This is where my addiction started

[Geno 1,928]

I've bought 22 tractors and mounds of other Wheel Horse stuff in the past 10 weeks but it all started with this one.  Including this one there are now 23.  My dad bought a new one every 7 years and I bought his old ones.  In 1994 he bought his new 416 and I bought the old 414.  He still has the 416 he bought new and uses it every week, it even looks as good as this one at 20 years old.  He taught me to take care of stuff.  This one turned 27 this past April and I've had it for 20 years.  Up until 2 years ago it mowed about 2 acres once or twice a week depending on the rain. It still gets used every week for something around the place and mows a steep bank in front of the house that I wouldn't dare take my zero turn on every week. 

 

This tractor is completely original except for the front tires, deck wheels, blades, filters, spark plug and carb.  All paint, decals, seat, deck, cables, wires, switches, you name it, every other piece is completely original.  Not 1 bolt has been removed in the tractor, engine, trans or deck other than for regular maintenance.  There is some touch up paint on the left deck side where it gets into the fence sometimes to stop rust.  The deck has a sandblast hole in the right side rear and a little started on the outside left.  I should think before mowing over all those mole hills.  The entire top, front and rear of the deck is still shiny with no rust of any kind.

 

Even the cover is the one that came with the tractor.

Edited August 22, 2014 by Geno

[kudzu3 323]

Nice, where'd you get the cover?

[Geno 1,928]

It came with the tractor in 1987.  My dads best friend owns the WH dealership in Jersey (now Toro) and he is still in business.  I went to see him last week and pick up a load of tractors of course.  He always gave dad extra stuff when he bought the new Horse.  He even delivered that one to KY personally.    

[JERSEYHAWG / Glenn 4,487]

gene,,,,what a beauty, WOW! Dad sure taught you good.

 

Glenn

[AMC RULES 36,945]

Very nice...     

first person I've seen have a cover, and actually use it. 

[Geno 1,928]

Thanks AMC + Glenn.  I'm out of likes for the day again so I will say I LIKE YOUR POSTS. 

 

There's other pics I've posted on here that if the shop door is open it will be the one near the door on the right with the cover on it.  It has been covered when not in use for 27 years. 

[AMC RULES 36,945]

Probably why it's so minty fresh.    

[Ed Kennell 35,898]

That WH  would get anyone hooked.

[fireman 1,021]

Now that's how you take care of a machine! NICE!!!

[speedyleedy 205]

You have it bad Gene but thanks for sharing it with us

[Marv 845]

You are kidding us. We know you just picked it up from the show room.

Marvin

[KC9KAS 4,741]

WOW, that is a very nice looking 414. Thanks for the photos.

[Geno 1,928]

The key I think to keeping it looking new is a 3' piece of 5/16" brake line with an air fitting on the end.  Every time it's used it gets blown off.  With a 80 gal Devilbiss air compressor you just have to watch you don't blow a hole in something. 

[jackhammer 544]

As everyone above has posted ...that IS a good looking tractor,

[JC 1965 1,528]

Man !!  That tractor sure looks good Geno.