JCM 10,251 #1 Posted May 12, 2019 (edited) I have the possibility of acquiring a 500 special that I believe is a one year only model, 1968 ?. The oldest one now in the group is a1977 C-120 so this is a new venture for me,it seem's the more time I spend on here the more interested I have on the older model's, If anyone care's to offer their comment's etc it would be greatly appreciated. Almost forgot the most important question, what engine and transmission should be correct. Thanks Edited May 12, 2019 by JCM Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sparky-(Admin) 23,325 #2 Posted May 12, 2019 Here’s the model number... 1-3631 1968 Lawn & Garden Tractor 500 Special 4-Speed Tecumseh H60-75118H 6Wheel Horse 5053. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 10,251 #3 Posted May 12, 2019 I prefer Kohlers but had a 7 HP ariens snowblower in the family when I was young, I remember it seemed very loud but my dad was fussy with his equiptment and I never remember ever having any problems with it, should I stay away from Tecumseh's in a WH? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 60,403 #5 Posted May 13, 2019 @RedRider did an outstanding Wiki on the 500 Special, Happy Reading. 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ebinmaine 73,034 #6 Posted May 13, 2019 Jim the issue I've seen over the years with Tecumseh is that the ignition system can be challenging to get along with. I don't think I would avoid one if it was up and running and driveable when you go to look at it. As far as Wheelhorses of that vintage, Trina has two 1967 and we have most of enough parts to build at least one more. If you buy that and you need anything, let us know. There are those of us that have no issues at all with those engines and some of us that really just can't stand them. I have personally not formed much of an opinion of them yet. I've had good luck with them in snow blowers and lawn mowers but these were engines that are no more than 20 or 30 years old. 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Retired Wrencher 5,847 #7 Posted May 13, 2019 (edited) 12 hours ago, JCM said: I prefer Kohlers but had a 7 HP ariens snowblower in the family when I was young, I remember it seemed very loud but my dad was fussy with his equiptment and I never remember ever having any problems with it, should I stay away from Tecumseh's in a WH? JMC: What Eric said. Also with my experience with Teckys it is all in the carbs. If you have a good one hold on to it for dear life. And they like to be run more than Kohlers. Other than that good engines. JMC Edited May 13, 2019 by Retierd Wrencher 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pullstart 67,094 #8 Posted May 13, 2019 1 hour ago, Retierd Wrencher said: JMC: What Eric said. Also with my experience with Teckys it is all in the carbs. If you have a good one hold on to it for dear life. And they like to be run more than Kohlers. Other than that good engines. JMC And the carb from a Kohler can be run on a Tecumseh too! 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 10,251 #9 Posted May 18, 2019 @ebinmaine I wanted to give you and other members an update on the 500 Special and appreciate your comment on up and running and driveable which I found out was not running at this time. The tractor was purchased 5 years ago not running and the new owner did get it started and then parked it OUTSIDE, turned me right off,said it was heavily rusted at this point but should run? I do not really need anymore WH tractors but we all know how that goes.I think I will wait for a nice 417-A , 418-A or the elusive 420 LSE to make it's appearance someday. Thanks Guy's for your comments. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
The Tuul Crib 7,339 #10 Posted May 18, 2019 26 minutes ago, JCM said: @ebinmaine I wanted to give you and other members an update on the 500 Special and appreciate your comment on up and running and driveable which I found out was not running at this time. The tractor was purchased 5 years ago not running and the new owner did get it started and then parked it OUTSIDE, turned me right off,said it was heavily rusted at this point but should run? I do not really need anymore WH tractors but we all know how that goes.I think I will wait for a nice 417-A , 418-A or the elusive 420 LSE to make it's appearance someday. Thanks Guy's for your comments. Yea to those who leave a machine set outside needs to be set to the firing squad!!! They have no respect for a quality product! 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 10,251 #11 Posted May 18, 2019 My 312-8 has been in the garage since I took delivery on June 21, 1989. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
The Tuul Crib 7,339 #12 Posted May 18, 2019 If mine absolutely have to set out they are well covered. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wheelhorse Wes 279 #13 Posted May 18, 2019 I’m in the middle of restoring my 500 special.....the 6hp tecumseh hates its carburetor but LOVEs a Kohler carb will be posting pictures once I get it finished. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ebinmaine 73,034 #14 Posted May 18, 2019 @JCM Thanks for keeping us posted about that tractor. Sucks that it didn't work out but they'll be another one that comes along. No worries there. If you need to make extra room for your next "new" tractor by getting rid of one, you just bring it right up to Hiram and Trina and I will take good care of it for you..... 3 minutes ago, Wheelhorse Wes said: I’m in the middle of restoring my 500 special.....the 6hp tecumseh hates its carburetor but LOVEs a Kohler carb will be posting pictures once I get it finished. Yes please do. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites