420C track carrier problems

[OldYellow420]

I have a 5 roller, 1956 420c 5 speed loader with reverser. I noticed that the track carriers (both sides) are toed to the right. I measured the distance from the outside edge of the cross member to the outside edge of the track carrier clamps. On the left side, the measurement on the front clamp is 0.4" more than on the rear clamp. On the right side, the front clamp measurement is 0.4" less than the rear measurement on that side.

After removing the front idlers, the track carriers (in the area where the front idler is) are also bent toward the right on both sides.




Any suggestions on how to proceed?

[Lavoy]

If they are bent, they need to be straightened. If they are just toed out, loosen the trackframes and reset.
Lavoy

[OldYellow420]

Lavoy,

Both track carriers are bent and out of alignment. The metal where the front idler bracket slide on the carrier is bent about 1/2" on all four areas.

The two front bolts on the left rear carrier are only about 3/8' in diameter, appearing to have slightly corroded away. I have a picture of them but cannot insert the image.
I am concerned that if they break off (even after heating) I do not have the equipment to drill & tap the bores. Loading them up and taking them to a machine shop would be the alternative.

How much of a job is it to bent them back? I have a small oxy acetylene setup.

[Lavoy]

They might actually go cold, sledge hammer and some cuss words.
Laovy

[Stan Disbrow]

Hi,

Ah, yes. Colorful language has magical properties.

Stan