SAFE removal of BOTH rear wheels?

I have the front axle removed and a trailer jack bolted to the left side of the clutch housing of my SA. The engine is back on. I need to remove both rear wheels:
1. they were accidentally swapped after sandblasting, so I need to put the cast rim back on the right.
2. I will be removing the left final drive (welded repairs), and swapping it with the one from my parts SA, adding new seals.

My question is, what is the best/safest way to proceed. I have had both off before, carefully placing wedges on the front axle to prevent rotation (laying on its side!) I just don't know how it will be with the jack stand (see photo):


Also, is the strength of the jack pad just below the PTO compromised by having the PTO removed? (see photo):


Thanks.

Dale #2

Dale,

I'm sure others, with more experience than I, will be along soon with a more definitive answer. What is the rush with changing the wheels? Wait until you get the front axle back on and then change your wheels. I've been accused of being too cautious, at times, however, this may not be one of those times.

Good luck.

Bill

Hmmmm...Ok, I actually have no real reason for not working on getting the axle back under "him"! (Some sandblasting, repairs, wheel bearings, etc...) Think I will do just that! DUH!! This thread may just be the shortest one yet!!

Thanks, Bill

If you try it, move the trailer jack to the right side of the tractor. That will move it nearer to the center of the tractor.

Ricky - I respectfully disagree. Leaving the jack where it is will still allow some weight on the right rear. If you move the jack to the right side of the tractor all the weight will be on the left side with nothing to prevent it from flopping over. Probably the safest way to do this would be to hang it from an overhead support or shop crane.

I think the safest way to do this will be to just wait until I am ready to put the front back on...at least with it well blocked, the wheels give it more stabilization. (There was a reason I felt I should double check with you guys...I guess deep down I knew it was stupid!) The steering just wasn't ready yet, and I wanted to accomplish SOMETHING! Oh well, at least I got the governor on today...oh, and a bunch of parts ready to be primed!

Thanks anyway, Dale