Brent wrote:

On Tue, 13 Jul 2010 14:36:59 -0700, Bob F wrote:

Net result:
1. Do not pry and bang
2. You must tap and pull
That would be "you", not me.

I have an old mower which might have the same problem.

You don't have to take the flywheel off to determine if the key is
sheared. Just remove the retaining nut and look at the key. If it isn't
sheared no need to take off the flywheel.

-jim


I read some of the references and noticed the ones that compared the two
methods always suggested the contraption to pull the flywheel up.

Does anyone know of a reference that actually compares the two methods and
still recommends the sharp tap with a hammer over the use of the special
tool?

TITLE: Flywheel Removal - The Right Way and Several Wrong Ways
QUOTE: "The best technique requires a special tool - a flywheel puller; the
least preferred method requires nothing more than a hammer and a
screwdriver, but can easily result in serious damage to the flywheel and or
crankshaft."

TITLE: http://www.repairfaq.org/samnew/lmfaq/lmflyrml.htm
QUOTE: "There are several approaches to flywheel removal. The best way by
far is to use a special puller designed for your particular engine. Briggs
& Stratton and Tecumseh flywheels usually have 2 or 3 holes placed around
the center of the flywheel which are used with special puller blocks. These
have self tapping bolts which you thread into the holes and then tighten
down nuts to pop the flywheel off of the crankshaft."