Hi Sapper
can't remember what I said but with the thumblatch catcher problems the flymo catcher is a good fit just have to make a new flap which is pretty simple. Also Rover catchers can be fitted the same way.
W ith the pull start first check to see if the spring still catches by rotating the plastic pulley clockwise and letting it go to see if it will spring back. If not you will have to pull it apart and re-bend the spring. Not too complex. If you want to refit the starter and you don't have a new "O" ring a wipe of silicone on the ring will do for testing purposes. Do you know how to get the cable released from the cam and carb body? Once released you will be able to tell if the cable is the problem, they don't rust often but they do get bent when people try fitting them to the carb and they get a kink in them. That will do for the moment, just work your way through one bit at a time and ask questions as you go and we will try to get you the answers,