Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): chainsaw, recoil starter, pulley

Question
My Mcculloch 40cc chainsaw makes a ratcheting noise when I try to pull start it.  Like it's not catching, but it does sometimes when I pull it slow enough.  The teeth on the back of the pulley are all there it's slipping inside 4 some reason.  Can you help?

Answer
john

Inside the recoil starter there is a spring which brings back the cord after you pull it out. This sounds like your spring is broke or not installed correctly. You would need to take the recoil off and see whats going on. Be Careful of the spring as it is wound tight and if you let it unwind you can get hurt.