On Tue, 2 Aug 2016 20:30:04 -0000 (UTC), Tim+
wrote:

snip

I think the spring has been hit by the blade and acquired an extra bend.

You are probably right.

The long straight end is clearly meant to be located in the "tunnel" in the
flap.

But the other way up (the wire away from the flap itself, as per
Chris's model / picture)?

If the spring was threaded on to the pivot the other way around the
end with the loop on it might rest in the recess in the mower body.

Agreed.

The
notch in the flap would suggest that the looped end should be "outboard"
rather than inboard.

Agreed.

You may be able to get rid of the blade induced kink if it's not too badly
damaged but a new spring is probably needed.

If I was to try I think I'd straighten it I'd do it in a vice or
press, rather than trying to manhandle it into the right shape but (as
you say) if they are cheap, it's probably not worth it.

I mean, what made it come off in the first place?

Cheers, T i m