Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman riding mower, retaining ring, flywheel

Question
Hi.
i have an older craftsman riding mower, 11 hp, that i need to replace the "plastic" gear to the flywheel that pops up from the starter. The gear looks like it has upper and lower teeth and the upper ones are stripped off so it doesnt engage with the flywheel.
My problem is there is a clip at the top that holds a spring and then the plastic gear down. i cant seem to figure out how to remove this clip.
It looks like it has two halves and should release somehow?/  any help you can provide would be great!

Mark  

Answer
Hi Mark,

Is the clip a circular "retaining ring"?  It would have 2 small holes for a tool to either squeeze or expand it.  If no holes, and actually 2 halves, then it should come off when the pressure of the spring is relieved, by pushing the gear down.

Let me know what you find,
Michael