Why won't kickstarter go back together?

[Buzz Bomb]

I took my kickstarter off to grease the pivot knuckle piece, and I can't get it back together. Theres a little spring loaded ball bearing that won't go back in. How do I get the piece back on? That little spring is STIFF!!

 

[MikeT]

Maybe there is some dirt in the hole keeping the spring from going in. Pull out the ball bearing and spring and wash everything out with brake cleaner. Then re lube it with grease and reassemble. Be careful and don't lose the parts. Remember when you put it on, you dont have to (initally) get it all the way in, just enough to get it by the shaft.