OT: Chainsaw repair

I'm replacing the drive sprocket and clutch assembly on a Craftsman 18" chainsaw. The parts arrived today. I'm having trouble unscrewing the old clutch assembly from the drive shaft.

I am aware that it is reverse threaded (the clutch actually has "Off -->" embossed on the surface to show the direction to loosen). Every time I try to loosen it the drive shaft rotates. I've used a wrench on the opposite end of the drive shaft (it has a nut on it) to hold things in place. I just don't have the proper tool to grip the clutch assembly so I can unscrew it. I even tried to use a well placed large screw driver as a punch and hit it with a hammer to loosed the clutch.....no luck.

Does anyone have any pearls of wisdom on how to get this thing off? I want to use it this weekend and need to replace the worn drive sprocket.

TIA,

Paul.

If you have an aircompressor or a
buddy has one. Just get an inexpensive
1/2 in drive impact wrench. It will spin off with almost no pressure on the clutch.
George

• $27.99

The good news is that I got the clutch off. I used an offset wrench to hold the opposite end of the drive shaft stationary. I then used a large flat head screw driver as a punch and a few blows with the hammer loosened the clutch mechanism.

I've already used the chainsaw with the new clutch, chain bar, chain. It is like having a new chainsaw!

Thanks to all for your suggestions.

Paul.