A little more info from the Land of OZ - it is amazing where
you find GE Elec-Traks!
Larry asked what the "Black thing" was on the rear of the
tractor. It is the 'Manual Rear Lift, model # AP58'. It works by the
"Armstrong" method and carries the AP50 sleeve hitch. I use it for a
single furrow plough and a ball hitch for a road trailer. I find that it
is also good for pulling fence posts out. I have sent a copy of the manual to
Larry as there is some useful info like - "A maximum lift advantage of 7:1 is
provided, so a 210 pound load can be raised easily with one hand drawing 30
pounds"!
A warning on the front bucket - do not carry more that about
250 pounds unless you are certain that you have either a cast front axle (Pre
mid 1972) or the fabricated axle fitted with case hardened spindles. I have
sent Larry a diagram to explain this, but in the fabricated axle the
spindle is held between separate top and bottom bearings. With too much load
on the front tires the spindle will bend inside the axle and it is one hell of
a job to get it out!! This problem is covered in an ET Product Service
Bulletin 0f April 7, 1972 - I will send Larry a copy.
You know when you have bent spindles, the steering goes stiff and grease
does not help.
I note the discussion on the 48" Dozer blade model # AB48, -
I have the original instruction sheet which gives info' on most of the
problems of setting up including fitting a "Trip spring lockout bar" to
prevent the blade tipping forward but must only be used in slowest speed to
avoid throwing the operator over the front of the tractor. Please ask if
you would like me to scan this.
Sorry about the length of this!
Shaun.