Broken 3PH bracket: weld or replace?

Boondox · Dec 13, 2005

On my L3010 there is an L-bracket bolted to the bottom of the rear axle. A dog ear sticks aft from that bracket, and that's where the 3PH stabilizer bolts up. Well, the dog ear snapped off so the right side of the 3PH lift arm is free to move around. Not good!

Is this something that can be repaired with a stick welder, or should I replace that entire bracket?

TIA, Pete

RedRocker · Dec 13, 2005

It's always nice to have a new part, but if you bevel it real good, a weld should do the trick.

kevincook · Dec 13, 2005

Pete,

I just ran outside and looked at my tractor to see what part you are referring to. I wouldn't have any problem having that part welded but I'd probably ask Kubota how much for a new one. If it isn't very expensive I'd just replace it.

Kevin

Highbeam · Dec 13, 2005

That's what welders are made for. The part is removable and not a safety hazard if it failed again. Remove it, prepare it, and weld it well. Good as new and you can use this episode to justify your welder. Absolutely weld. If you must replace it with new, at least repair the old one since you are liable to bust the new one and the spare would be handy.

Boondox · Dec 15, 2005

Success! After finding out the bracket bolts did not go thru to the axle (so the gear oil would stay put) I removed it, took it to work, bevelled the pieces and welded it back together. Big storm on the way tomorrow, so I took off early and reassembled everything in the warmth (19F) of the afternoon sun.

All set now. Thanks for the great advice!

Pete

Boondox · Dec 20, 2005

I welded the piece. Looked great. Put everything back together and a few hours later the tip of the rear blade snagged a rock and BOTH brackets broke! The repaired side broke just forward of the weld; the other side broke flush with the mounting edge of the axle.

So I went to the dealer to order replacements. The original part number had been superceded four times due to improvements in the design. The new brackets are MUCH stronger than the original design. Installed one last night before my cold got the best of me and sent me inside. I'll install the other side tonight and reassemble ol' Clementine.

Anyway, back in business! Pete

Highbeam · Dec 20, 2005

"If you must replace it with new, at least repair the old one since you are liable to bust the new one and the spare would be handy."

Whoa! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif