I fought the tree, and the tree won.

I rammed my left front wheel into that tree and snapped my left radius arm in half like a dry twig. It was an original I-beam that had been welded together once before.

My delima: Of course I need to repair or replace the radius arm, but how can I assess the damage, if any, to the fron axle. It looks OK, but how do I know for sure. Thanks for your help.

-Old Ag
41 9N

Now tell us the truth, did you really think you could whack that oak with a 5' brush hog?

Glad you (and your N) lived to tell about it, thanks for reminding everyone to BE CAREFUL!

I have only a year of 2N ownership under my belt, but here are my observations of your situation and some reminders for those reading this message.

Since the radius arm was broken, I would think some damage would have been done to the King Pin. What happened to the other radius arm? It is possibl that the shock loosened up one of the adjustable portions of the front axle.

Taking off the hood to at least have a look at it would be a good idea. Remember, a bent radius arm or loose king pin can cause damage to the distributor cap so while it si visible, see if the clearances are okay.

Also, ZANE has warned us about how many times in his professional career he had to replace a second gear damaged by bush hogging. Since the rotary mowers are not belt driven, they put greater stress on the Transmission. Next time do it in first.

Since the tractor didn't turn, I would assume that the differential locked up. I am not sure if this is the case, or not, but I believe this will always happen when the PTO is driving the transmission and not the engine. Jack up the rear of the tractor and see if you can get the rear wheels to spin in different directions by hand at the same time.

stay safe!

How 'bout it Zane?

O.R.C.

O.R.C.

Sorry to here about your accedent.

I would think twice before mowing "sidesaddle".

Left foot on the clutch. Right foot on the right brake. Two hands on the wheel hangin' on for dear life.

-Old Ag