I picked up 2 klf 185's cheap, one fixed with simple clean of tank fuel pump and carb, runs great. Second is cleaned up but won't start, compression is almost nill so I figure rings or valves. I'm at the point of removing the engine to do a top end re-build, but how do I detach the shaft drive from the engine? If just unbolt he rear axle, can I just slide it back and will it just unslpine from the engine? There is also a small crack at the fuel tank filler, is there a way to glue it?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

So I undid the axe, slid it back an inch or so, undid the last mounting bolt on the engine and it slid forward and desplined off the shaft and came right out.... Breakdown time, wish me luck that the cylinder is not screwed!

 

And the verdict is....Blown head gasket!