When you push the clutch lever forward, make sure it releases over the "snap". The handle on the lever should move a good 12" I guess (no D2 handy to check with). I've seen ponies run with 0.250 of axial float but if yours is 0.125 or less, it'll hold together for a while so long as you keep the oil fresh and full. Fresh means not diluted with fuel. When stopping the pony, turn the fuel valve off and let the carb run out of gas. When you next go to start it and check the oil, make sure the level has not gone up. If it has, the valve may be leaking and fuel has leaked into the crankcase. Do not run it until you have changed the oil - it only takes a quart so it's inexpensive to change if you're ever in doubt. Do not overfill. To release the pinion, open the small round cover on the clutch housing left side top (don't lose the 1/4 bolts...), turn the pony over until you can see a latch (one on each side 180 apart), then push the rear end of the latch and it will spring open - use a screwdriver or similar, not your finger or you'll lose some skin - enjoy!