Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman chain saw model #358.350870, retainer springs, starter dogs

Question
Brand new last year and hardly used.  Took it out of the celler and cleaned it.  Went to start it up and the start roped doesn't recoil.  Tap on the side of the housing and it will slowly recoil.  Tried putting a little bar chain oil inside (not sure if that was a good idea).l  Letting it set now and if won't start tomorrow if you don't have a solution I go back to sears to get it repaired.  Thanks for any help.

Answer
Hi George,

When you find that your rope isn't recoiling,& it doesn't have to do with > binding problem (within recoil), the problem is the Spring possibly broke.  

Note: You must delete spring tension by cutting (or untying) knot
(handle) & guiding pull-rope slowly rewind > the pulley.

Remove the bolt/nut and separate the friction plate. Depending on your  model, you can refer to your manual on how to do this.  Lift out the pulley and separate it from the spring.  A diagram of the pulley assembly, for reference would be helpful.

Check your starter dogs, the starter cup, the retainer, springs, rope, washer and the starter pulley in case it's defective or worn.  Once you determine which part of your starting mechanism not working you can  repair the necessary part.

Regards,

Howard