MST transaxle axle end modification?

Keyed versus D-axle?

I want to use the wheels and tires from the Craftsman rigs I have. (On the Rat Rod build) The Rat will have an MST-206 transaxle, which is of course keyed. I have NO extra wheels to fit it. I do have 4 wheels and tires from the MTD forward/reverse axles. Those have the D-axle.

Why can’t I just grind flats on the MST axles? It looks like it would work fine. That way I could use either type of wheel.
I could of course drill out the wheels so the hole is round and then figure out how to install a key. I think I could do that by slotting the inner part of the wheel hub and welding in a key.

What say ye?

Pics of the MTD axle.

Keyed rims and hubs immensely easier to find. If you wanted a compromise, if the hub has a flat center between the bead and the shaft, cut out the shaft of the rim and drill out a 4 on 4 pattern. Keyed hubs for those are cheap. Here are some: https://www.bmikarts.com/4-x-4-Wheel-Hub-34-Bore_p_1654.html

Yep, those hubs are on my shopping list. I was just trying to think of a way to save a few bucks for now. I’ll check out the wheel centers again. Maybe...

Thanks for the ideas.  

I took a couple of pics of a wheel. I may experiment on one. If I drill out the D part of it, I think I can slot the long side (the inside) and install a key in it. Then it will fit without modifying the axle and will give me spares. If I do it, I will post results. I wish I had my milling machine set up, but I think I can do the slot with the 4.5 inch grinder and cutting wheel.

I decided to buy the keyed 4 on 4 hubs for this build, thanks for the input!

You’re very welcome, I’m glad I could help!