This demonstration guide answers one field question about pawls that no longer catch the flywheel cup. Measurements come before parts, and the notes are not a generic equipment FAQ.
Diagnose before replacing parts
Start with pawl spring tension and cup notch wear. That reading separates pawls that no longer catch the flywheel cup from adjacent faults that share the same complaint.
If the measurement is out of spec, treat the pawls as the primary path. If it is in spec, do not replace the pawls just to complete a parts list.
Repair the failed system
The usual correction is the pawls, installed to the documented spec for this complaint.
A demonstration shop records the finding so the next technician is not repeating a guess about pawls that no longer catch the flywheel cup.
Stop before you make it worse
Do not using a drill on the flywheel nut to start it. That shortcut hides the original measurement and creates a second failure.
If the machine still fails after the pawls is corrected, convert the visit to a broader diagnosis rather than stacking parts.
Written and published by Ridgeline Small Engine.