Recoil Springs

[Lane Ranger 10,943]

I have two recoil starters for Wheel horse projects that I am about to tackle. I have an old five bolt aluminum recoil for a K 181T and a four bolt Kohler recoil -similar to four bolt Tecumseh for an RJ.

I have two new springs to replace the old ones Big one is corroded and small one may still be good but needs rewound).

I just wondered if any Red Square members had suggestions or technigues to offer to get the recoil spings in the housings. I will be replacing the pull ropes and handles also.

I saw a real need tool on the web called an EZ Coil Recoil Spring tool for $60 plus dollars that rewinds recoil starter springs and has several different size cups to set the springs back in a recoil housing.

But $60 is a steep price for just a couple recoil projects . It might be ok for a shop (and maybe a small engine shop may have one I will have to check locally).

Any how I would appreciate any advice that members may have on rebuilding one of these recoils!

Thank you!

[sorekiwi 761]

I HATE doing recoil springs. I've seen the video of that winder and it looks slick.

The last one I did was for a Briggs and the new spring came with a little plastic tool thingy that fitted in the middle. Dont really remember the details, but it wasnt too much of a pain. I'll have to have a think and try to remember the details.

The Tecumseh and Kohler ones I've done were a huge PITA.

[Lane Ranger 10,943]

PAIN IN THE HANDS too! You can poke your eye out when that spring goes flying!

[squonk 41,013]

I don't even bother. I take them to local OPE shop. They laugh at me and charge me 5 bucks! :)