Took it apart. I am seriously wondering why these parts would be $600 and why fixing it would be $500??? I mean it took me 10 minutes to get this far. Not really that complicated. I wonder why my dealer didn't suggest that I do this in the first place as opposed to having me pay for hauling the tractor?
Kioti said ..."You will have to replace the bevel case and the axle case with the new and improved part numbers as well as a new oil seal, (as indicated below) in the note from our parts database. The old, original parts for this tractor are no longer produced."
Are they saying I have to replace the whole thing because they no longer make the individual parts that actually broke? Weird, it is only a 2007 model.
Looking at it, most of the parts in this thing still look good.
I added the last picture because I was surprised how small the innards were. lol
Also do I need a fork to get the ball joints off? Anyone have a trick? Didn't want to force it.
thanks!!!
Usually these front axles will leak and only the seal needs replacing.
It looks like your axle fell apart which could indicate a design flaw. That could be why you are being told to replace the bevel case and the axle case and other related parts.
Even though a manufacturer redesigns a product they will maintain inventory to repair what is out there for a period of time. A redesigned seal as apposed to a bevel case, axle case replacement makes more sense. If they are saying no parts, replace only, then there may be more owners having the same problem or about to. Dig around for other similar problems and maybe a secret warranty extension for "squeaky wheels".
Find out exactly what parts need to be replaced and why that is necessary on a 4 year old tractor.
Have you talked directly to Kioti or are you going through your dealer? There maybe room for negotiation if this was a design flaw.
Bevel case $137. Axle case $195 for one side plus the other parts.
My thoughts would be that $1100 parts, labour and taxes should do both sides and give you back change.
If one side fell apart then I would be concerned that the other side might as well. Negotiate for both sides.
Save yourself future grief and do both sides especially if it is a design issue.
The ball joint should pry away but would be easier to remove if the whole assembly were still on the tractor. It may need a little bit of hammer.