Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 6.0 lawn mower Model 917.387300, recoil starters, rope and pulley

Question
The pull string broke. After I replaced it the pull string will no longer retract when I pull it. I have to rewind the string by hand. Can you let me know what the problem is?

Answer
 Hello Robert:

 *The Model Numbers Required to View a Breakdown are on the Engine.* The Recoil Spring May be Broken. Did you Wind the Spring in the Recoil Starter Before Installing the Rope and Handle? Here is the Rope Replacement Instructions for Most Recoil Starters. **Remove the Housing from the Engine. Look Into the Housing and Remove the Old Rope from the Plastic Pulley and Hole. Once the Old Rope is Removed, Turn the Pulley Towards the Hole in the Housing Until the Spring is Tight. Now Reverse the Pulley 1 to 2 Turns and Line Up the Hole in the Pulley and the Hole in the Housing. Push the Rope through the Plastic Pulley Hole and Out through the Housing Hole. Pull the Rope Until the Knot is Tight Against the Plastic Pulley. Tie a Slip Knot in the Rope to Hold the Rope and Pulley while you Attach the Handle. Release the Slip Knot and the Rope should Return to the Proper Position. Reattach the Housing to the Engine. If the Spring is Broken, then Replace the Spring too. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John