Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Lawn tractor blade drive clutch, craftsman lawn tractor, center bolt

Question
I aquired a used 15.5hp 46" khohler command hydrodrive acouple seasons ago. My blades stopped running after a cloud of smoke swallowed up the engine compartment, the engine was running fine after this happened. I shut it down immediately and saw what I beleive is the clutch to drive the blades smoldering. I let things cool down and now the engine won't turn over, the starter engages and the engine twitches but no other movement.my question is what may have caused this and could this have hurt the engine? or is it just the fact the clutch is frozen and the engine trying to turn the blades during startup. And if it is the clutch how involved is replaccing it?

Answer
Hello Robert:

From your Description, it Sould like the PTO has Frozen. Remove the Spark Plug. Disconnect the Wires to the PTO. Remove the Belt from the PTO. Remove the Center Bolt From the Crankshaft. Once the Center Bolt is Removed the PTO should Slide Off the Crankshaft. Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John