Can I replace the kickstarter shaft without splitting the case ? 303 engine

Hi, The cases have to be split, to change kick starter shaft. Shaft length can vary, so maybe better to strip first, for shaft comparison, also later shafts, were modified, to be without 'o' ring groove, as this was a weak point for shaft breakage. By 303 production, this modification may be done, still has an 'o' ring, but case chanfered to except 'o' ring on a plain shaft. 

Edited April 9, 201610 yr by ask greeves

Thanks I was hoping when I get the clutch basket of it might pull through how is it held in as I haven't got the pork chop casing off will get my buzz gun to remove the nuts

Steve