Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snapper pull cord stuck, broken spring, snapper

Question
Hi Michael,

I have a walk behind, non self propelled, hi-vac Snapper that I bought last spring. I cut about half my yard before changing the bag. When I went to restart the mower, the cord pulled out easily but did not rewind. It was out of gas, so I filled the tank and reprimed, but the cord stayed out and I can't restart. I can rewind it manually by taking the cover off, but the mower will not start. It rewinds a couple of inches by itself, but that's all.

What can I do to get the string to pop back in?

Thanks,
Allen  

Answer
Hi Allen,

You will need to remove and disassemble the recoil assembly.  I suspect a broken spring.  You might find something else broken though.  Any part should be easily replaceable.  Write back for details if you get to that point.  

Let me know how you make out.
Michael