I wouldn't toss the tension sprocket. The fact that you can't adjust it tight enough means that the chain is stretched and should be replaced.

Personally, I do a lot of motorcycle riding and had a used chain which was in much better condition than the 30-year old chain on my blower. Happened to be the right size, so I cut to length and it was a big improvement. Crazy how worn the old one was.

 

Yeah. $15 for new chain at any tractor supply store. #50 chain I think. I'd worry about your bearings without the tensioner.

 

When replacig a chain you count the number of links not the over all length th old chain will get longer.
Just replaced a chain on my blower ,counted the links same number on both chains and old one was longer by all most 2 links.
At work one yr replaced a chain on a lift gate measured it cut it and was too long ,counted the links and had to shorted it up.

 

if a sprocket comes to a point replace them also at the same time as the chain


john

 

If you take the adjuster out how will you adjust that chain when it wears?

 

so TSC for the chain ??? Anyone know how long or how many links it supposed to be ??? ill just replace it if thats best

 

just called TSC,,,they sell #50 in 10 ft lengths for 30.00...im sure 10ft is WAY too much...an ideas ??

 

I would just buy the 10ft. Cut what you need and store the rest. They also sell master link kits at TSC. Since your replacing the chain have you thought of a sprocket replacement? Might be a good time to upgrade to a 34 tooth sprocket. I'm running the rubber flap mod and a 34 tooth this year and what an improvement it was. Throwing distance is much better, a true snow beast now. Wet, fluffy, slushy, it spits it all out with no issues. This is the sprocket I used. http://www.surpluscenter.com/Power-Transmission/Sprockets/Finished-Bore-Sprockets/34T-1-BORE-50P-SPROCKET-1-2124-34-E.axd

 

I would just buy the 10ft. Cut what you need and store the rest. They also sell master link kits at TSC. Since your replacing the chain have you thought of a sprocket replacement? Might be a good time to upgrade to a 34 tooth sprocket. I'm running the rubber flap mod and a 34 tooth this year and what an improvement it was. Throwing distance is much better, a true snow beast now. Wet, fluffy, slushy, it spits it all out with no issues. This is the sprocket I used. http://www.surpluscenter.com/Power-...ssion/Sprockets/Finished-Bore-Sprockets/34T-1-BORE-50P-SPROCKET-1-2124-34-E.axd

flap mod is great but I am finding blower belts stretch and fast, replacing a worn belt helps BIG with distance too! (assuming SS blower)


.

 

Cut 2 lengths and install new master if you wanna save a buck?

 

We're talking about $30 here for an important piece which could do a lot of damage if it breaks. A chain that worn is certainly not properly lubricated. Fix it correctly or sell it.

 

jdparts says it should be 69 links and 1 connector link.

 

is it or sure #50 ???....I dont mind spending the 30.00 but my point was someone here said it was like 8.00 for 3ft

 

so this would work ???
http://www.ebay.com/itm/50-ROLLER-C...-W-FREE-CONNECTING-LINK-/321352415827?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad218ba53

 

I'd replace all 3 sprockets.. & the chain.. for ## 50 chain u can get regular master links & a half length off-set master link too.. u could get the third one (the idler adjustin one) from JD & comfirm at that time that the chain is ##50..

if the original chain is way longer now.. all the sprockets have to b worn too.. & while ur at it.. replace any roller bearings too..

 

where would I get the two sprockets ??? And how hard to remove them ?

What "roller" bearings ???

Thx

 

Make sure everything is lined up so as not to chew up the chain or sprockets, adjustment is made at the flex coupler.

The flange bearings come with new eccentric collars.

The chain quoted was #50 HD, Fleet Farm carries 2 type of #50. They come with a new master link in both cases.
If your chute and housing is clean and shiny just use a silicon spray on the surfaces that contact snow for now.
If your idler sprocket is worn out of the bearing (it's a press fit) you can get an after market one but the bore has to fit the spacer.

 

Factory\Originally - three (3) drive chain sprockets -
#50 (pitch) chain - 69 links & 1 coupler link.

 

Factory\Originally - three (3) drive chain sprockets -
#50 (pitch) chain - 69 links & 1 coupler link.
View attachment 1169770

that chain has alot of slack doesnt it ???

 

Sorry to not put in the earlier post that I did put in the idler sprocket, the picture posted was to line up the fore and aft sprockets. The idler sprocket gets shimmed to the center of the chain.

 

My Model 49 Snow Thrower is from 1981-82. Originally bought for use with a 317 tractor that bit the dust. Never has had much use, still stock.
Mounted to a 318, I think it does just fine.

Bearings: at least 2 in the gear box. There is a bearing in the belt idler pulley.

One for sure near the (chain) end of the drive shaft -

Sprocket bearings = I dunno for sure.

Whether sprockets come off easily or not see:
[/ATTACH][/ATTACH]

Maybe it depends on the particular attachment/snow thrower. :goodl:

 

Here is a closer view of the bearing JDD was pointing out. Note the standard nuts holding the flange on the bottom bolts and the locking one on top and the bottom of the countershaft tube.

The chain deflection should be 3/16-1/2" per tech manual.

 

Thanks Father Deerest, -- used one of your posted photos.
The JD Model 49 Snow Thrower rebuild you did = outstanding work.
Help him out if you can, will ya? JDD

 

No worries.:thThumbsU Any pics of mine are yours, and for everyone to use to better help see what we're talking about. Thank you for the compliment of using the pic and kind words.

 

that bearing is the one with the twist lock collar right ?? I already chgd that one

 

All the bearings (3) have eccentric collars, turn in direction of auger spinning to tighten opposite to loosen.