Tempilstick for Lock Collar ?

[BradTN]

I'm doing the axle seals and bearings on my 4
cylinder Ford 4000. I'm about ready to put one side
back together and was wondering what you
experienced guys do about the heat control of the
collar. Not hot enough and I guess it won't go on
all the way and get stuck, and too hot and it won't
hold the bearing in place. I was thinking about
getting one of the 800 degree sticks. So, do you
guys use the "Tempilstick" type product or just
wing it ? Thanks.

 

[Texas!]

Why risk messing it up? Use a Tempilstick.

 

[Bern]

I've always winged it with a torch. Have a punch or piece of pipe nearby to finish driving in place in case the collar did not get hot enough.

 

[RickB]

A uniform dull "just begining to show red" always worked for me.

 

[Ultradog MN]

You can buy a tempil stick at most welding supply outfits but I too would just wing it.
Have a piece of pipe the right dia and a bfh to drive it on snug.
Below is a color chart showing different colors vs temps.

 

[freds]

Use an optical temperature gun; They are available online for $20-30. They are also handy for looking at over heated bearings while running, and looking for hot or cold spots in a multitude of applications. I have used them to check clearance on a sickle mower bar while running.

 

[RodinNS]

I never changed one of them... but I sometimes heat bearings rather than drive them in place. I try not to get any color in them up to mabey a bit of blue in the cage... just wing it. With the collar... I suspect slightly blued is more than hot enough. Keep a heavy drift punch and hammer close to seat it home.

Rod

 

[BradTN]

I ordered a 800 degree Tempilstik. I'm looking forward to putting this tractor back together. I may post some pic's of the axle process as there doesn't seem to be much out there. Thanks.