Outdoor Power Equipment and Small Engines - Craftman 917.275682 Lawn Tractor - Fuse Blowing

I was cutting the grass and while switching to reverse, I had not set the key in the proper position, while adjusting the key the mower shut down blowing the fuse. I have replaced the fuse and was able to cut grass for about 30 minute and fuse blew again. Now after replacing fuse when I engage the blades the fuse blows.

Is this more likely the PTO switch or the electric clutch?
I have to remove the deck to replace the clutch?
Is there a way to isolate the parts to determine what is bad?

Thank you for any help

Do you have an ohmmeter? If so, check the resistance across the terminals to the clutch. If it's less than 2 ohms, the clutch is the likely culprit. Try unplugging the PTO clutch and see if it still blows fuses when you turn it on. If so, it is a problem with the switch or wiring, not the clutch. If it doesn't blow a fuse, you know it's the clutch.

found wires coming out of electric clutch, were rubbing and broke at the clutch housing, need to remove and replace clutch. what is the easiest way to accomplish this?

With a 5/8 socket and an impact gun, remove the bolt in the center of it that holds it to the crankshaft and it should just slide down and off. You may be able to repair the wire connection, even if the wires broke off flush at the clutch. You can use a dremel tool to cut out the plastic around the broken wires, then solder new wires to the broken ends of the old ones. (save a over $200 for a new clutch).

I have to find an impact wrench, but thanks, I will try to fix wires before spending the $200.

Do I have to use an impact or will a socket work?

will using an impact wrench, overcome the spinning flywheel?

Yes, that's the reason I recommended it. Otherwise you have to hold the engine from turning.