I have a 1964 Ford 4000 with a Ford 720 FEL.
I have no idea when this FEL was last serviced and I need to remove it to split the tractor to replace the clutch. (A clutch that I think was worn out partially from the use of the FEL). While I have the FEL off, I might as well try to do what I can to tune it up and service it as much as I am capable of.
The problem I am running into is that all of the hoses on the tractor (power steering, coolant, hydraulics) seem to be "cured" from the heat that occurs with (I suppose) normal operation. At this point, it is apparent that there is more than the hose clamps that are keeping them attached. (There is also thread tape on the hoses to the hydraulic actuators - i have read that is likely bad to, but that is another topic.)
Before I can get that far, I need to get them off and that is proving to be extraordinarily difficult to do. It appears that I will end up destroying the hoses and needing to replace them.
Razor blades are not faring well against reinforced hoses. I thought about wedging a flat screwdriver in to try to create space, but I am not sure how far I can go without damaging a part I can't replace.
Is there a better way than 'brute force' to get these hoses off?
As always, I appreciate your input, the knowledge you guys have and share is invaluable.
I have no idea when this FEL was last serviced and I need to remove it to split the tractor to replace the clutch. (A clutch that I think was worn out partially from the use of the FEL). While I have the FEL off, I might as well try to do what I can to tune it up and service it as much as I am capable of.
The problem I am running into is that all of the hoses on the tractor (power steering, coolant, hydraulics) seem to be "cured" from the heat that occurs with (I suppose) normal operation. At this point, it is apparent that there is more than the hose clamps that are keeping them attached. (There is also thread tape on the hoses to the hydraulic actuators - i have read that is likely bad to, but that is another topic.)
Before I can get that far, I need to get them off and that is proving to be extraordinarily difficult to do. It appears that I will end up destroying the hoses and needing to replace them.
Razor blades are not faring well against reinforced hoses. I thought about wedging a flat screwdriver in to try to create space, but I am not sure how far I can go without damaging a part I can't replace.
Is there a better way than 'brute force' to get these hoses off?
As always, I appreciate your input, the knowledge you guys have and share is invaluable.