Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Rider Drive Belt Replacement, crankshaft pulley, pulley bolt

Question
I am trying to take off the pulley to the mower blade so I can install the belt for the motion drive.  The pulley bolt that screws into the shaft does not seem to want to loosen.  It moves about a turn in either direction and then tightens up.  Which way do I turn it and is it OK to just muscle it (once I know which way to turn it?  thanks

Answer
Hello Mike:

Usually the Crankshaft Pulley Bolt is Turned Counter Clockwise to Loosen. I Suggest you Use Spray Lubrication and an Air or Electric Impact. Turn the Bolt Back and Forth and Slowly Turn the Bolt Out of the Crankshaft. If you Just Bully the Bolt Out, you May Damage the Threads of the Bolt or the Crankshaft. Once the Bolt has been Removed. Clean the Bolt Threads with a Wire Brush and Apply Never Seize to the Threads of the Bolt. The Never Seize will Help Prevent this from Occurring the Next Time the Pulley needs to be Removed. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John