A PTO clutch is a crucial component in many outdoor equipment like riding mowers, balers, and many more. The PTO clutch is connected to the crankshaft of the engine with a 5/8-inch bolt. When the PTO clutch is faulty or damaged, you need to replace the clutch with a new one. And the first step of that is removing the PTO clutch bolt.
So, how to remove PTO clutch bolt? You need to disconnect the wiring harness before removing the bolt. Jack the equipment so that you can work on the clutch. Use an impact wrench to rotate the clutch bolt counterclockwise.
Removing the PTO clutch bolt might not be as simple in every case. Here is a step-by-step guide to doing that on your own.
What Do You Need to Remove the PTO Clutch Bolt?
You need the following tools to remove the PTO clutch bolt from the assembly.
- Jack
- Jack Stands
- 5/8-inch Impact Wrench
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Air Impact Gun
- Lubricant
Jack and jack stands might not be required if the equipment is small and you can make it stand on its sides. For larger equipment, you will need these two tools.
How to Remove PTO Clutch Bolt? Step-By-Step Process
The process shouldn’t take more than ten minutes to complete. We broke down the process into smaller steps for your convenience. Here you go.
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery and Spark Plug Wire
Most manufacturers suggest disconnecting the battery before removing the PTO clutch. Some can even suggest removing the spark plug wire.
So, you should check the owner’s manual of your equipment before removing the PTO clutch bolt.
By the way, remove the negative/ground wire connection of the battery first.
Step 2: Lift the Equipment
If you are working with a small piece of equipment, such as a riding mower, you can tilt the equipment and make it stand on its side. Some supports may be used to keep the equipment in place during the removal process.
But if you are working on large equipment, such as a tractor,
Step 3: Remove the Electrical Harness
- You need to lift it vertically to reach the PTO clutch assembly.
- Use a jack to lift the equipment about 18 inches from the ground.
- Slide the jack stand underneath and make sure the vehicle securely rests on the stand.
Depending on the equipment model, the wiring harness can be positioned on the left or right side of the PTO clutch.
Locate the wiring harness connector and remove it. If the connector doesn’t come out easily, you can use a flathead screwdriver to lightly pry the connector. With a light press, the connector should come off.
Step 4: Rotate the PTO Clutch Bolt
- Take your 5/8-inch impact wrench and insert the wrench head into the bolt. Remember the saying, “Lefty Loosey, Righty Tighty.” That means the impact wrench should rotate the bolt counter-clockwise.
- Make sure the orientation is right, as you might make a mistake while working underneath the equipment. The bolt should come off within a few seconds.
Step 5: Use an Air Impact Gun
In some cases, the bolt or clutch assembly might be too tight to be removed.
- You need to use an air impact gun to vibrate the assembly.
- Point the blunt end of the impact gun on the bolt or clutch assembly.
- Run it for a few seconds.
Step 6: Lubricate the Assembly
- If the bolt or clutch assembly doesn’t come out yet, take a lubricant can with a spray nozzle.
- Spray the lubricant around the shaft.
- Vibrate the assembly with the air impact gun for a few more seconds. The bolt and the assembly should come off right away.
You can also watch this tutorial:
Conclusion
Though the PTO clutch is connected to the crankshaft with just one large bolt, removing the bolt can sometimes be tricky. Especially if the clutch is fitted for too long, the bolt can be jammed due to rust. But we provided an effective guide on removing PTO clutch bolt.
You must remember a few things for a successful PTO clutch bolt removal. Check the owner’s manual to know whether you need to disconnect the battery or spark plug wires.
Also, you should check the size of the bolt. Jack the equipment and use an impact wrench to remove the bolt. You might need to use lubricants and air impact guns to remove a jammed bolt or clutch assembly.
