Hi:

I was repairing a Craftsman, 11hp, 38" cut lawn tractor for our minister and while trying to remove the rear tire I peaned the end of the axel. When I did figure out to hit it from behind the whole axel came out. I was able to get the tire repaired and the axel fit back into the rear end fine but does not stay "clipped".
1.How big a job is it to take the rear end off and fish out the old clip?
2.Can I use a hand grinder or file to repaire the tire side of the axel that has been slightly peaned? It is also pretty ceased.. any suggestions on lossening... used wd40 already.

Many thanks.

You may find success by trying to regroove the peened end of the axle. Try a jewelers saw or fine hack saw to carefully clean and re-new the groove. If al else fails you may have to drill the axle and use a cotter pin and washer.