640 front axle support bushing

[JimCar]

Ordered split bushing pt #2N3039 from Ebay received a solid type. The split bushing had a brass looking coating inside. The solid bushing had no coating. Is one better than the other or easier to install? Thanks

 

[murray moore]

I just replaced mine on an 871 using the solid or one piece bushing. One person suggested press fitting it into the center axle, but I was careful and used a 3/4" piece of oak and tapped it in with a short handle 2 pound hammer. I was careful to evenly seat it at first start. Hammer blows became progressively forceful as it progressed into the center axle hole while holding the wood on the perimeter of the bushing. The last 3/16" I just tapped it in directly with the hammer around the perimeter of the bushing seating it flush with the front of the axle. Did not do any damage to the bushing perimeter or edge. Worked for me.

I suspect that the brass coating has its advantages to prevent the pin and bushing from seizing should it sit and water works its way in. And brass is fairly soft as you know and may negate the need for a lubricant like grease and perhaps minimize some long term wear on the steel pin itself. But I plan to liberally grease the bushing and pin. Mine had a worn one piece solid bushing that was easily removed with same hammer and using a 3/4 drive and appropriate size socket that neatly fit into the axle hole and on to the old bushing. Whacking the socket removed the bushing and it eventually just popped out. No sweat.

Depending on how long you plan to live and the life expectancy of the tractor I suspect that either the split or solid bushing will outlast both of us and cause no worry. But I lose sleep over details like this until I realize that these things are more rugged than I ever will be. HTH's

 

[murray moore]

Pressing it in would be easy too...and in a pinch two small steel plates with a drilled hole (for threaded rod) to cover the axle opening, threaded rod or long bolt with nut would press it in too.

 

[JimCar]

Thats a good idea. Thanks

 

[JimCar]

I used a pc of 1/2" all thread, nuts, washer, flat bar and a 15/16" socket to "press in" steering sector shaft bushings yesterday. Worked like a charm! Will use same type set up larger axle bushing soon. Shade tree mechanicing!