PMRacing
PMRacing GRM+ Memberand UltraDork
3/26/22 3:53 p.m.

I have a Homelite LR4400 generator. I went to do a test run and warm up today.  The pull cord had no resistance. It wasn't disconnected though. I took apart the cover to see what was going on.  This piece free spins:

It is supposed to spin the flywheel.  I don't see any way of getting this apart without engine disassembly.  How berkeleyed am I?  Crate engine time?

Thanks as always!

Oapfu
Oapfu GRM+ Memberand New Reader
3/26/22 5:55 p.m.

The entire clutch assembly should be threaded onto the end of the crankshaft.  Otherwise, try popping the black cover off of the potmetal housing.  There should be loose ball bearings inside.  Those can get stuck disengaged (do NOT pack the inside with grease!), or else something just broke.

random pic of the inside:

PMRacing
PMRacing GRM+ Memberand UltraDork
3/26/22 6:04 p.m.

Thanks!  I wasn't sure if that cover was any kind of seal. I'll check it out.

PMRacing
PMRacing GRM+ Memberand UltraDork
3/29/22 8:13 a.m.

So it was the starter clutch.  Thanks, Oapfu!

I disassembled and cleaned out the clutch. But everytime the engine runs, the clutch stops working again. A swift kick to the end fixes it for now. I added a spacer thinking the spring pushing the clutch in might be getting weak too.  Didn't quite work.  I have a work around for now but will need to figure out a better fix in the future. 

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