Implement mounting bolt holes on rear axle....prpblem

[badguygitr]

One of the bolt holes on my rear axle where the implement mounting plate it bolted on has a piece broken off so the bolt won't hold. Does anyone have any ideas for fixing this without buying the whole new housing? Can it be welded and retapped? Thanks

[Andy48KY]

I have used Heli-coil repairs to mount the drawbar brackets. I only use my to mow, I dont know if they would be good for ground engaging implements

[Bigdog]

If you're not using all the mounting holes, you could swap the left and right housings (you'll have to switch the innards). It's a lot of work, but would be inexpensive. You could also look for a used replacement. Shouldn't cost too much.

[George Willer]

If you're not using all the mounting holes, you could swap the left and right housings (you'll have to switch the innards). It's a lot of work, but would be inexpensive. You could also look for a used replacement. Shouldn't cost too much.

I was pondering the same thing, but then it sounds like a lot of work. Then I thought of the work of stripping the housing to do a proper weld and it didn't sound so outrageous. It would only require swapping the differential shafts. Might be the easiest way to go... especially if you consider renewing the seals at the same time.

[Dan England]

I repaired a mounting hole with helicoil three years ago. My primary usage has been mowing but have also used a mid-mount disk plow and a mid-mount grader blade. The helicoil repair is still in good condition. My repair was due to stripped threads, so I don't know whether it would work well with a break in the final drive. Dan

[Jim Becker]

It would only require swapping the differential shafts. Might be the easiest way to go... especially if you consider renewing the seals at the same time.

The full swap would also require changing the lower axles. Otherwise the seed plate drive ends up on the wrong side. If you aren't going to use a planter or a fertilizer attachment, it won't matter.

[badguygitr]

I've never heard of Helicoil. What is it? Mainly the tractor is going to be used for mowing. Thanks Guys

[Ron L]

A heli-coil is a threaded insert that looks like a spring - usually to repair a destroyed tapped hole or inserted in aluminum to prevent wear due to excessive interval bolt removal. You need a special Heli-coil tap and must know the proper tap drill size. Also, there is an installation tool. They usually come in kits for the particular size you want with everything you need. Heli-coils come in different lenghts to suit your need. It also is recommended to use loc-tite on most applications. "Heli-coil" is a brand name. They're not cheap! However, installed properly, they can save "big bucks" and are close to reliable as new threads.

For additional info & prices look at http://www.mcmaster.com and search for "Helical Inserts".

[George Willer]

A Heli-Coil is probably a fine invention for some uses, but it can't possibly work in a situation where part of the casting is broken away. You'll have to repair it some other way. That's why Bigdog and I suggested swapping the drives.

I didn't think you would be running a planter, so I didn't think the planter drive was important. I have one Cub with two left housings with two right differential shafts (one modified) and have had no problem.

[badguygitr]

Thanks for the help. As Larry the Cable Guy says: I'll "Get er Done"