Bronze Bushing choice for Snow Thrower

[larryinnewyork]

Good morning all, and an early HAPPY Fathers Day.

I am working on a 1977 Ariens snow-thrower.
Kinda made it a nice summer project.

It has held up good over the years because of P.M.

What I'm looking to do is:
1) Replace all Bronze Bushings (possible 12 req.) [reason for Post]
2) Replace Oil Seals (3 req.)
2) Replace Axle Shaft & Pinion Shaft
3) Inspect / Replace Ball Bearings, if needed (possible 8 total)
4) Replace all Fasteners
5) Replace Engine
6) Clean and Repaint
7) Put together a Repair Kit
* * * Extra Bearings, Bushings, Shear Bolts, & various Fasteners
Basically, any and all work that will make it last many years to come.

I'm at a point where I have to stop and think.
I would like to replace the Axle & Pinion Shafts with 0-1 tool steel.
It is nicely ground and won't be heat treated.
I feel, still a better choice than the originals that are worn & pitted.

Concern:
I have a choice of using Oilite Bushings OR Graphite Bushings.
Either choice is made with 'sintered' (very pourous) bronze.
These bushings are located inside the machine and only get additional oil once a year.
Snow-Thrower will get used 40 hours/year MAX.

Question:
Anyone have advice/experience on which would be better ? ? ?
Would oiling the graphite bushing cause an issue (gumming up) ? ? ?

I'm just at a stumbling point and want to make the correct choice.
Any real experience or opinions are appreciated.

Thank you and Happy Fathers Day.

Larry / Buffalo, New York

 

[Doog]

Originally Posted By: larryinnewyork


Concern:
I have a choice of using Oilite Bushings OR Graphite Bushings.
Either choice is made with 'sintered' (very pourous) bronze.
These bushings are located inside the machine and only get additional oil once a year.
Snow-Thrower will get used 40 hours/year MAX.

Question:
Anyone have advice/experience on which would be better ? ? ?
Would oiling the graphite bushing cause an issue (gumming up) ? ? ?

I'm just at a stumbling point and want to make the correct choice.
Any real experience or opinions are appreciated.

Thank you and Happy Fathers Day.

Larry / Buffalo, New York


1. use only hardened shafts. Call or write the company engineering department for the spec.
2. either bushing will work. I would coat all parts with assembly lube or 20w50 oil.

 

[andyd]

The ones in the machine lasted 36 yrs, are they bad, go with OEM. Just curious, what engine are you going with?

 

[larryinnewyork]

The Bushings, Axle Shaft & Pinion Shaft have been replaced when my father had the machine.

Both Shafts had worn areas (grooves) of .015 on the diameters.
I know my father changed the Axle Shaft once.
But the one he put in is now worn .010 on the diameter.
New Axle is $90.00 .... I can make a better one cheaper.

So, parts do wear out.
Bronze Bushings - Need to be replaced occasionally.

Engine:
Current & Original: Tescumsa / 7 HP
Replacement will be: B&S Snow Series / approx. 8 HP

 

[AandPDan]

Originally Posted By: larryinnewyork

Engine:
Current & Original: Tescumsa / 7 HP
Replacement will be: B&S Snow Series / approx. 8 HP


As long as you keep oil in it, the Tecumseh would be my first choice.