By
Gadget
Hi all,
Let me start by saying a belated thanks to you all for the help you have already given me. I have been looking at the site for over a year so I thought I should come out of the shadows.
I have a 244H (as of now), Bought it 7 years ago Craigslist, for $175.00. I struggled with carb issues for a while, nobody in this area is fond of working on Toro / Wheel Horse stuff, and when you say Onan... they look at you like you two heads. Anyway, got the carb sorted and it's run great ever since.
Unlike many of you, I don't have a farm, (although I grew up on a small one), just a normal residential lot with St Augustine grass. So why do I need a small tractor you ask? Why not just get a little Suzie Homemaker rider? Well there are two reasons. I use the tractor to move my boat from place to place. That you cannot do with your average big box riding mower. The other reason is.... I just want a tractor. It's the hit of the neighborhood.
So that said, I am looking at a 520H circa 1993 (not sure cause the Mod and Sr #s are obscured). Its a lotta tractor for my use, but, like I said, its what I want. Its at a local mower shop, I think he took it on trade. The owner is a little tough to deal with, he claims to have done some engine work (coil, regulator blah blah blah) but I am not so sure. For example, there is no evidence that any of the cowling or sheet metal has been removed. No matter, it is what it is, the thing runs great, 20 HP Onan I think.(sorry, no pictures) he want 650, I offered 500, he said he would think about it. I will call him back today and give him what he wants, cause I think its worth it. The deck is solid, the tires are like new, heck, even the lights and gauges work (mostly) the hydraulics seem good so what the heck, if he still has it, I'll buy it. I guess I can get a couple hundred for my 244.
I will post some pictures of both if I get the 520. In the meantime, if anyone would care to comment and let me know what if any things that I should beware of on that model and year I would appreciate knowing them.
I looked at the member map, and I guess me and only one other guy are the only ones carrying the flag for this kind of equipment here is sunny Florida. By the way... when we are in mowing season... the lawn needs to be cut every 5 days or it will get WAY ahead of you, so why not do it on a cool tractor
Thanks
Todd