Restoring the 1965 Hough 65 Loader

[MikePhua]

Legacy of the Hough 65
The Hough 65 wheel loader, introduced in the early 1960s, represents a pivotal moment in mid-century earthmoving equipment design. Built by Frank G. Hough Co., a company founded in 1920 and later acquired by International Harvester in 1952, the Hough brand became synonymous with rugged, mechanically straightforward loaders that could withstand punishing work environments. The Hough 65 was part of a generation of straight-frame loaders that predated the widespread adoption of articulated steering, offering simplicity and durability over maneuverability.
By 1965, the Hough 65 had become a staple on construction sites and municipal yards across North America. Though exact production numbers are hard to verify, estimates suggest several thousand units were manufactured between 1963 and 1968. Its popularity stemmed from its robust planetary drive system, straightforward hydraulic layout, and ease of maintenance—qualities that still attract restoration enthusiasts today.
Understanding the Rear Steering Axle Assembly
One of the most distinctive features of the 1965 Hough 65 is its rear steering axle, which differs from modern articulated designs. Instead of a central pivot, the Hough 65 uses a rear axle that steers via a ball-bearing joint system, functioning similarly to a constant velocity (CV) joint. This design allows limited steering movement while maintaining a rigid frame, ideal for applications where loader stability is paramount.
Key components of the rear steering axle include:

• Stub Axle: A short shaft that connects the planetary drive to the steering knuckle.
  
• Ball Bearing Assembly: Six large ball bearings housed in a spherical joint, allowing angular movement while transmitting torque.
  
• Snap Ring Retainer: A circular fastener that secures the ball bearings within the joint housing.
  
• Planetary Drive: A gear system that multiplies torque and distributes it evenly to the wheels, essential for heavy-duty traction.
  

This configuration, while mechanically sound, presents challenges during restoration due to part scarcity and the precision required for reassembly.
Challenges in Sourcing Parts
Finding original components for a 1965 Hough 65 is increasingly difficult. Many units have been scrapped, and aftermarket support is limited. The rear steering axle, in particular, is a rare item due to its unique design and limited interchangeability with other models. Restoration efforts often rely on:

• Salvage yards specializing in vintage equipment
  
• Custom machining of worn or missing parts
  
• Networking with other owners for part swaps or technical drawings
  

In one case, a restorer in Canada sought a replacement rear axle and discovered that most available units were pivot-steer variants, incompatible with the straight-frame design. This highlights the importance of verifying frame type and axle configuration before sourcing parts.
Manuals and Mechanical Literacy
Unlike modern loaders that require diagnostic software and electronic calibration, the Hough 65 can be maintained with basic mechanical tools and a solid understanding of hydraulic and drivetrain systems. Operators often rely on original service manuals, which include exploded diagrams, torque specifications, and lubrication schedules.
For example, the ball bearing assembly in the rear axle must be packed with high-pressure grease rated for CV joints, and the snap ring must be seated with precision to avoid bearing displacement under load. These procedures, while straightforward, demand attention to detail and mechanical intuition.
Field Stories and Restoration Culture
One operator in New Zealand shared his experience maintaining a Hough 65C, a close variant of the original 65. Despite limited access to parts, he managed to keep the machine operational using salvaged components and manual repairs. His loader, affectionately nicknamed “The Old Girl,” had served in forestry operations for decades before being retired to a private yard.
Such stories are common among vintage equipment enthusiasts, who value the tactile, analog nature of these machines. The absence of electronic controls means every repair is a hands-on experience, fostering a deeper connection between operator and equipment.
Recommendations for Restoration
Restoring a Hough 65 requires patience, resourcefulness, and a methodical approach. Key recommendations include:

• Document all disassembly steps with photos and notes
  
• Use calipers and micrometers to verify part dimensions before ordering replacements
  
• Consult original manuals for torque specs and hydraulic routing
  
• Replace seals and bearings proactively, even if they appear intact
  
• Test steering articulation manually before reinstallation
  

For the rear axle, ensure the ball bearings are evenly seated and the snap ring is fully engaged. Misalignment can lead to premature wear or joint failure under load.
The Broader Context of Vintage Loader Preservation
Interest in vintage loaders like the Hough 65 is growing, driven by nostalgia, mechanical simplicity, and the desire to preserve industrial heritage. Museums, private collectors, and small contractors often restore these machines for display or light-duty use. In some cases, restored loaders are used in parades or historical reenactments, showcasing the evolution of construction technology.
The Hough brand itself remains a symbol of mid-century American engineering. Though International Harvester eventually phased out the Hough name in favor of its own branding, the legacy lives on in the machines still operating today.
Conclusion
The 1965 Hough 65 is more than a wheel loader—it’s a mechanical artifact from an era when durability and simplicity defined heavy equipment design. Restoring such a machine is both a technical challenge and a tribute to the ingenuity of past engineers. With careful attention to its unique rear steering axle and planetary drive system, the Hough 65 can be brought back to life, continuing its legacy of hard work and mechanical resilience.