Farmall M - Radiator Removal

Melvin Ware · Oct 14, 2009

I've about decided to take my leaking radiator to a nearby shop for further evaluation and hopefully have it repaired. The guy there has worked on lots of tractor radiators and seems to know what he's doing.

The 8 bolts on the radiator sides are easy enough to get at and turn freely. As for removing the nuts from the studs at the bottom of the radiator, I found access holes directly beneath each stud through which a socket and extension fit nicely. Although I can't see them, it feels like there's a spring beneath the nut on each stud. I've already had a socket on the stud nuts and both turn freely.

Now I need to know how to get the steering shaft separated and out of the radiator. Would appreciate some advice on this. That leaves only the two radiator hoses which should be pretty straight forward.

Also wondering what if any mounting parts need to be replaced when re-installing the radiator?

Wayne in MN · Oct 14, 2009

Remove the large threaded cap on the front of the steering sector. Loosen the 2 set screws on the forward shaft locating collar at the steering wheel support. Uncouple the u-joint and rotate the steering shaft so it un-screws itself out of the steering sector. Note: there may be lube that will drain out. You may need to "assist" the u-joint as it slides off the end of the shaft. Remove the half-moon key, clean of the shaft & out it comes. I suggest replacement of the shaft seal at this time and use corn head grease for lube upon re-assembly.

glennster · Oct 14, 2009

couple other things, the radiator shroud needs to be loose and set back toward the fan to get the radiator out. the rad will not come out with the shroud on. there are 2 rubber mounting pads the rad sits on, so check them to see if they are still good. also, when the rad is off, check all the cooling hoses to see if they are dry rotted. if so, now is the time to change em. there is a short hose that goes from the top of the water pump to the thermostat housing, check that one too. if its bad, the thermostat housing needs to come off to get the new hose on, you will need a gasket for that.

Melvin Ware · Oct 14, 2009

Wayne in mm,
I'm not familiar with "corn head" grease - where do I get that? You mentioned replacing the grease and the steering shaft seal. Do these go in the steering box at the top of the front fork?

Andy Martin · Oct 14, 2009

John Deere corn head grease made to lubricate corn heads on combines. It is an excellent lubricant for this purpose.

Yes, the grease goes in the housing with the sector gear that the worm gear drives.

The seal would be on the steering wheel side of the worm gear.

Farmall M - Radiator Removal

Melvin Ware

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Wayne in MN

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glennster

Well-known Member

Melvin Ware

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Andy Martin

Well-known Member

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