Axle shaft centre joint (double yoke) AL161459 John Deere, aftermarket

Axle shaft centre joint (double yoke) AL161459 is an aftermarket part for the John Deere machines.

The centre joint (double yoke) links the inner and outer halves of the axle shaft in a steered drive axle and carries two universal joints. It transmits torque at an angle while the wheels are turned, and the double joint keeps the wheel turning evenly even at large steering angles. When the joint bores go oval or the yoke cracks, a click is heard at full lock, the joint vibrates and the joint caps wear quickly. A damaged yoke soon ruins new joints too. The state of the joint can also be judged from metal particles in the axle oil at an oil change and from grease loss around the knuckle seal.

Specifications

Compatibility

According to the product card, AL161459 is a John Deere axle shaft centre joint; fit is confirmed by the machine serial number. Other parts are in Axle shafts, propshafts and U-joints.

Fitting

For the change, remove the wheel, planetary hub and outer axle shaft. When pressing the joints into the new yoke, keep the needle bearings in place and seat the circlips fully in their grooves; after assembly, turn the joint by hand in all directions to check it does not bind. Renew the knuckle seal, reassemble the axle, top up the oil and grease the nipples. Choose the joint by comparing the joint size and spline count with the old part, as one machine series can use different sizes.