Side Rail Removal

Jeff Pfeiffer · Jun 27, 2014

I'm having issues with a leaky upper bolster, so after removing it for an overhaul/de-gunk/prime, I was thinking of removing the side rails to easily de-gunk/prime.

I've read in past posts that it's ok to remove the bolster and side rails from the tractor.

My question is where and how much cribbing needs to be done as not to put too much stress on the block?

How difficult is it to remove the side rails?

Thanks!

Dave S. · Jun 27, 2014

Remove the bolts that go through the rails into the side of the block and the three bolts on each side at the back of the rails.
The engine will not go anywhere as long as the rest of the bolts are still in place.

bassmasta76 · Jun 27, 2014

I've actually been wondering the same thing. Out of curiosity, which model are you doing this to? I would assume that it is safe to remove the rail on any of the models, as long as you have things properly secured, right?

One thing that I've noticed is that there is a small gap (about 1/4") between the RH side rail and the bolster. I think that this gap (and a smaller one on the LH side) is contributing to my sheet metal not fitting properly.

--b

Jeff Pfeiffer · Jun 27, 2014

Sorry, missing some key information . . . the tractor is a 1950 Farmall H.

Bob M · Jun 27, 2014

Assuming your tractor is an H, M or one of their direct descendents, side rail removal is straight forward.

Jack the front of the tractor, then crib (support) it so it's supported beneath the clutch housing. (For safety sure to thoroughly block BOTH rear wheels before jacking!)

It's now a simple matter to remove the lower bolster/wheels and upper bolster/radiator as complete assemblies. A shop crane or front loader is helpful for this - the upper bolster assembly is VERY top heavy. Finally unbolt/remove both side rails.

Don't worry about overstressing the block doing this. The engine actually serves as the front frame of the tractor - the side rails merely mount the front bolster and serve as implement attachment points.

IAtractorKid · Jun 27, 2014

No need for blocking or cribbing if your just going
to remove them, clean them up and put them back on.
Don"t operate the tractor with them off. If your
worried, only take one off at a time.

Patrick HMD · Jun 27, 2014

(quoted from post at 12:41:37 06/27/14) If your worried, only take one off at a time.

Well, that was my problem. I know I'm such a worry wort, but that's just the way that I am. So I did one at a time, completely. Here's my set up. As you can see, it worked just fine.

Best regards
Patrick
'49M

John M · Jun 28, 2014

You apparently already have it up for the bolster rebuld, just take them off, unless you are using those to hold the front up. Then just block it up at the clutch housing, and take them off.(If you haven't already.

Side Rail Removal

Jeff Pfeiffer

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Dave S.

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bassmasta76

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Jeff Pfeiffer

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Bob M

Well-known Member

IAtractorKid

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Patrick HMD

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John M

Well-known Member

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