Need Help!

[Lee]

I've read the posts in the archives, the tech articles, and the Bentley manual, but have found very little to help the problem. It concerns replacing the clutch helper spring in my '78 911.

I removed the circlip and small arm, popped the clutch release lever forward to disengage the spring...but the clutch release lever itself will not slide off the cross shaft.

Assuming it was rusted, I tried WD40. then I applied heat with a propane torch. Neither helped. It seems to rotate freely, but will not slip off the shaft.

I hesitate to get too aggressive, as the bentley manual suggests that any damage to the shaft will require the tranny to be dropped, in order to make repairs.

Anyone ever have problems with a stubborn lever/shaft? Any suggestions would be appreciated...I'm stalled in the middle of the repair.

Thanks. Daniel Crockett