OK Im getting close to removing the pan, but cant seem to get the "transmission" off of the crankshaft. There is a setscrew that is super tight and thats about it, its soaking in penetrant right now.
If you have some mechanical aptitude, which it seems you do, why not disassemble the engine and find out if you have a broken camshaft or stripped cam gears (many times they are plastic) and maybe you can get just a cam and gasket set to save the engine but only you know if it is worth the time. The mower could have a lot of hours on it so if it does, consider a new mower.
Thanks,
Everything mentioned above accounted for. I'm going to fashion an engine stand out of some plywood as well.
Do you know if the transmission is pressed onto the crank?