Rockwell Axle Nut

[SliverPicker]

I've got the Tree Farmer axles mostly apart to replace the leaking seals.  I am stuck needing a 4-3/8" socket to remove the main axle nut.  Proto sells one that weighs 33 pounds and change and costs almost $1700.  That option is out.  Short of fabricating my own, which is not my strongest skill, what are my choices? 

Does anyone know the torque spec. to reinstall these nuts?

Thanks fellas!

[Ljohnsaw]

Try a rental shop - they probably have what you need and it might cost you $10 for a day.  You know, those places that rent trailers and equipment.  They usually have a lot of specialty tools to rent.  Also, NAPA (and such auto parts stores) have tools to rent.  Any truck stops around you?  Bring a six twelve pack and they might loan you what you need.

[Brian_Rhoad]

http://www.zorotools.com/g/00155184/k-G2660357?utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Google_Shopping_Feed&kw={keyword}&gclid=CLzW3pzlp70CFZJj7AodE3cAxA

[SliverPicker]

I have seen those stamped versions, but I'm a bit skeptical that they can handle the torque needed to refasten those nuts.  Does anyone know for sure?

We are pretty thin on tool rental places around here and there are no truck stops.  I live pretty much in the sticks.  I will try Napa tomorrow, but I don't think they rent/loan any tools.

[stihltoomany]

I used to work on heavy trucks and those stamped sockets were used all the time to do axle nuts. Assuming that that your tree farmer axle is similiar to a semi truck axle. Our sockets came from the same place that sold heavy truck parts, brakes, rims, springs and such. Those sockets are tougher than you might think and not too terrible high priced.  Good Luck

[bushmechanic]

SilverPicker, stihltoomany is right on with assessment of those sockets-very tough. They are made by OTC and can be purchased at Napa, but that size is not common in the truck world so you will most likely have to order it. Another route you can take is like I do when there is nothing available is to make it up from scrap metal. I made one for the Eaton planetaries, 1/4 plate made the sides and end then a nut welded on the end to use the 3/4 drive. I used the wheel nut for a guide when I got it apart to make the hex. Not sure on the torque but I have it somewhere around here, and is it the small 8 stud ends or 12 stud planetaries? 

[Ken]

I had a local welding shop make me one.  Used a piece of steel pipe and welded pieces of flat steel inside the pipe to match the diameter I needed.  He then welded a piece of plate across one end and put a nut on that end to allow use of a power bar.  Not as fancy as some but does the trick.  With respect to the torque I am unsure of the proper # but we usually tighten until the tire will not turn easy.  A few hard smacks with a sledge  on the tire rim will usually allow a couple more turns of the nut.

[justallan1]

Another vote on the durability of the sockets similar to the ones shown above. My only gripe on the few that I have is that they are 1/2" drive and I feel better with my 3/4" ratchet and breaker bar on stuff like this. I actually broke a 3/4" to 1/2" adapter taking something off, but the socket was fine.

Allan

[treeslayer2003]

nuthin wrong with those sockets, I have used them on skidders plenty.
tighten it up pretty good till it is hard to turn then back off just slightly. I always pack the bearing, prolly not nessasary. it is important to get it snugged up good at first, you don't want any weight on the planetary, you want it on the bearing.
if you don't have the wheel on, tighten it till you can't turn the hub then back off slightly.

[SliverPicker]

Excellent.  Thanks.  I will give the stamped socket a whirl. 

These are the 12 bolt hubs.

[coxy]

hammer and punch that what I use  :D :D :D :D

[jwilly3879]

SliverPicker - I just sent you a PM -  I can email the pages I have for the Rockwell axle

[OntarioAl]

I have seen a lot of cold chisel "bite" marks on various axle nuts.
Al

[jwilly3879]

I've seen some loose hubs also. Loose to the point that they wore through the stub axle.

[36 coupe]

I've got the Tree Farmer axles mostly apart to replace the leaking seals.  I am stuck needing a 4-3/8" socket to remove the main axle nut.  Proto sells one that weighs 33 pounds and change and costs almost $1700.  That option is out.  Short of fabricating my own, which is not my strongest skill, what are my choices? 

Does anyone know the torque spec. to reinstall these nuts?

Thanks fellas!There are plasma cutters that are computer controlled.Feed in a drawing and the part gets cut out.Look up Keith Fenner on youtube.You can see the machine work.

[SliverPicker]

I spent a few hours trying to make a socket.  It didn't go that well.  I hid the evidence.  It was like a wild monkey and football.   :D :D

I ordered a socket from CarQuest.  It was supposed to show up with UPS yesterday, but didn't arrive.  Today is the day.

[Lonely Sawer]

Army surplus wharehouse $24.95

[Ed_K]

 You keep that squirrel home, we don't need them cutting down the bird feeders  ;D.

[Lonely Sawer]

Squirl's gone

[Ed_K]

 ;)