GT-14

[fireman 1,021]

My GT-14 has the model number 1-0502-8 on the plate. I have heard many theories on what it is. Some say the -8 at the end is a mistake and it is a 1972. I have found it Martino's book and in a "Wheel Horse Master List" showing the 1-0502-8 as a 1973. There is no listing on Toro's site anywhere showing the -8. The big reason I am looking for the info is I was trying to find the tow valve and know where it should be. Instead of having the big nut with a shaft and roll pin to open and close the valve, mine just has a solid plug. Any thought on this?

Next, while doing research into the model number mystery, I see that there where multiple part numbers listed for the GT-14 for the same model years. They are as follows:

1969 GT-14 Model# 1-7441

1970 GT-14 Model# 1-7451, 1-7452, and 1-7453

1971 GT-14 Model# 1-0500 and 1-0501

1972 GT-14 Model# 1-0502 and 1-0503

1973 GT-14 Model# 1-0502-8

I have found (thanks to Smitty "The Duke" for pointing out a previous thread here on RS and Stevasaurus for posting it), the 1973 Wheel Horse Brochure showing the GT-14 being sold in 1973, which confirms at least to me that my GT-14 is a 1973.

Two questions I have are does anyone know why my tow valve isn't where it's supposed to be and why where there multiple model numbers for some of the same years? Was it certain options that came with one and not the other?

Just trying to figure out this little part of the mysteries that the Ponds created and Toro put in the grave :omg:

[fireman 1,021]

Well I think I know why I can't find the tow valve where it should be. The 73 GT-14 is supposed to have a Sundstrand 90-2062 in it. Mine has a Sundstrand 90-1173. The tow or "push" valve is pointing towards the front of tractor instead of up. It even has the decal under the seat showing the 90-2062 tow valve.

The only thing I can figure is that it was changed at some point or they ran out on the assembly line :omg: