well i have a problem with my 02 lakota, last time i was riding the chain slipped off and cracked the transmission cover so i got a new one. when i took off the cover the gasket tore so i hafta take off the bearing housing and you first must remove a collar that is on the shaft the mechanic at the dealership said it should slide right off but mine is not sliding we have tried to tug it off with pliers and the plier just slip off so i'm kinda stuck and need some input on what else i could try

 

i just replaced the tranny cover on my lakota too because of that problem because i had a worn rear sprockt.....i just replaced it with a sidewinder kit so it shuld be ok.....anyways, right where the spacer ends and it gets tappered just take a flathead screwdriver and pry on that edge while rotating the shaft and it should pop off.....just a tip, take a hacksaw or grinder and chop that peice off....it will save you alot of trouble, money and engine damage...plus that peice is just pointless anyway