Can 3rd pulley attached to engine be replaced

It sounds like you're working on a K-Gro PowerPro riding mower and need to address a pulley attached to the engine.

Here's a breakdown of your questions and what you need to know:

Can the 3rd pulley attached to the engine be replaced?

• Yes, generally speaking, pulleys on an engine can be replaced. The K-Gro PowerPro is a riding lawnmower, often using standard components. Pulleys wear out over time due to friction, bearing failure, or damage. Replacing them is a common repair for these types of machines.

How to remove the pulley attached to the engine:

Removing a pulley attached to an engine, especially one that's been there for a while, can sometimes be a bit challenging due to rust and grime. Here's a general process, but keep in mind that the exact steps might vary slightly depending on the specific K-Gro PowerPro model and the type of pulley (e.g., drive pulley, idler pulley, starter pulley).

Before you start:

• Safety First:

• Disconnect the spark plug wire: This prevents accidental starting of the engine.

• Remove the ignition key (if applicable).

• Engage the parking brake.

• Block the wheels to prevent the mower from rolling.

• Wear appropriate safety gear: Gloves, eye protection.

• Gather your tools: You'll likely need:

• Wrenches or sockets (various sizes)

• Allen wrenches or hex bits (for set screws)

• Penetrating oil (like WD-40, PB Blaster)

• Wire brush

• Pry bar or large screwdriver (for leverage, if needed)

• Rubber mallet or hammer

• Pulley puller (essential for stubborn pulleys)

• Anti-seize compound (for reinstallation)

General Steps for Pulley Removal:

• Identify the Pulley and Its Function: Understand what the "3rd pulley" does (e.g., drives a belt for the deck, transmission, or is part of the starter mechanism). This helps in understanding how it's mounted.

• Access the Pulley: You may need to remove covers, shields, or other components to get clear access to the pulley.

• Locate Set Screws or Fasteners: Most pulleys attached to a shaft will have one or more set screws that secure them. These are often recessed and require an Allen wrench or hex bit. There might also be a nut on the end of the shaft.

• Clean the area around the set screws: Use a wire brush to remove rust and debris that might obscure the screw heads.

• Apply penetrating oil: Liberally spray penetrating oil onto the set screws and around the shaft where the pulley is mounted. Let it soak for a good amount of time (even overnight if possible) to help loosen rust.

• Loosen/Remove Set Screws/Fasteners:

• Carefully loosen the set screws. If they're stripped or stubborn, try applying heat (with caution, avoiding nearby fuel lines or plastic) or using a screw extractor.

• If there's a nut, remove it.

• Break the Pulley Loose:

• Try to drive it further onto the shaft first: This might sound counterintuitive, but sometimes pushing the pulley further onto the shaft (a small amount, like 1/8 to 1/4 inch) can break the rust bond. Use a rubber mallet or a block of wood and a hammer to gently tap the pulley onto the shaft. Make sure you still have room for a puller if needed.

• Use a pulley puller: This is often the most effective and safest method. A 2- or 3-jaw pulley puller clamps onto the pulley and uses a central screw to push against the shaft, gradually pulling the pulley off.

• Gentle persuasion (as a last resort and with caution): If you don't have a puller and the pulley is somewhat loose, you might be able to use a pry bar or large screwdriver behind the pulley and gently pry it off, alternating sides. Be very careful not to bend or damage the shaft or the pulley. Tapping the side of the pulley with a rubber mallet can also sometimes help.

• Clean the Shaft: Once the old pulley is off, thoroughly clean the engine shaft with a wire brush or emery cloth to remove any rust, burrs, or debris. This will make installing the new pulley much easier.

• Apply Anti-Seize: Before installing the new pulley, apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the shaft. This will help prevent rust and make future removal easier.

Important Considerations for K-Gro PowerPro:

• Model Number: If you have the specific model number of your K-Gro PowerPro, it will be much easier to find diagrams and more precise instructions or videos. K-Gro PowerPro mowers were produced by MTD and Murray for K-Mart, so parts and repair guides for those brands might also be helpful.

• Identify the Pulley Type: Is it a flat idler pulley, a V-belt pulley, or part of the PTO (Power Take-Off) clutch assembly? The removal method can vary.

• Online Resources: Search for "K-Gro PowerPro [your model number] pulley replacement" or "lawn mower engine pulley removal" on YouTube. There are many helpful videos for general mower repairs that can guide you.

• Parts Diagrams: Look for parts diagrams for your specific K-Gro PowerPro model online. These diagrams will show you how the pulley is assembled and the surrounding components.

Given you have 43 questions, if you have more specific questions about particular aspects of the K-Gro PowerPro or the pulley system, feel free to ask!