Steering and Front Axle
9
STEERING
This section will cover:
• Inspection of steering components
• Changing the front wheel bearings
• Inspecting and removing the axles
• Replacing a stamped steel pivot bar
• Replacing a cast iron pivot bar
• Replacing the steering shaft and steering gear
• Replacing a damaged steering link
• Front end alignment
GENERAL INFORMATION
The toe angle is not adjustable. The front wheels are kept pointed in the same direction (except for the Ackerman
effect) by a tie-rod with fixed ends. There is an adjustable end on the steering link that connects the steering gear to
the steering arm on the right front axle.
NOTE: The front wheels should exhibit 1/16” to 5/16” (1.6mm - 7.9mm) toe-in.
If the tie-rod is visibly bent, its effective length is shortened, and toe-out will result. Very minor bends may be
straightened. Substantial bends should be repaired by replacing the tie-rod.
A toe-angle problem may also be caused by worn axle bushings or worn wheel bearings: inspect the wheel bear-
ings and axle bushings.
The wheel bearings may be easily examined for play:
1. Safely lift and support the end of the pivot bar that the
wheel is attached to.
See Figure 3.1.
2. Attempt to wiggle the wheel on a horizontal axis.
• Excessive play indicates worn wheel bearings.
Rocking play (as distinguished from just slipping in
and out on the axle) that exceeds the range of
acceptable toe angle adjustment (5/16” - 1/16” =
1/
4”) is considered excessive.
Figure 3.1
Steering Arm
Spacer
Pivot Bar
Bearing
Axle
CHAPTER 3: STEERING AND FRONT AXLE
FOR DISCOUNT PARTS CALL 606-678-9623 OR 606-561-4983
www.mymowerparts.com
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