I'm working yet again on my aging fleet of farm equipment and have a few metalworking questions for the group.
The machine is a 60's vintage OMC mower conditioner and the parts are of the sickle drive area. Specifically a couple of 7/8" grade 8 bolts that have wear on them. Maybe 1/32 deep X 1" long on one side. I want to build up with arc welding and turn down on lathe for a precision fit on bearing. Any reason not to do this? What rod will give max wear and still be machinable?
7018? Is the HAZ zone a issue on *8 bolts if welded? I suppose spray arc would be best but not an options for me. Durability is desireable. It will get new bearings. I replaced these bolts maybe 20 years ago and can't complain about the service , just enjoy utilizing the shop and usually can improve upon the factory design in the process.. I still have the origional bolts to play with. The bolt/bearing fit is not real precise to begin with, needs to be dissasembled regularly for servicing the cutters.This is a recipocating drive and get hammered @600 strokes/min. I know I should just replace em but would rather spend the money on shop tooling of course.....
Interested in any thoughts...
DE