Front Idler

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77 Ford
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Joined: Tue Nov 22, 2011 7:52 pm
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Front Idler

Post by 77 Ford » Mon Sep 26, 2022 8:53 am

My front idler has failed, it's squealing and rubbing against the rock guards. I'm going to have to tear it apart and I'm not sure I can get the master pin drove out on my own. I'm thinking about buying a split master link, I assume I'd cut a link apart but I still have to drive out two pins and install two pins correct?

I've seen some home made track press ideas and I might try to build one of those, just make sure there is no place to rent one correct? I called the local JD and they want $1000 to come and split the tracks, that's with me having everything prep'd which I do.
JD- 450C track loader
Serial #208336T

boaterri
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Re: Front Idler

Post by boaterri » Mon Sep 26, 2022 12:48 pm

I was able to get the track off without splitting it by taking the grease fitting out of the tensioner, compressing it with a block and the bucket and using a come a long and bars to lift, poke, tug, wiggle the track to the side. The idler then came off easily.

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77 Ford
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Re: Front Idler

Post by 77 Ford » Tue Sep 27, 2022 6:42 am

Getting that pin out is by far the worst thing I've ever done to my loader...sheesh....When I order new rails, they are going to have the 2 piece split master.
JD- 450C track loader
Serial #208336T

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77 Ford
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Re: Front Idler

Post by 77 Ford » Tue Sep 27, 2022 9:14 am

I ended up ruining the pin getting it out. I have Berco tracks on my machine, can I just order a master pin for a 450c or do I need to go to Berco and get a master pin from them? Any ideas?
JD- 450C track loader
Serial #208336T

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LeonardL
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Re: Front Idler

Post by LeonardL » Wed Sep 28, 2022 7:48 am

Call or e-mail Lavoy who owns this site. He sells parts and can help you get what you need. He's reasonable and competitive with his prices as well.
40 plus years working on JD 350s, 400Gs, 450s and other equipment both Ag and Construction.

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450FiveString
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Re: Front Idler

Post by 450FiveString » Wed Sep 28, 2022 6:05 pm

Did you replace the idler or just the bearings? I need an idler for a 450 straight and need a source.

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77 Ford
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Re: Front Idler

Post by 77 Ford » Mon Oct 03, 2022 7:13 am

For those reading along a standard 450c master pin will not work with the berco tracks, it's too small. I think it's 1.250 and I need 1.375 =(
JD- 450C track loader
Serial #208336T

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77 Ford
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Joined: Tue Nov 22, 2011 7:52 pm
Location: Missouri

Re: Front Idler

Post by 77 Ford » Thu Oct 06, 2022 6:58 am

Well I got the new idler, it's not made the same as the old one it's basically flat inside more like a wheel than the original. The front idler shields will not fit correctly. There are two options, I can install without or I can try and flatten them out and reshape then. I'm wonder because the idler not longer has the deep dish are the shields needed?

Any thoughts?
JD- 450C track loader
Serial #208336T

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LeonardL
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Re: Front Idler

Post by LeonardL » Thu Oct 06, 2022 7:39 am

From what I remember the shields are no longer needed. With the idler being flat it doesn't collect dirt or in most cases mud like the originals do. I would rat hole the old shields and just hang onto them. But then that's why the wife calls me a pack rat!! :D But I would leave them off if it was mine.
40 plus years working on JD 350s, 400Gs, 450s and other equipment both Ag and Construction.

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