circa 1985 max iv question

[patb069]

Hi all. So I spoke with a company today called Maximum Off Road in MO. I had bought a pair of axles from them and was very impressed with the craftsmanship. We were talking about my machine and he informed me that the frames from that era were very prone to twisting and cracking. Exponentially more so when used with 26 inch tires and high hp / torque applications. He went as far as to say that running the 26's themselves would probably put significant stress on the frame and that I should be prepared for bearing failure as I have the 62mm bearings. He said for what I want to do, I should have bought a 2003 or later as all of these problems were fixed. Is this all true? If yes, what can I do to address these issues as I have ton of money in this machine now. I have the frame out now and want to try to make any recommended mods before I reassemble. What say you all? Thanks.
Best regards
Pat

[ARGOJIM]

There is an update kit through Max. You can see what is involved on the manuals section of 6x6 world home page. be sure your frame is square now.

[patb069]

Thanks Jim. Ill have to call Matt up and hope he still has them.

[ARGOJIM]

Get a hold of Gaelon through the RI number.

[Normable1973]

I recently purchased a 27hp kohler and a t20 from Brandon (maximum off road) and he seemed very knowledgable and willing to help anytime. The parts I purchased were even better than he said.. That's unusual these days.... It's just nice to post something good...... Norm..

[msafi65]

I usually go to the 72 mm bearings when I can. This can be done by enlarging the bolt holes to match the larger flanges or use the HD Argo bearing holders for a bolt on. The frame kit is in the pic. I haven't got a part # for the kit but individual #s are written on pieces. Install the side pieces flush to a straight edge to top of frame. The frames are subject to bending down at rear mount holes and greatly change the amount of rear chain adjustment. The location tabs probably will have to be removed. These fit into cut outs in the new frame. The015092 front ears weld in last with transmission used for location. The side plates that hold down the diamond shifters need to be bent to accept the added frame material and allow the shifter to travel full forward. I haven't seen many other frame problems in the older ones other than the transmission mount.

[patb069]

Thank you very much for the information. I agree Norm. Brandon was very friendly and had a firm knowledge base for the Max machines. That was actually what was so disheartening for me. I saw that he knew his stuff and that he was probably right. I am ordering four more axles from him. They are definately a good contact to maintain.

[patb069]

So Galen is going to try to see if he can locate some of the pieces at the Indiana factory, but he really doesnt seem to believe that they will have it there. Does anyone have a template for the kit or spare kit that they are willing to sell?

[amphibious drew]

I'll check into getting you a set. I have a pair laying around for my 980 build which isn't happening right away due to other projects taking priority.

[patb069]

Thank you Drew. As always, your the life saver.