How do you remove the flywheel on a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower?
Question:It is a Tecumseh engine. On top of the flywheel are three holes near the crankshaft but they are not threaded. Do I use a knockoff tool or a tool that pulls it off? Or is there a special tool used only on Tecumseh engines?
Thanks in advance for your answers.
Answers:
Tecumseh flywheels are removed using a knockoff and, at some GENTLE prying. Prying only, without a knockoff, will greatly increase the risk of cracking the flywheel. A cracked flywheel can disintigrate at engine operating speed sending shrapnel through the top of the engine.
The holes are not threaded for a reason. A puller is not the right tool.
I use a copper or brass rod (about 3/4" dia) and find a place between the fly wheel and motor to apply an upward force on the flywheel. Turn the fly wheel a little at a time and continue until it comes loose. If it does not find a partner to pick up the mower with their finger under the fly wheel (That is if mower is not too heavy) Use a copper or brass hammer to apply blows to the bolt stud in middle of the fly wheel ( would place the nut on the end of the stud to prevent damage to the threads)
Tap the holes with a bottom tap, then use a flywheel puller
Be real careful when you try to pry up on the flywheel and hit the end of shaft. Everything is made of aluminum. It shouldn't take much to get it to come loose. And don't mess up the threads on the end of the shaft.
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