Radius Arm

[RonC]

I recently bought a '75 Ford 2000 that I knew had some things wrong with it. The price was right, however, so now I'm trying to work all of the bugs out of it. The right side radius arm is bowed up in the center. I guess someone must have hit something with the front wheel to cause it, but I'm not sure. I was wondering if there is a way to straighten them and is there anything else I should be looking at that could have possibly been damaged when the radius arm was bent? Thanks for any help.

 

[GlenIdaho]

Ron;

A bent radius arm is not uncommon, especially if the tractor has or had a loader. The radius arms can be straightened relatively easily. Remove the arm and place both ends on a wooden block. Don't place the yoke or ball end on the block, but behind them. Then use a heavey sledge and a 3rd block to beat it straight. The 3rd block is to prevent scaring of the metal. If you dont care don't use it.

The other blocks are to protect the bottom surface of the arm. If you have a helper to help keep it in place while you pound on it, it makes it easier. Heat is not recommended due to the temper of the metal. Hope this helps.

 

[RonC]

Thanks Glen. I was thinking I might could just set it under my press and use the press to do it. You've explained exactly how it should be done. Much obliged.

 

[GlenIdaho]

Hi Ron;

Your press may make it easier than pounding on it. Don't know its configuration so can't add more.

I also forgot to tell you to check the front axle center pin as well. If your tractor had/has a loader, the center pin takes a beating too.

 

[RonC]

Will do. Thank you much.

 

[Hobo,NC]

A press will do it,,, not hard to straighten at all

 

[Old Ford Mechanic]

You do not need a hammer or a press to straighten a radius arm.All you need is 1 block of wood.1 block about the size of a cross tye.Grasp the radius arm and strike across the block to straighten it.A good eye,patience and several strikes will get it straight again.a This was shown to me over 35 years ago by an old mechanic at a Ford tractor dealership.Since then i've used his method many times to straighten the arms.They are quite easily repaired this way.

 

[RonC]

Thanks fellas. I really appreciate the help and good advice. I just happen to have an old cross tie in the back yard so I'll give that a try first.