Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): JOhn Deere Model 68 axle bearing, john deere model, rockwell hardness

Question
QUESTION: I am trying to replace the axle bearing (part #JD8654) on a John Deere Model 68.  I can't get the groove pin (part #25H749) out of the axle. I was using a hammer and a 1/8" punch but I can't get it to move.  I assume that the pin can come out in either direction. How do I get this pin out so that I can replace the bearing?  If all else fails, can I drill it out?

ANSWER: I THOUGHT ALL 68 RIDERS WERE DEAD BY NOW.

Your real problem is that the pin sticks out just a little to far to fit through the bearing. Right?

I don't recomend removing the pin. Instead file or grind the pin where it sticks out of the axle, Grind  until it will fit through the bearing.

I'm just glad someone other than me is working on a 68 rider.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I think you misunderstood my problem.  The pin HAS TO COME OUT to remove the left part of the axle.  After the left part of the axle is loose, the bearing can then be replaced.  If you look at the following image, the pin is part #12 and the bearing is part #14.
  http://jdpc.deere.com/pimages/M175/M17565_________UN01JAN94.gif  

Answer
Sorry to burst your bubble, Gary but the roll pin isn't coming out.

Over the years the roll pin and axle have rocked back and forth. If you took an Xray of the roll pin it would be bent severely from years of rocking on the axle.

This is the number 1 killer of 68 riders.

Thanks for the addy. FYI...I have worked on literally 500 "68" riders in my life. I know every single component and could put it together from a pile of parts.

You are in trouble here.  Your only hope would to be to drill a BIG hole when You drill the pin out. You will need to use a bolt and a nut when you reassemble instead of a roll pin.

Not to beat a dead horse but you are in trouble. the roll pin isn't a role pin it's a drive pin. It has a Rockwell hardness of about 50.  You can't drill it out even with a cobalt bit, it's just to hard!

Gary!!!
The "68" rider is done!   Remember I am "The Truthmeister".    It's 25 years old for crying out loud!  Vote my ratings down if you feel you must. Just remember you were warned Before you asked the question. I will tell the truth, every time.