Gear reduction steering on 520hc

[MilanWH 26]

I just recently picked up a 520 HC with a Kohler 16hp single installed. It is from 1989, so it has the forward swept axle, but no gear reduction steering. What does everyone think, should I look into finding a gear reduction setup or will I regret the change? I use the tractor for mowing grass and occasionally moving boat trailers around and not much else. I have a 48" deck.

[littleredrider 409]

My 520-8 has the swept axle but didn't have the reduction. I bought the parts and converted it. I used to have a snow blower for it, and made it alot easier. But if not gonna be doing anything heavy off the front might not be worth it. I don't have a tractor that doesn't lol, all mine right now that run are 520s. Also tri-ribs help too. 

[JCM 10,247]

2 hours ago, littleredrider said:

 I used to have a snow blower for it, and made it alot easier. But if not gonna be doing anything heavy off the front might not be worth it.

[JoeM 8,391]

4 hours ago, MilanWH said:

should I look into finding a gear reduction setup or will I regret the change?

The older I get the easier the steering should be. 

 

Those parts are not cheap, but out where you are might be plentiful. If you are going to look around, you need to check the hole where the steering wheel shaft comes in to the fan transfer gear. Some folks find that hard to grease and the hole will wear egg shaped. 

 

This is a good one.

 

The steering shaft piece that fits into that hole is much small in diameter The non reduction steering machine and can wear quick if not lubed.

[MilanWH 26]

JoeM, thanks, I now know what to look for if I decide to convert the steering. JCM, you have  driven a 520 with and without the gear reduction...are there any downsides to having it? Is steering obnoxiously slow with it?

 

[littleredrider 409]

It's not slow at all. I put a spinner knob on mine, and when mowing I can turn the wheel fast enough that the tires will slide as their turning.