'49 8n rear axle nut

I just finished replacing the seal on my 49 8N. I did not have the retainers on either of my axles. I cleaned the grease and dirt out of all of the holes in the axle nut and found the remains of a retainer in one. I lucked out and managed to get it out with a small pick.

I had no trouble at all remove the nut but a great deal of trouble getting the hub off. I backed the nut off a couple of turns and did many figure eights but the thing would not budge. I finally used a puller and a few plows from a hammer to get it to break loose. Be sure to leave the axle nut on when pulling the hub. When it comes loose it happens with the release of a lot of energy and you could get hurt.

One comment on the broken retainer problem. I understand that you can damage the threads on your axle if you try to remove the nut with a broken retainer in it.

Let me give you one other word of advice. When you reassemble the thing make sure you install the brake actuating rod before you put the backing plate back on along with everthing else. I know a very stupid owner of a 49 8N who finished replacing his leaking axle seal and was standing back admiring his completed work when he noticed the brake actuating rod leaning against the tractor. I assure you the axle hub does not come off any easier the second time around!

Greg
Nevada