What size socket do I need to remove the sprocket nut part#V-168 on my #J. The 4B290 lock was missing so I had a new one made up. I also want to replace the 4B289 gasket on the axle hub. I am assuming I don't have to remove the tracks to do this. The repair book shows a big a.. wrench 8F2239 being used to remove the nut After the track has been seperated and layed out. Hope I don't have to do that. Can I Heat up the nut to bust it loose if it won't break free with the socket and a cheater bar? Thanks for any advice. Joe Giraud:D

If your just taking the nut off there is no reason to remove the track as the nut just goes on the end of the sprocket.Measure the nut across it and get a socket to fit it and a breaker bar and pipe extension should loosen it. I don,t have a book to check the torque going back on but someone on here would have it or tighten it up good going back should hold it.

Dozerman,

What I do when I run into one of those pesky nuts that doesn't want to come loose and there's some room around it is I make up a "slug" wrench out of 5/8 or 3/4" plate similar to these. www.powerhousetool.com/industrialsluggingwrenches.htm

I haven't found those nuts to be tight. The retainer doesn't allow for many clocking positions...many times you have to resort to the looser location. I normally tap on the flats with a hammer and they come right off.

The sprocket nut/socket size is 2-7/8 in.

Thank you all for your great suggestions . Joe:D

Well, I put a 2-7/8" 1' drive socket and breaker bar on the nut with a 4Ft cheater bar- no luck in getting the nut loose. I tapped it with a hammer also. What about putting some heat to it. I am assuming it is not a left handed thread. Thanks for more advice.

Heat won't hurt a bit. I'd try heating the nut, squirt some loose juice on it and then immediately go at it with a slug wrench and a 10-12# molecular realignment instrument (or what non machinists call a beater). It sounds like Sam Wan got it a bit too tight the last time he was in there.

Neither sprocket nut is left hand thread so you should be OK the way you are going. Good luck!

Thanks guys for the advice. I'll keep trying. You all have a great and safe holiday weekend. Joe:D