Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Snow Blower Attachment Repair, cotter pins, right angle drill

Question
Happy New Year, Ben!  I have a Sears 24hp tractor 917-273620 with Two Stage Snow Thrower Model 842242560 Item 07124838000.  I made the mistake of replaceing the auger shear bolts with regular bolts and stripped the worm or drive gear.  I've received the two gears from Sears but am unable to remove the gearbox as it seems the only way to do that is to remove the two cotter pins attaching the shaft from the pulley to the gearbox.  Since the two pins are between the blades of the second stage thrower, inside it's housing, there's only 5 inches clearance to work with.  I've tried pliers, and hammering with no results except starting to mushroom the end.  There's no room to drill them out even with a right angle drill.  Before I have to call in Sears At Home Service I thought I'd ask the question.  Any ideas?  Thanks in advance.

Answer

gear box Amador
There are two bolts 3/8-16 X 1-1/4 HEX and there is a pulley with 2 small SCREWS, 5/16-18 X 1/2 SQ. and one BOLT, 3/8-24 X 1" HD that goes through the pulley these need to be removed and the remove the 2 bolts holding the gear box and it should drop down. Try to pry it a little but do not use too much force.I have attached a picture to help you out