Rear axle shimming on a 1950 8N

TJ in KY · May 23, 2015

I have a 1950 Ford 8N tractor that I have been working on for some time. Last year I put it all together and tested it prior to painting everything worked good, oil pressure good, hydraulics good no leaks or leaking off, etc. but I noticed the rear wheels have some play in them as I was taking it apart to prep for paint.
I had put new bearings on the axles and the differential and shimmed it according to the manual and after reading John Smith tutorial on the axle shimming. The wheels turn in opposite directions but I have play in it when I grab the top of the tire and move it in and out like when you have play in a front wheel bearing when it is loose.
Could it have loosened up in the 8 or so hours I ran it mowing with a finish mower?
I am just wanting to confirm it is a shimming problem before I take it apart. Also can the seals be reused or should I get new ones. Both sides seem to have play. Will shimming one side correct both or will I need to take both sides apart and start over.

Bob · May 23, 2015

Are you SURE the wheel hubs aren't loose on the axle splines?

IIRC, correct axle endplay is in the one to three thousandths range, and twice the much ain't gonna hurt those BIG slow-turning bearings.

In reality, the only issue that will rear it's ugly head if the endplay is really out of hand will be leaking seals because the axle is a bit off-center.

IMHO, likely, you are making a mountain out of a mole hill.

NOXJohn · May 23, 2015

Try tightening the big nut on the axle. I have found that the nut needs to be tightened after use when the
hub has been removed. That may take out the wobble.

TJ in KY · May 23, 2015

(quoted from post at 10:02:16 05/23/15) Try tightening the big nut on the axle. I have found that the nut needs to be tightened after use when the
hub has been removed. That may take out the wobble.

NOXJohn I had tightened the big nut with a socket ¾" breaker bar with a 4 foot cheater on it and checked it again after using it for several hours. I think they are tight.

TJ in KY · May 23, 2015

Bob. I do have a dial indicator with a magnetic base. I will check it before going any further. I would just hate to get it all painted up and then have to tear it apart.

Bob · May 23, 2015

GOOD idea!

NoNewParts · May 24, 2015

plus one on checking the hubs for too much wear.
Just take the nut and washer off and look at it.
If the splines are flush or the hub splines are in past the end of
the axle splines, tightening the nut won't do anything.
Don't be tempted to add another oversize washer, as then brake parts might grind.

Rear axle shimming on a 1950 8N

TJ in KY

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Bob

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TJ in KY

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TJ in KY

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