It was a 1054.......

[TT-(Moderator) 1,152]

The metal tags didn't start until 1965. The model number is simply "1054" and that is what you use to look it up at the MPV, etc.

Mower deck number could be RM-484, or possibly even RM-485, depending on when the tractor actually sold.

[Teddy da Bear 11]

Terry....

The rivet holes are there on the side of the dash tower. I just thought it was gone. Do you think they made the holes and never placed the tag? Otherwise it was lost like so many were during it's life.

The deck was RM-485

How can I tell if it is a 1964 or a 1965 with a lost built tag?

[linen beige 14]

Mike, My 1054a has 2 small holes about 3-3 1/2 inches apart, with a slightly larger hole centered between them, on the upper left side of the dash tower. Are these the holes you are talking about? They look like they are about right for mounting a build tag, but what would the center hole be for? Anybody have a 1054 for comparison? I can't post a pic right now, but may be able to get some up soon.

Oh! and the RM-483, RM-484, and RM-485 are 48 inch decks, not 42.

These #s mean 48 inch built in '63, '64' and '65 respectively. If yours is a RM-485 I'd take that as more evidence that you have a 1054a.

[Teddy da Bear 11]

Exactly the same as mine Jim....same hole pattern....no build tag.

Maybe they anticipated a build tag that never materialized?

Or is there a way to tell from just the serial number what year 64/65?

Jim......that is what my tag says RM-485....but it sure looks like a 42" deck.

[Teddy da Bear 11]

I plugged in my model number and serial number into the Toro site.

It says my tractor is a 1964. Guess I have to change my signature....

[linen beige 14]

Toro lists the RM-485 and such as 48 inchers, I've never measured mine. Type in 1054a and Toro says it's a '65.

Because of the centered hole, I still wonder if these holes weren't meant for mounting an accessory? Toro lists the HL-5 and HL-6 as options, even though they already have lights, maybe these holes were for the light switch?

If it helps any the serial number on my 1054a is 50224.

[HorseFixer 2,013]

My serial number is way earlier than you guys. Mine says 19578 and looked all over my deck and the serial number tag says A 69485 I donot have any small holes on the left of my dash tower but do have the like 3/8 to 1/2 hole yer talking about. Any info would be great Oh And where are you finding this "A" thing? Looked all over mine and I dont see no "A" thanks!

Duke

[Teddy da Bear 11]

A big thanks to Sparky!! (Mike). Who sent me the two prong key.

I will not soon forget that generosity.

Looks like a varying amount of information on this tractor.

But that makes this interesting!

[DMESS 24]

49065. That was the 1054A I had. The serial number/shift pattern decal is the only tag you are going to find on these. Mine had a single 1/2" or so hole on the upper left hand side of the dash tower. No rivet size holes. NO metal tag on these. As I stated before, I'm quite confident you have a 1054A.

The tractors never said A anywhere. They just used this designation to represent a continuation of the 1054 production for 1965. NO unique decal was produced with 1054A on it. A specifc manual was printed and a specific parts breakdown can be found online.

[linen beige 14]

Since the WH line was restyled for '65 and the 1054 was just a minor upgrade, WH didn't confuse things by giving the '65 a new number. They just added the A suffix. The '65 models had larger front tires and wheels, and that is reflected in the part numbers. They also had turf tires instead of ag lugs. That is reflected in the different tire chains available for the 1054 and 1054a.

[HorseFixer 2,013]

Thanks For The Info Jim! I will take it then that I have a 1965 1054A

Duke

[Teddy da Bear 11]

A specifc manual was printed and a specific parts breakdown can be found online.

My original manual that came with the tractor said only "1054" no "A" designation.

And it is possible that any P.O. could have asked for turf tires on their 1054.

Now somewhere back in this post someone mentioned that the 1054 and 1054A used different transaxles. To me.....I will wait and see if I can find a designation on my transaxle before I make up my mind.

[Teddy da Bear 11]

It's Alive!!!!!!!

I hooked up a good battery and tried out the key that Sparky (Mike) sent me and at least she cranks! That must mean the wiring can't be too bad.

Now I think I will try and see why they had an auxilliary tank hooked up to it.

I don't like where this sediment bowl is on the tank under the seat...... This does not look like an easy thing to take off and clean. The inside of the gas tank itself is spotless.

[Teddy da Bear 11]

I put some starting fluid in just to try it..... It runs!

Now I just need to get gas to the carburator in the conventional way...lol

Oh....and I found out what that part was in the "let's play a game" post.

It appears to be the front lift link (item 52). It looks like the P.O. put on some flat stock and hard-mounted it to the frame when it was used to mow.

[linen beige 14]

Great to hear it runs! You're gonna love the hefty feel of it when you start driving it.

You are correct in that a PO could have asked for turf tires on a 1054. They would also have to change the spindles and both spindles ARE listed as parts for both the 1054 and 1054a. The original manual you have saying 1054 only means that this manual is not a reprint. But keep in mind that it does not mean that it is correct for your specific tractor or that it was even obtained by a PO at the same time or place as the tractor. I have a '65, and Dmess had a '65. your serial number falls between the numbers from our two. I have seen no eveidence that makes me think you have a '64 but much evidence that it is a '65. I really wish I could do a side by side comparison of a 953, 1054, and 1054a to document all the differences.

And if you think it is awkward getting to the sediment bowl, wait 'til you find out how hard it is to pour fuel into it without a large funnel or a very long hose on the fuel can!

And on a safety note, WATCH OUT FOR THE EDGES OF THE FENDERS WHEN GETTING ON AND OFF THE TRACTOR! They can be very hard on your kneecaps!

[Teddy da Bear 11]

Your right Jim.

Evidence is mounting up that leans toward 1965.

But how did WH use the serial numbers? Was it a continous count from 1964 on through 1965? Or did they start over in 1965? Meaning there could be a serial number 49817 in 1964 and a serial number 49817 in 1965's production year as well.

I also find that the tractor sits "cock-eyed" on a level surface. Now what is up with that?

Next someone will tell me that it spent it's life mowing hillsides...

I will take the body/fenders off and see what I can see. I tried rocking it from side to side and it seems solid. Maybe the frame is twisted....

I also notice something serious. I might have a broken tranny housing at the left spindle. I see there is a hose clamp there.....likely keeping something together...... and the seal slides in and out real easy... (oh bother)..

[Rollerman 290]

I will take the body/fenders off and see what I can see. I tried rocking it from side to side and it seems solid. Maybe the frame is twisted....

Mike I'm afraid you will need a cutting torch, saw zaw, or a plasma cutter to get those fenders off....LOL

Have you checked all the tires for air pressure?

I have a few here that lean too....maybe from the banked corners at the Indy 500? B)

[Teddy da Bear 11]

Ohhhh ha ha ha....Stephen....Indy.....uhuhhhh yeahhhh...

What do you mean a cutting torch? They look bolted on. You mean they are welded on? How does one get to the gas tank?

[Rollerman 290]

Mike the fenders,tower & frame are unitized "is that a word?"...or simply put one peice.

You have to pull the transmission out & drop the tank down...it's held in with straps I beleive...been a few years since I've been under my old 953.

[HorseFixer 2,013]

Jim your right mine is real solid and it mows like a banchee Throws grass out 8 ft from the chute! I have a 953 and the 1054a maybe someday I can find the 1054 and would like to examine then side by side like you said. My 1054 I got for free plus it has a WH dump Cart and leaf vaccume system. Plus the guy gave me all the manuals. Well kinda free had to drive 55 miles to UP and bring her home

Duke

[linen beige 14]

But how did WH use the serial numbers? Was it a continous count from 1964 on through 1965? Or did they start over in 1965? Meaning there could be a serial number 49817 in 1964 and a serial number 49817 in 1965's production year as well.

I also find that the tractor sits "cock-eyed" on a level surface. Now what is up with that?

I will take the body/fenders off and see what I can see. I tried rocking it from side to side and it seems solid. Maybe the frame is twisted....

I also notice something serious. I might have a broken tranny housing at the left spindle. I see there is a hose clamp there.....likely keeping something together...... and the seal slides in and out real easy... (oh bother)..

I don't know about the serial numbers, but 50,000 sounds like a lot for one model year?

that one blue "pirate eye" headlight must be wieghing her down. Seriously, check your tire pressure first. A few pounds will hold the sidewalls firm and if the other side is pumped way up the tire will stretch to at least an inch higher on that side. You may also notice that the mower deck hangers are not centered and that the weight of the deck hangs to the right side.

The fenders don't come loose without de-welding them and it's not likely the frame is bent.

A busted tranny?!! Good luck. Maybe if you have to find another case you can discover if there really is a difference in the three years gearboxes.

A while back I bought a D series dozer blade from a fellow in Monroeville, In. Super good guy that had a bunch of Wheel Horses. I cannot remember his name He had several 953s, 1054s, and 1054As, and showed me some of the differences. I didn't have mine yet, so really didn't absorb a lot of what he showed me. I now wish I'd been a little more attentive. Seeing his made me start looking for one to add to my herd. Anybody know who he is? Is he maybe a member here? He could probably tell us of any differences right off the top of his head.

[Brrly1 1,146]

I am not sure if Ron is a member but I have to belive he is. Yes, there is no doubt he has quite the collection of tractors. He definitely knows his tractors and has several nice ones and of course he has a nice GT14 with a loader, which I myself would love to have but, work is a little rough right now,so I guess I would have to peddle a few of the smaller ones to make room. One just never knows maybe he will chime in on this post. Burly

[Brrly1 1,146]

Oh yeah, I do have to agree Ron is a really good guy. He's got my vote!!! Burly

B)

[linen beige 14]

I am not sure if Ron is a member but I have to belive he is. Yes, there is no doubt he has quite the collection of tractors. He definitely knows his tractors and has several nice ones and of course he has a nice GT14 with a loader, which I myself would love to have but, work is a little rough right now,so I guess I would have to peddle a few of the smaller ones to make room. One just never knows maybe he will chime in on this post. Burly

Thanks Bur! His first name WAS Ron, and I have to admit I was jealous of his homeplace set up. Barns all around a center courtyard, and all filled with 'Horses!

How 'bout it Ron, ya out there?

[Teddy da Bear 11]

that one blue "pirate eye" headlight must be wieghing her down.

You guys are really bustin' my chops on the headlights. But you applaud someone elses modifications like they discovered a cure for cancer. What's up with that?

Seriously, check your tire pressure first. A few pounds will hold the sidewalls firm and if the other side is pumped way up the tire will stretch to at least an inch higher on that side.

That was one of the first things I did. They were half-flat when it was auctioned.

You may also notice that the mower deck hangers are not centered and that the weight of the deck hangs to the right side.

I have not tried to put the deck on yet.

I think it needs some more headlights! Maybe as a counterweight on the high side? :whistle: