Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda HRU215 Mower starter cord, recoil spring, starter cord

Question
Whilst replacing starter cord on Honda HRU215 the grips I used to hold reel from slipping moved and subsequently the reel unwound. I now can not rewind the spring - it just keeps turning as I wind. Have been winding anti clockwise and also tried clockwise.
Any suggestions??

Answer
The spring may have broke or may be bent and not catching on the pulley or starter housing.  Have you removed the starter pulley and examined the starter spring?

If the end of the spring is bent you can try bending it back to catch on the pulley or starter housing.  However, I have not had much success bending springs...it is usually better to replace a bad starter recoil spring.

Let me know.
Eric