Need some help: rear axle bearings 1999 GT 3235

[msternbach]

Hi folks. Brand new here. I hope that I am in the right place. I already screwed up my user name by not reading the instructions! LOL Again, my apologies

I have attempted to search on my issue before posting. I have an issue with the right rear axle bearings on my 1999 3235 (bought new by me). I only happened to notice that there was an issue as I was jacking the tractor at the rear (to remove the blades for sharpening), allowing the rear tires to hang free and the right side dropped a whole lot lower than it should have. Closer inspection showed that the bearings are completely gone. A testament to the overall engineering of the rear end is that there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of damage and the entire axle is being supported by the inner bearing. There was no noticeable noise or vibration, who could hear anything over the machine running? And no fluid loss.

Anyhow, my question is how difficult is it to replace those outer bearings? Does the transmission have to come down and be disassembled? I’ve got the factory service manual, but it’s not very clear to me. I’m good with tools and spent 12 years working on cars professionally, and I’ve got a machine shop in my garage I do have a local IH dealer (where I bought it originally) but as usual, trying to save a buck by doing it myself. If worse comes to worse, I have no problem bowing to the professionals there. Your opinions? Many thanks, in advance.

Mark

 

[fcurrier]

Dear Mark, I have no answer to your question, BUT someone here might. Someone here probably does. This forum followed a long ( sometimes confusing) path since its inception. Hang in here!

 

[msternbach]

Thank you Frank! I appreciate your feedback! Gotta love technology! There is a forum for everything these days and I want to be a good contributor LOL

 

[toconnor]

Mark, yes the bearing is replaceable. It is an HK 3020.
Here is a rebuild I did on a 3165. This is pretty much the same as yours except you have the locking rear differential. This would be a good time to get some red Loctite and re-torque the innards.
Good luck and let us know how it goes.
http://www.mytractorforum.com/19-cub-cadet-forum/648537-3000-series-axle-rebuild.html

 

[msternbach]

Thank you very much for taking the time to respond Todd. Fantastic write up and picture taking! I'm waiting to hear back from my local place with an estimate. I'd feel better about doing it myself if I don't have to drop the rear end. Seems fairly straight forward otherwise. I will definitely keep you posted. Thanks again!

Mark