Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears Craftsman Weed Eater, sears craftsman, weed eater

Question
The starter pulley broke and I got a new part. I can't get the pulley chord to retract. Can you walk me through the steps. Do you know how I can get a technical breakdown picture of the weed eater. I do not have the owners manual Sears Craftsman Weed Eater Model # 358-798490. Thank you so much.

Answer
The starter spring should be installed in the housing.

Once the spring is in place, wind the rope on the pulley.  There should be a slot on the edge of the pulley.  Leave about 6 inches of rope hanging off the pulley but inside the slot.

Place pulley in housing and secure with orginal screw(s).  With everything in place you should be able to rotate the starter pulley with the 6 inches of rope you left out.  You should feel the spring start to tension right away.  If you do not feel the tension the the pulley is not engaging the spring or you are turning the pulley the wrong way.  When tension is felt continue to rotate 3-5 revolutions.  Feed the string through the pulley housing hole and install handle.  If the rope will not retract all the way just wind the pulley another rotation or 2.

Sears online has a good IPL diagram.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric