Thanks guys,
George, if the sprocket and shaft slide from side to side by hand 1/8 inch or so while the chain tighteners are loose, is that not good? I ask because it seems like its normal based on the other postings I've read about putting in washers to keep it from rubbing against the bracket.
I just need it for tonight, darnit, as we have 4 inches that just fell and another 8 or more this afternoon and tonight>
I'm dying to use it for the first time ever on real snow

I think I need a new bracket anyway as the zerk was ground out pretty much. I'm going to try to find a fitting to stick in there today.
Matt, thanks, i did find the size on the cub cadet parts list 1/4-28