I'd bet a dozen KrispyKremes that the slip clutch is the problem. Looking back again at the pix, particularly T5 and T7, along with the parts diagram from the manual, you can see that what appears to be the "pressure plate" (C) is not concentric with all the rest of the clutch parts. This suggests that something is not right with the clutch. There are also supposed to be two friction disks (D - unbonded friction facing) that are likely to be worn out. It looks like a tough old clutch, and the friction disks, and maybe other parts are probably still available through Rhino, but if it was my hog and I wanted it to work reliably, I'd look into having the clutch disassembled, inspected and repaired as needed. Sorry. And sorry about your kin too;-)
- Jay