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I recently went through this on my machine.In my case I lifted off the seat and tank so that I could remover the large cover plate over the clutch compartment. I was able to free the foot brake shaft up by using a pair of vice grips and working them them back and forth. First I drilled two small holes in the bosses that hold this shaft. Squirted oil in and used compressed air to force the oil through the bearing bushes until I could see it exit around the shaft - then used the vice grips. This took a little while and now the shaft and foot brake are both free. I also found one clutch that would stick when the lever was pulled - ie the clutch drump would not move. I could tap it out with a aluminum drift and hammer, but it only moves maybe 1/8", I guess enough to loosen the clutch plates. I also found that one pad had pulled off the brake band (they are bonded on). I re-assembled everything to try the machine and one clutch still does not work properly. I am hoping that this clutch might free up with use. I am also using the suggestion of JD, I am keeping the two levers pulled back (with a thick bungee cord) while the machine is not in use. This should relax the clutch plates and just maybe, seperate the rusting ones that I am sure I have. Since I am only using my 450 on my property and during the winter, just clearing snow away on the gravel roads, I decided I could get by for the winter using just the one clutch. I intend to re-re the clutch once the warmer weather arrives in the spring. I only use the machine for a couple of hours at a time and the clutch is used just to turn the machine around and for corrections when under way. I too found lots of water/moisture inside the clutch housings and removed the drain plugs. This moisture has, in my opinion, been the cause of my problems. When the levers are pulled they start easy and then when the resistance is felt, will start to shudder. Apparently this is normal as I was concerned about this (with the engine running of course). I am sure that JD or Roy will chime in with more advice if needed. I will be ordering the parts to do my clutch in March and from what I can determine, it will cost around $500 - $600 a side. I will use rivetted brake pads and not rely on the bonded pads. HTH J.
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