Transmission gear wear..how much is too much?

[Dale Finch]

I WAS in the process of reassembling my '55 cub after its engine rebuild, but as often happens, "while I have it apart......"

Last night I took the transmission apart to replace seals and check bearings. My question is, how much wear on the gears is too much? When do you know to look for new gears and if you go shopping around, say on ebay, how do you know THEY are better than what you have?

In previous posts, folks have recommended replacing the gears (only...not housing?) with cadet gears. How much does a good set cost and are there any modifications needed to do so?

My gears do have rounded ends on the teeth, but no breaks or chips. I would like to do this right while I have it apart, but I will only use it lightly for mowing and pulling a trailer, and I won't be around to see it live another 60+ years!!! Money is a consideration...

Thanks for your recommendations (and Happy Holidays!).

[Barnyard]

Art has a good Cadet trans listed in the classifieds. That's a good place to start.

[Scrivet]

..... My question is, how much wear on the gears is too much? When do you know to look for new gears ................. Money is a consideration...........

My gear test would be the opposite of the refridgerator test. The one "when in doubt throw it out". For the gears, I think you'll know right away if they need replaced, if you're in doubt put em back and wear em out! I really don't like to, or see the need to, replace (spending money on) something servicable.

[Bus Driver]

For me, the crucial parts are the bearings. The bearings hold the gears in proper alignment and allow them to turn freely. No chips or cracks? Almost certainly those gears are OK. I have seen gears chipped after some other part broke in a transmission. If the chip is not on a mating surface, that gear is probably OK to use.

[Boss Hog]

It all depends on if you want a quite transmission, I would buy a CC trany from Art, I think I have bought 10 or more from him. No problems with them. Cheaper than the cost of bearing, but I have said this many times
Boss