Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh flywheel removal and other questions, hookup wire, bolt holes

Question
Marc,

I've got a 8hp Toro snowblower (824 Power Throw) I bought last year. It didn't come with a light and I'm trying to install one now but I'm not getting any power out of the light hookup. This has brought up several questions.

1) I'm down to getting the flywheel removed and have the main drive-shaft bolt off but can't get the flywheel to budge off the shaft and don't want to damage anything. Do I need a puller?

2) I've tested the light hookup wire for connectivity and it has no resistance with a voltmeter when I ground it to the block indicating a good connection.  When I run the engine and try the voltmeter on the voltage setting I don't get anything. The meter checks out ok on a car battery so I know the meter is good. Is there anything in the alternater I can check if I can get to it or are they generally just replaced?

3) The parts manual lists the alternator at 18 watts. I assume I can't put the standard 12 volt 35 watt tractor light on this engine?

Any advice you have would be great!

Thanks,

Mike

Answer
1)  I would definitely recommend a puller.  There should be bolt holes in the flywheel to accomodate a puller

2)  You should have continuity in one direction from the charging coils.  Try reversing your meter leads and checking again for resistance.  If you still have none, there may be a diode in the circuit that has failed.  If there is and it tests OK (continuity one way and not the other), the charging coils are defective.  If it has no continuity at either polarity, replace the diode, start the engine and check for voltage output.

3)  You are correct.  These charging coil is very light duty.

Hope this helps.