Cowl removal form a JD 350C

[mty]

First I do not claim to be a mechanic but become one to support my other interests of working in the woods. So I'm usually working out in the woods with basic tools far from a shop or concrete floor.
I have a radiator issue on my JD350C and found the information on this site as to the removal procedure. Where I need help is getting a wrench on the bottom side bolts that hold the Cowl onto the dozer. I tried using downforce on blade to lift crawler up but it still doesn't clear the blade arms. I can get a socket on but can't attach a breaker bar. Even if I could I don't think it will clear the arms to remove the bolt. If I put the blade in the highest position the web design of the blade arms still cover the bolt.
Thanks for the help.

[dtoots1]

Have you tried box end wrenchs?????

[mty]

Thanks for reply. I hadn't but I did try a few now. The wrenches I tried are too thick to fit into the recess as well as not deep enough offset. I have Craftsman, Husky and some others but no major mechanic brand names but mine all have similar thickness to the wrench. I'm looking for a thinner deeper offset but can't tell from pictures online and this doesn't seem to be a spec mentioned.

[Stan Disbrow]

Hi,

I was sitting here reading the mail and couldn't figure out what was up. I have had two JD350s and never had an issue with accessing those bolts.

It just occurred to me....Both had the wider outside mount blades! Duh!

Stan

[dtoots1]

can you modify a "donor" socket that fits so that it is shorter and can have the breaker bar on it?? i had to do that on one of my projects..

am not apprised of the actual recess that you refer to...my 440 did not have recess...tho i did modify a socket for a different project..

[mty]

Thanks for everyone's comments. Especially LeonardL. We found out that I have the original wear straps that were thick and recessed for both bolts,
JD soon changed after much negative comments from JD service tech's. They just weren't well thought out. dtoots was on the right track suggesting cutting a socket to allow the use of a breaker bar this seems much more acceptable than the other option. Saturday will tell the tale! Hopefully all goes well.