Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Flywheel Key broken twice Tecumseh 10hp, torque wrench, foot pounds

Question
Hi, I have a Sears Tecumseh 10 HP riding mower. I replaced the coil after getting some advice from a friend. The Install went fine an once I got it all back together it ran for about 30 seconds then stopped. I took it all back apart and found the Key was broken. Replaced it again and bam the same darn thing happened again. Both times I used a gear puller so I would not damage the shaft or the flywheel. The only thing that I noticed was that the Key seems a little loose when inserting it in the shaft but not to loose. I know the shaft nut needs to be tightened down with so many foot pounds but I don’t have a torque wrench and I don’t know how many pounds it should be set to.

Can it just be hand tightened? Could it be too loose too tight or am I backing up the wrong tree? I don’t see any signs of damage on the shaft or the flywheel. It popped off clean with the gear puller.


Answer
 Hello Kevin:

 You are Not getting the Nut Tight Enough. I have a Flywheel Grip Bar that Holds the Flywheel while it is Tightened. If you have Access to Air Tools, Most times a 1/2' Impact will Tighten the Nut Tight Enough. Torque is 125 ft pds and if Required Increase 5 ft pds Until the Flywheel Stops Shearing Keys. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require More Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. I enjoy knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John