Recoil starter doesn't engage flywheel

[r0ttie1]

I have a Proyama pcs68 that has been a good saw. I tried to start it the other day and when you pull the starter cord, it doesn't engage the flywheel. Cord still retracts, just doesn't engage. Any suggestions?

 

[MacAttack]

Yeah, the recoil pawls (those metal legs on the flywheel held on by Phillips screws) are supposed to spring back close to the flywheel nut when the engine is at rest. They either need a little cleaning and oil to move freely again, or maybe they need new springs. It's also possible they're not installed correctly?
Look closely at the flywheel on this old saw and you can see what I mean, the recoil pawls are snug up against the flywheel nut.

 

[r0ttie1]

Yeah, the recoil pawls (those metal legs on the flywheel held on by Phillips screws) are supposed to spring back close to the flywheel nut when the engine is at rest. They either need a little cleaning and oil to move freely again, or maybe they need new springs. It's also possible they're not installed correctly?
Look closely at the flywheel on this old saw and you can see what I mean, the recoil pawls are snug up against the flywheel nut.

View attachment 1215453

You were correct. For some reason the pawls didn't spring back. They appear to be working now. I appreciate the knowledge. Learn something new every day.