Get the correct air filter. The one you have will cause the engine to run rich. It blocks too much air.
For the electric start bendix, there is a thrust washer that belongs between the case, and the nose shaft. It is a very thin stainless washer.
Also it is easy to clean the bendix with PB blaster sprayed inside to be sure it retracts fully. WD 40 will work but just for a short while.
The kicker... Either the spring on the kicker broke OR one of the pins that hold the spring on the case.
I would also take the variator back off, and reinstall it. Make SURE the belt is away from the center shaft when you tighten it back up. The belt will force the pulley sideways, and that will make it "tick" on the bendix.
Also Use BLUE Lok Tite on the big nut. They come loose all the time.