Verified answer

it'll have a yellow knob at the back which you pull out.That puts it in the ready to cut position. You have to press down on the handle when pulling the knob.

You might go online to Ryobi's website. I believe they have users manuals which can be downloaded. I also believe they sell replacement parts for their products. Explain your situation to them and see what they can do. Another option is to go to Home Depot and talk with someone in the tools section and see what they recommend. Home Depot is a retailer for Ryobi products.