B21 Hydrostatic Drive not centering

[troutsqueezer]

I think it is the spring.

 

[Friar Tuck]

I think it is the spring.

Could well be. I can see the spring hooked at either end but it could be rusted through/broken in the middle. The dealer cautioned me against cutting a hole on top and since I am changing the Trans-hydraulic anyway I was thinking about dropping the hydraulic reservoir. It's starting to look like a real bad idea. I loosened off some bolts and hose clamps but I think I will tighten them right back up again and get my buddy to bring over his plasma cutter. That should do a nice neat job. If welded back up properly it should be just as strong as before. I do intend to clean the strainer. The problem I have at this point is the hydraulic filter underneath does not want to come off. It's going to be a battle. I was thinking it wouldn't be too bad once I drop the tank but since that has changed...wish me luck.

 

[Friar Tuck]

...wish me luck.

Tried several filter wrenches. Moved up to my extra large Channel Locks. Made a mess of the filter but did not budge. Saw a video on u-tube that showed how to pierce the filter with a screw driver all the way through the other side and use it to unscrew the filter. It worked like a charm.

 

[troutsqueezer]

That floor is thick steel. Cutting a square hole in it isn't going to affect it one bit. I cut a square piece of steel a little larger than the hole and tack welded it on there when I was finished. Splashed a little paint on there and it looks like it was meant to be. If I have to take it off again it's just a matter of a quick grind thru the small welds.

I can take a pic so you know the exact location if you want.