Removing Split Bushings from a John Deere 510D Requires Precision and Patience

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 510D and Its Loader Frame Design
The John Deere 510D backhoe loader was part of Deere’s D-series lineup introduced in the early 1990s, designed to improve operator comfort, hydraulic performance, and serviceability. With an operating weight of around 15,000 lbs and a reliable 4-cylinder diesel engine, the 510D became a staple in municipal fleets and construction yards across North America.
One of the key structural features of the 510D is its loader frame pivot system, which uses split bushings to support the loader arms and allow smooth articulation under heavy loads. These bushings are press-fit into the frame and often paired with hardened pins. Over time, wear, corrosion, and lack of lubrication can cause the bushings to seize, deform, or become difficult to remove—especially during rebuilds or pin replacement.
What Are Split Bushings and Why They Matter
Split bushings are cylindrical sleeves with a longitudinal gap, allowing them to compress slightly during installation. They are typically made of bronze, steel, or composite materials and serve as bearing surfaces between moving components. In the 510D, they are used in loader arm pivots, stabilizer legs, and swing frames.
Advantages of split bushings:

• Easier to install than solid bushings
  
• Can accommodate slight misalignment
  
• Allow for thermal expansion and contraction
  
• Provide a replaceable wear surface without machining the housing
  

However, their removal can be challenging if they are corroded, mushroomed, or installed with retaining compounds.
Symptoms of Worn or Seized Bushings
Operators may notice:

• Excessive play in loader arms
  
• Clunking or knocking during lift or dump cycles
  
• Difficulty greasing pivot points
  
• Uneven wear on pins or brackets
  
• Visible scoring or deformation around the bushing edges
  

A technician in Alberta reported that his 510D’s loader arms had nearly 1/8 inch of lateral movement due to worn bushings. The pins were still intact, but the bushings had ovalized and seized in place.
Recommended Removal Techniques
To remove split bushings from the 510D loader frame:

• Use a bushing driver or press
  A properly sized driver can push the bushing out cleanly. Support the frame to avoid distortion.
  
• Cut the bushing with a hacksaw blade or air saw
  Insert the blade into the bushing and carefully slice through the wall. Once cut, the bushing can be collapsed inward and extracted.
  
• Apply penetrating oil and heat
  Soak the bushing area with penetrating oil for 24 hours. Use a torch to gently heat the housing, expanding the metal and loosening the fit.
  
• Tap out with a punch and hammer
  If access is limited, use a long punch to drive the bushing out from the opposite side. Avoid damaging the bore.
  
• Fabricate a puller tool
  Weld a washer to a bolt and insert it through the bushing. Use a nut and spacer to pull the bushing out gradually.
  

A restorer in Georgia built a custom puller using threaded rod and a pipe sleeve. He removed all four loader bushings in under an hour without damaging the frame.
Precautions During Removal

• Avoid scoring the bore surface
  
• Do not use excessive force that could crack the housing
  
• Wear eye protection when cutting or hammering
  
• Support the loader arms to prevent sudden movement
  
• Inspect the bore for wear or distortion before installing new bushings
  

Installing New Bushings and Pins
Before installation:

• Clean the bore thoroughly
  
• Apply anti-seize or assembly grease
  
• Align the split with the load direction if specified
  
• Press in evenly using a driver or arbor press
  
• Verify fit with the new pin—should be snug but not tight
  

If the bore is worn beyond spec, consider using oversized bushings or sleeving the housing. Always replace pins along with bushings to ensure proper fit and longevity.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To extend bushing life:

• Grease pivot points weekly or every 10 operating hours
  
• Use high-pressure grease rated for heavy equipment
  
• Inspect loader arms for side load or misalignment
  
• Replace worn pins before they damage the bushings
  
• Keep pivot areas clean and free of debris
  

A fleet manager in Ohio implemented a monthly inspection schedule and reduced bushing replacements by 50% across his backhoe fleet.
Conclusion
Removing split bushings from a John Deere 510D requires a blend of mechanical skill, the right tools, and a careful approach. Whether using a press, a puller, or a cutting method, the goal is to extract the bushing without damaging the housing. With proper installation and regular maintenance, new bushings can restore tight, smooth operation to the loader arms and extend the life of the machine. In the world of heavy iron, precision at the pivot points makes all the difference.