Massey Ferguson 135 wheel bearing replacement

[alaarp]

My 50+ year old diesel Massey does a good job for it's age but the front wheels wobble when moving. Is this a sign of worn bearings or something worse? Also, years ago I used to replace wheel bearings in my car but that was in the 70's. Is replacing the bearings difficult? Special tools needed? Somethig else I need to know? Thanks, always appreciate the replies.

 

[Harry in Ky]

Wheel bearings in the 35 are really no different from cars or anything else from that era.

Your front wheel wobble COULD be related to wheel bearings, but it could also be tie rod ends, even as far back as steering gearbox play. It would depend on just what you mean by "wobble".

The easiest way to determine where the problem lies is to jack up the front end so the tires are just barely on the ground. Grab the tires one at a time and try moving them in any and all directions. In theory, it should all be tight. Any movement you feel would indicate wear somewhere. If your wheel bearings are part of the problem you will be able to move the top of the tire towards and away from the center line of the tractor, feel and often even hear the movement between the bearings and the hub. If you can turn the tire (as in steering) from right to left to right again and feel movement there as well, you will probably be able to see the various parts where the excess movement is coming from. Chances are there will be a little bit everywhere, but more in one place or another.

 

[alaarp]

Wheel bearings in the 35 are really no different from cars or anything else from that era.

Your front wheel wobble COULD be related to wheel bearings, but it could also be tie rod ends, even as far back as steering gearbox play. It would depend on just what you mean by "wobble".

The easiest way to determine where the problem lies is to jack up the front end so the tires are just barely on the ground. Grab the tires one at a time and try moving them in any and all directions. In theory, it should all be tight. Any movement you feel would indicate wear somewhere. If your wheel bearings are part of the problem you will be able to move the top of the tire towards and away from the center line of the tractor, feel and often even hear the movement between the bearings and the hub. If you can turn the tire (as in steering) from right to left to right again and feel movement there as well, you will probably be able to see the various parts where the excess movement is coming from. Chances are there will be a little bit everywhere, but more in one place or another.

Excellent reply. Thanks, and will do.

 

[Birdhunter1]

It could be the bushings in your spindle arm need to be replaced. It isn't the hardest job ever, drive them out, place the new sleeves in the freezer for a few hours and tap them into the casting after it has been heated. This is one of the easiest and cheapest overlooked areas that will cause wobble.

 

[alaarp]

It could be the bushings in your spindle arm need to be replaced. It isn't the hardest job ever, drive them out, place the new sleeves in the freezer for a few hours and tap them into the casting after it has been heated. This is one of the easiest and cheapest overlooked areas that will cause wobble.

Thanks. I will look into this.