Left side differential casing f0rd 5000 tractor has a hexnut with flat slotted screw inside nut just in front of pto lever what does this adjustment do?

The hex nut with a flat slotted screw inside it on the left side differential casing of a Ford 5000 tractor is used to adjust the differential preload. The differential preload is the amount of force that is applied to the differential gears to keep them in contact with each other. This adjustment is important to ensure that the differential is able to function properly and transfer power to the wheels.

To adjust the differential preload, first loosen the lock nut on the differential housing. Then, turn the adjusting screw clockwise to increase the preload or counterclockwise to decrease the preload. Once the desired preload has been achieved, tighten the lock nut to hold the adjustment in place.

The proper differential preload for a Ford 5000 tractor is 15-20 lb-in. If the preload is too low, the differential gears may not be able to properly engage and transfer power to the wheels. If the preload is too high, the differential may be difficult to turn and may cause damage to the differential gears.

It is important to note that the differential preload should only be adjusted by a qualified mechanic. If you are not comfortable making this adjustment yourself, please take your tractor to a qualified mechanic to have it done.