Introduction - L2650 Owner, have questions

[tang]

Hello All,

First post here at what seems to be a great reource with very useful information!

This past summer I sold my first tractor, a BX 24, in order to purchase an older, larger L2650. The tractor now has 1400 hours and I need to perform a few maintenance projects this winter. I previously changed all fluids and filters in the tractor during my first month of ownership so I'm good to go in the routine maintenance department. Now I need to address other issues that I knew about when I purchased the tractor.

First on my list is gear oil leaks on both sides of the front gear housings - I'm assuming seals need to be replaced. At the same time, both tie rod joints need attention. Both rubber dust boots are torn and the right side joint has a good deal of play. I want to tackle both projects at the same time.

Does anyone have any input as to the complexity of what I need to do? Any special tools required? Is this something I can accomplish in a matter of hours?

Since I will be using the tractor w/ a 6' rear back blade for snow removal, I need to make sure I have my ducks in a row to minimize down time before I start these repairs.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[MUSTANG]

Hello Tang,

I just replaced the tie rods on my L2950 last week. It was not at all hard to do as I replaced the entire rod assembly on both sides. The cost of the parts are a concern. I was going to replace them last year and got a quote of about $200 each. This fall I finally decided the go ahead and do the job. My dealer then told me that the complete Rod assemblies were no longer available, but he quoted me a price of $261 each for the individual parts. If you can get the knuckle, dust cover and clamps you can save a lot provided the balance of the rod is not damaged. I got lucky and found two complete ones on ebay at a good savings. The entire process took about 1 - 2 hours ( I'm no mechanic ).. Check your user's manual for instructions on how to set the toe-in. Again a simple process. You might check out Messicks online for a parts quote if your local dealer does not have what you need.

My front gear hubs also have a slight leak. This was most likely brought on by the excessive end play in the worn out tie rods. I think taking those apart is outside my ability so I am going to wait and see if the new tie-rods don't help, but it most likely will continue. Just check the gear oil from time to time until you get them fixed.

 

[tang]

MUSTANG - Thanks for relaying the information regarding the tie rod assemblies.

Service Dept Vic - Thanks for the input on both items.

I've been researching some over the past day and looked up the parts diagram and called Messicks today to confirm availability and pricing. They recommended replacing bearings at the same time as the seals - is this common? Should I dissassemble and inspect the bearings first?

Regarding tie rods, my major concern is the ball and socket joint/knuckle that is normally covered by the rubber dust boot. My right side boot is torn in two pieces and does not allow grease to stay in the joint. Can this be salvaged? Can I buy just the rubber boot and using Vic's advise, pump grease into the joint?

I have a WSM that came with the tractor - haven't pulled it from the file drawer yet, but will do so before turning any wrenches.

Again, thanks for the information - very helpful!