10-10-2025, 03:25 PM
Summary
To remove the wheel weights on a 1975 Fiat-Allis M65 grader, a custom puller must be fabricated using the threaded holes adjacent to the axle. These holes are not designed to push the hub off directly but to mount a puller that applies force evenly. The wheel weight and hub are a single integrated unit, and removal requires precision, force, and safety precautions.
Fiat-Allis M65 Background and Design
The Fiat-Allis M65 motor grader was produced during the 1970s by Fiat-Allis, a joint venture between Fiat of Italy and Allis-Chalmers of the United States. Known for its rugged construction and mechanical simplicity, the M65 was widely used in road building, mining, and municipal grading. It featured a mechanical transmission, hydraulic blade control, and a robust rear axle assembly with integrated wheel weights for traction and balance.
Fiat-Allis graders were popular in North America and Australia, with thousands sold during their production run. The M65, in particular, was favored for its reliability and ease of maintenance, though parts availability has become more challenging over time.
Terminology and Component Overview
The wheel weight and hub on the M65 are a single cast unit. After removing the tire and rim, the next steps are:
One operator in Montana discovered that the wheel weight and hub were a single unit only after attempting removal. He fabricated a puller using angle iron and grade 8 bolts, but the hub remained stuck. After applying heat and using a 12-pound sledge, the hub finally broke free—shaking the entire grader.
Another technician in Ohio recommended welding a “frying pan” shaped plate to a spare axle nut to create a reusable knocker tool. By jacking up the opposite side and striking the knocker, the hub released with minimal effort. This method has been used successfully on Galion 503 graders and similar vintage machines.
Safety and Replacement Considerations
Removing the wheel weights on a 1975 Fiat-Allis M65 grader is a demanding task that requires custom tooling, mechanical insight, and patience. Understanding that the hub and weight are a single unit is crucial. With the right puller setup, heat application, and safety measures, the job can be completed effectively—restoring access to brakes and axle components. This process reflects the ingenuity required to maintain legacy equipment and the value of shared field wisdom.
To remove the wheel weights on a 1975 Fiat-Allis M65 grader, a custom puller must be fabricated using the threaded holes adjacent to the axle. These holes are not designed to push the hub off directly but to mount a puller that applies force evenly. The wheel weight and hub are a single integrated unit, and removal requires precision, force, and safety precautions.
Fiat-Allis M65 Background and Design
The Fiat-Allis M65 motor grader was produced during the 1970s by Fiat-Allis, a joint venture between Fiat of Italy and Allis-Chalmers of the United States. Known for its rugged construction and mechanical simplicity, the M65 was widely used in road building, mining, and municipal grading. It featured a mechanical transmission, hydraulic blade control, and a robust rear axle assembly with integrated wheel weights for traction and balance.
Fiat-Allis graders were popular in North America and Australia, with thousands sold during their production run. The M65, in particular, was favored for its reliability and ease of maintenance, though parts availability has become more challenging over time.
Terminology and Component Overview
- Wheel Weight: A heavy cast component bolted to the hub to increase traction and stability.
- Hub: The central rotating assembly that mounts the wheel and connects to the axle.
- Castle Nut: A slotted nut secured with a cotter pin, used to lock the hub onto the axle.
- Puller Plate: A fabricated steel plate used to apply force to the hub via bolts threaded into the puller holes.
- Keyway and Spindle Key: A mechanical interface between the hub and axle shaft, preventing rotation slippage.
The wheel weight and hub on the M65 are a single cast unit. After removing the tire and rim, the next steps are:
- Remove the castle nut and washer from the axle end.
- Identify the two threaded holes adjacent to the axle. These are for mounting a puller, not for jacking the hub off directly.
- Fabricate a puller plate from 1-inch thick steel bar or angle iron. Drill holes to match the bolt spacing and thread in two 1-inch bolts.
- Tighten the bolts evenly, applying pressure to the hub while the plate pushes against the axle end.
- Strike the puller plate inward with a sledgehammer to jar the hub loose. Leave the castle nut backed off one turn to prevent sudden release.
- Use heat if necessary around the hub to expand the metal and break corrosion bonds.
- Support the opposite wheel securely to prevent movement during impact.
One operator in Montana discovered that the wheel weight and hub were a single unit only after attempting removal. He fabricated a puller using angle iron and grade 8 bolts, but the hub remained stuck. After applying heat and using a 12-pound sledge, the hub finally broke free—shaking the entire grader.
Another technician in Ohio recommended welding a “frying pan” shaped plate to a spare axle nut to create a reusable knocker tool. By jacking up the opposite side and striking the knocker, the hub released with minimal effort. This method has been used successfully on Galion 503 graders and similar vintage machines.
Safety and Replacement Considerations
- Always wear steel-toe boots and use jack stands when working under the grader.
- Replace the castle nut and cotter pin after removal. Fastenal or specialty suppliers can source replacements.
- Inspect the spindle key for wear or deformation. A damaged key can cause hub slippage.
- Use anti-seize compound on reassembly to ease future maintenance.
Removing the wheel weights on a 1975 Fiat-Allis M65 grader is a demanding task that requires custom tooling, mechanical insight, and patience. Understanding that the hub and weight are a single unit is crucial. With the right puller setup, heat application, and safety measures, the job can be completed effectively—restoring access to brakes and axle components. This process reflects the ingenuity required to maintain legacy equipment and the value of shared field wisdom.
