ym 2000 front axle issue

[Hbrooks17]

I have a problem with my front axle. I replaced the steering wheel gear box which certainly needed it when my steering wheel basically would just spin. After replacement, I noticed that my front axle would shift forward when I turned in either direction. After inspection, I noticed that I could literally pull my axle forward about an inch and a half and could visualize about a 1/1/2 inch section of my axle pin. I purchased two new center pin supports that include new bushings and grease fitting s thinking this may be the issue but I have not replaced them as of yet. As a shade tree mechanic I was just looking for some thoughts on my issue and making sure I am on the right track. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[clemsonfor]

sounds like it. I think the axle is just there on that center pivot that attaches to the frame up front. But seems like there would be something that would stop all front or rear movement like a roll pin or something? I cant remember how mine looks and havent gone to HOyes site to see the diagram.

Any pics?

 

[Hbrooks17]

I will send some pics shortly... Basically, there is a pin that runs through two housing. At present, the axle moves freely (about 1 1/2 inches) front to back on the pin....

 

[clemsonfor]

i think mine has a lock nut...castle nut maybe? i cant remember

 

[Hbrooks17]

i believe you are correct. I believe the castle nut is located on the housing which is located to the rear of the tractor, but I don't think there is a castle nut on the front axle?

 

[winston1]

Here it is. Yanmar Tractor Parts: FRONT_AXLE_2WD Assuming you ordered ref #12. 1-1/2" is a lot of movement. Something must be loose.

 

[Hbrooks17]

Thanks, I am hoping I do not have to get the whole axle replaced....

 

[Hbrooks17]

Here is a pic of the problem...

 

[California]

Why not just shim that gap with washers?

 

[Hbrooks17]

It wouldn't hurt my feelings. Do you think blown out bushings is the cause?

 

[California]

Do you think blown out bushings is the cause?

Dunno. I'll be back at the ranch in one more day and I'll look at my YM240 to see what it should look like. I seem to remember it has 1/16" slack there.

Yours is a 2 wheel drive, right?

 

[winston1]

The two housings are to far apart. There can't possibly be that much wear.

 

[Hbrooks17]

Yes, mine is 2wd and thanks for checking yours out. I just changed the steering wheel gearbox and thought maybe that has something to do with it?

 

[clemsonfor]

no the axle is just on a piviot. Should not have much foward to back play. The only things connecting the axle are the pitman arm and the pivot point.

 

[Hbrooks17]

Could I have attached the Pitman Arm incorrectly?

 

[winston1]

The pitman arm has nothing to do with your problem. The two housings that hold the bushings are to far apart. There is a cross member under the frame those housing bolt into. For some reason the housings are to far apart. Getting under and looking out there should reveal why. Just because of the 1-1/2".

 

[Hbrooks17]

Well that is good news. I looked under there and just cannot figure out why the separation. Hoye suggested I loosen the bolt, pull the housings back together, and tighten everything down for a possible solution....

 

[winston1]

Might work, can't tell from here. :thumbsup:

 

[California]

Any chance this is a FrankensteinMar assembled in a VN 'rebuld' shop from unrelated parts?

 

[Hbrooks17]

I guess it certainly could be but from the parts I have removed it doesn't appear that way. Is there anyway I could tell for sure?