[markks]

Last week I pulled the Onan out of my 318 to get the starter out. I got the Onan out without any issue, I took the starter to the Local Starter Rebuild shop and have it back now. So, I've got the Onan ready to go back in.

I foresee an Issue with re-attaching the Drive Shaft to the Onan. I still have the Shaft "in" the 318 and attached to the pump at the rear.

My question is What is the Best/Easiest way to re-attach the Drive Shaft to the Onan??? What have you fellows done to get it re-attached???

Thanks!!!!

 

[drew]

I've had the best luck leaving the driveshaft on the motor and attaching it to the spline shaft on the tranny. It's not bad with 2 guys.

 

[dave_thompson]

I leave it in the tractor and reattach it as I install the motor but whatever you are comfortable with. Dave

 

[Hammerdown-7]

Hello Mark
The front drive shaft bolt's can be tough to get to. I had to take off a couple of hydraulic lines that were in my way to allow me to get the bolt's back into the fly wheel area of the drive shaft. I used a 3/8" air ratchet to take them up with a shallow socket it worked well while I turned the drive shaft with a Long screw driver through the front coupler. I hope this helps, Kurt

 

[volvo4fun]

When you position the engine you grab the flange and push it onto the flywheel.

From above you start a bolt, rotate the shaft 90 degrees so you can reach the bolt with a wrench from the side.

 

[420glh]

For those that made a new one, is there a huge difference using 1" solid shaft for the DS rather than pipe? It's heavier than the stock one, I know.

 

[ben12]

Mark; try a 3/8 drive flex-socket on a 3/8 drive 18-20 inch extension and come at it from the right side.any tool truck (Mac, Matco, or Snap-On) will have these common tools and are very handy to have. Ben

 

[markks]

Hey Fellows!!!
I've got the Drive Shaft re-attached and the Engine back in now.

I tried what Kurt suggested, but Just could not manage getting any bolt started. I did not want to remove any Hyd lines until I tried the 2nd option.

So, I pulled the engine back out, attached the shaft and then installed it. I had to "Massage" it back in but it worked all by myself. I do have an Engine Hoist so that Helped.

Anyway, thanks fellows, I appreciate the tips..

 

[Hammerdown-7]

Hello Mark
Always' Good to hear a Happy ending. I am Glad you got your tractor back together I know when mine is down it weigh's heavy on me. In removing the tow hydraulic Pump Lines directly above the drive shaft it allows ample room to get a Air ratchet in there and the lines do not leak much fluid in doing so, but what ever work's best for you is great. Regards, Kurt

 

[rosco611]

I just had to replace the starter on my 318 also. I ended up just removing the battery tray. Then I was able I get an air ratchet to the drive shaft bolts one at a time. Maybe I just got lucky.