Sam shows how to measure and adjust toe settings on John Deere 8 RX tractors to keep tracks properly aligned. Correct alignment extends track belt life and prevents premature wear on expensive equipment.
If track alignment issues are noted on the front tracks of an 8 RX tractor, toe measurement must first be checked. Proper toe adjustment is required on these tractors before making track alignment checks. In this video, we discuss proper toe measurement checks and necessary tow adjustments on eight RX tractors before making any track adjustment or tow checks. First make sure that tracks are properly tensioned. ATAR extractors use a track tension gauge. This gauge is green when tracks are properly tensioned. Red indicates that tracks are not tensioned properly. Refer to the operator's manual for further information on tensioning tracks. Begin at RX Tow check by driving the tractor straight forward with no steering or brake input on flat ground for at least 15.24 meters. Place tractor in neutral and coast to a stop. Begin on the front side of the axle. Measure the distance between pads 1 on inside of left and the other on inside right axle knuckle. This measurement can best be accomplished using a high quality laser measuring tool as shown. Record this measurement. Repeat measurement on the rear side of the axle, measuring from inside left to inside right knuckle pads. Record this measurement. Determine toe setting by calculating the difference between the front and rear measurements. Front and rear measurements should both be equal. If this cannot be achieved, specifications do allow for plus or minus 1.5 millimeter toe in or out. Toe in is, however preferred because tracks tend to toe outward during forward travel. If toe adjustment is required, first notice the location of timing marks on both the left and right adjustment screws. If all parts are built as designed with no tolerances or wear, both timing marks are straightforward in the 12 o' clock position. As adjustments are made, split the difference equally between left and right hand sides. Doing so ensures that steering cylinders remain centered. Loosen the cap screw on the slotted end only of both upper and lower adjustment screw clamps. As this adjustment screw is rotated, the front of knuckle and track assembly moves in the direction of this timing mark. Rotating the adjustment screw 18 of a turn equals approximately 5 millimeters toe change. This adjustment can be made easier by removing moving weight from the front axle. Once an adjustment has been made, tighten all cap screws to specifications 310 Newton meters. Verify proper adjustment by once again driving the tractor straight forward on flat ground with no steering or brake input for 15.24 meters. Place the tractor in neutral and coast to a stop. Verify that tow is within specifications by repeating tow measurement. Check once adjustments are made. Monitor frequently to verify proper adjustments. Sam.
