Deck repair on BX18, RCK54-15BX

[nykubota]

Working on RCK54-15BX deck, it developed a noise, and looks like couple of bearings are bad. The gear box has a RCK54-22BX, and I am having trouble with removing it. I think it should just slide off the shaft. The other user DAVEMSKINNER seems to show this picture http://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=4023&d=1316054002 which is exactly the part I have, the bevel gear case K5761-33115

Center pulley holder K5371-34110 also has a bad bearing, which I believe contributed to damaging the bearing in the gear case, and the lower seal as well. It's seeping oil.

Anyone had this assembly apart? I unbolted everything, but there is something holding all the rotating parts together.

Also, while at it, pulling old bearings, I have not done this before. What's the best approach to this?

Thanks very much.

 

[Tooljunkie]

Well, if yours looks exactly like the photo, theres a snap ring that needs to come out. Requiring good snap ring pliers. Nothing else will do.
Then stand it up on a solid bench. Pick it up and slam it a couple times. Shaft should slip out. A heavy wood benchtop is best. Takes a little more than basic hand tools to dismantle gearboxes.

Do yourself a huge favour, get a workshop manual. Will pay fir itself in no time.

 

[nykubota]

Thank you Tooljunkie. I took the snap ring out, gave it a few nudges with a mallet hammer, and the assembly slipped out with ease. Done job. Interesting design by Kubota.

 

[nykubota]

Well, the gear box has been rebuild with all new bearings and seals by my local dealer, Empire Tractor in Cortland. I am told it will serve many more years. I am very pleased with the quality of service at Empire Tractor, great team of people! I don't often see this kind of treatment from dealers.