MLS 0 #1 Posted December 14, 2023 My first post- Anyone interested in a winter repair , steering column project that I could drop off the tractor to ? It is a 1988 Wheel Horse purchased new and still runs well but needs some TLC. I am located in New Jersey Thank You MLS Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ri702bill 8,323 #2 Posted December 14, 2023 (edited) Welcome to Red Square. Just what is the extent of the steering issues?? Pictures would be most helpful - that picture worth a thousand words thing... With the age of the tractor, you may have more wornout components further down the frame too... Don't forget to check the clutch and brake linkages. I have machined components and added bushings in several areas of the steering system before on Round Hoods and C series.. ends up like new. Bill Edited December 14, 2023 by ri702bill 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 55,243 #3 Posted December 14, 2023 If your Wheel Horse has been kept inside and well lubricated the repairs on your steering are something you could accomplish at home with a few simple tools. Give us a bit more information about the problem that needs repair and we can help out with all the information and tricks of the trade you will need. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
peter lena 8,629 #4 Posted December 14, 2023 @MLS agree with @ri702bill and @953 nut on the repairs , lots of issues are the COLLECTEVE AMMOUNT OF FAILURES , not just a quick fix . some pictures would really help out , there might also be a member near you , Pete Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
MLS 0 #5 Posted December 14, 2023 Thanks for the feedback- I will take photos and give more detail. Give me a minute Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lee1977 6,662 #6 Posted December 14, 2023 (edited) There are three main places on the 300 series that need steering repair, First in the bushing at the top of the hood stand. The hole in the hood stand is usually worn so a new bushing won't fix that. a flange bearing bolted in place will fix that. I use the Toro 6472 same bearing as on the lower steering shaft. I used that as I had a good used one, some have used a flanged ball bearing. The second place is at the lower steering block, usually shimming the fan gear to tighten up the gears will fix the problem. The block can also be worn from lack of grease or broken it does happen. In shimming the fan gear they are cast gears and too tight will cause more wear. Two inches of play in the steering wheel is about as tight as it needs to be. The third place is tie rods they are most likely worn out on an 88 model. You can get new adjustable tie rods from "Wheel Horse Parts and More" located in the vender's section. If you want to fix it for the long run I suggest good quality lined heims joints. Edited December 14, 2023 by Lee1977 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ri702bill 8,323 #7 Posted December 14, 2023 (edited) 1 hour ago, Lee1977 said: The third place is tie rods they are most likely worn out on an 88 model. Lee covered all the usual suspects. Tierods - a wornout OE tierod is asking for trouble if you continue to use it - it may come apart at any time resulting in a loss of steering ability... The newer style replacements are adjustable for length to allow a backyard front axle toe adjustment and come with replaceable end joints - a true win-win.... Bill Edited December 14, 2023 by ri702bill Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
