Update on where i am:
1) I have replaced missing glow plug control module. Have not yet tested plugs; but hope to today. Pleased to see the dash light actually came on. No chance of cranking today without glow plugs, as temps will not hit 50.
2) Have re-packed both tilt cylinders. Have not yet put back on, but will soon.
3) Have scrounged metal i need to re-condition bucket
4) Am thinking serious about "siping" the rear tires to give this machine some traction. I can't even hardly maneuver in my backyard without spinning. Don't want to switch to ag tires, as they are too aggressive.
5) Figured out why i have no tach/hour meter. The brass fitting that houses the gear that drives the cable was not seated at all in the base; so the gear was not engaged at all. Housing is all full of crud. Cable inside was actually not broken. I have cleaned it all up and have it ready to put back in. How far in does the brass fitting insert? Hard to tell exactly; there is a ring around the brass fitting; almost like an o-ring groove, but no clearance for an o-ring. It does appear the brass fitting should recess some amount into the base. I can possibly measure and get close. My manual does not show any pics of this.
6) Have sheet metal to fabricate the missing engine cover. Both appear similar, so should be able to do. Just takes time and patience. I have neither, but love to tinker when i can.
7) Went to JD dealer yesterday and bought new fuel filter, hydro oil and filter, and another oil filter......in anticipation of pulling oil pan to measure bearing clearances. Whoa. Dealer quoted me over $300 each for rod bearing inserts! I looked at him like he was an alien and he said "yeah, they are expensive". My plans are now changing. I think i might now just take a chance on it and run the heck out of it and see what happens. No way in the world i will spend $2,000 to replace 6 bearing inserts and a rear seal. That is crazy.
I hate to be cynical, but that is absurd. Couple questions as i seek alternatives:
1) What will likely be my failure for running with low oil pressure? Spun bearing, crank damage?
2) I see the Yanmar engine code of 3TNA72, and i think the UJ at the end only indicates it was used for John Deere applications. If that is true, i would assume the internals of all 3TNA72 engines to be the same. Does that seem reasonable?
3) If that is the case, i see complete engine rebuild kits on ebay for about $500. Yes, they are from China, but what isn't nowadays. Shoot, i can buy a complete rebuild kit for the price of two rod bearing inserts from JD. Any thoughts?
4) Another option is to purchase a donor engine. Again, i can find 3TNA72 engines easier that 3TNA72UJ engines. Is the base engine the same?
Yeah, i am very frustrated with pricing of replacement parts for this machine. But, still moving forward. If i can get comfortable with engine oil pressure, next will be to tackle the non-working front drive axle. That will be exciting.
Thank you again in advance. All feedback is welcomed.
David in sunny, but cold SC