Hyster YE 40 flywheel removal

[Egloo]

Hi everyone. I'm changing a clutch on a (1959?) Hyster YE-40 forklift and need some information. In order to remove the clutch on this unit, you can disassemble the transmission output shaft and remove the clutch without needing to split the engine/transmission. The hangup occurred when trying to remove the flywheel from the bell housing so it can be resurfaced. The Jensen service manual I purchased simply states to remove the flywheel at this point, however the ring gear gets stuck on the transmission housing. I tried removing the starter for extra maneuvering room but it still refuses to budge. At this point I've accepted I will likely need to remove the engine, but if there is any way to remove the flywheel without complete removal of the engine, I would love to know about it. It seems the hardware for the engine mounts is buried underneath the engine and difficult to access. The Jensen service manual has not been much help, as the photos are very blurry and low resolution, and the directions aren't too great either. Any pointers for engine/flywheel removal would also be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[BillG]

Use a block of wood that you can put through the starter hole and and give it a good rap. if it doesn't come loose, turn the engine over 180 degrees and do it again. Keep at it until it comes loose, use a hardwood so it's a little more solid.