There is nothing wrong with it I just dont have enough strength in my arms to pull the cord sufficiently enough for it to kick in. I have tried tying the handle with string and using both hands but to no avail. It is relatively new (less than 2 years old) but it seems only a very strong man can get it to go. Does anyone else have this problem?

Sue, September 2012

There is something wrong with it. My 9-year-old (girl) can start my B&S mower 1st pull.

Does the flywheel brake (if fitted) fully disengage when you pull the lever on the handle? The engine should rotate with very little resistance when the starter rope is pulled.

If you are weaker that average for whatever reason, there are electric-start versions of many mowers - even budget ones, or you could fit a used electric-start engine to your mower. Not a difficult job if all the parts are to hand.

phil_saunders(a)bigfoot.com

Phil Saunders, September 2012