OEM parts

[MAWHguy2019 21]

Hi everyone,

 

Curious that as our 1980's era machines are now in their 30's/40's, what parts are the hardest to find? I have a 1989 312-8, not sure what parts I need to consider in a parts tractor. Thanks.

[ebinmaine 67,479]

I can't really answer your question specifically part to part to part because most of our tractors are older.

 

I've had no issues whatsoever finding parts for any of the machines we regularly use that range in date from 1966 to 1975

 

 

[ri702bill 8,319]

The over molded steering wheel comes to mind - the hub tends to crack and split open off the hex steel insert over time... NLA new, hard to find a good used one.

Not sure if your 12 HP uses a welded Nelson muffler - if so, a good used one is pricey.....  Where in Mass. are you located??

Bill

[Handy Don 12,217]

Parts to think about...

 

Normal wear and tear (these parts are still pretty easy to come by but might be just as bad or worse on a parts tractor!):

Steering gears' wear that eventually cannot be adjusted out.

Steering blocks can break

Tie rods

 

Heavy usage (not easily spotted without disassembly so...):

Front axle/spindles (wallow out) -- can also drill out and insert bushings to the axle bores and thrust bearings for load support

PTO (clutch face and bearings)

 

Mower decks:

Spindle bearings and, if not looked after, deck shell and spindle housings (cracks/rust/corrosion)

Deck gauge wheels and anti-scalp rollers

 

[953 nut 55,220]

The true beauty of owning a Wheel Horse is that they didn't use proprietary parts that can only be bought through the dealer and when they stop supporting those parts you are left out in the cold. Most bearings, seals and other mechanical parts are standard off the shelf parts that are available through multiple Industrial Supply outlets like Granger, McMaster-Carr or your local NAPA store. Lincoln at A-Z has lots of good used parts as well as some new replacement parts https://www.a-ztractor.com/. Also Lowell has manufactured many of the replacement parts that Toro no longer supports https://wheelhorsepartsandmore.com/.

[ebinmaine 67,479]

34 minutes ago, 953 nut said:

The true beauty of owning a Wheel Horse is that they didn't use proprietary parts that can only be bought through the dealer and when they stop supporting those parts you are left out in the cold. Most bearings, seals and other mechanical parts are standard off the shelf parts that are available through multiple Industrial Supply outlets like Granger, McMaster-Carr or your local NAPA store. Lincoln at A-Z has lots of good used parts as well as some new replacement parts https://www.a-ztractor.com/. Also Lowell has manufactured many of the replacement parts that Toro no longer supports https://wheelhorsepartsandmore.com/.

Excellent post. Thank you Richard.

[MAWHguy2019 21]

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Maybe put another way, which parts are getting more difficult to find in new or good used quality, outside of the ones mentioned?

 

What about engine parts for the Kohler? I am curious about the life span of the fuel pump and starter motor. Anything stand out?

 

Looking at my 312 I feel very grateful to have such a great tractor. I would not trade mine for anything out today.

 

Happy Thanksgiving!

[953 nut 55,220]

There are lots of choices out there when it comes to Kohler engine parts. I wouldn't buy a new replacement starter if your present one can be rebuilt, new ones from China are junk. I have replaced the mechanical fuel pumps on most of my herd with electric pumps. Probably the best source of parts for Kohler would be https://isavetractors.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiAmuKbBhA2EiwAxQnt76Oy5n5Uxy9ygdhyGdGHaUz9HwoaaS4AKTVdlqkFB0brVyia8D0i4BoCPqoQAvD_BwE

[ebinmaine 67,479]

13 minutes ago, 953 nut said:

I wouldn't buy a new replacement starter if your present one can be rebuilt

I'll second that.  

 

 

 

22 minutes ago, MAWHguy2019 said:

Maybe put another way, which parts are getting more difficult to find in new or good used quality, outside of the ones mentioned?

 

You're in great supply with the Wheelhorse brand.  

 

As noted by @953 nut above in post #5 there are multiple excellent sources for parts.  

A to Z Tractor in PA sells ONLY parts he has confidence are in good long term usable  condition. 

Lowell's line of parts is excellent as well. 

 

 

[MAWHguy2019 21]

Thanks guys. This is very helpful.

[tunahead72 2,412]

@MAWHguy2019 Have you seen the list of parts suppliers here on RedSquare?:

 

3. Parts Suppliers - RedSquare Links - RedSquare Wheel Horse Forum