05/18/2026
DEERE 135G excavator in for lineboring and stick to boom pin replacement. This machine has seen some things in a scrapyard.
Disassembled the boom to evaluate the extent of the damage. Ended up facing back and boring for new fl**ge bushings. The stick side had bushings that were still intact, but the faces were hammered.
Built new bushings with ID and OD grease grooves, like the oem versions, but also included large fl**ges for lateral durability. I prefer the ability to replace a bushing versus having to face on the machine. The pin was made from induction hardened chrome stock and had a plate retainer and washer made. These retainers allow the pin to be captive on both sides of the connection. The press fit bushings were easily installed with liquid nitrogen.
Reassembled the boom with the help of my 12 year old son, Jack, and Wiggins the Forklift. Never seized the pin bores and checked for grease flow. The new pin had 0.030" total clearance on the fl**ges and 0.005" on bores. It pushed in by hand. This machine still needs some work to be 100%, but the major issue is handled.
