TO-20 Rear Drag Link/Tie Rod End...

is worn out.

I tried loosening the nut, but the threaded bolt/stud just turns - is there a way to hold it, or can I hacksaw off the bolt, just behind the nut?

Also, I"ve heard that these ends are hard to get out of the steering arms, even after the nuts are removed - what"s the trick?

Thanks.
 
Tom, when I rebuilt my TO 30 I just loosened the bolt and turned the drag link out. If nothing else put the drag link in the vice and try turning the long piece. Don't forget one drag link is left handed threads and the other is right handed.
 
Thanks, Richard, but I"m not trying to get the drag link end out of the tube yet - I"m just trying to get the nut off, so I can get the drag link unhooked from the steering arm.
 
Okay I misread your original post, now I do not have a thought except to say sawing behind the nut may be the best way but a hacksaw could give your hands a lot of bruises in those close quarters. Would a sawzall be able to fit in there? That would be easier on the hands I would think.
 
Yes, Richard, I think one or the other will work.

I"ll save your first response for when I get the drag links off - I"ve heard that the ends can be a booger to get out of the tubes.

Thanks!
 

First, I'd try to [u:e98c389180]tighten[/u:e98c389180] the nut to get the tapered stud to seat into the steering arm tight enough to loosen the nut without the stud turning. If that doesn't work, it's time to get the cutting torch out and cut the nut off. The stud is hardened steel and I don't know if a hack saw or sawzall blade is tough enough to cut it. Another idea is to use a cutting wheel on a Dremel tool to cut the nut off.
To get the drag link out of the steering arm, pull or pry on the link and smack the steering arm HARD with a hammer. Usually the jarring effect will break the tapered stud loose. If that doesn't work, you can use a "pickle fork" tool that can be bought at an auto parts store to separate the two.
BillL
 
Getting the tie rod off the tractor is not that bad, but yes they can be stubborn.

Samn40 taught me this trick. Loosen the nut on the end of the tie rod and back off a little. Get a piece of wood and use to apply pressure on the tie rod like you trying to pry the joint apart. Then using a hand sledge (2.5 or 3 lb)Give a good firm and swift smack to end of the lever arm in line with the lever arm.

This action will momentarily flex the circle and the tie rod will pop free. Sometimes it may take several hits with increasing force.

Jeff
 
Thanks, All.

I thought I had read about the "Whack On The Steering Arm Method" somewhere, either here or on the N Board, but I couldn"t find it.

I was a little leery of hitting the steering arm, but I"ll give it a try.
 

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