John Deere B 1949 - Block Removal

[ZigZag]

I just finally got the block off the studs with one stuck piston. How do I get the block out and under? Is is possible to do with sheet
metal still on? I assume the tractor does not need to be split to achieve this? Can it fit down if I twist it? Do I need to remove head
studs? Any advice appreciated!

 

[MSD]

Should be able to roll it out the top without taking the sheetmetal off. Might need to remove a couple of studs to get it to roll out.

 

[Pete in MD]

No need to remove sheet medal or split the tractor. The head studs do not need to be removed.

Remove the upper water pipe casting from the block, raise it up and tie it up with a wire around the steering shaft.

Here's the procedure from the SM-2004 manual:

1. Slide the block off the case studs.
2. Turn the block 90 degrees so the left side of the block is looking down.
3. Turn the block 90 degrees so the head studs are looking up.
4. Slide the block forward so it's in the narrow section of the front frame rails.
5. Turn the block 90 degrees and at the same time lift it over the right hand frame rail. As the block clears the tractor the head studs will lead the way.

The block is heavy and you should have something under the tractor that you can rest the block on as you go through the above steps. I've used 2 upside down plastic milk crates and some scrap lumber.

Hope this helps.