Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 86 Snapper Walk Behind Mower, pulley system, walk behind mower

Question
Hey Michael,
The pull rope starter on the B&S engine will not disengage. I took the Pulley system apart, there was a slight tangle in the rope, so I removed it and put everything pack togeather. It pulled out and recoiled fine, but when I put it back on the mower it still was in a locked position. Does this mean The clutch is bad? Thank you for your help -Unexperienced

Answer
Hi Amy,

I a bit confused as to the exact problem.  If the recoil works fine off the engine it should work on it.  What is the locked position that you describe?  Does the rope not rewind in the recoil assembly or does the engine not pull over?  The clutch you refer is probably bendix unit and that may be the problem.  Does it rotate freely in one direction, while locking in the other?

Let me know.
Michael