I have an MTD Yard-Man (model 2476.371060, serial # 1A100C10904) maybe 8 years old or so. I went to start it first time this season. It starts with a pull string. It started right away but the pull string broke inside the housing. It broke only an inch or so from where it attaches to a rotary wheel. I took off the top cover and pulled out the knotted remnant of the string with a needlenose. I intended to thread the rest of the string through the same opening but it doesn't thread. I thought I'd have to remove a vented cover to thread it correctly, but lo-and-behold, the cover is rivetted onto the engine housing. Plus I think the rotary wheel must be turned a few time before the rope is attached to prime the tension (not true??). I don't see how I can do these things without taking that vented cover off.

Is ther some way I can fix this myself?

Thanks...
--Steve Netzman

Garden - Mtd - LAWN MOWER PART # 683-0275A PEDAL Assembly-DECK