Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Removal of Flywheel - B&S 8 HP riding mower, briggs and stratton, old briggs

Question
Hi - I have an old Briggs and Stratton riding mower (8hp) and need to remove the flywheel to change out the condenser and points. For the life of me, I can't get the flywheel off (although I haven't yet purchase a flywheel remover - my neighbor, an older gentleman, said there are standard ways to remove the flywheel without the puller).   Do I need the puller? I mean, is it possible that the flywheel is just old and kind of stuck?  Also, my *other* neighbor said he had a B&S piece of equipment where the flywheel basically unscrewed...is that possibly true of this mower? If so, what trick is there to unscrewing the flywheel?

Thanks!

Cindy Robins

Answer
 Hello Cynthia:

 None of the Flywheels Used on Small engines are Screwed on. You have to Remove (unscrew) the Starter Clutch on pull start mowers. On Electric Start Mowers there is a Nut and a Pressure Washer that has to be Removed. A Steering Wheel Puller is Required to Remove the Flywheel. I have Used the Old Fashioned Ways to remove Flywheels. You DONT want to go there. More Headache than it is worth. If you Purchase a Puller. Then Attach the Puller to the Flywheel using the 2 hole provided in the Flywheel. Apply Pressure to the Puller and then Slap the Top of the Puller with a Hammer. Apply more Pressure to the Puller and Hit again with the Hammer. The Flywheel Will pop up and then you Lift it off. The Cover for the Points and Condensor is now accessible.  Hope this Helps.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John