the bar tensioning assembly is messed up and must be replaced. How do I remove the clutch so the cover plate screw is exposed?

Mike, January 2009

You remove the clutch by using a screwdriver placed on the small cutouts in the clutch and belting it with a small mallet - using Pleasents fine advice of course

Fine chainsaw choice!

Steve, February 2009

Remove the spark plug, move the piston to the down position, insert some recoil rope or a suitable boot lace into the cylinder to keep the piston from going back up all the way (leave enough rope out to be able to remove it when finished), this will lock the piston enough so you can remove the clutch. The clutch will be a left-hand thread, so if you are facing the clutch it will undo by being turned clockwise.

pleasant, January 2009