37 A pushrod sleeves-checking and replacing.

[FactoryFarmer]

I got the poor old A running and fill the crankcase with water after the new engine was put it. Ok, whatever.

Someone suggested I check the pushrod sleeves going though the water jacket. I pulled the head off and put tight-fitting plastic plugs in the face side of the sleeves and then set the head, on it's face, directly on my bench. I then poured water in the sleeves to see if they would hold it or not. The water would drain maybe a quarter of the way down and stop so I assuming they are leaking somewhere. Was this a good method to test?

Next question, how do I go about replacing them? Tape them out with a perfect size piece of stock and carefully put the new ones in? Can you even get new ones?

Thanks
 

[Mark-Ia]

Yes ypu can drive them out that way. Some people thread the tube with a 5/8 tap and pull them out. DetwilerTractor have the pushrd tubes for $25.00.. When installing, I use some JB weld on the ends of the tubes,install the tubes and then use a slightly cone shaped punch to swedge the end of the tube near the outside of the head.
 

[430WLPG]

the tubes are bigger on one end than the other, and you can crack the head if not careful btdt
 

[Pete in MD]

The original part# for the tubes is AA1615R. That # has been replaced by A2052R. They're available from Deere for $8.78 each. You'll need two.
 

[FactoryFarmer]

Well, it appears when the machine shop drills the manifold threads out they hit BOTH sleeves and put a really nice hole in the side.

Problem found!
 

[Vern H]

FF, I ruined one tube by trying to drive it in with a hammer. A piece of all-thread with nuts and washers does a slick and easy job.
Good luck, VH