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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

I just wanted to say after being on here for a few years and seeing how the European buddies we have on Red Square have grown their participation, great contributions and innovative interaction on the website, we sure can learn a lot from you folks in the Wheel Horse department! I find myself "peeking" into the Europe forum more and more! A big thank you for all you do on Red Square.

I had a dissapointing time for my first storm. I have a 89 312-8 with a single stage snowblower,tire chains wheel weights all set to go. I hit my first snow, heavy and wet snow that got rained on. Didn't throw any and clogged the auger. Spent today chipping it out. So I took it off and tried putting on my plow......... It is a 6-2132........it is to small. So I put the blower back on....... now my lift arm button isn't locking it in the up position. And I keep shearing out whatever I put in the cotter pin slot below the snowblower that the bar attaches too. I am not giving up,but I am having a few bass ales and staring at it.

Hi All, Well using my tractor for hauling trailer loads of mud across slippery muddy areas, has given me the need for some rear wheel weights to give a bit of extra traction. Genuine cast iron ones being rather hard to come by and costing a fortune when they do (if not in item cost but postage), i decided to make some While i was at it, Stigian has been inspiring me with his videos, and thought id have a go at making one of them aswell. Failing the first time due to sound problems i re-filmed it as a silent movie style instead. Its just a laugh so hope you enjoy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbyVW7NaA6g cheers, Daniel

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.

I Love It!!! If you corner the market on 416's you can blame it on me. Give's me an idea for funny but maybe not suitable for posting sticker

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.

She could do a lot worse. As a matter of fact she has a couple of times. I think they call that the Mother Teresa complex, bring home the losers and lepers and try to heal them.

Good running engines are not cheap, but I can set you up for around $200 maybe a little less or more depends on what you want ?? send me a PM, and ya I'm only about 20 miles from you, I have about 100 tractors here so I'm sure I have something for you.

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.

Very true Craig. I've often wondered about trying to kick the addiction to nicotine with nicotine but my wife and I tried the ecigs as well. The first ones we bought seemed fine for a while but they were of a low quality and had issues. We quit using them and went back to the real thing. Then we tried a different brand of ecigs. They were made much better and worked better as well. But it didn't take long for both of us to go back to the real ones again. I did use the ecigs in my truck on a trip to Indiana a while back since we don't smoke in the vehicles or house. A 'fill in' as Richard said. As with most folks that try to quit, we both used every excuse we could muster up to "just have one". Well, that doesn't work. At this point, knowing we need to quit, we've agreed on a New Years resolution. This time there's no rule bending allowed. Yea, most New Years resolutions aren't kept but we really do want to quit so why not try again. One of these times we'll make it. As far as the health issues of ecigs, I just read an FDA report. They flat out don't know the ill effects and don't regulate them. They are doing intensive research and expect to have the reports out soon. I don't like more government regulations but it would be nice to know what's in them things and is it bad for you.

Yes the hydro's use a different seal than the stick shift's

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.

That washer is despite being so small, and you would think unnecessary, a needed addition!

I split this into it's own topic. I've checked your account and do not have posting restrictions. If you can post in the Site Suggestions / Issues area please post what happens when you try to create a new post in the engines forum.

I like this section as well, and give you guys amazing credit for the fab you all seem to do over there.

To add to Jason's pictures of Bob Rocks 4x4 creations. Here's a pic of Bob's 264 with 4x4 front assist conversion, he later tore it down & rebuilt it as the articulated 264x4 you see further up in Jason's post. That's my son Taylor driving years ago when we visited Bob.

Rexman, I have a 44" two stage as well, and have changed that bearing before, what fun. Blowers are loud to begin with, especially when they are not moving any snow. If you listen carefully to the noise, can you start to get a feel for how fast the parts are moving that are making the noise? The augers and the fan shaft don't really rotate all that fast, so I would think that a noise from them would have a fairly slow frequency. Have you greased the zerk fittings on the fan shaft bearing and the upper jack shaft? The chain drive and it's associated sprockets are moving much faster, and will produce more of a roar when something is failing or too tight. I know from experience that you can vary the pitch of the blowers noise by changing the tension of the chain. If it is too tight, it will let you know, i.e. very loud roar. The manual calls for 1/8" to 1/2" of deflection in the chain, as measured in the long run from the lower sprocket to the top sprocket. I would guess that I have about 3/8" deflection in mine. A bad bearing in one of the idler sprockets could make some noise too. The belt drive is normally pretty quiet. Of course you do have four pulleys with bearings in the carriage, they should all spin freely. If you are working around the blower, make sure that you do not have any loose clothing, drawstrings, etc. hanging down near moving parts. Bad stuff happens fast! Be safe. Let us know how you make out/what you find. Rick

Check the bearings on each end of the auger. They are just bronze bushings so they wear quicker than a real bearing would. Just grab hold of the end of the auger and pull up since they wear on the bottom, should be no or very minimal movement. Just had to replace mine, $18 each from PartsTree.com. Made a big difference in mine.

As most of you regular forum members know, we have been in a transition period preparing for retirement. At this point we have completed the move from our store to home with all our equipment. We will be finishing up a rather large sign order soon and will be able to attend more shows and focus on our website. 2014 will be a welcome and exciting change in our lives. First part of our plan for the website is to add a clothing category to the webs store. embroidered and silk screened items of all kinds will become available in the coming weeks and months. Also there will be a new promotion for SUPPORT MEMBERS for 2014 (More info on this after Christmas). We have added free shipping anywhere in the Continental US and will continue to do so for the entire year of 2014 Thank You all for you support and patience over the past 6 years. We are looking forward to seeing many of you at the BIG SHOW again this June. Feel free to post any ideas for the clothing category.

Here is a list of Snow Attachment Manuals. Jim http://www.scribd.com/doc/47347681/wheelHorse-Snow-Attachments-Manuals

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

Just thought I'd give a quick update. I painted the grill to the OE semi-flat black finish, and installed the headlights as well as the front Case decal. I'm hoping to start on the mower deck tomorrow. HERE IS A VIDEO http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Innr_zXg-ZU&feature=youtu.be Matt

Well I know he won't post it up, so I will do the honors for him. I am proud to have this machine in my collection, even though I am not the creator of it. Many kudos goes out to TT for this custom build which has provided much fun and enjoyment to our family. The infamous "Drags-tor" (the black beauty)

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.

One of my dozer blades was kitted for a 520. I removed the extensions but kept the offset lever and it works great on my 416 and GT-1848. When the blade is angled fully to the right, it's easier to reach the lever. I'm not too sure about footrest interference on the earlier tractors.

I think I know what's on your mind on this issue. Some people take more time and research as they rebuild their tractor than others do to make them as original as possible. But there are few "chalkmark guys" in the wheelhorse world. Some paint, others powdercoat, some stainless fasteners, some zinc. But it seems nobody gets anal about a tractor unless it's really rare, then they typically leave it alone or fix what is nessassary. The attitude is different, this is supposed to be a fun hobby and not become a job with ISO standards applied. If WH tractors were judged by some absolute set of "factory" standards dictated by "experts" , then me and my tractors would not apply.

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.