There's most likely a locating key in the morse taper to ensure correct positioning when re-assembling, and to reduce the remote chance of the flywheel slipping relative to the crankshaft, but it's ALWAYS a good idea to mark its position on the crankshaft BEFORE disassembly!
That is assuming the engine is, or has been a runner recently...
out of interest why are you removing the flywheel?
Mainly because I never have before. I have no experience of the magneto and various electrical parts and would like to learn before I need to so I figured I should have a go.
I tried previously and failed at pulling it off, hopefully I've not done any damage by getting the torque wrong on the nut.
I removed mine on a mariner 5 with a home made puller,to fit a lighting coil to charge the battery .The holes on the flywheel are metric thread,I wouldnt remove for the sake of it as most of workings can be seen through the slots.If you do remove it place keeper bars across the magnets if you dont replace it straight away.Mainly because I never have before. I have no experience of the magneto and various electrical parts and would like to learn before I need to so I figured I should have a go.
I tried previously and failed at pulling it off, hopefully I've not done any damage by getting the torque wrong on the nut.
It would be different if there were points under there that need an occasional clean and reset.
Thanks Vic, useful as always! I wasn't aware there were no points to clean and had read somewhere that was sometimes necessary. Does that mean therefore that there is less to go wrong with the electrics on this one?
You have not said exactly what (age) model but you posted a link to parts diagram at the start of the thread.
It shows an an electronic ( CD) ignition system ........ no points !
Hehe these things must be so obvious when you know what you're looking atI take it that the electronic system is fairly maintenance free then? It's a Mariner 4HP Sailmate 1996.