How to Replace the Ratchet on a Makita Cut-Off Saw

The ratchet is part of your saw's starter system. It consists of an assembly of starter pawls and springs that are attached to a mounting plate. The ratchet is located just behind the starter assembly. When the starter rope is pulled, the notches on the starter pulley engage the pawls of the ratchet. This rotates the clutch, and the engine turns-over. Over time, the starter pawls can wear or become damaged. The springs can also break. Either situation requires replacement of the ratchet.

Let's get started.

REMOVING THE RATCHET   1. Remove the belt cover.

a. Remove the nuts from the side of the belt cover.

b. Loosen the belt tensioning screw to relieve the tension on the v-belt.

c. Remove the belt cover.

  2. Remove the clutch cover.

a. Remove the three screws securing the clutch cover to the saw.

b. Remove the clutch cover. (The starter assembly can remain attached to the clutch cover.)

  3. Remove the ratchet.

a. Remove the three screws securing the ratchet to the clutch.

b. Remove the ratchet from the saw.

INSTALLING THE NEW RATCHET

  4. Install the ratchet.

a. Align the new ratchet with the clutch assembly.

b. Secure the new ratchet with the three screws.

REASSEMBLING THE UNIT

  5. Reinstall the clutch cover (and starter).

a. Install the clutch cover (and starter assembly) onto the saw.

b. Secure the clutch cover with the screws.

  6. Reinstall the belt cover.

a. Install the belt cover.

b. Install and partially tighten the nuts (by hand).

c. Tension the belt.

d. Tighten the nuts.