Problem(?) installing Hilliard clutch on GX390 clone

[chrisinsantafe]

First off, thanks for all the help on the forum.

I am trying to install a Hilliard extreme duty clutch on a GX390 clone (this is for an old Coot "Snoopy" mini dune buggy type of thing - and I have considered a torque converter setup but a slow cruise around the farm is all we need for right now). The clutch slides about an inch onto the engine shaft and then tightens up. My concern is that I don't know how hard to push/drive it on (and I don't know how I will remove it if it's that tight). How tight is this thing supposed to be?

Thanks

 

[fowler]

use some gease on it and check the shaft for burrs

 

[devino246]

Make sure the key on the clutch drum is lined up with the key way on the engine shaft.

 

[anderkart]

Your clutch should slide right on without forcing it.

First try installing it without the key. If it now slides all the way on you'll probably just need to use a fine-tooth file to clean up any debree or burs in the cranks keyway.

If it still wont easily slide on with the key removed, and your crank doesn't have any obvious damage/burs (you can see or feel) that need to be filed:

With the clutch and key off, start the engine and (very carefully) hold some sand paper up against the spinning shaft to clean/polish it up just enough so your clutch will fully slide on without having to force it.

 

[chrisinsantafe]

Thanks - I cleaned up the inside of the clutch, cleaned up the shaft, used a little grease and it installed nicely.