I have a patio umbrella (Souther Patio model UMB446922) crank tyoe where the cord snapped, how do I restring, I removed the crank cover but there appears to be a lock washer of some sort which holds the nut from being loosened so I can not remove the crank. I went to the manufacturers web site without any luck.

I have the same problem and same question

Hi, hdebray!

Did you get your problem solved, please?

Thanks!

Not having a piano wire to probe inside the column I jury rigged a solution so the umbrella and patio table looks a bit like a sail. I just tied the broken end to another cord and used the crank as a cleat. It works for me.
Thanks for the response.
H