|
As a primer recommend checking these items on an H3 or HD3. Not all have the same symptoms or conditions, but expect these to be frequently found on a 50 year old machine.
1. Frame Alignment on front 1/4 of the C channel, normal to have stress cracks at the end of the opening that accommodates the front idler - also deflection in this area. Check out how many are gusseted with a repair in various photos available on the net.
2. Wear on Pins and Bushings and rollers that compose the track as noted above. Also, wear on the vertical rib of the front idler, is the rib uniform or is there more wear on one side than the other? Jack the machine up, let the track sag and see if there is deflection in the roller as mounted on its cross shaft.
3. Seals and bearings in the final drive and transmission housing. It might be a good idea to inspect the steering clutch housing by removing the inspection cover if the seller will permit. The housing and clutches are dry. Oil laying in the bottom of the housing is an indication that the seals are knackered and possibly bearing assembly is worn.
4. Sprocket alignment at the interface between the sprocket tooth and the rear roller. The tooth of the sprocket should not touch the flange of the rear truck/roller.
5. External leaks from the final drive or rollers. Rollers were originally oil lubed. Bellow seals to keep the oil in the housing are NLA that I have found. Some have experimented with Corn head grease as a update to remedy leaking rolls/trucks.
6. External leaks below the Power Director sump or oil supply line to sump.
7.Excessive wear on the track and undercarriage components will lead to a snaky track.
8. Deflection of the bolt holes where the grouser plates attach to the track chain. Grab a hold of the grousers and see if they move left to right. If so the hole that accommodates the bolt to secure the grouser is wallowed out.
9. Hours on machine and overall care by previous owner(s) should be self evident.
10. Shuttle clutch should have a distinct snap when moved from neutral detent - both forward and reverse.
11. Last fire the machine up and operate it, check for odd growls and whines during operation from the hydraulic pump, shuttle or transmission. Does it stay in all gears both forward and reverse.
|