8n axle interchange or other such problem

[flameeater]

Here is a strange one. I went to do a brake job on my 8n, which is not in the best shape, but it works (it has spent the last several years at my fathers and he has been using it). I decided to change the outer seals since I was going to be there anyway, and I wanted to make the most out of it. Only then did I realize that instead of the 2in nut, there was a castle nut, and it had been welded.

Ordered a proper 2in nut, ground off the welds, and split the nut to get it off. Managed to save the threads, but the shaft is too small for the "correct" nut, at least on that side (left). Nut fits fine on the other side's exposed threads.

Took the nut around to hardware stores, Fastnal, and tractor supply, but no one carries anything to replace it with. The closest was a 1-8 bolt from tractor supply that I could thread it on, but when I got the corresponding nut and washers home, they wound up being slightly too small.

The threads look factory as far as I can tell. This axle seems to otherwise be just fine. Could someone have shoved in a interchangeable axle from a different tractor? Were replacements made with smaller threading? Any info would help.

I suppose I could just replace the axle, but other than no friction material left on the brakes, there is nothing really wrong with it. Any ideas, or suggestions? Thanks!

 

[Lynn Patrick]

Those threads can really wear down! You may want to look at the "Ford 8N Axle Nut, Clamp Lock Type" on this site, part #Part No: LN10-21.

 

[shaun wallace]

Threads got wore/stripped took to machine shop, cut new threads. Seen more that once, Last farm sale at both sides were done that way on 8N with bunch of washers and hubs still loose.

 

[flameeater]

That sounds about right. If I go with changing the axle, what all will I need? I already have inner and outer seals (because I didn't do my research to know I wouldn't need inners). I know there is a bearing that goes on the axle, will I be able to reuse the one I have if it is still in good shape, or would it need to be replaced as well?

 

[shaun wallace]

Besides new axle , new hub if old is anywhere close to end of axle splines. Cork seal on axle, new washer if dont have and new nut with lock wire.

 

[flameeater]

Good deal, sounds like I pretty much have everything aside from the axle then. I was mainly concerned about that bearing. Are they a bear to swap from one axle to the next?