By Mark van der Feyst
The power saw is started with a pull chord that jump starts the engine. The pull chord is only a thin piece of cotton rope tied to a coil device. This rope develops wear and tear as it is pulled in a fast and quick fashion to start a saw. The chord is sometimes neglected during the saw’s routine inspection. The chord can be pulled out slowly and fully extended so that it can be inspected properly.
Replace the chord when signs of wear and tear are present. This can be easily done by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Also make sure the hole where the chord travels through is not developing sharp burrs, which will rub against the rope and cause chaffing. Use a small round file to remove the burrs.