JD B Vertical Spindle End Play

[Lewisk5]

In working on my '45 B, I noticed that there is about 1/4" of vertical play in the spindle. The I&T Manual says to add shims. Is this a big concern or should I leave it go? I don't have any shims.

 

[PBrowning]

Lewis - You have made a good find. A one-quarter-inch of end play may be indicative of a larger problem, and will be difficult to overcome with shims - even if you had them in hand. I'd want to check on the thrust bearing at the bottom of the pedestal - the balls may have escaped from the bearing cage.

Now - it is entirely possible that the lower (thrust) bearing is okay & that some prior maintenance in this area was done poorly; and that more shims are what you need. But I have my concerns about that bearing.

As for acquiring shims, I'd turn to suppliers who sell used parts such as Detwilers, etc (I will put a list at the end). (PatB)
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John Deere Parts - General

Your local John Deere Ag Dealer, via “jdparts” Homepage – Google this term to sign up!
The Old Tractor Company, Franktown CO 80116, (303) 663-5246, www.theoldtractorcompany.com
Pete's Antique Tractor Salvage, Inc, Anamoose N D 58710, (800) 541-7383, www.petestractor.com
Detwiler Tractor Parts, Spencer WI 54479, (715) 659-4252, www.detwilertractor.com
Steiner Tractor Parts, Inc, Lennon MI 48499, (800) link_disallowed, www.external_link
K&K Tractor Parts, Shelbyville IN 46176, www.kkantiquetractors.com
2-Cylinder Plus, Conway MO 65632, website = 2cylplus.com
RN Johnson, Walpole NH 03608, www.rnjohnsoninc.com
Wallace Tractor Company (Bruce), Mendenhall MS 39114, (601) 847-3844
Charles Dugan, Leonardville, Kansas (785) 293-4992
Larry Baker, Crossville, Tennessee (931) 248-2782
Marlin Smith, Panama, Iowa, (712) 489-2570
Shephard Tractor Parts, Downing, Wisconsin (715) 265-4988
Triple “G”, Alden NY 14004, (716) 542-3175
Dengler Tractor Co., Middletown OH 45042, (513) 423-4000
Martin Parts & Repair, Morgantown PA 19543, (610) 913-6299

 

[Mike M]

I don't think the B models have a thrust bearing just a thrust washer at the bottom.

Could be as simple as the gear loose ? I'd be checking it out.

 

[PBrowning]

Mike - you are right!

Lewis - See page 92 of PC330, your parts catalog. A thrust washer atop a pivot plate is the bearing method used. So unless something is missing down there, the trouble is most likely on top.

Lewis - My email is open. I have a routine sequence that I go through to set up steering. If you would like to privy to that piece, write me. (PatB)