Product Description
Steer Wheel Axle
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is GW 420 steer wheel axle equivalent to any Yale or Crown part numbers?
A: GW 420 is cross-compatible with Yale YL-580051234 and Crown WP-3620-A. These parts use identical bearing sizes and shaft diameters. Always verify the axle assembly nut pitch (13/16 inch vs. 7/8 inch) before substituting equivalent parts, as thread mismatch prevents wheel installation.
Q: What is the steering effort difference between GW 420 and GW 417?
A: GW 420 has lower-friction roller bearings that reduce steering effort by approximately 15 percent compared to GW 417 ball bearings. This makes GW 420 better for operators with reduced grip strength. The tradeoff is shorter bearing life due to higher side-load concentration.
Q: Can I upgrade from GW 417 to GW 420 on my current pallet jack?
A: Upgrading from GW 417 to GW 420 requires frame modification only if your jack has different bolt hole spacing. Measure the distance between the four mounting holes on your current axle. If spacing is 2.5 inches, GW 420 is a direct bolt-in replacement. If spacing is 2.0 inches, frame drilling is required.
Q: How do I test GW 420 steer wheel axle bearings for wear?
A: Jack the load without weight and grasp the steering wheel at 3 and 9 oclock positions. Rock the wheel side-to-side; movement more than 0.1875 inches indicates bearing wear. Listen for grinding or clicking during full rotation. Either symptom requires axle replacement within 20 operating hours.
Q: What is the maximum frame width for GW 420 steer wheel axle installation?
A: GW 420 is designed for frame widths between 24 and 30 inches. If your jack frame exceeds 30 inches, you must use GW 421 instead. Using an undersized axle on an oversized frame causes bearing failure within 500 hours due to excessive cantilevered side-load.