The Fordson Tractor Pages Forum

What is 'end-float' and why is it needed?

I have renewed the two-part bearings and oil seals on both rear axles and am reading the service manual about putting it back together again. There were 2 or 3 shims behind each brake back plate. The axle has the big retaining nut.

Is end-float the gap that the shims fill, i.e. no gap when assembled.

Or is there play in the axle when fitted?

Can I just refit with the same shims, and forget the paragraphs on 'wedging the axle shaft'? Maybe this just relates to the older models with a retaining collar and not the retaining nut?

Thanks to anyone who can explain this.

I've been at that stage for months pondering what to do Michael. Hopefully someone will come to our assistance.

If you have the shop manual it gives the tolerances and how to set set the end play on the axels. It is shimmed to the required play is reached. If you don't have a shop manual you need to get one.