A socket with a pull handle can be used if the flywheel nut is rusty and difficult to remove. The flywheel puller shown is self-fabricated but it makes removal of the flywheel and hub a snap. The idea of this puller came from a drawing of a similar puller in some old Maytag parts literature.

Here are two other recommended methods for flywheel removal. The first is to back off the crankshaft nut until it is flush with the end of the shaft. Hold the flywheel with one hand and exert some outward pull toward the shaft end while striking the end of the shaft with a quick, strong blow. Normally, one of two blows will be sufficient. The second method works for the strongly stubborn ones. It should be used only after the tank has been removed. Add extra penetrating oil so that it can be seeping down in the keyway while the other parts are removed. The flywheel should be placed on suitable supports such as large wooden blocks so that pressure will not be on the magneto backing plate. Back the nut up a few turns so it is flush with the end of crankshaft and strike the end of the shaft with solid blows. Notice that the hammer used has been upgraded to another size. Use caution to keep the whole unit from falling off the supports and causing injury or damaging engine parts.