Hi Bruce
That sums it up. I bought the mower (very) cheap with a rip cord that wouldn't retract. Upon investigation I discovered that the centre bolt that is meant to hold the recoil/starter mechanism in place was missing and the "post" that it fits into appeared to be damaged as well (stripped thread perhaps? but it is hard to tell).
It is interesting that the model number on the engine cowling does not match the rest of the motor
Regards,
Langdon
