Clutch bell/pinion feels tight.

[S13dr1fter]

I have a stock 3.3 and for a while now its not wanted to pull wheelies. Today I noticed a binding feeling between spur/pinion but upon closer inspection it seems to be the clutch bell/pinion that is a bit stiff. Ez start works, not great as I think the motors on its last legs but it does eventually start. It didn't appear to be this bad last time I used it.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to what it could be? I'm not that familiar with dismantling nitro engines but I'll give it a go.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks guys

[Snook Man]

Loosen the engine mount bolts and slide the engine clutch bell away from the sur gear. If the clutch bell dosnt spin freely remove the engine so you can inspect the bell bearings and the clutch shoes/spring.

[S13dr1fter]

I've moved it away from the spur. That's how it came to light it was yet another expense I could do without. Just spent enough on a couple of bits and fuel

[Snook Man]

Its a fairly simple process. Just remove all the engine mount screws from the bottom of the chassis, disconnect the pipe hanger from the chassis and disconnect the carb linkage.
Once you have the engine in hand, pop the e-clip off the end of the crankshaft and the clutch bell will pull off.
Sounds like you have bad CB bearings or a broken clutch shoe or spring. A broken sping is the most common.

[S13dr1fter]

Ok thank you for your advice. I'll try and get it off tonight and have a look. It's not ran 100% since ive owned it. I will get it working and get the most out of this truck

[S13dr1fter]

Basically the shoes have disintegrated around the pin area. Ordered a 4146x

[upbasher]

Make sure your bearings are good too.

[S13dr1fter]

Yeah, I had a feel of them and they feel fine. The engines only had just over a gallon through it so I'd be surprised it the were gone.