1862 Front Axle Substitution

jzlatohlavek · Oct 14, 2015

I broke the front axle on my 1862 (early series) PN 759-3549. Is that the only axle that will work? It was also used on the 1535, 1541 and 1860 as far as I can find. A PN 719-3100 off of a 1641 or later series 1862 sure looks like it would work from the pictures that I have seen and the diagrams in the shop manual. Even though it is not a direct replacement would it work - even with a little modification, or will it not work at all so don't even try? I am desperate!
Thanks.

John Z.

eford · Oct 15, 2015

Go to the frequently asked questions, Charlie's Cubfaq, and look at #18 'What is and how do I do a super steer upgrade?'
It lists some options for the swap and maybe those models will help you find a replacement.
I just put a 1541 axle on a 1450 and it is wider than the original I.H. one. I believe your on the right track for finding what you can use. I don't think an I.H. made one would work due to it being narrower.

wcompton · Oct 16, 2015

John-
You can use any of the "cyclops" axles. You may find that you like the later version that is swept forward. The key will be that you'll want to hold onto those lower profile front spindles, otherwise you'll have to re-adjust the height of some of your attachments due to the changed angle of the frame (you'll be sorta screwed on a blower and front blade IMHO as well).

Those tall front spindles, in my view, was just MTD's very short-sighted design that made allowance for a better mower deck, but negated the interchangeability of attachments from previous generations... resigning it to the simple status of "just a mower" and effectively killing off the last of the spread frame generation that IH designed.

sblunier · Oct 16, 2015

You can use both a blade and a blower with taller SS spindles, but will need to make a few modifications...BTDT bought the t shirt and wore it out!

gerickson · Oct 17, 2015

If you would like to drive to Ashton, Il. I have a 1340 that has the axle you need. It's a low super steer. If you are interested I can email you my phone number.