Search found 988 matches

by Paul Buhler
Mon Jul 18, 2022 7:15 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: separating a gearmatic 8a from its adaptor on a JD420
Replies: 3
Views: 3139

Re: separating a gearmatic 8a from its adaptor on a JD420

I see you got an answer from Lavoy. Send me your email for the 8a manual. Paul
by Paul Buhler
Tue Jul 05, 2022 4:51 pm
Forum: Lavoy's Little Shop O' Deeres
Topic: 1957/58, 5 roll 420c for sale
Replies: 0
Views: 3520

1957/58, 5 roll 420c for sale

Hi: I no longer need my reconditioned/rebuilt 420 c, so I’m selling it. Search my name on the site, and you can read many posts as I went through the machine over time. It has a rebuilt Gearmatic 8a winch, a Fops cage, a 62 blade, re-pinned and bushed tracks, w/12” caulked snow pads. Good undercarri...
by Paul Buhler
Tue Feb 22, 2022 8:05 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Gearmatic 8a clutch bands
Replies: 5
Views: 4399

Re: Gearmatic 8a vs 19 parts

Ray: I replaced my 8a clutch band linings using McMaster-Carr brake banding. I went to their catalogue and did a best guess match to what was already there. I used a high temp epoxy and drilled and installed rivets at 120* apart too. The rivets are recessed. I used lots of clamps since I didn't want...
by Paul Buhler
Thu Nov 11, 2021 9:28 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: steering clutch wont disengage
Replies: 9
Views: 6287

Re: steering clutch wont disengage

These crawlers have dry clutch packs using steel and fiber plates. Do not introduce any lubricants into the clutch area; it will ruin the fiber plates, and they will never work properly. Try adjusting first. I use a speed wrench with a socket taped on so I won’t lose it, or a long set of extensions ...
by Paul Buhler
Thu Nov 04, 2021 3:50 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: 1010 gas crawler loader leaking coolant
Replies: 9
Views: 5619

Re: 1010 gas crawler loader leaking coolant

Rhetorical question: Why is it that problems always seem to happen in multiples at the same time making it harder to identify causes and find correct solutions? Anyway, I agree, it’s helpful to know your location. I have a few great resources in the Central Vermont region for electrical or coolant s...
by Paul Buhler
Wed Nov 03, 2021 6:10 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?
Replies: 19
Views: 13802

Re: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?

I work my 420. I don't think the wood blocks or rubber pads would hold up well in that environment; too many point loads trying to tear them or rip them off. I've caulked (corked) tracks in the past with 3" long, appropriately sized groused stock with good success. Makes them pretty aggressive and h...
by Paul Buhler
Tue Nov 02, 2021 4:56 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?
Replies: 19
Views: 13802

Re: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?

I wonder if a 2x hardwood block countersunk and bolted on would work? Are you working this machine, or using it in parades and such?
by Paul Buhler
Mon Oct 25, 2021 12:26 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?
Replies: 19
Views: 13802

Re: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?

By us there is a tire re-caper who will sell lengths of that material; which is rectangular and flat in profile. I wonder if it would work for you? Might need to be doubled to be proud of your grousers, and counter bored a bit for the bolts. Good luck.
by Paul Buhler
Mon Oct 25, 2021 12:17 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?
Replies: 19
Views: 13802

Re: Any body play around with rubber pads on 420 or other crawlers?

There was a member who put rubber tracks on his 420. He cut down 420 sprockets and welded on appropriate rims with teeth that matched.
A search might find his posts; they were a few years ago.
by Paul Buhler
Fri Aug 27, 2021 6:03 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: 420c track adjustment nut size....
Replies: 5
Views: 5181

Re: 420c track adjustment nut size....

Hi: I cleaned and lubed my adjusters when I first bought my machine working on the premise it’s not “if, but when” I’d throw a track. Anyway, I bought two extra nuts from Tractor Supply, and have them on the outboard side of the adjustment screw. They help keep the threads clean and can be reefed on...
by Paul Buhler
Fri Aug 27, 2021 5:26 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Oil and oil recommendations
Replies: 11
Views: 12239

Re: Oil and oil recommendations

Hi I have a similarly aged 420. I run Rotella 15-40 in my engine. It probably could use a rebuild, but with this oil, I build good compression with no smoke or significant consumption, so I’m happy. I use 20w straight weight oil in my hydraulic system with good results. I don’t run in the winter muc...
by Paul Buhler
Wed Jul 07, 2021 3:48 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: 1958 John deere 420c track adjuster conversion possible?
Replies: 10
Views: 8534

Re: 1958 John deere 420c track adjuster conversion possible?

When I bought my machine, the adjusters were frozen too. Like others, I got them free using all my wits and resources. Once there, I lubed them well, making them hand adjustable, and double nutted them. The extra nut protects the threads adjacent to those doing the work, and are disposable if needed...
by Paul Buhler
Thu Mar 18, 2021 5:25 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Light at the tunnel’s end.
Replies: 5
Views: 5280

Re: Light at the tunnel’s end.

Thanks for sharing guys. Boiling now. I only do enough to have fun and keep the family happy. Spring is just around the corner.
by Paul Buhler
Wed Mar 10, 2021 5:58 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Light at the tunnel’s end.
Replies: 5
Views: 5280

Light at the tunnel’s end.

Some here know that I bought a dead 420 a few years ago, and slowly brought it back to life dealing with gremlins like many others. Anyway, a few days ago it was time to hang buckets for sugaring. I went out and uncovered my 420 which has not started for about 5 months ( I do keep it on a trickle ch...
by Paul Buhler
Thu Feb 11, 2021 6:49 pm
Forum: Early model JD crawler technical support
Topic: Crawler 420 not starting...and worse
Replies: 35
Views: 525881

Re: Crawler 420 not starting...and worse

Mr. Bookman: I rebuilt my 420 starter a number of years ago. It’s pretty easy. I picked up new brushes, and new bushings, and starter switch online. Had it out, cleaned up, and disassembled very quickly. Happily, the armature and fields were still good. Crocus cloth cleaned up where the brushes rub ...