Ford 3230 axle bearing / seal replacement - what's involved

[penguinrobot]

Hey there! I have a 1992 Ford 3230 tractor and I've noticed some fluid on the left wheel. I think it's a bearing/seal replacement but I'm not sure. I can do some work on tractors, but don't have a lot of time and heavy tools (like what may be required to remove the axle). I'm wondering what I'm up against if I undertake this myself. Is it difficult to get into this area, and what kind of time would it take? Any special tricks or tools required? Do the brakes need to be removed?

Appreciate any input at this stage.

Thanks very much, penguinrobot

 

[penguinrobot]

Anybody? I must be asking a senseless question. Somebody here has done this job. Thank you!

 

[TractorTech]

Welcome to TBN!

It is not an easy job if you don't have heavy tools and a puller with extensions.
The oil needs to be drained in the rear end, the wheel comes off and the trumpet housing (axle half) removed. Once off, the brake assembly comes out, the axle unbolted from the trumpet and the trumpet housing removed. A bearing puller with extensions, the length of the axle, is used to remove the bearing. Now, the bearing could be removed by torching it, but you need to be careful doing this.
Installation is basically like so. The seal is installed, the bearing heated to drop on the axle and assemble in reverse order. The bearing needs to be preloaded with the correct axle shim, so you need to install the housing, measure, remove housing, install the right shim and assemble. If I remember right, the axle bolt needs to be torqued to 350-450 ft. lb.

 

[Harry in Ky]

The short answer. Live with the leak until you're ready to pay someone to fix it.

 

[penguinrobot]

Harry in Ky, I think you are right.
TractorTech, thanks a million! It sounds like a pretty big effort, and I don't have the bearing puller anyway.

 

[TractorTech]

I thought I would give you the long answer to let you decide according to your ability.
It is a nuisance. I have lived with one for awhile, but it is on my backhoe so there is even more to it.