Saving Old Seagulls

Hello,
Any information would be helpful.
I recently purchased a seagull engine with a SIBA recoil start and electronic ignition. engine no. ESC593HHE.
Although seems to be in good condition with a healthy spark the recoil cord needed to be replaced as a bit worn,
On removing the bolts holding the recoil to the mag base plate I expected to lift the recoil away, in order to replace the starter cord.
It would only raise by about 1/2", I then had no option but to drill the heads from the rivets that held the blue recoil from the main body. I then found an alternative (emergency) rope starting plate which was of no use as it had to be removed in order to release the the remaining recoil starter body.
Having owned seagulls from the mid 60's this is all new to me, as they were basic, I'm not sure if this engine has been altered or whether you now need to carry a cordless drill as well as spanners in case the recoil fails and you need to gain access to revert to the rope to start the engine or call for the lifeboat.I find it hard to believe seagull could knowingly complicate what for decades was a simple get you home engine.
Any help would be grateful on this matter.
Kind Regards.

Never used one myself, try http://www.saving-old-seagulls.co.uk/no ... talgia.htm

Some information on the Siba recoil start that may help.

Can't understand where your problem lies these are usually self explanitory.

We need pictures to see the problem.

From the top of the recoil to the magneto base plate yours should have the following fixings,

4 pop rivits holding recoil to support ring,

2 slotted or cap head screws holding support ring to flywheel cover.

4 hex headed bolts holding flywheel cover to magneto base plate.

You don't have to remove flywheel cover just remove the support ring, remove pop rivits & refit starter rope.

Unless it's been fixed in Tasi with no access to the right parts.

Hello Keith,
Just got home, long day Many thanks for the info will have a look tomorrow
Kind regards john.

Hello Charles,
Many thanks for your response,If I understand you right there is a separation joint below the recoil riveted top.
the two screws you mention are missing and from inspection of the unit there are casting seams in both sections that don't line up which confirm there are two parts. I have now got to figure out how to separate them as they appear to be as one.
Owing to my very limited knowledge of computer use I will get my son to post pictures in the next couple of days.
Kind Regards and Many Thanks John.