While trying to remove the blower blade assembly I managed to bend one of the blower gears! Here's how:
I stuck the screwdriver handle into an opening on the gear and proceeded to try to loosen the nut holding the blades. I didn't push very hard, but did manage to bend the gear the screwdriver was in. The gear with the red markings.
Now the blower "locks up" when I turn the crank. I want to remove the gear and see if it can be straightened. There's a two-sided nut on each end of the gear housing, but I don't have the right tool to loosen them.
For future reference, does anyone know the correct way to remove that nut on the blade assembly. I already know the INCORRECT way!
I like this unit, and have $200+ into it so far, but if I can't fix that gear I'll have to scrap the project. Any suggestions will be appreciated. I replaced the forge pan with a heavier gauge metal.