Bert 760 #1 Posted March 26, 2014 Hello folks, I'm wondering if anybody has swapped a dead 700 auto over to an 8 speed in a 518h? If so I'd like to hear about any unexpected issues that may be trouble, I'm just brainstorming a possible future project at this point. I would use an old 414-8 as a donner so I think I'd have all or most of what I'd need. Thanks in advance for any and all input Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dennist 139 #2 Posted March 26, 2014 Engine drive pulley? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ericj 1,579 #3 Posted March 26, 2014 should be no reason why you can't swap it over as long as you have all of the parts and you said you have a donor. after all they did make a 520-8 eric j Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #4 Posted March 26, 2014 Thanks, I've got some engine pulleys from 8 speed tractors with 1 inch and 1 1/8 inch shafts I believe. Seems like the 520 8 is some what rare and wasn't sure if they used any parts that where specific to just them that's why I asked Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Desko 624 #5 Posted March 26, 2014 Will you be updating with progress. You should be good to go to swap to an 8 speed Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #6 Posted March 27, 2014 If I decide to tackle this as another project I'll get pics and post the progress, it'll be a while though because I'll be packing up and moving in the near future Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sorekiwi 761 #7 Posted March 27, 2014 Off the top of my head, most of the bits you will need for the conversion could come from any 3 or 400 series tractor. You'll need the drive pulley, a clutch pedal, linkage, spring and idler, the brake linkage, console panel to accommodate the shifter. A safety switch for the clutch if you want to make it like the factory did it. I'm probably going to do the same conversion on my diesel tractor this summer, I'm hoping I have most of the bits from some 300 series tractors that I scrapped.. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #8 Posted March 27, 2014 That's about what I was thinking, gunna have to take a look at the brake linkage. I don't remember how it all mounted up? How's that diesel tractor for mowing and fuel consumption? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sorekiwi 761 #9 Posted March 27, 2014 How's that diesel tractor for mowing and fuel consumption? I cant tell you yet, I only mowed with it once, and it was wet with a lot of leaves on the ground. I used my 48" deck, my impression from that one session was that it was all a bit much for the 10 hp diesel. Going to an 8 speed should free up a couple of horse power to use with the deck. If I have to I can use a 42" deck, but with 2 acres to mow I'd rather use the 48". We will find out if it ever stops snowing. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #10 Posted March 27, 2014 A 48'' deck is a bit much for 10 hp but with freeing up some power and a dry lawn it may work good. This winter seems to dragging on and on, I'm ready for summer Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shuboxlover 480 #11 Posted March 27, 2014 What about the lift mechanism. Is the tractor currently a hydro lift, If it is you'll need all that good stuff too. Might be easier to find a rolling chassis and put your good motor in it. Just an idea. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #12 Posted March 27, 2014 Its got a manual lift, if it had a hydro lift I wouldn't even consider this swap. My favorite thing about hydro tractors is the hydraulic lift 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bert 760 #13 Posted April 14, 2014 This is the 518 I was thinking of putting an 8 speed in, old thread but I'm checking to see if I figured out how to post pics lol 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wheel-N-It 2,976 #14 Posted April 15, 2014 Hey Bert: I must have missed it when you came on board. Welcome from Orange County NC. Also too, thank you for becoming a Supporter 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
prondzy 3,889 #15 Posted April 15, 2014 unless the 414 series is shot frame and sheet metal wise. wouldn't it be just as easy transplant the 18hp engine instead? and welcome to the forum Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
slammer302 2,156 #16 Posted April 15, 2014 I pulled up to the shop today and my dad had mounted up a 48" deck on the 308-8 it a 8hp magnum for those that are not familiar with the model I told him he was going to tear up the thing he said he had to try it!!! I think I'm going to have to keep a better eye on him Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #17 Posted April 16, 2014 A friend of mine claims he mowed with a 48inch deck on an 8hp for years. As long as the grass is not to high and flat. He had no issues.... Sorry for the off topic Kyle Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
