Replacing idler chain

[Avenger Bob]

If you have both center and rear bolts loose and have pushed down on power pack with leverage and still a no go, first check that the square washers are flat and not standing, if that doesnt work you may want to loosen the front bolt.
This is all assuming you have adjusted down the the 2 height adjustment bolts.

The adjustment bolts are down but I will check the square washers. Perhaps that’s why the manual says to remove the whole rear bolt. I have ordered a chain puller from Amazon and will tackle this job again when it comes.

[Bennett20200]

Might be a little bit late to help you now, but I picked up a little chain puller from Princess Auto for ~$20 and it worked a charm. I've never had an issue with the chains that run from the idler to the trans, but I have had an issue with the chains that run from the idler to the front axles.

Also, I wonder if the chain you bought is maybe short a link? If you haven't already, I would count the links on your new chain and old chain just to be sure.

[Avenger Bob]

Might be a little bit late to help you now, but I picked up a little chain puller from Princess Auto for ~$20 and it worked a charm. I've never had an issue with the chains that run from the idler to the trans, but I have had an issue with the chains that run from the idler to the front axles.

Also, I wonder if the chain you bought is maybe short a link? If you haven't already, I would count the links on your new chain and old chain just to be sure.

I have the puller from Princess Auto too and used it on the #50 chain but mine is too small for the #60. I have ordered a larger puller from Amazon.

[Avenger Bob]

If you have both center and rear bolts loose and have pushed down on power pack with leverage and still a no go, first check that the square washers are flat and not standing,

You nailed it. That was exactly the problem. I straightened out the nut so the corner was not hitting the frame and voila!
Thank you ArgoJim!