Thanks all, in attempting to remove the starter I can't get it out. I've gotten it about 1/4 inch out but it appears that the bendix may be engaged with the flywheel.
Does anyone know what the nut size is on the crankshaft that I could use to move the flywheel a bit to see if I can get it to disengage? It's hydrostatic and still on my trailer so I don't think moving it here is going to help. I want to rock the flywheel back and forth, perhaps there is another way?
Disregard. got it off, just needed a bit more persuasion. There is a ton of mice droppings in there as well as what appears other mice fur. Not sure how they got in there! I need to really clean it out.