It has been a while since I have rebuilt a starter for my murry rider . How do I hold the brushes in while putting rear cap back on . Have tried paper clips and starts to work but then they pop loose before it all togather. 12 hp single cylinder 38 cut 38608x12c date code 3160

Hi,
Put the commutator/armature in the base and hold down and in place as you put the assembly up into the magnet/outer case.
Peace,
Clarke

Its probably not worth rebuilding that starter. When mine went out, I replaced the entire starter at Auto Zone for under 20 bucks. Much easier, I assure you!