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rteach2

Novice Wheel Horse owner

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rteach2

So I've had an old wheelhorse riding mower that I got last year. I got it for $500, and was originally told it was a '76. When looking for a belt for it, I was asked for the model/serial number and they told me it is actually a '67. The Model # for this tractor is T-1276 and the serial number is 253226. It has a 12 HP Kohler motor and a hydrostatic clutch. I've been mowing with it since I got it. It runs well, but vibrates quite a bit and is loud. It also has electric issues - a leak somewhere that drains the battery if I don't disconnect it between uses.

I haven't decided what to do with it yet. It is our only mowing option at this time and we don't have any money to get a different mower. I've been tempted to sell it, but I've been told that it could be worth some money. I'd like some honest advice as to how much it might be worth. I've also been tempted to restore it, but can't really do much while I'm having to use it.

So - how 'bout it? Anyone got some advice? Thanks.

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smoreau

Its a 67 and a great worker! your draw on the batt. may be the ignition switch. worth would all depend on condition. with a solid deck and minimal rust and good working order, I would say $350-$500. N1defan just got one with a dozer blade no 3rd gear for $125, but that one need a lot of work. and I almost for got :wh::D :thumbs:

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Jake Kuhn

:thumbs:

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c175inMA

:thumbs:

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WH854

:wh: :thumbs:

Chas

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rteach2

Thanks for all for the "welcomes"

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sorekiwi

Actually a 1276 is a 1966 tractor, the 12 denotes 12hp, 7 denotes Hydrostatic drive and the 6 denotes 1966.

I have one, and its a tough tractor. A little heavy on the steering compared to some. It is way more tractor than what you can buy at the box stores these days. I've never mowed with mine but its pushed and blown snow for the last few years for me.

Check out this thread on how to locate your battery draining issues:

http://www.wheelhorseforum.com/index.php?showtopic=23783

Solid mounted, single cylinder engines do seem to vibrate a bit if you arent used to them. And the standard "pepperpot" muffler is loud. Personally I hate them, but I havent got around to switching to a better (bigger) muffler on mine yet.

Valuewise, as was stated before, it all depends on condition. I would think that the $500 you paid would be at the high end of the scale.

If your tractor runs fine, I would keep it and mow with it. Apart from a major hydro problem, they are relatively simple to work on. The factory drive belt system for running the deck is a PITA, but the tractor can be easily adapted to the later system if you want to go that way.

There's plenty of help here to guide you through any problems you may have. Keep in mind that the tractor is 45 years old now, so you are going to find bits and pieces that will need a little loving!

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can whlvr

i would say that it boils down to does it have a good tranny and motor,the rest can be fixed usually at not too much cost,if you can do a bit at a time and sort it out as you go then keep her,they arnt worth a fortune and you might not get what its worth unless its in tip top shape

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Horse-Drawn

:thumbs:

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tunahead72

Another one: :thumbs:

I can't tell you much about your tractor, but I wouldn't give up on it just yet. The Kohler 12 HP is a good strong engine, and will easily handle your mowing duties, plus a lot more if you want. The fact that it's currently working well for you is a real good sign.

Somebody should be along shortly to help you troubleshoot your battery drain problem. Scott suggested the ignition switch as one possibility. I would wait to see what others have to say as well, but if you're comfortable with the idea you could start by removing the switch and cleaning all the contacts, and making sure all the wires connected to it are in good shape -- you might notice something obviously wrong.

You mentioned that it vibrates a lot and is loud. Can you narrow that down a bit? Do you mean just the engine, or when the mower is engaged, sitting still or moving along, that sort of thing? Those kind of details will help us understand the problems better, and get you closer to a diagnosis and solution.

And photos help a lot, we all love pictures. You'll have to use Photobucket or Flickr or some other photo hosting site to post pictures here, RedSquare just doesn't have the space. You'll find instructions elsewhere here (do a search on "Photobucket").

Good luck, and have fun!

--------

Just saw sorekiwi's and can_whlvr's comments as I got ready to post this, good advice in there!

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