replacing pull cord for suffolk punch 43s ?

i have brought a second hand punch 43s will electric pull cord ignition. i have used it a couple of times, but last time i tried to start it the pull cord came out. i have looked at it, taken the cover off and tried to fix it. each time i think i might get some where the cord comes out again. do i have to tie it to something? or overlap the cord? any help would be great!