Triangle plate, appears to be the access to the oil pump. (At least that is what it looks like to me).
Unfortunately there is no further access once the plate is off.
Anyway, Terry replied within hours, chockers full of info - three emails worth.
BIG massive appreciative thanks goes to him, for the info and even just for the time in replying to some complete stranger.
For the people doing Google searches in the future:
Google Meta search data: "HONDA GV400 Engine end spline shaft removal"
"The splined shaft is screwed into the motor crankshaft. Being protected from moisture and rust there it is usually easy to unscrew. Once it is removed you can then remove the remaining one piece pulley arrangement. As this is not protected from moisture and rust, and has been there for 20 years or more, it is usually a bastard of a job. It is very difficult to break the rust bond as the pulley is located with a square key. Gear pullers usually just distort the pulley. Heat treatment may work, I have never tried it. You may be lucky and have it pop off easily. Otherwise you could consider a replacement motor (Chinese $400 ??). I can supply a replacement pulley arrangement."
He also sent a number of files in relation to the engine. Happy to share to whomever. Probably won't see any future replies to this thread, unless I remember to physically check. Email me: bushy555@gmail.com ...and am more than happy to send them.
I'll have a crack at this over this weekend. Will try to remember to take pics and then post them up - for future reference for others.
Cheers.
