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Hopefully this post won't be in bad taste, but..... I have been very pleased see Terry posting again this month -- I always viewed his commnents as being very insightful

Dave! My winter lay off began December 1st. I was quite occupied with "real life" up until that point. I'll get scarce again around the end of January.

Lane ranger you could not have been more correct. 1 washer the size of a quarter and I am in business. Also I figured out how to adjust the threaded pto lever a few turns because I wasn't locking the pto in the on position. I also realized I bent my plow lift lever,I put a piece of fence pole on it and bent it back I to shape, which allowed my button to be able to be pressed. I can't get it to lock in the up position, but I used it and it worked like a champ! I paid 75$ for the 312-8 in the fall of 2012 and the snowblower for 75$ also. But didn't run it last year due to surgery. Man I get it all now. I picked the wheelhorse because it was a great price,but after going thru it and seeing the practical engineering I am so lucky I just kind of To"Forest Gumped" my way into the world of wheelhorse but I am loving it. Thanks everyone

Though I haven't been involved in this hobby recently, I am an accomplished amateur cabinet maker. I used to make reproductions of old hoosier-type cabinets. Here is a link to one of my creations. This cabinet was built from scratch. All lumber was purchased from a sawmill, then worked in my shop/garage. http://homebuiltforum.com/topic/62-reproduction-sellers-kitchen-cabinet/

I dabble in some photography every once in a while too.

I guess I'd better post my Raider 20 6X6 here then You all know the story by now.. It's been dragging on for long enough She started life as a humble and very worn C-125.. A body swap soon had her looking like this... Enter Garry and some beer.. And the idea was born Over four years later she looked like you know her now..

Here's my 4x4 C-101

I just placed my order for a couple dozen caps to start. I am very happy with the quality of the stitching and detail in the sew-outs. These are being sewn right here in my home town and in fact in my old shop. Nice lady and her husband and kids are Garden tractor people too. they build Custom Pullers and enjoy competing when possible. She has a silk screen business that she has been running from her home till she rented my old location. We hope to be able to ad more products early next year.

The 953 and 1054 tractors use a unique transmission. The axles in particular are longer than the "normal" Wheel Horse transmission. and the mounting bolt pattern is also different. Best bet would be to repair the trans that is in it. These models used a spider gear differential which works really well, but is relatively weak. An 8 pinion diff can be fitted with a few mods, and I think this is the way to go.

I did not know that...sorry. I thought that seal looked a little different, and I did see the canister in the picture. I did not know about the seals being different in the hydros. Dang...I just hate it when I learn something new. Thanks guys.

Yesterday was a monumental day for the Tractor Club. Last night I was able to attend, and present, the school board meeting. In order for the new building to be started it must go through the proper protocols and have the donation accepted by the school board as a formality. Though most just breeze through without any opposition, we were somewhat nervous that we would have to come back with more details as it would be a building that would be placed on the school property. I can understand their reasoning to keep the property looking clean and pleasing to the eye. After many different topics were discussed during the meeting it was time to address the club building. They asked me to come forward and share what was happening with our project. The overwhelming support and smiles that I received were amazing. I still feel like this whole thing is very surreal and hoping that no one will pinch me to wake me up from this dream. I did not get asked one detail about the building itself but they were all very eager to hear about what the kids are doing. Needless to say I was on cloud 9 last night as I left the administration building. So good news is............WE ARE APPROVED! Now the building can commence as I do the leg work to get things prepared....ie electric, permits, site work, etc... I am so thankful for all of those that have made this project a huge blessing to these kids. No matter what you have offered up to the group, it is an amazing gesture and one that is very much appreciated!!!!! Unfortunately there will be no club meeting tomorrow night due to the cold weather and no place to work. The good news is...........that will be changing soon! Merry Christmas and a Happy and healthy New Year to all of you from the Harrison Elementary Garden Tractor Club!

Heres one of my old hobbies. Sad but true, I actually sold her. Only reason I sold was because I don't always feel right being diabetic, so rather than have something happen at a high rate of speed I opted to sell. Shes not far away at all. John

It's a very kind thing that Lane has stated in starting this thread, along with Craig and Karl's additions. Also that we were given a second chance of having a Euro Section on the Site and to try and make a 'Go of it'. I think I can safely say that we (Euro Peeps) are all grateful and hope that many will utilize it and contribute regularly . I was mainly on the WH.org site from 2008 initially, but didn't get my hands on the WH I had my eye on until Sept 2009. So I had a lot of time to research the whole WH history and Model lines etc for a year. I was directed to this Forum by Members of the other one, and yes, I admit I 'Lurked' until 2010 , then my conscience would not let me keep gleaning info as a member for much longer without contributing. Now we have a good many Euro Members, and I'm pleased to agree that there are also a lot of younger Members in UK and Euro Mainland under the age of 20 ....... Always impressed how they interact on here....... we need 'em. It's good that we're able to interact with people virtually worldwide through a common interest in these Red GTs (and others) .

Here's mine taken a few years in the planning and 6 weeks to build

416-8 FEL & Hoe

Lots of hammering and pounding on this one... the entire build is on YouTube (link in signature)... the ultimate goal was to clone the RJ tractor on the cover of Straight From a Horse's Mouth Second Edition and the original 1955 RJ advertisement. The sad thing about the project... my computer took a dump about a month ago and I lost every pic and vid of this project... at least most of the vids are on YouTube and the project its done, LOL!

Well heck i'll through my 1967 Diesel Lawn Ranger out there for consideration. It has a 7hp Yanmar Diesel electric start engine with custom foot throttle. I added a voltage gauge, hour meter, key start, master battery switch and electronic actuator to shut down the engine. I had to "shoe horn" in a battery under the seat as you can see in the picture. The fender and seat had to be raised up with stand offs to allow enough clearance so the battery terminals wouldn't touch. The belt guard had to be shortened and tilted up to compensate for the different engine location. The hood had to be raised and steering shaft lengthened to accommodate the engine. It took about 6 months to complete and a lot of fabrication. It's a blast to drive and really turns heads at the local shows. I reduced the pulley on the transmission down to a 2" one so it really moves.

here's my RJ58 custom stainless Brian

As promised. The pictures aren't the best and I didn't get pictures of everything. But I bet most of you see stuff that I don't even know what it is.

Thanks Terry that will be an option if it will not free up.Thanks Again and have a safe and MERRY (CHRIST)MAS. Remember the reason for the season.

This is how I've attacked the steering problem, I've done about all that I can think of and it's better than its ever been, but it still slips some! I really like the roller chain idea and if I had seen that before I bought the snow hog tires I think I would have tried that first.

Good job Zane! I'm sure looking forward to seeing the finished product, but... "you can't rush perfection".

Got all the steering components, pulleys and trans painted today. They look surprisingly nice!! No runs. The sag on the frame dried up to where you can barely notice it.

That is the great part about this forum.....the things I am learning.....just wish I could retain that knowledge

Don't be afraid of aftermarket parts to keep the cost down. If you get junk parts on Ebay file a complaint if the seller won't take it back I always use paypal when possible just for the insurance. I rebuilt a Wisconsin V-4 a few years ago, Wisconsin parts are way higher then Kohler parts trust me they wanted over $400 for a set of rings. I was able to find an online retailer that sold Hastings rings for less then $60 Try here http://www.perfectengine.com/Hastings_Piston_Rings_s/127.htm

Here's to ya Scotsman. Luv it when it works. You proved again...... It pays to ask

Copy the line below in blue word for word, and place it in the search box on eBay. You will find the correct shut-off valve with screen, plus a new grommet for only $8.99 and free shipping. Toro & Walker Gas Tank Fuel Shut Off Valve & Rubber Bushing •Fits 1/4" LINES To make your tank look like new, clean it good, then coat it with VHT Vinyl Dye. I use satin black. Makes the tanks look like new.

Great concept on both the Weights and the Vid Daniel........ Suspect we'll be seeing more Vids from you. Maybe one in Sepia with a few scratches and flaws , slightly speeded up Benny Hill style.....................Ian ! ....you've got Competition

Thanks Richard, and although this Case turned out well, it doesn't look half as nice as some of your rebuilds! I've always thought your attention to detail is amazing! The hydraulic motor is only about 3/4 inch from the left side rear rim. These Case tractors are somewhat different, as they are a true hydraulic drive, with the pump being bolted directly to the engine, and driving the hydraulic motor on the rear end. Even Case tiller attachments, and such have hydraulic motors on them that are driven by the pump on the tractor. The K301 did turn out well, and will look really nice once my engine decals come in from Terry (vinylguy). Terry is a real stand up guy, as he contacted me, and offered to make the custom decals for this engine with all the correct numbers on them. Thanks Terry! Matt

I have been using turf tire with fluid and 4 link chains for several winters and have been very happy with the results. I keep them as tight as I can so then don't sling into a fender. This year, I installed a pair of 2 link chains and was amazed at how smooth the ride is. You have the right size tires on your GT-14 and the 2 link chains, so as others have stated add some weight, tighten the chains and you will have the best all around traction set-up (my opinion). You can't see the inside weights, but they are there.

Great work and build Matt, I like the look and design of the Case Models. They must be rare in the UK, as I don't see any really. Just wondering...how close is the Hydro pump body to the Inner Rear Rim?. Picture look's like it would be pretty close. Never seen a Wrist Pin clip make a bit for freedom like that before. I love the sound of my K301after a 20 thou shave and rebuild. I bet that K301 will look a treat when you've finished with it, judging by your other Engine projects . Love the work and colours. Look forward to seeing your next progress pics. Regards

Scotsman, Make sure you place a 5/8" flat washer between the lift rod and cotter pin,

http://www.gates.com/part_interchange/index.cfm?location_id=3286 Type in a Wheel Horse (or Toro) number and it will spit out a gates number + specs.

I live north of Pgh. Pa. I have 2 Wheel Horse dealers that I buy from. 1st is Jacks Toro Wheel Horse in Sarver Pa. Lots of parts in stock, they carry quite a bit of stuff for 300-400-500 series. 2nd is Labuda Farm Service in Herminie Pa. Not only do they carry lots of parts,but they also have a tractor junkyard, I got the pedal for Matts foot conv .for $5.00. There is a women who works there behind the counter who is quite knowledgable about Wheel Horse.

good deal. Cozy sounds about right.

From my 416-8. Any questions ask. I will post more pics from book. Glenn

Great Vidio. I guess eating two tins of cookies would add a little weight in the seat as well.

, with her new Toro electric power shovel I got her So ah, did she get you a fur coat and diamond necklace for your Birthday!!! I tried that game, bought the Frau a Belgian waffle maker for xmas (she said she wanted one) and boy was she PO'd!!

The only reason I use a sediment bowl is to keep my 701 all original. I found that the Briggs & Stratton bowl is a dead-on replacement for the original one from Wheel Horse. Having said that, I also put a mini filter inline between the bowl and the fuel pump.

You can get a sediment bowl at Napa or TSC. I eliminated mine on my 704 and put on a good filter and shutoff. I hate fuel leaks.

From 5 years ago:

It's been some time since I've visited this thread, and I have to tell you that I've really felt the need lately to get back to counting my blessings. You see, life has gotten back to normal by this writing, and it wasn't that long ago that I was wondering if I would even be here now. The every day tedium and little aggravations that annoy us all in our daily lives have crept back to the forefront. You know how a situation or a person can get to you and make you feel anger, animosity and disgust at times. That, coupled with job and family pressures and commitments at this time of year can be devastating to us, causing even more angst. But it is this time of year that sometimes makes us reflect on our lives, and interactions with friends and family, and to see what really matters. For me what matters is not stressing out over people and things I can't control. Those things will be gone from my life as much as I can make it happen. Family, and real friends who are as genuine as I would be to them are what's important. My impending retirement has also given me pause to reflect on a career that started in high school working at Howard Johnson's on the turnpike to make gas money, to a summer in a cement paint plant, and then on to a box shop for 23 years, then to my electrical contracting business, and finally on to three different machine shops to finish up. I'm so grateful for my wife Karen and my kids who love me no matter how much I embarrass them at times. And you of course, my friends here who encouraged me and also gave me strength to fight and get to this day. I know I'm not perfect no matter what Stevasaurus tells you, and I will flounder and be a grump now and then. Just ignore me when that happens. I promise I'll come back refreshed and ready to make you laugh. So again, I would like to take this moment to thank all of you who were there when I needed you. Thank You, Jim

Thanks Ken! I got to ride it today!! The K301 runs fantastic, and tractor feels great as well. I still have to paint the grill black, and install the headlights. I still haven't started on the mower deck either, but I'll get on that soon. I'm very happy with the way its tuning out, and I know Gary would love it! Matt

Thanks guys ! Sorry for being scarce, but life has been getting in the way lol. Anyhow, figured I'd post this one up also. Any guesses what this one morphs into? It has big fluid filled tires... ,,,and double hydraulics like a C-195, and a foot operated DCL (from Doc) Electric PTO clutch on a Kohler K341 16hp. If you guessed that it's a C-160 HD, you are correct. Complete 520 chassis with gear reduction steering and a complete mid-1970's C-160 body.

Thank you RMCIII, Craig, and Jake for the encouraging words! Thanks to my amazing wife, I had a new set of shoes show up for the Case today. They are Deestone 23x10.50-12 6ply tires for the rear, and two Firestone 16x6.50-8 Tri Ribs for the front. These are my early Christmas prestent, and I must say she has fantastic taste in tires!

My other hobby is boats....buying, selling, repairing, and getting my own on the water. The boats I buy typically have problems such as bad motor, rotten transom, soft floor, bad outdrive etc so I get them cheap and have a friend that has been in marine repair his entire life so that helps for parts and repair tips. Pictures are of a few that have been through here in the last year or so, I keep the ones I like the most for myself so currently my boats are the 21ft blue Four Winns cuddy, 18ft offwhite/brown Starcraft and the 26ft red/white Searay I am into these 3 boats for under $2000 total, the Searay is getting parted out in the spring and will be a huge money maker. The yellow Hydrostream was my go fast boat that I had to let go when the kids came along and a 70mph speed boat was not a good idea.

since brian is hogging this month all to himself and nobody else is posting up their tractors (and theres quite a lot of very nice customs by members on the forum)............ edit: i see that fireman just got one in before i finished this post....... i will post one of mine...... most of my tractors have small custom fabrication but look basically oem, the one that stands out the most i guess is my 1057, it sort of fits into this category.... not what you would call a full custom or whatever, but it has a few non oem details, first and for most would be the vinyl 'blackouts' on the hood and seat pan. another not readily noticeable custom touch is all the cast iron has been smoothed before being powder coated. and speaking of powder coat, all the paint on this one is powder, everything, which means all of it had to come apart and be painted individually, because theres a lot of parts on these tractors that doesn't like to be heated to 400 degrees f for 30-60 minutes....... heres some pics of my 1057......

Leave it to the very generous and thoughtful Terry Dennis to come up with a new logo for our garden tractor club! His creativity and generosity amazes me and I greatly appreciate his friendship! Here is our new school garden tractor club logo....... Thanks again Terry!

They are garden tractors, not high dollar cars or trucks, they should be built to your ability and be happy with that, I'm a Body man, I can build the heck out of one of these tractors, but I also have a round hood I spray bombed, I took it all apart but still used a rattle can, My Daughters tractor is a candy red, with $600 worth of paint, primer and supplies, it also has 90% of the fasteners on it changed to stainless, I like it, she loves it because it's different no one else has one like it, it's not a belly button tractor you know everyone has one, to put one back to new condition would be hard because they didn't do a very good job when new, parts where assembled then painted undersides and insides did not get much if any paint on them, on some models, why take the fun out of the hobby from the guy that can't paint like a pro, or don't have tons of money to throw at them, I run a WH show in MI. I tell everyone to bring anything workers, resto jobs, clean orig. even beaters, if you want to bring it to the show it will be welcome, the only real pet peeve I have is if you did not take it apart and you rattle canned it, please don't call it a restoration, call it what it is, a clean up and repaint, there are different levels of a restore, but just throwing paint at a tractor is not one.

My manual says to put washers on the flag rod to adjust the lift. I have 2 on mine (314-8) and it lifts it 4-5 inches off the ground. (the washers will be between the flag and lift pipe making it longer when you lift)