John Deere 990 Steering Wheel

[gizmo]

Ok, its been a while since I was on here, but I broke the instrument panel glass on my 990 and now I'm trying to replace it. Unfortunately, I have to deal with what has to be one of the dumbest design decisions in tractors or automotive in general: a pressed on steering wheel. Someday I'll find the moron that made that decision. Anyone know of a good way to get the wheel off? Is there a specialized puller, or do I just need to cobble something together? For now I have just left the nut off and maybe it might loosen.

 

[AKfish]

Ok, its been a while since I was on here, but I broke the instrument panel glass on my 990 and now I'm trying to replace it. Unfortunately, I have to deal with what has to be one of the dumbest design decisions in tractors or automotive in general: a pressed on steering wheel. Someday I'll find the moron that made that decision. Anyone know of a good way to get the wheel off? Is there a specialized puller, or do I just need to cobble something together? For now I have just left the nut off and maybe it might loosen.

Sometimes looking over the parts manual or www.jdparts.com will give me an idea how to tackle the problem. Or, you might find a downloadable *.pdf file for the technical repair manual on www.johndeere.com.

AKfish

 

[Oldtink]

The tech manual for my 2010 3520 says to loosen the nut and use a suitable puller........r i g h t.
And to lubricate the spline with a "suitable lubricant" for easy removal later.
If you have a helper, I've been successful with one person pulling up on the wheel while I tap on the loosened nut with a little penetrating oil on the splines.

 

[gizmo]

If you have a helper, I've been successful with one person pulling up on the wheel while I tap on the loosened nut with a little penetrating oil on the splines.[/QUOTE]


Tried that. Even used an air hammer. No joy, but nearly wrecked the nut and shaft end. I have since ordered a giant bearing splitter and 5 ton puller. Something will give.

 

[arrow]

Yes, there is a specialized "steering wheel" puller. See if one of your local auto parts store has one to rent as it should be a better quality puller if they do. You can buy harmonic balancer/steering wheel puller sets for less than 20 bucks. I'd definitely get one before I'd mess with it.