Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Recoil starter, engine model type, self propelled lawn mower

Question
QUESTION: Hi Eric - I have a B&S engine on my self-propelled lawn mower.  My problem is with the ratchet pawls and the friction plate.  The friction plate fits into a notch on the pulley.  When the rope is pulled, the friction plate rotates releasing the pawls, to turn the flywheel.  When the rope is released, the pawls retract into the pulley.  On my engine, when the rope is pulled, the friction plate moves out of the slot, which causes the friction plate to warp.  This releases the ratchet pawls out too far, and they do not retract into the pulley.  The rope then will not recoil on the pulley.  Why is the friction plate jumping out of the notch on the pulley?  How can I prevent this from happening?  I have replaced the pulley and spring, friction plate and pawls, and it still happens.

ANSWER: Are there pawl posts or retaining pins in the starter pulley broke?  Seen this before.  What is the engine model, type and code number?  I'm betting you can find a used starter for cheap or a new one that is inexpensive.
Check the pulley.  If possible, compare it to a new one.
Eric

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QUESTION: The pawl posts are not broken.  The pawls are set in postion between the friction plate and the pulley. The friction plate has grooves which allow the pawls to release outward to engage the flywheel.  However, when the starter rope is pulled, the friction plate moves out of the notch on the pulley causing the friction plate to warp, allowing the pawls to release outward too far.  The pawls are now out too far, and will not retract into the pulley when the rope is released.  The rope then will not retract into the pulley.  Sometimes the pawls are out too far, and fall out of their postion.  I bought new B&S pulley with spring, friction plate, and pawls, which did not cure the problem.  I did reuse the starter housing and the screw and retaining clip that attaches the friction plate to the pulley.  My model number is 128602-0149E1-051005FA, B&S 7.0 Intek OHV.

ANSWER: Are there little channels in the pawl cover? What was the pulley part number you used?

Eric

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QUESTION: There are channels in the pawl cover or friction plate.  The pawl cover part # is 692299.  The pulley/spring assembly part # is 498144.  The pawl part # is 281505S.

Answer
The part numbers are correct so there must be something with either the housing or the starter pawl cover....may be the pawls are not lined up in the pawl cover.

How tight are you tightening the retaining screw?  If you re-asseble the starter and then loosen the retaining screw a couple of turns will the start function?

Eric