Steering linkage (bushing?)

   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #1  

j13smiley

Member
Joined
Sep 13, 2021
Messages
40
Tractor
Kubota L2350
Hi!
I have a L2350dt... It looks like the 2 bushings on the ends of the steering linkage are torn and worn out. I've also attached a pic of my parts diagram that shows 1 of them (end by the wheel) I think as 35270-12650 COVER DUST. It does not show this part on the end by the cab.

Is this just a rubber bushing or is there more to this (the part name says dust cover)?

Are both of them the same part (since the diagram only shows one but my tractor has them on both ends of the linkage)?

If it's just a bushing, is it something I can get at a local auto parts store or do I need to order the real part from Kubota dealer / Messicks?

This looks like a simple unbolt, replace bushing, rebolt repair. Just want to make sure I get the correct pieces
20211118_104023.jpg
20210418_104124.jpg
20210418_104132.jpg
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #2  
Just a ball joint dust boot. Sized by big end ID, little end ID, and height.
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?)
  • Thread Starter
#3  
So that is just a boot - not a bushing.

If my drag link bar is "loose" (it wobbles around)... what is needed to repair it? Does it require a complete new drag bar?
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #4  
If the ball stud is loose in the rod end, you will need to replace the entire drag link. The rod ends appear to be welded onto the link bar.

It is possible to weld on new ends, but you would first need to find suitable tie rod ends and set the length correctly, as there is no adjustment.
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #5  
If the ball stud is loose in the rod end, you will need to replace the entire drag link. The rod ends appear to be welded onto the link bar.

It is possible to weld on new ends, but you would first need to find suitable tie rod ends and set the length correctly, as there is no adjustment.

That's right. I believe what is confusing to the OP is simply that this part ought to be rebuildable and is not.

Normal construction for a tie rod involves making the ends and dust covers all independently replaceable with standard parts. And length adjustable. Kubota didn't do it that way. They welded it all together.

But there is no reason in the world why anyone can not adapt or fabricate something of better quality.

BTW, the OEM part also appears to be missing the necessary grease zerks on the ball joint. They were also missing on our M59.
Use a needle injector on your grease gun to put a squirt of grease into the dust cap every year of so and the next ball joints won't wear out so fast.
rScotty


Screen Shot 2021-11-27 at 8.07.02 AM.png
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?)
  • Thread Starter
#6  
Yes thank you for that info! Making one better like what you posted above might be best and easier.

There are no grease fittings. And no tie rod ends like I'm used to seeing on a car. It appears to be all 1 part. I've not removed this from the tractor yet, only looked at it.

It works but just wobbly. Maybe not worth replacing until it breaks. I might look for a spare to have on hand when needed. This is a low use home tractor now (till the garden once a year and some occasional front loader work on the compost pile).
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #7  
It works but just wobbly. Maybe not worth replacing until it breaks. I might look for a spare to have on hand when needed. This is a low use home tractor now (till the garden once a year and some occasional front loader work on the compost pile).

Wengers lists one for $90 (power steering version)

Kubota still sells them new & complete for around $200.

Be nice to get the part while still available.
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #9  
Looks like a new drag link 32400-45610 is needed.

Sure, welding on new ends is an option, but I would not recommend it for someone who does not know what they are doing or do not have good welding skills.

I like nice tight steering. I don't wait until it breaks as Murphy will ensure it breaks at the most inopportune time!!
 
   / Steering linkage (bushing?) #10  
Don't know if it has been mentioned. The rod end is not a simple unbolt. It is pressed into the connection by the castle nut on the other side. It is a tapered fit. You will probably need a tie rod spreader fork and hammer to pull it out. When you install the new part, tightening the new castle nut will press the new part into place.
It is surprising that one end is not a adjustable. But Kubota probably sees that as an safety issue.

Also, I noticed you called it wobbly.
If the ball joint on each end has NO PLAY it is safe and will be fine. The rubber is to hold grease in the joint. It will wear faster after the rubber does no hold grease.
However, if the ball joint has ANY PLAY at either end, repair is needed and should be replaced.

If you put you hand around each part of the ball joint and have someone turn the steering wheel, you can feel if there is play.
 
Last edited:

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

2007 Ford E-450 14ft Box Truck (A46683)
2007 Ford E-450...
2025 Kivel 48in Forks and Frame Tractor Loader Attachment (A46683)
2025 Kivel 48in...
New Lewis Brothers MFG DB2 Poultry Housekeeper (A48561)
New Lewis Brothers...
Craftsman CMXEDAR300 10in Drill Press (A45336)
Craftsman...
2016 Ford F-250 Crew Cab Pickup Truck (A45336)
2016 Ford F-250...
500 Gallon Diesel Tank (A47369)
500 Gallon Diesel...
 
Top