Model 40 Steering Clutches

[mjtractr]

I recently acquired a not running JD 40C that has been sitting for many years. While investigating why the steering levers have so much free play I discovered that the fingers on the steering clutch pressure plates are stuck in the released position. Anyone have any ideas on how to repair short of a teardown? Thanks.

[Jimmy in NC]

MJ-

While there maybe a way to get them moving with out tear down, you'll be miles and miles ahead by going ahead and pulling the final drives off and getting in there. At this point in it's life it's time to give it a little love. I'd suggest you get a copy of the parts and service manual just for starters. They are available from Deere or if you are interested in reproductions let me know and I can dig out some info for those.

If you are new to crawlers pulling the finals may seem a little scary but it's not. Take your time and be patient. It really isn't that bad. I can have them out in 1.5 hrs now by myself easily.

You maybe suprised what else you will find while you have it torn down that requires attention. (cracked cases, broken bolts, etc)


Welcome to the board and good luck!

Keep us posted as there is a wealth of information on this board!

Jimmy in NC

[Lavoy]

The fingers are down because the fiber discs have absorbed moisture and swelled up. There is no way to fix this externally, you need to remove the finals and rebuild the clutches. Wish had an easier answer for you, but there isn't one.
Lavoy

[mjtractr]

Thanks for the advice...I suspected what the answer would be...hoping I might get lucky...I already have the manuals, so I guess this gets added to the project list. Thanks again.

[jd440]

Can the fibre disks be dried out and reused or are they garbage?

JD440 (Derek)

[bent]

JD440 when I re-built the steering clutches in my 1010 I thought I could re-use the fibres. I cleaned them up and put them back. I just can't keep them set. I think that next time, I will replace. I am starting to believe that you should do as much as you can while its apart. Unless, of course, you like to take them apart.

bent

[Jimmy in NC]

mj-

I doubt you could ever get them 'right' again. I think Lavoy can set you up very reasonably with fiber disks. In the overall picture.. do you want to have to break the track again adn pull the final just to save a few dollars? I'd go ahead and replace atleast the fiber disks. I'd also check the throw out bearing since it has had a bit of moisture in the for some time. Also the pilot bearing...



Just my $.02