3930 front wheel adjustment

[3930Alabama]

I have a question---I have a Ford New Holland 3930. Will I need to remove the tie rod ends from the steering arms to change from 54 inch wheel center to 72 inch wheel center? Any thing else I need to know about this change? Thank you for your answer....

 

[Harry in Ky]

In theory, no. In practice, yes, most likely. A lot depends on condition (rust or lack thereof) and how long the tie rods have been together. My experience has shown a marginal success rate at separating the telescopic tubes. Usually end up replacing them because they won't come apart. Maybe you're going to get lucky.

 

[3930Alabama]

The condition of tie rods ends or how long they have been in service has nothing to do with if I need to remove them to make the adjustment. I read where some people say you don't have to remove the tie rods from the steering arm. I'm pretty sure I will have to remove the ends from the steering arm on a 1997 Ford New Holland.

 

[Harry in Ky]

To extend the track from 54 to 72 inches requires each tie rod to extend 6 inches. IF the notched rod slides freely out of the hollow tube once you remove the pinch/clamp bolt, then no, you probably won't need to remove the ball joint from the steering arm. On the other hand, I think you'll find that how long they've been together has a LOT to do with it.

 

[3930Alabama]

To extend the track from 54 to 72 inches requires each tie rod to extend 6 inches. IF the notched rod slides freely out of the hollow tube once you remove the pinch/clamp bolt, then no, you probably won't need to remove the ball joint from the steering arm. On the other hand, I think you'll find that how long they've been together has a LOT to do with it.

You are so right. I had to remove the drag link from the tractor because the tie rods ends would not budge. Now I have the drag link in a vice and still can't turn the treaded end or slid the other end out with out buggering up the drag link or tie rods ends. Is there another way to do this?

 

[Harry in Ky]

Before you get too carried away I suggest you price out new tie rods. Both complete units and individual pieces. They aren't all that expensive aftermarket. You might just decide getting them apart isn't worth the effort.
What I have done in some cases is cut a slice lengthwise down the hollow tube with a cut off wheel. Same length as the solid shaft is inserted. Soak that down with penetrant and try breaking it loose with a pipe wrench. Sometimes that works but not always.
Assuming this is the axle you have?

FRONT AXLE, STEERING & RELATED PARTS, W/MANUAL (3-90/5-93) - 3430,3930,4130, W/MANUAL & POWER - 4630 | New Holland Agriculture | MyCNH US Store

Find schematics, manuals, specifications and diagrams for FRONT AXLE, STEERING & RELATED PARTS, W/MANUAL (3-90/5-93) - 3430,3930,4130, W/MANUAL & POWER - 4630. Find genuine OEM parts for your needs.

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[3930Alabama]

You are so right. I had to remove the drag link from the tractor because the tie rods ends would not budge. Now I have the drag link in a vice and still can't turn the treaded end or slid the other end out with out buggering up the drag link or tie rods ends. Is there another way to do this?

Okay, job accomplished. With lots of heat and perseverance I was able to remove the tie rod ends from the drag link. It might be best to replace the tie rods while I have everything apart.