Adding power steering to 520Xi? "Easy"?

[Cee245 818]

Our camp Toro Wheelhorse ~'99 520Xi doesn't get used nearly as often as the other (JD X575). 

 

They're in a bit different classes, but I would rather improve the 520Xi rather than get a different machine since we this is in good shape and has been reliable.  (Still need to fix a tranny leak at some point along with the front axle that Ive read about improvements)   In early stages of this idea...

 

I was thinking about possibly adding power steering from a donor 522xi or 520Lxi to our 520Xi.   

(I found  a 520Lxi with blown head gasket for sale kinda sorta close to me)

 

Anyone done it? 

 

I've adding 520H gear reduction steering to a 314, so I have some experience in swapping.  I'm wondering if it's plug and play or if it needs much modifications and how difficult.  (I dont have a welder or much skills in welding)

 

Thanks

[Cee245 818]

Also would like a more comfortable seat!

[gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,041]

Will guess the donor is a 522xi and not a project I would tackle without a donor. Major project.

[Handy Don 12,217]

54 minutes ago, gwest_ca said:

Will guess the donor is a 522xi and not a project I would tackle without a donor. Major project.

I concur. I’d want to have both of them side by side to spend a few hours cross-checking before loosening the first bolt and then comparing the IPLs extremely carefully. To me the odds of an unpleasant surprise lurking in there would seem high.

Coupla years ago I bought a roller with an Eaton 1100 to replace a faltering Eaton 700. I ended up reversing the plan and loading the 518 stuff onto the roller chassis once I had a good look and cool head.

[kpinnc 12,017]

@Cee245

 

I’m reaching here, as I’m not sure if the xi models continued the practice of the Classic series machines or not- using common parts between different models. Point being- many parts are plug and play between a 300/400/500 series tractors. Even between manual or hydro transmission equipped machines. 
 

I said all that to say this: many “upgrades” or OE modifications between the classic and even older tractors are fairly easy because what fits one machine will fit most. 

 

I would think in the least that parts of similar year model would interchange. The big question in my mind would be how many parts you would need to change out. 

[Pullstart 62,850]

Would it be advantageous to swap your engine into the power steering machine?  Fix that hydro leak and gain power steering?

 

Also, I’m kind of on the lookout for another Xi machine (without an engine would be fine) and don’t mind if it has no power steering…   I’d be willing to take your old carcass off your hands if the price was right.

[Cee245 818]

It would be a donor tractor 520lxi and we have a 520xi. 

The lxi has a blown head gasket and theyre asking 650. Stills runs. 

 

 

@gwest_ca @Handy Don

 

I agree that having them both side by side, I can look both over before starting.  I'm inclined to think the frames are the same on each machine and this is possible, but unclear on how much it would actually take.  

 

Something to consider...

-are hydro cylinders same and one extra port capped on non power steering units? If that is the case, that saves on a bunch of work. 

 

I'm well versed on 520h steering to 314 chassis but that job was pretty easy as those are the same. 

 

@Pullstart, thats a possibility,  but Im hoping the lxi Kawasaki motor can be saved and then decide from there... oh and Im pretty sure I camped by you at big show? I seen a youtube video you made. Lol  We were had the green Excursion and tan tent.  

 

Edited Thursday at 02:45 PM by Cee245
Clarification

[Pullstart 62,850]

@JoeM @shallowwatersailor are pretty well versed with Xi series machines.  Maybe they could chime in?

 

13 minutes ago, Cee245 said:

 

@Pullstart, thats a possibility,  but Im hoping the lxi Kawasaki motor can be saved and then decide from there... oh and Im pretty sure I camped by you at big show? I seen a youtube video you made. Lol  We were had the green Excursion and tan tent.  

 

perfect, you can bring the left overs next year!  

[Cee245 818]

Gotta get it first! Lol... this is in early stages...

 

I'm not sure 650 is a good price for it? 

 

It 48 deck, looks its in decent shape. 

[Pullstart 62,850]

I gave $500 for my 520Xi with a 48” deck.  It runs great and cut a little crooked.  Something less than 600 hours.  I do believe the $650 is a little rich, needing head gasket work.  Who knows what will be found once it’s opened up, with oil and coolant having the ability to mix.

[JoeM 7,873]

I have been into all of those components and did put the power steering on a 520xi. Keep in mind, that is pretty much the first parts installed in the main frame. 

Easy, not really, but very doable, but I tend to color outside of the lines. 

The doner machine would be real nice, but not necessary if you can get someone to supply all the parts.

The best way of swapping out is to remove the tower (4 bolts and wiring need to be disconnected) with the hydraulics/steering valve, steering wheel and tilt assy. in one shot. leaving the hoses hooked up to the cylinders. 

The lower steering gear will have to be replace too, as it is different. The tie rods are the same. 

The hydraulic lines to the hydro are different. Also, there is a bracket on the left side of the frame that has ears to hold the rear of the steering cylinder.

A note about the LXI, it has a different wiring arrangement for the ignition.

Hope this helps. 

 

 

 

 

522xi