing any shrouds or fuel tank if the rope hasnt snapped.

Pull the rope right put and put a screwdriver through the cover slots to lock the pulley.
Now push the rope out of pulley and force through slots using picks or screwdriver.
Cut the knot and fit a new rope.
2 minute job.