Abstract: A damage-free actuating mechanism for an action toy of the type in which an object is reciprocally moved between retracted and extended positions in response to the rotation of a pair of wheels. The actuating mechanism comprises a crankshaft secured to a pair of wheels, and a pivotal lever coupling the crank of the crankshaft to the object. Accordingly, normal rotation of the wheels and crankshaft imparts reciprocal movement to the object between retracted and extended positions. A fulcrum of the actuating mechanism is provided in engagement with one portion of the lever, and a resilient member biases the one portion of the lever into engagement with the fulcrum during normal rotation of the wheels and crankshaft. The resilient member further allows the one portion of the lever to move away from the fulcrum in those situations in which the object is manually pushed from its extended position to its retracted position while the wheels and crankshaft are stationary.