Farmall F12 Starting Shaft

SadFarmall · May 24, 2017

The starting shaft and gimbal arrangement on my F12 are worn out. At present the tractor has only the front shaft (the one the crank handle fits onto) in place. It seems I need to move the motor to get this shaft out? Has anyone fitted a different universal joint in place of the gimbal to make removal and fitment easier?
SadFarmall

Fritz Maurer · May 24, 2017

There does not appear to be enough room for a modern-style U-joint assembly ( I'm thinking of a dump truck PTO, you may be thinking of something else.) As far as getting the front half of the assembly out, remove the drive coupling from between the trans and clutch and slide the motor rearward. Danger! Make sure the two halves of the front motor mount do not become disengaged or the motor will drop through the frame.

John M · May 24, 2017

I'm trying to remember how mine on my 14 came out, but I don't really remember if it just came out of=r I took it out or what. But what I did, was have the original joint "remade". I had the hand crank end shaft made with a notch on the end, that fit into a slot on the joint, and a short bolt held in with Loctite holds it in place. I know its in the archives somewhere, or it was, but it would take forever to find it.

SadFarmall · May 25, 2017

Thank you! The removal process does look awkward. I will watch my toes! I have modern replacement universal joint for Farmall H/M. It is for the same size shaft (7/8"). It might work to fit it with a keyway or grub screw to lock in place. It does not appear wider than the original part.
One possible problem I can see is angle alteration as the shaft moves fore and aft. Might cause the front shaft to bind or the starting dog to misalign…

SadFarmall

Fritz Maurer · May 25, 2017

That IS a pretty good idea... never thought of a steering column joint. It is interesting because I wonder if the cranking effort will be reduced , with a high-tech joint like that. Will be waiting for your report!

James Williams · May 27, 2017

SAD,you are correct,I have moved the motor and I also moved the front bolster

SadFarmall · May 27, 2017

I have taken the complete starting assembly to an engineer who lives nearby. He has looked at the tractor and says he thinks we can do it. We will use a new piece of shaft. If it there are any issues, I will still have the worn out assembly for a pattern. I know he does good work; made a new tie rod assembly and tapered bush for the front of my 844S, which are perfect.
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Farmall F12 Starting Shaft

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