Access plate in tub bottom

SwampmanLA · Jul 6, 2009

My 422 has a small oil leak on the tram circuit fittings on the bottom of the pump. it is a real pain to work on the underside of the pump from the top so I am thinking of tackling it from the bottom. I am thinking of using a cutoff wheel to cut out an access way in the bottom of the tub directly under the pump. I figure I can lift the hoses and place some wood between the hose and the tub bottom during the cut to prevent hose damage. Once I have an access way I'll weld on a flange to the removed plate and drill and tap the flange and tub bottom to reattach it. As long as I do not damage a hose or remove too much metal I can't see how this would hurt the tractor. Has anyone done this? If so did it work? Was it worth it?

From the Swamp

J_J · Jul 6, 2009

SwampmanLA,

I don't think anyone has cut into the bottom of their tub, you will be the first. Sounds like a good plan. Just make sure their are no gas fumes around, and support the PT good.

BobRip · Jul 6, 2009

Swamp, this might create a drag area on the ground when you are bottomed out. This may not be a problem in your usage. I would also be concerned about weakening the structure, but it looks like what you are doing will correct that. Put lots of bolts to correct this. How big a hole are you talking about?

SwampmanLA · Jul 6, 2009

I'm thinking an 8" square hole with a bolt about every 2" all the way around. I have all the heavy stuff done on my place so I'm not too worried about straining the frame and clearance is not an issue anymore. So once I find some time I think I'll try it cause it is just too hard to work in the tub from the top.

hogi · Jul 7, 2009

I have had this thought myself, I just haven't had the need to do it. I have looked over the tub carefully and it seems overkill in its design, I don't think your modification will weaken it substantially. The tub design just catches dirt and debris, IMO.

BobRip · Jul 8, 2009

SwampmanLA said:
I'm thinking an 8" square hole with a bolt about every 2" all the way around. I have all the heavy stuff done on my place so I'm not too worried about straining the frame and clearance is not an issue anymore. So once I find some time I think I'll try it cause it is just too hard to work in the tub from the top.

In my ignorance this sounds good enough. I have been able to unbolt a pump from the engine and this was pretty easy. Would this help you? Mine is an older version with pumps on each end of the motor.

SwampmanLA · Jul 8, 2009

BobRip, my model has all pumps on one side of the Robin. I have to remove the fuel tank, heat shield, solenoid, and many hoses to get to the bottom tram connections. I think this is the fourth time I have to do it (two pumps and two leaks). I have just about convinced myself that I will have to tinker with this tractor steadily so I should make it easier and faster to tinker with.

Marks481 · Jul 9, 2009

There ought be at least one hole in the bottom/back of the tub that an adult can stick his hand into.

I can just about squeeze my hand (painfully) through the back ventilation slots, but it starts to become incredibly painful to use a wrench on a bolt. A nice big cutout in front of the engine on the bottom would be a great idea. It would make it easier to change engine filters and drain the oil, etc.

I doubt you would even need to bolt a replacement cover over it for strength; as long as your cutout is circular (so stress doesn't get concentrated in the sharp corners), and doesn't leave a too narrow of a ligament of metal between it and the existing (worthless) cutouts, I would think you would be all good.

Disclaimer: I am not a (real) welder or metalworker, so my opinion is worth what you paid for it.

SwampmanLA · Jul 11, 2009

Thanks Tim, round corners I had not thought about. I'll just drill four holes at the corners and connect them with straight cuts in the tub. BTW, I am going to try to get this done today because I am tired if oil leaking all over and I have some time (the main reason). I'll get some pictures of the finished product and post them, hopefully tonight.