Steering restoration on an H

David A. Smith · Jul 31, 2010

Don't know all the technical terms but got a question about steering mechanism on an H. I'm trying to disassemble the thing to clean it up before paintinga. I've got the lid off the wormgear housing and the nut off the large shaft that runs down and connects to the front axil (which I've removed. After removing the nut I can't get the shaft out ... how do I do that? I'm afraid to put the nut back on and whale on it with a hammer. Is that a bearing in the tractor frame that the shaft runs through? I'd like to replace it if I can. Thanks. Can send photos if you need them.

mkirsch · Jul 31, 2010

There is a large pipe cap on the front of the steering gearbox. Remove that.

Now, loosen the clamp on the steering universal joint.

Turn the steering wheel clockwise as you sit on the seat.

That will walk the bearing, shaft, and worm gear out as a single unit. No "whaleing" away necessary.

Theman · Jul 31, 2010

It sounds like you're trying to remove the vertical shaft. The large gear is a tapered spline fit on the end of the shaft and that is what is holding the shaft in place. You will not damage the thrust bearing by hammering on the end of the shaft. It is accepted practice to put the nut on the shaft and hit it hard. I use a wood block on the nut as my aim with a 5-pound sledge isn't what it used to be. When the shaft comes loose from the gear, the nut will keep the shaft and bearing assembly from falling on your foot.

mkirsh has explained how to remove the steering shaft which should be done first.

GordoSD · Jul 31, 2010

I have to question why you want to remove the vertical shaft. You are going to paintit?
You can remove the front end with the shaft in there.
Were you having steering problems? You can remove the horizontal shaft out the front of the tractor through the radiator.

Gordo

David A. Smith · Jul 31, 2010

OK ... so I can bang on the vertical shaft as long as the nut is on ... I haven't been out to tbe barn to look at the thing recently ... but can't figure (from the kitchen here) why the horizontal shaft from the steering wheel has to be removed first. In anycase ... if you say remove it first ... I will. Thanks. I'm removing this vertical shaft cause there must be a quart of old solidified grease in the space just above the front axil ... not easily accessible up in there.

Larrydw · Aug 1, 2010

I had tried this method for removing the gear and never did get the darn thing loose. Spent a lot of time pounding on that darned shaft. Gradually went up to bigger and bigger hammers too. Finally lucked out and found a low priced new front end to swap out. Is there some special trick I could have used to get it loose? It's been bugging me why I couldn't get it off!

Theman · Aug 1, 2010

The worm gear steering shaft really doesn't have to be out for the vertical shaft to come out. You just run a greater risk of damaging it while hammering on the nut. Like I said, my aim isn't as good as it used to be. Also, it will be better for the nut and threads if you turn it over and use the smooth side. Or, if you have one, put a standard fine threaded hex nut on the shaft and strike it. Leave enough of a gap between it and the sector gear so that you know when the shaft has come loose.

Steering restoration on an H

David A. Smith

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mkirsch

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Theman

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GordoSD

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David A. Smith

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Larrydw

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Theman

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