On Mon, 5 Sep 2005 17:22:12 -0400, "Betsy" wrote:

It's not very old--2000. And the lawnmower he owns is 15 years old, and
started easily. There is a lot more initial resistance on the starter rope,
but give it a good pull and it engages the engine.


From your description it sounds like the engine in your lawn mower is
worn. As the engine wears compression is reduced which causes you to
have to pull the rope harder or faster than you had to when the engine
was new. The only practical solution to this is to replace the motor.
It can be repaired but with parts and labor prices being what they are
it is often just cheaper to replace it.

Several have suggested that you use automotive starting fluid. This
is an excellent suggestion and will probably get you several more
years out of this mower. Just spray some starting fluid in the air
filter and pull the rope. Should start up like a charm.

Steve B.