Securing bulldozer sprocket hubs onto final drive shafts is arguably the most severe application for a retaining compound in heavy machinery. This joint is subjected to monumental torsional load (driving the track), massive axial forces, constant impact shock (especially when reversing or turning), and exposure to dirt, heat, and moisture. Any micro-movement between the hub and the shaft splines leads to rapid spline wear, fretting corrosion, and catastrophic failure of the final drive, demanding costly, complex repairs.
INCURE WeldLock™ 356 Retaining Compound (Metallic Grey)
For this type of extremely high-load, large-machine application, the presence of slight clearance or wear is often unavoidable. While WeldLock™ 365 provides the absolute highest strength on precision fits, the WeldLock™ 356 is the optimal choice here because it offers high strength coupled with a crucial ability to fill larger gaps (up to 0.25 mmdiametral clearance). The metallic fillers in the 356 ensure maximum contact and retention across slightly imperfect or worn splines, creating a rigid, permanent bond that distributes the enormous loads across the entire joint.
| Feature & Benefit | Technical Insight for Sprocket Hubs | Conversion Value |
| Gap Filling Capability | Specifically formulated with metallic fillers to seal and bond clearances up to 0.25 mm, compensating for spline wear and large machining tolerances. | Repair & Retain: Achieves high retention strength even on slightly worn or oversized splines. |
| High Shear Strength | Provides high structural strength, resisting rotational slip and axial pull-out under extreme traction and braking torque. | Lock Out Movement: Prevents spline fretting and preserves the integrity of the final drive. |
| High Temperature Resistance | Withstands continuous operational temperatures up to 200∘C(392∘F), essential for joints that generate friction heat under constant heavy load. | End the Heat Threat: Guarantees the joint won’t fail or soften during continuous heavy use. |
| Shock & Impact Resistance | Cures to a rigid material that locks the hub rigidly in place, distributing immense shock loads across the entire joint surface. | Structural Durability: Reduces shock fatigue on the shaft and final drive components. |
Application Steps: Locking Sprocket Hubs for Maximum Track Integrity
Preparation (Critical): Thoroughly clean both the hub bore splines and the final drive shaft splines. Remove all oil, grease, dirt, and moisture. Use a powerful degreasing solvent (like acetone or industrial cleaner) and wipe until both metal surfaces are perfectly dry.
Application: Apply a generous and continuous bead of WeldLock™ 356 evenly around the splined shaft section. Ensure the compound is worked into the spline roots to completely cover the mating area.
Assembly: Slide or press the sprocket hub onto the shaft. Ensure the hub is seated correctly (axially) and wipe away any excess compound immediately.
Curing Time (Mandatory): Allow a full 24 hours for the compound to reach full cure strength before applying torque or operating the bulldozer under load. This is critical for maximum structural integrity.
Stop risking final drive failure and ensure your bulldozer sprocket hubs are absolutely locked for maximum uptime.