Replace front axle pivot pin with a 3/4” x 6” bolt
 

I have seen pros and cons about this on the forum, but winter is here, and something has to be done quickly (at least until spring). My plan is to use a 3/4” x 6” fine thread bolt with a nyloc nut to replace the pin. Question; do I use a grade 5, or a grade 8 bolt? I’m leaning toward a grade 5 because it seems like it will do less damage to the hardened pin bushings in the axle.

Thanks for any input. Steve

Grade 5 will be fine.

Ok, Thanks ! Tomorrow it goes in

Why not put a correct pin back in to begin with?
It's not like one will break the bank you know!!
you need a grease way turned in the center of the bolt.
And if you have a deep sump pan you will have to shave the hex head down quite a bit to clear it.
Got a buddy w/a lathe??
He can turn you a new pin in nothing flat.

Good point, thanks. Hadn’t thought of the grease way. I decided to use a bolt to tighten the axle mount channel, and prevent it from spreading again. I don’t want to get into “in and out, in and out” activity in an outdoor work area in the winter. Especially risking getting the channel too tight It’s an easy way to get it tightened up. I plan to replace the pin in the spring after doing any necessary repairs to the axle/frame. To fix it correctly will involve splitting the tractor, pulling the motor, and taking the axle/frame to a machine shop. Don’t want to do that now. Thanks ! Happy Trails !!

What model Cub are you working on?
Gonna be a real PITA to get that pin out if you have a deep sump pan with out pulling the engine.

Axle pivot pin
 

It’s a 105, k241, no deep sump. Thanks !

My 1200 I grew up on still is nice and tight. I bought a 2nd 1200 this summer it was awfully sloppy. I elected to re-use the original pin and just squeeze it tight. I used a lighter bolt than I thought would work. I got it nearly perfect the 1st time, maybe just a touch too tight. Why does this happen on some and not the others. My childhood machine definitely wasn't babied. 5 boys were behind the wheel....

Lack of lube at the axle pivot or maybe none at all....ever!
Bet a lot of folks don't even know there is a grease fitting there on the post 70/100 models.

I was sure surprised to find none on my 70 a few years ago when I 1st bought it.

Granted, I remember finding mine, it was squeaking. Doesn't explain the spreading of the frame channel.

Axle pin
 

I think the channel spread was the result of one too many “ramming speed” impacts while plowing. Especially with full right or left steering while sliding out of control. Ohh, but not me…. I did install the 3/4”x 6 1/2” grade 5 fine thread bolt with 2 machine bushings, and a nylock nut. Happy with the results, and I can adjust out any additional “indiscretions “

Over 50 years old..........!

Yep, 52 years old, and I’m only the second owner/abuser ! Only using it for snowthrower, and hauling duty. The plow, and thrower’ that are original to the tractor show some serious abuse repairs, and confirm a history of “ramming speed” work. Love this little beast 105