MTFCA Forum

I am new to Model T's as I am a tractor and engine guy. I recently acquired a Doodlebug (farmer built tractor from automotive parts) and it has a Model T rear axle with Ruckstell two speed.

I have a slight grinding noise in the right rear outboard axle. It also gets a little warm when ran for a while. I can tear this down and look for problem, but thought I would seek any advice available here. I can't find an exploded parts diagram and expect a worn bushing/bearing. Any help before I tear down would be appreciated.

Looking forward to enjoying this Doodlebug at Tractor Shows, parades ect--younger grandkids and neighborhood kids already love riding in my buggy trailer behind it. It is a 1930 Model A engine, tranny and frame, Model B front axle and wheels, Fordson tool box, Farmall seat and fenders, Model A lights, and of course Model T rear end with Ruckstell split and Budd Wheels.

A grinding noise is bad. Get the rear axle manual from MTFCI or Snyders or Langs Old Car Parts, or other model T parts vendor, tear it down and see what is going on.

Beautiful tractor.

If you go to the "Board Index" heading and then to the "Vowell Art" heading Martian has tech drawings posted with different car parts and the rear axle is one of them.

Thanks guys. I have torn down hundreds of tractor rear axles down through the years and I suspected bearings.
Not a bad grinding yet, but time to fix.

I guess I need bearings, retaining washer, seal and nut. I assume that these were originally felt seals.
Thanks again. Bear

Is the rear axle a Model T axle and driveshaft? If so I suspect it would have to be cut down. Model T rear axles were supported by Hyatt bearings both just outside the differential and just before the wheels. Not your typical wheel bearings at all. Pictures of what you have might help.

Thanks Oldav8tor

I had to locate Hyatt bearings for an early Twin City tractor several years back. Many early tractor axles were just bushed with bronze.

The axle you have there is from a TT, or "Ton Truck". It takes a larger Hyatt than a Model T rear end I believe.

Since it's a low speed affair, try researching Berliss bearings. http://www.berliss.com/

I have found bearings available for the T rear axle, but not for TT. Is there a difference in OD measurement between T and TT axle housings?

I have not pulled this down as there is no room in shop currently as I am doing head work on Case tractor--too many machine tools and engines in the way and I am too old to build bigger shop or that is what my wife lady says.

Yes TT larger bearings. Someone here probably has a set good enough for your project. Post a wanted add in the classifieds. I have several TT rear axles but I have major project going in the shop and no room to tear one down mining for usable parts.