Repair for craftsman chainsaw?

[188560]

I have a craftsman 18in chainsaw. After a few uses pull cord busted; recoil spring didn't work. I tore it apart and tediously put back together. Worked a little, but busted again. I got fed up and bought a Stihl ms290.Night and Day. My question is if there is an aftermarket part that will fix my craftsman?

 

[Catskill]

I got fed up and bought a Stihl

From your lips to Gods ears!

(but to answer your question... I doubt it)

 

[cmonSTART]

I doubt it too. You might be able to get some aftermarket spring from Oregon or Stens but it will probably be the exact same thing.

Congrats on the new saw!

 

[Catskill]

I was hoping you'd chime in.... it seems like you're the resident expert.

 

[computeruser]

What exactly is breaking? The rope, and if so, where? The spring? Something else?

I have seen a number of cheap-o saws that like to wear out ropes on rough surfaces inside the starter mechanism and particularly on the metal piece that the rope goes through en route to the handle. If this is your problem, some file/dremel time can clean things up. A better quality starter rope will help, too (go to a saw shop, buy a length of good starter rope, replace).

 

[188560]

I pull the rope and it won't recoil. It's like the spring doesn't have enough tension. Part of the spring will actually pop out of the housing. I have to pull the rope housing off and pull the spring out, put it on a bench; wind it and attempt to reinstall. That's what i get for buying a clearance item from sears. I bought an electric hedge trimmer from there also and it doesn't cut worth a darn. Is there anything with Craftsman stamped on it that is worth buying?