[AT] Another busy tractor day.

[Henry Miller]

I ordered parts for my model John deere D based on a 1.5 hp model e hit
n miss engine. You might recall that the last time I wrote I took the
gas tank off and found almost an inch of black gunk. The old gas tank
looked good, but I figure a new plastic tank is about the same price as
a kit to cover the rust, and with modern gas I find plastic works better
than metal. Got a new oil pan and mixer as well. 

That arrived Thursday so today's job was put some of it on. After
several false starts, attaching the gaskets backwards, and then almost
put both on the same side... I think I have it installed well enough.
Worst case I now know how to do it again. (though I want a lift, that
engine is heavy and so hard to get into place without dropping it on my
feet) 

When putting it together I couldn't find one nut, but fortunately there
is a local store that carries square nuts. They don't have square bolts
though, and one of the original bolts was too short (I don't know how it
ever worked) 

Just before lunch my wife invited one of her friends and kids over, so I
took a break to give them a hay ride behind the John deere b. I left it
sitting outside to cool off (I always drain the fuel before putting it
away) 

I after a trip to the store I got the gas tank on, the engine back into
place and mounted, and attached the radiator. Also replaced the fuel
mixer valve. 

I was going to do more, but on the way to the shop for tools I noticed
antifreeze under the B. The lower radiator hose has a crack. Drained the
radiator quick and hosed the puddle down, hopefully before the cat got
into it. Then drained the fuel and put it away. 

Someplace in there I changed the gear oil in the transmission.  Good
thing, I needed the bucket I just emptied to put that antifreeze in. Now
I have to remember what is the correct way to dispose of it. 

I don't know if I will get more work done tomorrow. I want to, but
several times above I wished for a proper 4 point socket, and I saw on a
message board that there is a flea market near me tomorrow that I might
check out. 

If I do get to work on the tractor I need to put oil in it. I hope that
is enough to get it started. If not I might have to dig into the magneto
and ignitor. One thing at a time though. 

Anyway, that was my tractor day, I hope yours was as productive. 

-- 
  Henry Miller 
  hank at millerfarm.com