Replacing Hay Rake Tine bearings

[mark_torrey]

New Holland Model 57 Rolabar 3pt Mounted Rake

I am replacing (have already removed the old ones and installed the new ones) tine bar to spider star bearings. This was an exercise all in itself ... suffice it to say, it was "fun" pulling the old bearing race from an enclosed housing (dremeled out a section, then hammer and chiseled to remove the rest).

My question is, how to realign the new bearing shaft/bolt to the spider star hole ? It seems the bar has grown in length with the new bearing installed. There is no flexibility in the new bearing assembly, so the bolt/shaft cannot be angled to start....

I'm sure there is someone out there who has done this and can share their experience on how to reassemble the bar to the spider star.

Thanks in advance,

Mark

 

[RickB]

Loosen the opposite tine bars. This allows the star wheels to flex a little. Detailed in your operator's manual.

 

[mark_torrey]

Hi RickB,

Thanks for the suggestion. Since I purchased the rake used at an auction a few years ago, I don't have the manual. I've found one online, after starting this repair, which will arrive soon. I have to say, that everything I've read on this rake (aside from the need for this particular service ) have all been positive. They are, and up to this point, mine has been, very dependable.

Loosen the opposite tine bars. This allows the star wheels to flex a little. Detailed in your operator's manual.

This was occurring, as I'm replacing both bearings on two bars, so I was moving in that direction, sort of. I just didn't want to have two bars free at once. Another suggestion was the use of come-alongs on opposite stars to 'stretch' the tine bar/spider star assembly and align the bolts/holes. I hadn't thought of this, but will employ if needed. With all the bearings replaced, it is time for reassembly.

Thanks again for the suggestion.