Building pulling tractor

[Adam F 3]

Hi, my family has a collection of wheel horse tractors. I am new to the forum and this is my first time posting. I am a third generation wheel horse fan. My son has just recently started lawn and garden tractor pulling riding someone else’s tractor. I would like to build a tractor for him. He has pick out our 1996 312-8. Can you tell me if this is a good tractor to build off of. I have been told it might not be the best. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[Sparky-(Admin) 25,636]

  I think it’s all dependent on which transmission your 312 has. The frames and steeeing is generally all the same.
  If the trans has 1-1/8” axles then it’s the most stout of the 8 speeds and that’s the one the pullers want. 

[ebinmaine 79,265]

 

 

7 hours ago, Adam F said:

been told it might not be the best.

 

26 minutes ago, Sparky said:

which transmission

 

I can see that logic. Adam, can you find out from the person who told you that, exactly why?

[ebinmaine 79,265]

@Sparky

 

Internet search shows the smaller axles were only used up to 1993 but I can't verify the source

[Achto 31,954]

 

The 8 speed with 1 1/8" axles and a 8 pinion differential is the strongest transmission. I do know guys that are using the 8 speed w/ 1" axles that have not had any issues running a stock engine.

 

The tranny in my puller is a 6 speed w/ 1 1/8" axles. It use to have a 10 pinion diff but I made tranny gravel out of that. I have since retro fit an 8 pinion diff into it. The 8 pinion has been holding up well with my stock-ish 14hp engine.

Edited 6 hours ago by Achto

[Adam F 3]

Perfect! Thank you for the information. I will look for a serial # to see what I have. I’m sure I will

have plenty more questions as the build moves forward.

[WHX?? 57,018]

Doesn't @jeremi3210 boy pulls with a 312?