Track frame replacement

[The Jug]

I have new (used) track frame and cross bars. The old set up is in rough shape where front cross bar connects to track frame. Should i remove the blade and blade frame to replace the track frame unit? What is the chance i can get newer track frame to separate from front cross bar? I'm thinking this will be a big project. Would i be making it way more difficult by reinstalling the engine before i attempt track frame install? I would like to get dozer moving around some before clutches get stuck again seeing how i may need to wait a bit to install track frame. I'm hopping I'm not asking for to much info all at once. Any advice would really be appreciated. By the time im done with this project i won't be an expert but sure will know a lot more. Hopefully to pass along some day.

[Kolot]

I have mine off right now, I am on pavement and used a pallet jack to remove the track frame after supporting the machine. 6 bolts at the cross bar unless your welded then that will have to be addressed. rear equalizer bar was a little tight from rust, I started buy blowing out what ever I could from the bore with compressed air , then tapped it ahead and out with a BFH but light taps to walk it .I did remove my drive sprocket. Then hit the equalizer with the needle scaler. My holes were terrible and someone had helicoiled them and that failed. I bored them out and tapped for 7/8 bolts. the inner bolts did not line up well so I have it back off. tomorrow I will weld the holes up, re bore and tap. I had gotten the tap cocked and hole was not straight. material was pretty weak, hoping to do better 2nd time around. Change out 4 rollers while I had it off. Only way to do it somewhat easily. Like you this is my first dozer, we are getting acquainted real fast. Other side is even worse. Have to contact Lavoy and get set up for pictures I have some good ones.
As far as getting the casting off the equalizer bar one could fashion a pusher / Puller real easy or use a porto power to push it off.

Does anyone have the schematic of JD blue print of the proper location of the holes on the cross bar and or track frame as far as location and hole centers? Little rough figuring them based on the wallowed out holes. Be nice to weld and rebore the wallowed holes in the cross bar.

[The Jug]

Thanks for moral support. Just knowing someone else is on the same thought process leads me to believe this isn't as silly as i was thinking. Lots of people i talk to say I'm crazy just weld her up and get on with it. If it breaks weld, it again. Seems like you're a bit more skilled than i am in meatal fab but I'll do the best i can with what i have to work with.
I noticed on my rear cross bar where it connects to rear tractor brackets. The cross bar isn't smooth across Is this were or just where bracket sits.? I'm hoping for the second but have sneaky suspicion it's the ladder. If it's the ladder what is the most common fix? Try to find better replacement for rear cross bar. Would shims work?
I like to do things right, but money is a factor. I'll be looking out for those pictures. Hopefully it goes smooth for you.