TO-35 Axle Housing Bolts

Tony C. · Apr 28, 2012

I have a TO-35 and the studs that hold the axle housing trumpet to the center section on the right hand side have been eroded away by the exhaust gasses from the tailpipe. On some it's just the nuts that are gone and maybe I can replace and tighten up. But on others half the stud or more is eaten away and it's starting to seep oil. Some of the corroded studs are eaten down to maybe 3/16-1/4 inch. Of course, the worst damage is on the bottom bolts where the exhaust exited and those are the also the ones that carry the greatest weight load.

Do you think I can replace these studs without pulling the axle housing off? I would just like to get everything tightened up for now and only use the tractor with light loads on the 3-point.

If I have to remove the right side trumpet to get at the lower studs how big of a job will it be? Any tips or hints for this are appreciated.

DavidP, South Wales · Apr 29, 2012

Hi Tony,
For the studs that have the remains of nuts on them you should be able to grind most of the nut off with a 4" angle grinder. If you can do this enough to slip a 1/2" or 5/8" nut over the stud you should be able to weld the nut on. They are not likely to be tight but a good weld is essential to stand the best chance. If there is no nut present firstly give the end of the stud a good whack with a heavy hammer. This might just be enough to loosen it and a good grips might then be able to remove it. As a precaution, place an axle stand or blocks under the centre housing.
DavidP, South wales

Tony C. · Jun 1, 2012

David P., thank you very much. It's been a while, but I'm getting the studs out.

I have to replace about 8 of them. It is an early TO35 and the studs are 7/16 inch X 1 5/8" long. My question is if there's something special about these studs that I must get them from AGCO. They want $18 for one stud (WOW!).
I have found a close replacement at auto parts store, a hair longer, maybe 1 3/4", shoulder area a little wider, etc. I would have to check if they are Grade 8 or whatever. Found another one that was almost an exact match, was Grade 5.

Were the originals super strong, like more than a Grade 8? I notice the originals have a little bevel on the inner end to help them seat. I think the later tractors went to 1/2 inch, so there must be a lot of stress on these guys.

Can I safely get by with the generic store studs?

TO-35 Axle Housing Bolts

Tony C.

Member

DavidP, South Wales

Well-known Member

Tony C.

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