Are there any problems associated with cutting the nub off the crank to make the backplate fit for the short shaft? Will it create an imbalance? I am reluctant to cut it off, although I don't really feel like buying the pilot shaft crank either. Has anyone done this and not had it affect the balance of the crank?

it shouldn't cause any probs but do the first cut off with a dremel cutoff whell and then use a nice fine flat needle file to bring it flush to the back of the crank. if you are just shortening the shaft you should have no probs either but use that method and make sure you have a nut on the threads below the cut off area and then take it off it will clean up the end of shaft where you cut it and make for a easy take apart when its needed

do what was mentioned above, but make sure the little cutting disc doesnt slide off and harm the threads

he means the internal pullstart knob. yes thats fine ive done it plenty of times. DONT cut it, grind it off
cutting it will cause intense uneven heat and burring gently grind it continually dipping it water or oil to cool it off. then fille the end nicely, a little too short and a lil crank movement is better than too long and jamming the engine ( i mean 1/4 mm here) so take it easy.

Dann

Dann is right! Thanks for the replies everyone. I was just concerned with taking weight off one side of the crank and not the same to the counterweight on the other side of it. I may just sell the crank on ebay and buy a pilot shaft crank since that is what i really want.