thanks for your comments. The cross shaft will not slide out because it hits the lob on the crank. Have not tried turning the crank to see that would allow enough space for the cross shaft to slip out of the crankcase. I will try that next.
Mower is about 12 yrs old. Governor was bent and had to be replaced. I have not been able to set the new governor correctly. I know how to set the governor, but there must be another problem. Engine idles to fast and when you open the throttle slightly the engine immediately revs too high...