Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Trimmer pull cord replacement, clutch mechanism, head bolt

Question
QUESTION: Hi John,
I have a Craftsman 32 cc weedwacker model 358.791580. The pull cord has become frayed and I would like to replace it. I have taken the unit apart far enough to see where the cord goes but it looks like there is is a metal part preventing me from gettting any closer. From what I can tell this metal part has something to do with spinning the metal cord that runs down the shaft. I'm stuck at this point. Thanks for any help you can provide.

Lance

ANSWER: Hello Lance:

The Component you are Asking about is the Clutch Drum. There is a Small Torx Head Bolt Inside the Hole Where the Drive Cable Inserts Into the Drum. Removing the Small Bolt Allows the Drum to be Removed. I Do Not Know Why, but the Small Bolt is Not Shown in Any Breakdowns. Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: John,
You'r exactly right, there was a screw there and I now have the part off. Now it looks like there is some kind of clutch mechanism there with a spring on it. Will I need to remove all that in order to remove the plastic housing unit in order to replace the pull cord? Thanks again.

Lance

Answer
Hi Lance:

OK. You are Correct. If the Clutch Assemble Screws Off; then it is Removed by Turning the Clutch the Same Direction as the Engine Rotation. If the Engine Turns Clockwise, then the Clutch is Removed by Turning the Clutch Clockwise. You will Most Likely Require a Hammer, Punch and Safety Glasses. Hold the Punch with Vice Grip Pliers and Hit the Outer Section of the Clutch Assembly(the thick section of the clutch  not the Pawls) so as to Loosen it. Once Loosened, the Clutch Assembly will Usually Turn Off by Hand. If this Model has the Keyed Clutch, then it is Carefully, Pried Off. If you have Trouble, Just Let me Know. No Worries. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John