Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Replacing Starter Gear on Briggs & Stratton Engine for MTD Lawn Tractor, briggs stratton engine, briggs stratton

Question
This is a follow-up question from an answer you gave last year to someone with a similar problem.  Somehow the starter gear came off the starter shaft and I wish to reinstall it.  The problem is:  What is the best way to get sufficient clearance between the starter shaft and the flywheel ring gear teeth in order to insert the starter gear back onto the starter shaft?  My engine is a Briggs & Stratton Model #42A707, Type 1238-01 (2 cyliner, 18 hp).  It is on a MTD Yard machine Model #136Q695G118.  Per your earlier reply to "Paul" (2/23/2009), I am able to remove the "c" clip and bevel washer from the starter shaft.  The gear (plastic) is not too worn.

Answer
Hello Mike:

>>Remove the Starter from the Engine and then Replace the Starter Drive Gear.
>>Make Sure the Bevel Edge of the Gear is Place Towards the Flywheel Ring Gear.
>>Check the Starter Gear and make sure it is Not Cracked. If Cracked it can Spin Off the Starter Shaft (even going Over the Clip and Bevel Washer).
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/ and Enter the Model Numbers  and the Type Numbers(XXXXXX-XXXX-XX) in the Appropriate Box and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. All Follow up Questions are Accepted at Any Time. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John