Replacing clutch on my mud motor, been doing good, but last step having issues. I had to use a 5 ton gear puller to get the clutch off the shaft, it probably damaged the shaft threads is the issue, but does not seem visible, so should not be damaged bad. But I cannot get the main bolt to thread.. Ideas/thoughts?? I will gladly pay anyone that can help me get this bolt to thread, maybe I just need to let it rest and try again tomorrow.

This is the old clutch and main bolt I'm taking about, screws into the drive shaft...



Here is where I got the first part of the clutch off, and I had to use a gear puller to get the back plate off, and this probably messed up the main bolt threads...



Pic where I finally got the back plate off...



Got the new clutch on, wiring threaded thru, just cannot get that gosh dang din dern bolt to thread!!





My last strep, cannot get it to thread!!

I'd get a thread chaser (correct pitch, etc.) And run it through the hole. Possibly an actual tap if the threads are real boogered.
Doesn't appear the bolt is left hand thread.

Yes, I was thinking something like that, just googled it "chaser"... Threads do not look mess up to me, but the tap I guess is plan B.

Guy, you might run that by Hopalong over at TFF - he's resident guru on there...

Reverse thread

Nope. You can tell by the pic of the bolt it’s not reverse thread

Chase it with a tap and die. Easy fix.

Use a tap, and next time remove the washers from the bolt and put the bolt back in, then use the puller to remove the clutch.

Yup.

Looks like I should start with a thread chaser, if that does not work then a tap. Don't need a die, the bolt is fine. And I sure do not want to mess this up any more, the tap scares me.

Every shop needs one of these files, as well.

I have solved lots of thread problems quickly with this file.

I would strongly recommend NOT using a Tap

I probably have the correct size chaser, your welcome to borrow it.

Be very careful messing with. Crankshaft, typically they are not repairable… replacement only

thats what i thought. that puller deformed the thread in the crank. should be able to chase thread though

JG, what kind of file is that?

The bolt should’ve been in place when you used the puller. At least threaded in 1/4” or so.

I think he's keenly aware of that now.

Metric?

Metric?

Metric?

Grade markings appear SAE/standard

It’s 7/16 x 20



He’s completed some pretty impressive DYI repairs over the years…. Give him a break here guys

It may be a trick of the light but that bolt looks to me like it might be a bit damaged.

I wasn’t trying to be a jerk. Just stating what caused his problem. Pardon me for adding some advice on the matter when I have the same motor, and have done just a tad bit of overhaul on it. Carry on, sir.