Front wheel width adjustment on 4WD (TL2800F)

[HurdleMills]

For stability, I'm in the process of widening the wheel base of my TL2800F with factory FEL. Rear wheels were at 'full in' width of 44.9" and I'm moving them to 'full out' width of 59.1". I'd like to widen the front wheel base too, but the manual (White 2-32, which for all I can tell is the same tractor) says that for the 4WD, "Front wheel tread is permanently established at 47.6 inches (1210 mm)." For the 2WD model it says the wheel base can be widened out to a max of 61".

Questions: Can I safely move the front wheels out on the 4WD? Note that, because the the 4WD wheels are "1-piece wheels", it's all or nothing. I'd be just be able by swapping sides with them (left to right and vice-versa) to increase the front wheel base from 47.6" to approximately 61" (if my measurements are right), but won't be able to go anywhere in between. I expect that this would add stress to both the wheels and to the hubs...how hazardous or potentially damaging would this be?

Thanks,

Steve

 

[JerryG]

Steve,
It will put extreme pressure on your bearings. That is why the manual said they were permanent. Moving the front wheels out would help very little if any for additional stability, because the front-end pivots side to side. The only time that the extra width might help on the front-end would be if the axle is setting on the locks.