4 mix clutch not engaging

[tree-fancier123]

Machine starting but attachments and shaft not turning. On reassembling clutch after torquing screws to 12nm the shoes dont seem to pry apart easily, but when screws undone a bit shoes can pr prized open. I have replaced washers on back between shoes and plate 4180 stihl powerhead

[lurkalot]

Pretty common fault on these, especially if the machines left on the back of a pickup truck and gets wet. the sleeves in the ends of the shoes rust and seize solid so the shoes won't move.   Press them out and clean and lubricate them..  And bolt it back together.  Word of warning, be carful removing the sleeves as it is possible to break the shoes etc if not supported properly.

[spudulike]

Sounds about right, seen a few like this.

[Ian C]

Did mine yesterday on a 4mix pole trimmer, clutch was stuck on, easy job and sorted now .

[spudulike]

These jobs are always easy, if you know what the issue is and have a reasonable aptitude with spanners. Some can't even adjust an idle speed and that isn't just 1 or 2 of my customers!