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Santa! Thank you for not forgetting us this year. As always, I don't need anything except to wish health and happiness for everyone here and peace around the world, if that Ram 3500 can still fit in the sled I wouldn't complain though.,..

lucasmel89 and I took advantage of the great weather and broke out the fleet today and got a few pictures. Now if we could get the snow they are ready for!! Merry Christmas everybody!!!

Good to hear from you again this year. As in years past, I don't need anything, but Russ (saltywright) is going through a rough patch this season. If you can send him a speedy recovery, that would be great. Also, please keep all the children with childhood cancer at the top of your list. I am sending a contribution to St. Baldricks, and I hope you can encourage others to do the same. Merry Christmas!

HHHMMM...Always knew that reindeer gig was a hoax...

Santa is on his way.

Just received my 2016 RedSquare Wheel Horse calendar this week. Very nice, excellent quality. Featured photo on the July page is my dad's restored 1962 Wheel Horse garden tractor. Very proud that my photo was selected for the 2016 calendar this year. It took me three years of hard work to bring this tractor back to life.

Merry Christmas to all here at you are quite the family and friends! Willing to go out of your way to help each other, no matter what time of year it is. It's like Christmas each and every day here on the forum, we all are blessed by each other. May your Christmas be merry and bright, have a grand time tomorrow. Peace!

This one is worth sharing again!! Next year have to find a Santa to be sittin on it... Happy Happy to all

Specifications Length Overall...................................................................61 inches Wheelbase...................................................................41 1/4 inches Width Overall.....................................................................34 inches Width of Front Wheels.................................................32 1/2 inches Height...........................................................................37 1/2 inches Height to Top of Hood..................................................33 1/2 inches Approx. Shipping Weight.......................................................450 lbs. Crop Clearance.............................................................7 1/4 inches Frame Clearance.........................................................13 1/2 inches Engine Horsepower (Engine Mfgr's Rating).............................6 H.P. Engine Crankcase Oil Capacity...............................................25 oz. Fuel Capacity.......................................................................1 gallon Tires (front) 4.00-8 Pneumatic (16" wheel dia.) Tires (rear) 6.00 x 12" Pneumatic (22 1/2" wheel dia.) Speeds - 3 Forward to 6 mph. 1 Reverse to 2 1/2 mph. Turning radius (to outside wheel)..................................................6' Wheel Horse pioneers Elmer and Cecil Pond realized the benefits of marketing early and capitalized on the publicity brought to their home region by the world famous Indianapolis 500 race. Beginning in 1961, Wheel Horse loaned approximately 40 new tractors to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for use by race teams to tow their cars around the pits for the testing and racing activities during the month of May. A promotion dubbed the Indy 2 ½ was even created as the kickoff event, where the tractors were paraded from flagship distributor Radio Equipment Co. in Indianapolis to the speedway and then raced one lap around the famed 2.5 mile Brickyard piloted by dealers and other local media personalities. The publicity stunt was a huge success for Wheel Horse, and later advertising would tout Wheel Horse tractors as The Official Work Horse of the “500.” The promotional value of the Indy 500 reached new heights in 1968 when Wheel Horse came out with a new model, the “500” Special. This tractor was a no frills model, powered by a basic 6 hp recoil-start Tecumseh H60 engine backed by the standard 3-speed Uni-Drive transmission. What the “500” Special lacked in power, it made up for in looks with racing stripe decals on the hood and checkered flag decals on either side of the dash tower. Similar to previous Wheel Horse “Special” models, production of the “500” Special utilized different leftover parts which created some variances on the assembly line. Common known variances include the use of at least two different styles of hoods, mufflers, dash panels, steering wheels, seats, fender pans and checkered flag decals. Sale ads from May 1968 offer $200 off the “500” Special tractors, which were listed at a sale price of $529.95 and were advertised with a 32” rotary mower included. The "500" Special differed very little from the Commando 6 offered that same year, except the Commando 6 had an electric starter and did not feature the extra racing inspired decals. Much of what is known about these tractors is merely conjecture, as factory records were limited and were never formally released to the public. Based on known serial numbers it seems that there were at least 5 or 6 production runs of these tractors; however, the total production number for this model is unknown. One common belief is that these tractors were primarily sold at dealerships in Indiana, Illinois and Ohio (presumably due to their close proximity to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway); however, a few collectors have reported these tractors being sold new in other states as well. Since the tractors were relatively plain aside from the racing inspired graphics, it is believed that they did not sell as well as intended by the company. Several collectors have found “500” Special models equipped with electric starters or even 8 hp Kohler replacement engines believed to have been modified or upgraded by individual dealers to help sell the tractors when they were new. While the “500” Special models proudly represented the manufacturer’s racing ties, these tractors were never actually used for the big race. The larger 10 hp hydrostatic drive Charger 10 model, equipped with extra racing decals similar to those found on the “500” Special, was the tractor chosen by Wheel Horse to be utilized by teams at the 1968 Indy 500. There has been at least one seemingly staged press photo that has surfaced showing a "500" Special towing a race car at the speedway. The “500” Special was replaced in 1969 by the Work Horse 700 model, which featured a very similar decal package and was upgraded to a 7 hp electric start Tecumseh H70 engine to help boost sales. This is one of the only known photos to show a "500" Special at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Print ads for the "500" Special carried a racing theme to conjure up excitement for the new model. Advertised sale prices averaged $529.95, but were as high as $599.95 (with electric start) and as low as $404.95 on clearance. A fully restored "500" Special with 32" rotary mower on display at the 2015 WHCC Show. The following photos are to show variances in some of the parts used in construction of the "500" Special models. No confirmed pattern for the use of any of the following parts during the various assembly runs has yet been identified. Photos of original tractors and the Owners Manual were referenced in putting together this list of variances. In the absence of the original parts for comparison, anyone restoring a "500" Special could theoretically choose from their preference of parts pictured below and construct a correct original appearing tractor. HOOD Hood (Part # 7231) with Escutcheon Plate (Part # 7416) Hood (Part # 5465) with Grille Decal (Part # 6998) The most obvious difference in these two hoods is the number of horizontal openings in the grille. The first has 6 rows of openings and has a large rectangular opening filled with a escutcheon plate at the top, while the second hood has 7 rows of openings and a thin decal. The tractor pictured on the cover of the owner's manual shows the first style of hood with the escutcheon plate. It has previously been suggested on this forum that the second style hood with the decal was used in the later production run. Of the original tractors referenced, the hoods with the escutcheon plates seem to be more commonly used on the "500" Special tractors. As of 2015 the escutcheon plates were still available through Toro dealers. EXHAUST Muffler (Part # 7628) with Deflector (Part # 7843) Muffler (Part # 1739), Elbow (Part # 1755), Nipple (Part # 943358-4), Locknut (Part # 1756) and Brace The tractor pictured on the cover of the owner's manual shows the first rectangular shaped muffler with a deflector. Other similar variations of the second style of exhaust do not include the brace, which seems to be a relatively harder piece to find. Of the original tractors referenced, it seems as if the first rectangular style muffler is slightly more common over the shower head muffler style exhaust systems. Both types of mufflers are still readily available on the aftermarket. DECALS Racing Flag Decal with "6" (Part # 8379) Racing Flag Decal without "6" (Part # 8379) It is unknown exactly why there were two nearly identical versions of this decal made, the only difference being that one bears the number "6" indicative of the tractor's horsepower rating. Of the original tractors referenced, it seems the the majority have decals with the "6" present. The alternate versions with just the racing flags have also been spotted on the Charger 10 tractors that were outfitted for duty at the 1968 Indianapolis 500; however, for this application they were placed on the bottom front of the grille and on the backside of the seat. Another interesting fact is that the "500" Special trim decals on each side of the hood (Part # 8376) were originally rectangular and could be applied to either side of the tractor. The rectangular shape allowed for a little variance in the placement, most likely for the sake of increasing application speed on the production line. Once applied an assembly line worker would then trim the decals along the front edge of the hood to give them the beveled shape. Reproduction decals are readily available and can be had in either configuration. DASH PANEL Dash Panel (Part # 5453) Dash Panel (Part # 7379) with Shift Pattern Decal (Part #7883) Though not pictured in the owner's manual, the parts number listed is for the first style of dash panel pictured. This style dash panel used two round hole plugs for the absent lighter and generator accessories. It also contained a diagram of the transmission shift pattern printed directly on the panel. The second style dash panel used one round hole plug for the lighter and a rectangular plug to fill the light switch hole. This style dash did not have the shift pattern printed on it, so tractors with this part also had a shift pattern decal applied to the console (partially obstructed, but visible in the reference photo). Of the original tractors referenced, the majority had the first style dash panel with two round hole plugs. Reproduction decals for restoring either style dash plate are readily available, and the chrome hole plugs can often be found at hardware stores near the bins of loose fasteners. STEERING WHEEL Steering Wheel (Part # 4983), Insert (Part # 2897) and Decal (Part # 7421) Steering Wheel (Part # 7420), Insert (Part # 7469) and Decal (Part # 7421) The first style steering wheel is easily identified by its three thin angular spokes. These steering wheels were only used on the 1968 Commando 6, Commando 8, "500" Special, and the 1969 Workhorse 700 models. Due to their thin spokes, these steering wheels seemed prone to cracking or warping. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find one of these steering wheels in good condition. The second style steering wheel is characterized by its three straight tapered spokes and was more commonly used among Wheel Horse tractors during the late 1960s. The tractor pictured on the cover of the owner's manual shows the second style of steering wheel; however, the part number given in the manual corresponds to the first style of steering wheel. Of the original tractors referenced, it seems as if the first style of steering wheel pictured is slightly more common than the second steering wheel pictured. Reproduction steering wheel inserts and decals are readily available. SEAT Fiberglass Pan Seat (Part # 7070) Three-Piece Seat (Part # 7018, 7019, 7020) The first seat bolts to the fender pan with four studs that extend out of the bottom of the fiberglass pan. Over time and exposure to the elements, these seats were very prone to cracking or having the vinyl damaged, thus making them very rare to find in good condition. The second style seat fastens to the fender pan with only two studs that extend from the metal seat base. While more rugged and able to survive the test of time somewhat better, these seats also have their wear points. Perhaps the most common area of wear includes the top edge of the back seat cushion. These seats are also becoming harder to find in good condition. The tractor pictured on the cover of the owner's manual shows the fiberglass pan style seat and lists the same part number as well. Of the original tractors referenced, there is a nearly even split of the use of each of the two styles of seats. Reproduction seat covers have been produced for the three piece style seat, although they do no include the embossed Wheel Horse logo. FENDER PAN Fender Pan (Part # 7444) Fender Pan (Part # 5661) The difference in the two fender pans is the presence of holes drilled in the rear of the pan to accommodate a light. The first style shown has three holes where a light would be added if the tractor was so equipped. The second style does not have these three holes drilled and was likely left over from earlier production runs before the rear light was an option. It is unknown which fender pan is pictured on the tractor in the owner's manual; however, it provides the part number for the first style of fender pan. Of the original tractors referenced, it seems that the vast majority have the first style fender pan with the rear light mounting holes present. ENGINE While there should not be any significant variances in the engines used for these tractors by the factory, non-original engines may have been installed to help boost sales of the tractor by the dealerships or to replace a blown motor later in the tractor's life. The correct Tecumseh engine model number used on the "500" Special models is H60-75118H. Since these engines were recoil start only, they should not have holes drilled into the block to mount a starter. This recoil start H60 engine is photographed to show the two starter mounting pedestals that remain untouched (if there was a starter there would be two holes drilled in each of the horizontal mounting pedestals to bolt the starter to the block). The owner's manual also shows the presence of a rear mounted "L" shaped oil drain pipe that would extend outward from the location where the drain plug is pictured, allowing oil to drain out over the right side of the frame when uncapped. Finding a recoil start H60 engine without the starter mounting holes seems to be more difficult than finding one equipped with an electric starter. View full wiki

Kudos and thanks to the crew that put the calendar together. I received mine today and was reminded by Mrs. Sailor that she took the photo. Thank you also, Mrs. Sailor!

Wow, this forum looks great on my prototype iPhone 8, nice job RedSquare! I have something for all the children, especially for those fighting the cancer battle, thank you for your help with that Bob, or how I used to call you..... nevermind, we'll keep that between us. I will keep all of you in my prayers for a speedy recovery for all. Have to run, Blitzen found a Chia Pet and is pigging out again....

Might you have room for one of these in your sleigh Santa?

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, AND TO ALL ZzZZZzzzzz... Oops sorry, fell asleep there for a minute.

This warm weather has been the Bah in Humbug this year. The fields still have no snow, and Blitzen packed on a few more pounds and is having trouble with his liftoff, so we've been spending time on the treadmill trying to get him into flying condition. I didn't forget my favorite tractor people though, we do love Red don't we? I am a little late on seeing what everyone wanted for Christmas, but there is still time, the elves work very quickly, and we have a new system to replenish stock while I am on tour so late orders are still accepted. so let me know, and nothing green this year please, I don't want to have Blitzen trying to snack on it!

I would like to second what Bob Maynard said and add a Great Recovery for Bob also. While both my wife and I have been blessed and the only thing I could think off wanting would be a Big Red Dumpster ...I happen to have something for you. This years Chocolate Benedictine Fudge and Christmas Cookies are the best ever...a healthy plate will be waiting your arrival.

Just curious - Is the fuel a mixture of oats for the "horses" and a hot toddy for Santa?

God Jul folkens!!!!!!

Bob Hope gives his last USO Show in Vietnam.

Merry Christmas boys -n- girls !

https://www.bing.com/search?q=Bob+Seger+little+drummer+boy&FORM=EDGNNC

OMG why didn't they say to get IN the plane....

Too bad there isn't a light dusting of snow to make it that much better.

Santa, welcome to out group, we have all been good (well sort of) and we would love to receive anything RED. Thanks for all of the joy you spread this season and have a safe trip.

God Jul Lars

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone at Red Square a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, and "May all Your Christmas's be RED. Again, it has been a banner year, and all here are a large part of it.....Thank You.

Let's plan on June!

Great to hear from you again Santa! It has been a pretty good year and so much fun has been had with tractor friends! All I would like is a little more time to be able to hang out with some of my RedSquare friends!

merry christmas all https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTZ9kr5xyuE

So much for my new hairdo.....

I personally would swap the parts as John indicated and run a more traditional ignition system... I have used the Taiwan coils off ebay without issue... although you will need to modify it to fit. Here is my review of the replacement coil: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pylbLgR3Jvs

I did the Honda Conversion a few years ago. It was pricey ($1800.00), but did include all the parts needed to convert like the adapter sleeve and a motor mount. It also included the wiring harness and voltage regulator. The only fabrication was to weld an extension to the clutch bracket to fit the bolt holes on the Honda, similar to what Woodsie needed to do. The HF looks like a good alternative if you don't mind doing a little more fabrication. My conversion was very fast as I did it over a two day period, about 12 hrs. I've been very happy with the conversion. I did not like the supplied muffler and later installed the OEM Honda muffler. It did require cutting into the hood, but it fits better and is quieter.

My wife just asked me if I had to break the Christmas lights "every time"? I said, "Yes, it is the only thing I can break and not have to fix"!

How did this go from having a great Saturday to dissing retirees?

I gave it an initial bath to get the majority of the dust and grime off. Looks considerably better already. And I polished out one spot on the hood. It looks like the original paint will come back nicely with some elbow grease. The tires will clearly need some dedicated scrubbing.

Just my luck...the Captain just says we are going over the Grand Canyon and you can see it from the other side of the plane. OR I have never flown with my wife, because if she has all day to get ready...it takes her all day and 15 minutes.

the horse head needs grey hair and a bald spot. Glenn

How about this?

Attached are the operator and parts manuals. I am not aware on an actual service manual for the snow blower. To be clear, the augers are the two big things at the front of the snow blower that pull the snow in, and the fan is the part under the chute that blows the snow out. Do you want to change the bearings on each end of the auger shafts, or the bearing behind the fan? I have changed both in the past and can offer some assistance. Rick 522xi Snow Blower Operator Manual.pdf 522xi Snow Blower Parts Manual.pdf

I 2nd that!!!!!!

Honest! My ticket is in the purse! Why was I too cheap to buy deodorant?

"Look! Up in the Sky! It's a Bird...It's a Plane... It's Superwoman!"

If the FAA is gonna register my drone than I'm gonna spy on that cute neighbor boy for free...and NO registration required! Take THAT You big bully Federal Guvment...

We've started with less right? This was the day the ProType project started...

Well I finally got some more time to work on this. Last week I bought what appears to be a fully functional 8-speed transmission from a 416-8 someone had posted on Craigslist. Last night I got it installed in the C-160 and put everything back together. I even replaced the few-year-old battery since it was having trouble cranking the K341. I was getting really excited to do drive some victory laps today, but when the engine started running I saw it was spraying fuel out from between the two halves of the fuel pump. Darn! I guess it will have to wait for another day until I can rebuild/replace the fuel pump.

Best Wishes to all from Ed and Mrs. K .... have a Merry Christmas and a Healthy Happy 2016.

My first restoration, finished last fall. It's a 1976 C-120 and it's only job is plowing snow and looking good, of course.