Hello! -
I just picked up a '48 D4 in great running condition for less than $2k. Everything works, main engine purrs like a kitten, pony good, no noise out of trans or final drives and etc.

One small problem.... one of the previous owners apparently needed to do some work on the main clutch or drive shaft and rather than splitting the tractor, he decided to make a big access hole in the top of the transmission case. Unfortunately the cutout piece is nowhere to be found, although i'm pretty sure i can fabricate a cover for the resulting mess he made.

I'm assuming the dozer has been used since the work was done on the clutch or whatever, and i don't see any cracking or breaks on or around the case, although i'm not done cleaning it just yet. 

My question is, how much torque is on the case when working? in other words, is this a serious structural issue that i need to be concerned about, or can i button it up with a dust cover and use the machine? 

I see a big crack on the left side where the clutch lever pivots. My own opinion says find yourself a new top cover; there was a reason why there is a crack on the left side. If you are fortunate, you could find yourself one from a parts machine, or update to a late style 2 piece, as the single can be a bugger to reinstall without proper equipment.
Nice find btw, hope to see more of it in action photos or videos. JM

I sent you a private message. Unlikely that it will work, but check your messages.

Hello and thank you for the quick response. I too thought that was a BIG crack, however upon physical inspection, it's actually a cut from the cutting wheel the previous owner used. No cracking exists around any of the cuts that i can see. I'm beginning the process of cleaning the tractor, starting with that area, which will give me a good oppurtunity to further inspect after it's cleaned up.

I was thinking the best move would be to replace the cover. I wasn't aware that there was a difference in later models, good info. What's involved with the R&R of the cover? i have a 2 ton gantry crane, i'm guessing i'd need to remove the ROPS, seat and everything interferring with the cover, unbolt and lift?

Regards,
Todd

Replacing cover is as you describe - two piece top makes clutch work easy. If you delay may find yourself in the field with more serious damage.

 

Nice machine-congratulations. I’ve got a post somewhere with photos of my D42T where I cut my cover near to BruceOz diagram. Worked out and it’s much simpler for my Redneck shop to access main clutch without pulling the one piece cover. I call it my “bikini cover”. Pictures somewhere on this board-it was about 14 years ago. I was happy with it-not too bad of a hack job. I used a hacksaw and sawzall. Magnet and Old Iron Habit were both very helpful (among others).

Also, when I was reinstalling the cover, I had a hard time finding the proper gasket that fits between the cover and the machine case. The corner snapped and broke. A buddy who is a master at welding welded it up, still holding. I cannot remember what rods he used but I will say he took his time.

Keep safe on your machine and enjoy-
Bernie

          Bernie's photos

Told you….ugly at best. FYI that first cut mark isn’t the weld spot. The break welded was completely thru. Anyway-thanks Bruce Oz. Huge help as always.

bernie