Recoil starter issue?

[6tring]

1975 Johnson 6 hp.

I have to pull the starter rope out quickly to have the pinion gear travel up the spool to engage the flywheel. If I pull at a slower rate the pinion gear will stay at the bottom position. I have four other 6 hp Johnson motors of varied years. The slightest slowest pull of the starter rope the pinion gear will start its climb of the spool for the flywheel on them all.. The roll pin is in place so is the clip spring that hugs onto the spool. The guides for the roll pin are smooth and unobstructed. All parts are clean and in position.. I am puzzled at this point.

Any thoughts or suggestions on this matter.

 

[racerone]

Increase tension on that clip spring.-----Make sure there is no grease on it.

 

[6tring]

Thanks for suggestion Racer. I will try that and report results.

 

[6tring]

I removed the spring and pressed the two legs inward to add more tension. Cleaned the spring groove on the pinion gear.
Now works better than ever. The slightest pull on the starter rope and the gear will start its climb up the spool.
Thanks Racer for your help.