Hustler axles

[brushcutter]

Does anyone Know if Hustler axles are tempered,hardened,case hardened or what?I have broken one axle twice now and welded it back together.I know how and why they are breaking and have started checking to see what the biggest bearing I can get that will match the existing bolt pattern.I would like to go to at least 1 3/8" and use taper-loc flanges if the space in the bottom of the Hustler tub will allow it.By doing this I would open a lot more sprocket options(no more welded flanges or sleeves) and also eliminate Bolts through axles(weak),splines and keyways(better).The stock axles do not seem to be heat treated in any way because the holes wallow out after a time.If this is the case,then I could use cold rolled round stock and make my own axles.Any thoughts?---Gregg

[micmac]

Greg,

The bolt pattern on the hustler will support the 62 mm O.D. (old Max) 1.25 shaft bearing flange. However, the Bearing hole on the frame is just a bit too small and would need to be widened. One thing I'm considering is to replace as I break / bend my current axles with splined ones with the current diameter axle. You would have to get those made, maybe touch base with whipper.

Mike