GroundMaster 223D PTO shaft removal

[phrankndonna]

Hello. I've posted this question to My Tractor Forum (URL: GroundMaster 223D PTO shaft removal), and I've had a few dozen looks but no responses, unfortunately, so I'm reaching out to other sites. I've got a terribly worn PTO bearing bracket assembly and bushing plate-support that I need to replace. Problem is getting the PTO shaft out. It seems I need to remove the whole PTO shaft to replace these parts, but I'm not sure what all needs to be done to do that.

I've got screenshots below, including a parts diagram in the last picture, that show the issue.

There is a bearing collar-lock (part #16 on the parts diagram picture) on the front side with a set screw. The only way I can see to loosen that set screw is to remove the gas tank. Am I wrong (I hope!)?

And is that all that needs to be done? Does the back end of the PTO shaft also need to be removed (part #1)?

Thanks for any advice! Also please let me know if anyone knows of another place where I might find an answer. Thanks!

PTO bracket (front looking back)

Worn PTO bracket picture #2 (front looking back)

Worn PTO bracket (back looking front)

PTO shaft parts diagram

 

[Tinhack]

Can't tell from where I'm sitting if you have to remove the tank. You will have to remove the PTO driven shaft from the PTO shaft at the U-Joint (#17). Once that's off, you should be able to loosen the collar set screw, turn the collar and remove it from the flange bearing. Not sure why you would need the bracket (#12) and #13 looks like it's just flat stock. Some time at a drill press will make that. The flange bearing and collar could be off the shelf items if you have the size. The one shown in the link is 1 3/8".

 

[phrankndonna]

THANK YOU for your reply! I've been sitting on this for a bit, not wanting to do more than needed. I've got a backup mower, but I miss my 223D! I've already got the parts, so it's just a matter of getting the PTO shaft out to replace them. The way I'm seeing it, though, is even if I remove the U-Joint, the PTO shaft is still extending through the PTO Bearing Bracket (#26), the Bushing Support Plate (#64), and the PTO Shaft Bearing (#23). Do I have to remove the bolt and washer (#14, 15, 16) to completely release the PTO shaft and pull it through?

Again, thank you very much!