D2 sprocket removal minimum requirement

Hi Neil, you can remove the sprocket without taking the track frame off. As you said the chain will have to be disconnected. The equalizer spring will have to be removed and the track frame lifted to about a 30 degree angle to provide clearance for the sprocket to be removed. I've taken track frames off without removing the sprocket so you won't have any trouble pulling the sprocket

 [attachment=64366]rail notch.JPG[/attachment]Can you cut a little half moon out of the outer track frame to clear - once the sprocket releases from the taper will it tilt a bit also? Bob

Thanks gents. John, my rail is easy to undo because I have the split master pin arrangement so that's not an issue. Did you remove your main spring as well like Scott did? The J-series might have a bit of different geometry if you could leave the spring set. In any case, I'll give it a try first to see if it's possible, but it's not a huge deal to remove it, particularly because every single nut and bolt on this machine has been refurbished. I'm not averse to trimming the back of the frame where it doesn't compromise any structural integrity.
My understanding is that the sprocket splines are a softer material than the shaft although I don't know that for sure. I doubt that I have more than maybe 50 hours to run on it before I lay it up for winter and attend to the undercarriage but definitely don't want to compromise the shaft

I've done it on both the j and the u series, the spring has to come out to lift the track frame high enough to clear the sprocket. You don't need to cut the frame

It was many years ago I did the work, but I’m pretty sure that I did not remove the equaliser spring, maybe I removed the nut securing the track frame and pulled it out a bit so the sprocket would clear it. Gary’s experience is far more recent that mine so likely to be more accurate.

It was many years ago I did the work, but I’m pretty sure that I did not remove the equaliser spring, maybe I removed the nut securing the track frame and pulled it out a bit so the sprocket would clear it. Gary’s experience is far more recent that mine so likely to be more accurate.

looking at the picture posted it appears there is a circular arc cut into the inboard track frame.   i wonder if the frame can be pulled outward off of the shaft in order for the sproket to clear?

Yes -Built a new track frame so did not remove sprocket so made the circular cut.