Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snapped off a bolt, vice grip pliers, stud puller

Question
I started to replace my brakes on a 12HP Crafstman Lawn Tractor Model #917254240 and the dowel (or thin bolt) snapped off leaving about 2 inches of it stuck in the transmission housing. How do I remove this dowel/bolt? It's not very wide -- guessing around 1/8" or so. Should I heat with a propane tourch and hope I can wiggle it out or cut flush with the housing and tap (which I never have done). The trans housing is aluminum. Any suggestions?  

Many thanks in advance!

Answer
 Hello Bill:

 Hit the Stud with a Hammer. Hit it Straight On. This Sometimes Loosens the Threads from the Aluminum Housing. If this Does Not Work, then Heat the Housing Around the Stud and Using a Stud Puller or  Vice Grip Pliers and Turn Back and Forth Until the Threads Loosen and the Stud can be Removed. Cutting and Tapping is a Last Resort. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John