FIXED -John Deere rider - X540 broken bolt in crankshaft

Had posted a couple days ago about a broken bolt that holds the mower electric clutch on the engine crankshaft. Had a few minutes at the end of the day so I slid the mower deck out from underneath it, put a floor jack under the front and crawled under it with a puncture wound punch and hammer. Took the right tools with me because I was able to work the broken bolt out by hitting the outside edge with a puncture wound punch at an angle. I was fortunate because the bolt was recessed 1/4 up in the crank as there are no threads near the end. Was able to screw out about 3/4 of threads. Eventually I could get a pair of vice grips on it. Not for sure but I think the guy I got it from didn't push the electric clutch all of the way up when he installed a new one. Looked like the electric clutch was hitting the key in the transmission drive pulley as the end of the key was all mangled up. Also, the keyway groove at the end of the crankshaft is worn some. I had seen the electric clutch running once and it seemed like it was sort of wobbling. It all seems to lead to the fact the clutch was not properly pushed up against the transmission drive pulley.

Thumbs UP and thanks for posting back!!!!!

Good deal! That sure beats drilling any day!

Now to hope it stays tight, that the shaft is not undersized from being run loose. Might want to check it again after the first run.

Well done. Any day you extract a broken bolt without making matters worse is a good day.

I broke same bolt on GT270.
I think it broke because the mower belt had pieces missing causing vibration.
I don't remember the torque on bolt JD Seller recommend. It was substantial. I
Had to remove shroud to hold flywheel in place.