701/702 Front Axle Modification

[rmaynard 15,458]

Has anyone ever tried replacing a 701/702 front axle with a 1963 or later one to improve the turning radius?

[ri702bill 8,320]

Most folks just switch to a 63 or later frame so the later axle bolts right in. I recall @Pullstart did just that on his 502.

The later cambered axle both steers better and gives a tighter turning radius. A "win-win"...

[wallfish 16,999]

That 63 axle would need to be modified to fit. Cut to fit between the axle mounts and a bushing for the 3/4" hole in it to 1/2" for the existing

 

I'd bet there are easier ways to gain a better steering radius. If the spindle steering arms are hitting the stops on the axle on full turn both directions, either the steering arms or the axle stops on the axle can be ground down. The steering pivot arm (#142) can be extended with a piece of steel. 

Doubtful anyone would notice the little amount of material removed from the axle stops if that is even necessary and the extending the pivot arm would require a hole drilled into it but that won't diminish the value. It can easily be switched back to original.

 

 

 

 

[ri702bill 8,320]

Too much like work!!! I still say that if you already have a donor tractor 63 or later, switch the frame. 

Another benefit - go with adjustable tierods too - sweet!!!

[rmaynard 15,458]

Thanks for the replies. Either way sounds like too much work for me. 

[wallfish 16,999]

13 minutes ago, ri702bill said:

Too much like work!!! I still say that if you already have a donor tractor 63 or later, switch the frame. 

Another benefit - go with adjustable tierods too - sweet!!!

That's QUITE a bit more work than just adding a simple bracket by drilling one hole into a pivot arm. Nothing at all even needs to be removed from the tractor. Just disconnect the tie rod, do it and put the tie rod back.

. Plus the huge downside of changing the frame is it instantly turns it into a Frankenhorse. That kind of modification will definitely diminish the value of a collectable round hood by at least 1/2.

 

 

[Ed Kennell 38,173]

Don't wanna drill a hole Bob?   Use Johns arm extension idea with a piece of unistrut.   Tap it on the tapered pivot arm till it is tight on the sides and bolt it on using the existing hole.

Connect the drag link to the unistrut slots at whatever length you need to get the wheel turn desired.    Easy peasy to go back to original.

 

[Pullstart 62,867]

4 hours ago, ri702bill said:

Most folks just switch to a 63 or later frame so the later axle bolts right in. I recall @Pullstart did just that on his 502.

The later cambered axle both steers better and gives a tighter turning radius. A "win-win"...

 

3 hours ago, wallfish said:

Plus the huge downside of changing the frame is it instantly turns it into a Frankenhorse. That kind of modification will definitely diminish the value of a collectable round hood by at least 1/2.

Guilty your honor, but I’ve never been too concerned with the resale value of my most prized possessions.  That’s for the family to deal with when I die 

[wallfish 16,999]

10 minutes ago, Pullstart said:

 

Guilty your honor, but I’ve never been too concerned with the resale value of my most prized possessions.  That’s for the family to deal with when I die 

LOL Not very concerned either but I don't modify good unmolested round hoods. Don't believe you do either. There are plenty of good candidates out there now for doing that stuff with so it doesn't make sense to chop up good ones.

[ri702bill 8,320]

51 minutes ago, Pullstart said:

 

Guilty your honor, but I’ve never been too concerned with the resale value of my most prized possessions.  That’s for the family to deal with when I die 

Agreed 100% !! Yup, all "Workin' Girls" here, no "Parade Princesses"  They ALL have a good life under our care, My kids can do as they wish with them then after I "join" my departed wife, as MY mowing and plowing days would be over....