RCK60-30B Coupler

[Tballwin]

My mower deck coupler at the mid mount PTO has a plastic sleeve and it cracked and failed requiring a new coupler, I'm told. Part # k5763-31150. 1. Is there a generic part to replace this? 2. How does one remove the universal joint with the clips on the inside of the u-joint yoke? (I tried to compress with C-clamp with no results.)

Has anyone been there and done that?

 

[Tooljunkie]

Not on your particular mower, but have replaced too many u joints to count.
Usually a small punch with a blunt end will roll the clip out. But if you put a c clamp on it, the clip may want to spin. I jam it with a screwdriver on opposite end.
Take your time, if a needle falls over you wont get the clips back in, and a good chance you break the needle bearing.wiping inside cup with grease helps keep needle standing.

Im not a betting man, but i bet theres a youtube video on u- joint replacement. If there isnt there should be.

Did i mention the driveshaft should be carefully clamped in a vise?

 

[Tballwin]

Really appreciate prompt response. You confirmed my suspicions about how to remove clips. I'm being careful as there is no Kubota dealer close by for replacement parts. What is a "needle"? I looked for a video but only saw the standard auto stuff with the clip rings on the outside of the ujoint that are simple to remove with needle nose pliers. Thank you.

 

[kubotasam]

The needles that Tooljunkie refers to are the little rod shaped rollers that are the bearings inside each cap on the universal joint. They are in all u-joints not just Kubota mowers.

 

[Tballwin]

Thanks guys. I finally surrendered to Kubota and ordered the OE part after searching for generic, but will try to rig the broken part to see if I can get a few more weeks of mowing out of it. A similar (not same) part at local farm supply is all steel and sells for $38 and Kubota part has plastic and is $93 or $160. Go figure!