Followup to my post a couple weeks ago - this tractor had the nut unscrew off off the camshaft, letting the cam gear gradually flop itself to death inside the timing gearcase...Got the new cam gear installed this weekend. My idea to secure the key in the damaged keyway with JB Weld did not work (just like T_Bone predicted...) - the key popped out 1st time I tried to fit the gear into place. However I found by using a new Woodruff key, the new gear has a nice force fit on the camshaft - it drives the camshaft solidly even before installing the cam nut. Put on a new nut keeper, treated the threads with blue Loctite, then torqued the cam nut to 150 ft-lb. When I got all done the camshaft had 0.010 endplay - exactly per spec - and the cam gear ran true when cranked. Put the gear cover back on, then test ran the engine. It started right up, ran nice and that annoying knock is GONE!. Found also the low idle speed has increased by 100+ RPM - probably due to the valve timing now being back where it should be. Only let it run a minute (no radiator or coolant yet) but am satisfied with the repair. Next up is to reinstall the front end and radiator assembly - this weekend weather permitting. Thanks to all who offered advice and support! Bob M
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