440ic welding

[mgbuddydad]

I bought a 440ic from a serial welder. The center hydraulic reservoir between the loader arms is welded at the flanges that should be bolted. I guess it was easier to weld than keep the bolts tight.

Anyway, was planning to grind out the weld (not a good job by the way) and repair the flanges to allow bolts as original. But the more I look at it, and having inspected the construction on a 350, I am beginning to wonder if welding is not such a bad idea. It doesn't seem to impede disassembly all that much, practically.

Any thoughts on leaving the weld, versus grinding out and bolts only ?

Thanks,

Buddy

[Lavoy]

As long as the welds are good, and the bolts are still in it, it should not hurt a thing.
Check the rear mounting dowels to make sure they are tight. If they are worn much, it allows the loader to shift and twist. Eventually it will break the welds again, or crack the reservoir.
On the 831 loader, a large plate is used in place of the reservoir. It can flex slightly, whereas the box reservoir can not.
Lavoy