bmsgaffer 2,043 #1 Posted March 20, 2014 I have a project that I am trying to find a round hood for. I am sticking with a mid-engined model for now because I think it will work best for my project. I have several leads that I am pursuing of different models, I just wanted to see if people had recommendations based on features over the years. I was wondering the differences in transmissions and front axles. I like the RJ-58, but are the cast from axles from the suburbans more durable? Are the transmissions any more durable (bearings vs bushings, etc) or faster from year to year? Engines are of no importance. I just want something that is durable, can handle the work of plowing and pulling a trailer, and is fun to drive as it will be mostly just for tooling around on. I will release more details of the project as I go, just because I want unbiased opinions first. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dieselcowboy 210 #2 Posted March 20, 2014 I have a 551, 550 and a 58. The 551 has the undrive trans in it which as we all know is a proven trans. The cast front axle is also on that model. The straight axles of the RJ's were replaced because of the weakness they are prone to. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Mike'sHorseBarn 2,982 #3 Posted March 20, 2014 I agree with dieselcowboy. I have a 401. Has the unidrive transmission and cast axel very strong and durable. The rj's straight axel was prone to breaking when plowing if the front end bounced around. Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bmsgaffer 2,043 #4 Posted March 21, 2014 So any of the xx1 (61) and on are unidrives? This will be carrying a fair amount of weight, so durability is good. How easy would it be to find an original seat and steering wheel for a 551? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dieselcowboy 210 #5 Posted March 21, 2014 I do believe this is correct. Unidrive in all 61's. Jake can correct me if I'm wrong. I see lots of seats and steering wheels for them. Sometimes I think that's all that survives from some of them. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wallfish 16,980 #6 Posted March 21, 2014 The 401 uses a 3 piece trans so it's 551 on up. So, if you need a beefy 2 piece transmission on a mid engine tractor, a 551 is the only one. Parts are still out there and a steering wheel or seat for a 551 should be easy to find. They are the same as the other suburbans. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
