88 Marathon Clutch removal

[KevinRB]

I am going to replace the crank seals in my 88 Marathon 2pg but I cannot get the clutch off. I inserted a 5/8 rod and then ran 3/4 bolt in with an impact and nothing moved. I think I may have mushroomed the rod because I can't get it out now. I may be too late asking for help but would appreciate any advice you can offer. Thanks

[CP241]

If it’s mushroomed you may be screwed. I always use a grade 8 or 10.9 for the push rod for this reason…

At this point you’ve got 2 options. Neither of which is fun… go for broke and keep trying to press it off. Or cut the clutch off with a whizzy wheel. Either way you’re gonna have a fun time trying to drill and tap the crankshaft to clean the threads back up. Luckily it is hardened steel so it’s pretty tough but it’s gonna be a chore

[cart around]

Put some pressure on the bolt, then give it a good smack with a mini sledge for the shock. Hit it right on the end of the bolt.

[Leon willis]

Best wishes

[KevinRB]

Thanks to all. I was away for a while and wanted to update. I tried what cart around said but it just wouldn't budge so I added a twist to what he said. I put another 5/8 rod in that stuck out about a half inch. I then put a wheel puller on and snugged it up. I then gave it a medium hit and tighten it some more and repeated that about 6 or 7 times and it finialy came off. Luckily once off the first 5/8 rod came out the back side. No damage to threads or crankshaft. Thanks again for help getting me through this.