dhoward had the best advise. The little plastic fingers that are suppose to catch in a groove on the actual plunger are worn out. I thing the o-ring is a great idea. I moved the little rubber boot up on mine and circled a thin piece of wire around it an twisted it tight. Put the rubber thing back down and it is still working 10 months later. Also just hold it up and kick, once your bike starts you dont need it anyway.