JD 450C frozen track adjuster

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mbavers
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JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by mbavers » Tue May 14, 2019 9:20 pm

I have replaced the track adjuster on my 4350B with no problem. I am now helping a friend with his John Deere 450C.
The piston is so securely rusted into the cylinder that it cannot be separated (we tried heat, jacks, penetrating oil, etc.). We have the track separated, adjuster unbolted from the idler, and idler slid forward.

We tried to remove the piston/cylinder as a unit, but the piston end will not release from the retaining cap in the spring. It rotates freely and can be moved back and forth about 1/16 inch, but cannot be pulled out of the cap. It feels like there is some solid metal preventing the piston from sliding out, but the manual does not show anything being there. I thought there might be a need to rotate the piston to remove it, but it cannot be rotated with the cylinder attached, as the ears on the cylinder interfere with the track frame.

I suggested cutting the piston, but my friend thinks he would like to try and rebuild the unit, since he already has the seals. As a last resort we might just keep this rusted unit in place and adjust the track by adding shims. I did this for awhile with my 450B and it worked fine, but he wants to be able to adjust it with the adjuster.

Any ideas as to what is preventing removal of the piston from the spring cap?

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Stan Disbrow
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Re: JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by Stan Disbrow » Wed May 15, 2019 4:21 am

Hi,

My guess is rust in the bore. That can be some tough stuff. I have not had to deal with it in a track adjuster, but have in long-sitting engines.

Stan
There's No Such Thing As A Cheap Crawler!

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Lavoy
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Re: JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by Lavoy » Wed May 15, 2019 9:33 am

Usually only way to get a stuck one out is jack it out with the grease gun. If it won't move under grease gun pressure, it is junk.
Lavoy
Parts and restoration for antique and late model John Deere crawlers.
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RTaylor
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Re: JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by RTaylor » Wed Jun 05, 2019 3:47 pm

I had a similar problem on my 450B, and was able to split the pieces inside the collar. The adjusters that were installed before I purchased the Dozer were a joke! I think they were off a snowplow. Instead of purchasing original part, I purchased one way hydraulic cylinders that fit into the collar tightly and they have worked beautifully. A lot less parts to contend with.

I currently have pulled the Rad in an attempt to release the hydraulic throughout. A huge undertaking to replace an old warn out fan belt.

Richard Taylor
Bocabec New Brunswick, Canada

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Jason37756
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Re: JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by Jason37756 » Thu Jun 06, 2019 7:02 am

Rtaylor,

You got any pictures of that setup?

bennyt
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Re: JD 450C frozen track adjuster

Post by bennyt » Sat Jun 08, 2019 1:29 pm

Reread his post. He is stuck in the spring retainer. You may soak it with PB Blaster or another good penetrant for a few days. Then use some heat and a big hammer to get it loose. Otherwise cut the rod.

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