Advice on removing broken pawl spring

[robwm]

Servicing my winches I've run into a small problem .... one of the pawls has a spring that has one broken off "arm/leg" (?) As a result I am having a problem removing the pawl from its seat/channel so that I can replace the spring and clean off the pawl. The pawl actually works engaging and snapping back freely, however I am worried that this might not last long and would like to make it right.

Again only one of the arms/legs of the spring is accessible the other one broke off and doesn't show; this prevents the pawl from sliding out of its sleeve/channel. Right now my only choice seems to be to grasp and pull on the remaining leg hoping that it will allow me to pull the spring out; however I worry that if the remaining leg breaks off then I have an even worse issue on my hands.

Any advice/trick on best way to remove the spring? thanks in advance,

Robert,
1982/1983 CD22
Lakeway, TX

[jbenagh]

Robert,
if these are Lewmars the service kit they sell (with oil, grease, etc) includes a few extra pawl springs. Just ensure you get all the old broken bits out when you do the service. It should be straightforward to get the old bits out with a screwdriver or needlenose or pick. Especially once you clean the parts with paint thinner or kerosene to break up the old grease.
Jeff

[bottomscraper]

I'm not generally a big fan of Harbor Freight tools but this set of hooks and picks is super handy.

https://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-p ... 93514.html

[robwm]

Thanks Rich, those pics look like just what I need! .... I don't get why they made those little springs with such short "arms" (saving on SS wire? )

[mgphl52]

If you're "on good terms" with your dentist, they may provide you with some old dental picks.