Bob-Cat Green CRZ-52 Zero Turn Spindle Shaft, replacement

[txpete51]

I'm new to this site and this question may have already been asked.
Do I need to remove the belt pulley to remove the spindle shaft, p/n 4168416?
OR,
Just remove the nut on top of the pulley and drive the shaft downwards with the pulley still in place?

thanks in advance for any input.

 

[Rivets]

Sometimes it can be done, but all depends on the setup. Why are you replacing the shaft? When working on spindles I like to remove the entire assembly to inspect all parts. When replacing the shaft, most times I recommend replacing the bearings at the same time.

 

[txpete51]

Sometimes it can be done, but all depends on the setup. Why are you replacing the shaft? When working on spindles I like to remove the entire assembly to inspect all parts. When replacing the shaft, most times I recommend replacing the bearings at the same time.

The nut holding the blades came off, messed up the threads and destroyed the left baffle. the mower only has about 70hrs on it. I am attempting to remove the shaft only and not get deeper at this time by removing the pulley. I appreciate your information.