Hustler Rebuild version 2.0

[suntiet]

I took it apart and put on a winch mount, built a belly band, and got everything ready to take my new hustler hunting this year. We only put maybe 35-40 miles on it but we figured out a few things.


I liked the way it ran, motor had enough power, but it could use more. And it seemed to me it could use to be geared down a hair.

So here we go Hustler rebuild version 2.0

I scored a new welder so before i took it back apart i made a winch guard and got new tires.


Got it apart and noticed the frame was bent. Had to reinforce my shop press so i could use it sideways. (did i say I SCORED a new welder?)


Starting the first reassemble. Figured i would put it all together on the frame first then re install it all back in the tub since i have to drill holes for the set screws on the sprockets anyway.
New bearings inner and out, new Apache gear axles and sprockets.


I was going to put double collars on all the bearings.


and that's as far as i got tonight.

[suntiet]

Well actually I cut one of the new chains down and put it on tonight.
I have a question, I looks to me like a half link would make the perfect fit. Half links are okay right?

[riotwarrior]

looking really sharp, and as for half links I use em...don't know bout others.

[fmints]

I had to use half links on my as well,,,,,,,, well really I had to create my own half link with some links I had laying around cause i couldn't find any O-ring half links anywhere. I really put my machine to work, trying to find the weak link (literally this time) almost every time i ride.. No issues so far with 55 hours on the chains.

It was a great idea to reinforce your frame! Our beloved Hustler has always had issues with twisted, bent and or broken rails and or beams. I added almost 50 pounds of metal to my machine to reinforce it totally. I got a lot of ideas from other Hustler owners like Don, Hydromike, Racerone3, Highrollingmopars, Dan67 and last but not least at all, Whipper-AG and Reb181.

Your machine looks great, and you most definitely can not go wrong with the Apache Gear!

[suntiet]

Do you have any pictures of your frame work?
I was going to do the reinforcement after I have all the chains, linkages and what not installed.

[fmints]

Here is a video that I have on youtube you can also find my thread: http://www.6x6world.com/forums/hustl...i-rebuild.html

[suntiet]

So I installed all the axles and chains. Got a look at where the new tensioners are going to live.


Then i took it all apart and cut off the old tensioners and put in a new cross member. Cut the slots in the metal.


I haven't figured out the back ones yet. Not sure if I have the space for the sprocket to fit. I would if I added a half link? Is a little longer chain with a bearing sprocket tensioner better than a half link shorter chain running on a polymer bushing?

I have a little work to do in the morning, hopefully get my buddy over and get some more progress made after that.

[JoeMeg]

Looking good.

Joe.

[lewis]

Keep working Fred, you will get there. Looking Good!

[suntiet]

Who's Fred?

So I completed the installation of the tensioners for the main drive off the T-20.

And got one of the rear tensioners in as well. I had to add a half link so the sprocket would clear the tub. I think that having the sprocket with the bearing on a chain with a half link extra in it was better than running the nylon roller with out bearings??? Hope i am right.

the old one is just there to show the difference.