Broken Knuckle

[thebudman]

The left-side steering knuckle (for lack of a better term) on my Jimna 254 is broken. As such, I cannot steer the machine. I ordered a new part from Northern Tools for $110.00. It seems like an easy swap--- but then again, nothing these days is ever "easy". Is there anything I should be aware of or look out for?

I saw that some aftermarket tractor place had the entire left-side assembly (knuckle and other parts) for around $350.00. Should I have spent the extra coin and replaced everything? What say you???

 

[greg_g]

I suppose $110 from Northern is close enough, I found the same part at FarmPro for $101. But you're stuck in sort of a Catch-22 situation. When replacing steering components, it's usually recommended you do it in pairs. Now in the case of a broken cast part, that's a bit different. I'd say it's ok to replace just that part. Consider however, that the vertical bolt on the tie rod end (the one that goes through the hole in the steering bracket) may be worn. I'd say new bracket, new tie rod end. And if the right one is worn, the shopping list gets longer.

Then if you go with replacing the whole left side to the tune of $350, you really should do the right side at the same time. Now you're encroaching on big bucks territory. I'd go with the replacement bracket and a new tie rod end for now.

It's stories like yours that make me glad I got rid of my Jinmas. I just replaced both right and left steering links on my TS354C - to include tie rod ends - for $114 delivered. Even if I'd have included both right and left steering arms, it still would have only run $199 + freight.

//greg//

 

[thebudman]

Getting rid of the tractor means going back to the shovel and wheel barrow.... not an option. I guess I'll replace the part and hope for the breast.

 

[Affordable]

On the left steering knuckle arm ,there are 2-sizes one is taller than the other,make sure you order the correct one.

Tommy
Affordable Tractor Sales
"Your Jinma Parts Superstore"
Home of compact Jinma, Foton, and Koyker Tractors and Parts, Wood Chippers, Backhoes - Affordable Tractor Sales Company

 

[Rich Waugh]

Getting rid of the tractor means going back to the shovel and wheel barrow.... not an option. I guess I'll replace the part and hope for the breast.

I'm right with you on hoping for the breast! :thumbsup:

 

[Diamondpilot]

I'm right with you on hoping for the breast! :thumbsup:

I caught that also but did not know how to comment. We know what he was thinking while he was typing. But truth be know I "hope for the breast" about 100,000,000 times a day.:thumbsup:

Chris

 

[Bob Rooks]

I caught that also but did not know how to comment. We know what he was thinking while he was typing. But truth be know I "hope for the breast" about 100,000,000 times a day.:thumbsup:

Chris

Amen!

 

[Affordable]

Man you can't a s s you guy's anything with out you taking it the wrong way


Tommy
Affordable Tractor Sales Co

 

[studor]

In response to the original question I think replacing just the knuckle will be fine.
I too hope for the breast and try never a s s a question that might be taken the wrong way

 

[Part timer]

Wow this thread went off subject aweful fast!! All it took was One word lol.

Good luck with your knuckle repair we all wish you the breast of luck!! ;-)