If the string breaks that can be fixed..... most times. I would'nt try to repair the spring. #1 it's very small and it's a spring. If you have a desire to try, WEAR SAFTEY GLASSES!! It wants to unwind and 1 slip and you'll poke your eye out![X(] #2 The edges of the spring are VERY SHARP! Again if you just half to try, I would suggest wearing thin leather gloves. When you remove the engine, you need to remove the 4 tiny screws holding the pullstarter on. DON'T lose them! The spring has probably broke and no one that I know of here on the forums has successfully repaired one. Best bet is to buy a new one, or like Mark [sm=48_48.gif] suggested and buy a starter box or other electric starter. OH, and those little screws, they don't come with the new starter. Same goes for the OWB.