Took the screen off to attempt to see what all type goodies I could see, first the engine looks as if it will have to be removed as the hydraulic pump pulley does not have enough room to slide off the shaft due to the mower frame, I see no other way unless one could loosen the fan cover which raps around the entire motor then maybe one could have enough room to loosen and slide, nope no way all parts including the stator will have to slide off the end of the shaft unless it breaks into as you mentioned, but the drawing shows a solid shaft so I guess this project has come to a screeching halt. I will rebuild the wheel and replace the plastic wheels and just boogie on I suppose because there is no telling how much it will cost to do his stator replace/repair. Thanks for all your help, I have really learned a lot from you. God bless you and yours, take care of yourself especially your back, bad news on the back....