PTO Clutch back plate removal (Old Style)

Are you talking the stub that bolts to the flywheel? I took the screen bolts out, slipped the generator pulley off then shroud then reach behind with a 3/8" ratchet and take the 4 bolts out. I couldnt get my clutch apart to get the screen off so rather than break something I left it alone.

You have the earliest style 444 clutch which was used prior to s/n 9641001. There is a keyed stub shaft bolted to they flywheel (kohler p/n 235954). You need to carefully use a claw type puller to remove to clutch shaft along with backing plate in the photo. Thread a bolt part way in so you are pressing against the inner stub shaft and with some lube, heat and luck it should come off.

Bob

Ok, I am more confused now.... If I am going to remove the shaft and backer plate together, what do I pry/ pull against? Is the stub shaft hollow behind the threads for the clutch assembly? :headscratcher:

What Bob said will work, the inside of this clutch hub with plate is hollow and it slides on a solid stub shaft, the other thing that has worked good for me is put lots of penetrating oil in the front bolt hole, turn the engine over a couple of times, take some square shank screwdrivers and pry behind the plate between the hub and the plate, one on each side works best and work it, if that does not work, try square shank chisels instead of screwdrivers and drive them between the hub and the plate, if you still cannot move it, thread a longer bolt in the threaded hole, leave some space and use a 3-jaw puller on it, some come off real easy, stubborn ones you have to use a puller, lots of penetratimg oil though, patience is the key!

dbeiter said:

Ok, I am more confused now.... If I am going to remove the shaft and backer plate together, what do I pry/ pull against? Is the stub shaft hollow behind the threads for the clutch assembly? :headscratcher:

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Thanks Jim... I will soak it with PB Blaster for a couple of days and see what happens...So this is just a press-fit?? If so I wonder how many of these have come off in the past ??

Dave

dbeiter said:

Thanks Jim... I will soak it with PB Blaster for a couple of days and see what happens...So this is just a press-fit?? If so I wonder how many of these have come off in the past ??
Dave

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Yes, it is just a press fit, but it doesn't take much condensation to make it a tighter fit, but remember, the bolt that holds the fan on keeps it tight so it doesn't go anywhere.

I wouldn't really consider it a press fit, the stub shaft is straight and has a square keyway. When new, they probably slid right off, it's just the years of rust/corrosion etc that makes it a challenge. Sorry if my response was confusing. You can actually remove the clutch ass'y. complete this way by just taking out the fan retaining bolt and using a puller. Bob

After 2 days of soaking with Blaster, and a little help from my 3 jaw puller............ she popped right off!!! Thanks Guys!!!! You are awesome!!