Farmall B ring gear and clutch.

[Tractor Rod]

I am a shade tree mechanic and can do basic work. I need a new ring gear and trying to decide if I can do it myself? I talked to a tractor mechanic and he estimated it would take him two days at a cost of $1,200!

What advice do you all offer? I’m a little hesitant to try the repair but thought maybe I should try?????

Thanks.

[Gary Dotson]

It’s not a real technical job but there are certain tools and equipment needed to do the job. Mainly, you’ll need lifting and support tools as well as a decent set of wrenches, sockets, etc. Installing the ring gear will require a heat source. (Your backyard grill could serve this purpose) Having no idea how you are equipped for heavier tractor work, I can’t advise to try it or not.

[Eugene]

You’ll need lifting and support tools. Having no idea how you are equipped for heavier tractor work, I can’t advise to try it or not.

You have to split the tractor. You also need quite a bit of shop space for the split.

My thought. If you have the skill/knowledge to the split and repair - - purchase the necessary equipment. You can always use the purchased equipment/tools on other projects.

$1200-, guessing that is the shop rate for 8 hours - - $120- per hour plus parts.

Welch plug on back, top, of engine block. Replace even if it looks good. It's part of the coolant system. If it leaks/rust out, you will have to split the tractor again.

[SamsFarm]

Info on splitting the tractor incase you have not saw already!

viewtopic.php?f=177&t=106450

viewtopic.php?f=177&t=111135

[Jim Becker]

$1,200 seems like an "I don't want that job" price. That is not a big job for a well equipped shop. Flat rate book lists it as 3.2 hours.

The major concern for a moderately equipped do it yourselfer is stability of the front part while it is split.