Okay guys, I have a chance to get an old John Deere 410 backhoe. Supposedly the engine was rebuilt 140 hrs ago but it's hard to crank. When it ran, it cranked a bit hard even with regular fluid and filter changes. The mechanic told us it barely had the power to pull, losing power in the middle of a job. We need to replace the rear main seal, which is supposed to help a lot but now it’s getting dumped and the radiator and hydraulic pump may need rebuilds too. I can't afford the dealer rates and I’ve tinkered a lot with motorcycle engines and rebuilt other vehicles, but this heavy machine job of splitting it is on another level for me.
Preliminary questions:
1. Is this doable for an amateur?
2. Is there a place to get step-by-step instructions without investing $350 in a service manual?
3. How many hours should it take to get the machine split, the part replaced, and reassembled?
4. Anything else to watch out for?
5. What grade of floor jacks or supports do I need to bolt the frame down safely?
6. Should the entire clutch pack and seals be replaced while I'm at it? I don't mind spending extra on parts if it avoids long-term issues.
Any advice appreciated!
Top Replies
Hey cowboybkr, splitting a JD 410 can be challenging for amateurs. Go slow, and ensure you have proper equipment like stands and jacks for safety. I'd recommend a step-by-step on YouTube.
April 23, 2024
grease_monkey
If you're not up for it, consider hiring a local mechanic just for the tricky parts. The rest you can handle with some patience and a good online tutorial.
April 27, 2024
dieselDude
More Replies
Check forums and forestry equipment sites for cheaper or even free PDFs. Some old service manuals might be available in the form of shared links.
May 1, 2024
toolmaster
Once you split it and have it open, yes, consider replacing all seals to avoid future breakdowns. It's worth the initial investment of time and parts.