I have a Snapper riding mower with a 12 hp B & S I/C engine. I was trying to replace the plastic tooth gear on the electric starter but could not figure how to get the old gear off. In the process, I took out the bolts hoding the starter assembly together. I then removed the bottom plate exposing the 4 motor brushes which of course, popped out because they're spring loaded. Now, I can't get them to stay in place so I can put it back together. Any suggeastions! I'm frustrated at this point.

Craig, April 2006

There is a tool to hold the brushes back for assembly.
You can make a similar tool by taking any narrow piece of spring steel, banding or sheet metal and bend it into a long "U' shape. The open end of the "U" holds the brushes while you slide the armature together. As for removing the pinion, there are 2 types. One type in held on with a roll pin that has to be driven out with a punch. The other type is held on with a C-clip on the end of the shaft above the gear. The C-clip type is very challanging without the proper tools.

Rick, April 2006