BX-25 Steering wheel extension - modification

[Tachdriver]

Hello again Tractorites, Tachdriver here. Today I got the 25 out to dress up the roadway winter potholes. Boy does that Ratchet Rake do a good job :thumbsup:. This time, as I also did last time, I wished that steering wheel was a little higher so I do not have to bend over so much to steer. Difference from last time is I did something about it this time. I made a 6" extension to the column that moves the wheel up higher and to a more comfortable level for me. Now the hydraulics and the wheel are the same height. I'm right up there with Mr. Douglas - I love it

Here is how....

1. Remove the wheel
2. Discard the nut
3. Cut a piece of 3/4" solid rod - 6" long
4. Center and drill one end with a 9/16" bit - 1.5" deep
5. That column shaft is hardened, so no modifying that. Instead I'll screw an extension on it and lock it down. The thread is 16mm x 1.5 I believe
6. Install a set screw in the side of the extension
7. Made a cover sleeve out of aluminum 1-1/4" thinwall pipe
8. Drill out the Steering wheel bushing to 3/4"
9. Install the extension flush with the wheel top and drill thru it with a 1/4" bit
10 Install a 1/4" x 2" roll pin
11 Cover the holes with black silicone
12 Clean the column thread and lay a dab of blue Loctite on them
13. Install the sleeve and the new wheel assembly, thread it down tight.
14 Tighten the set screw.
15 Install the wheel center emblem and you're lookin good.

Swinging the seat around to the BH position is tight but still goes in one motion.

Man I like this new wheel. If it were Summer time, I'd cruise into town:laughing:

 

[ultrarunner]

Wonder if that will work on a BX23?

Always notice a few bruises from my knees hitting the wheel after a day's work.

 

[uglyboywith11fingers]

I'm 6'3" so my arms are long enough to reach the wheel, but then my legs are long enough to often bruise my legs/knees on the wheel. Thinking I'll try your idea but maybe just go up a couple or 3 inches.

thanks for the idea.

Pete

 

[CHDinCT]

Ah, the proverbial sock shot. Where ever has that been! Nice job on the column extension.

 

[radioman]

Its nice to see mr sock back!!! nice mod.

 

[Tachdriver]

Where have I been ? Well 2013 brought me to a new project.....or two that is. Victory motorcycles ! Yelp, I got two of them and have been in the wind. Can't wait until 2014 brings warm weather. But I will always love my BX-25 and those mods.

Thank you men ! Any questions on the install, just ask.

 

[spiv50]

Just ran across your post on bx-25 steering wheel extension. Great post and seems simple.
Question is will this work on the B-3200? Are the shafts the same diameter? I have to very
careful getting off the tractor because my knees get stuck!