Starter cord ?

[Angore]

I wonder if there's a way to determine the correct diameter starter rope by measuring the sheave onto which it will be wound ?
My question is not specifically geared tword any brand or piece of equipment. Just looking to have some on hand in case something happens.
I have ordered 25' each of 3.0 mm & 3.5 mm rope.
Thank you for reading and your insight.

 

[GMB74]

Measuring the width of the sheave can be a misleading method. Usually the sheave is made a bit wide to guide the cord into place. I have found the best way to determine the proper size is to look it up in the IPL for that piece of equipment. If the diameter is not stated in the listing, a quick google search of the part number should reveal the size.
Another way is to remove the broken cord and measure the diameter near the end attached to the sheave. The cord will not have been worn much since it has not been unwound that far and should still be the correct diameter.
The two sizes you have purchased will fit most chain saws and other small engines. Larger 8+ HP engines will require something heavier, and there are smaller engines and ones with Easy-start systems that will require smaller cord.

 

[Squareground3691]

Width of pulley , should be diameter of cord ,assuming it’s a chainsaw ur talking about.

 

[Angore]

Measuring the width of the sheave can be a misleading method. Usually the sheave is made a bit wide to guide the cord into place. I have found the best way to determine the proper size is to look it up in the IPL for that piece of equipment. If the diameter is not stated in the listing, a quick google search of the part number should reveal the size.
Another way is to remove the broken cord and measure the diameter near the end attached to the sheave. The cord will not have been worn much since it has not been unwound that far and should still be the correct diameter.
The two sizes you have purchased will fit most chain saws and other small engines. Larger 8+ HP engines will require something heavier, and there are smaller engines and ones with Easy-start systems that will require smaller cord.

Thank you .
"IPL" ?

 

[hacskaroly]

"IPL" ?

Information Parts Listing - ususally you can find one by searching in google with like "Husqvarna 2100 IPL .pdf". Some are easier to find than others. Here is a page from a Husky 272 IPL for an example:



Depending on the equipment, having a variety of pull cord is handy, too small and it will likely break too soon, too large and it will bind up in the pulley.

 

[RCBS]

Seems like the breakover for the larger size is at 60cc? I do have a couple lengths stashed but rarely if ever have broken a pull rope. I can remember only once many years ago on my small echo. I worked on small engines for 3 years at one time, never broke a single rope. Have seen everything up to using 1/8" SS wire rope on a 9hp Honda engine as far as modifications/'field repairs'. Seen twisted poly, soft braided nylon used as well.

Why y'all pulling on these things so hard?

 

[Angore]

Thanks for the replies . I'm asking because this old gifted Craftsman was was wound with chute cord and I'd like to have the right stuff on it .

 

[GMB74]

Go to searspartsdirect.com . Insert your model number in the search box, numbers only, no dot after the first 3 digits.
That should bring up the IPL and give you a part number for the cord.
Google search for the part number and see what comes up.
Also search ebay, you may find a listing that says something like "9/64 starter cord, will replace part number xxxxxxx"

 

[Angore]

Thanks , I think that little foil tag holding the P/N is long gone though.
I'll check after work....

 

[GMB74]

That looks like a Poulan-built (model 917.xxxxx) saw. #4 cord ( 1/8 inch, 3mm) should work.

 

[Angore]

That looks like a Poulan-built (model 917.xxxxx) saw. #4 cord ( 1/8 inch, 3mm) should work.

Thank you kindly .