Commando 8

[Just Piddling 0]

As some of you might remember, I sold my 520 last year and have been looking for another horse. I had commited to buying a Raider 10, but they never responded again. I found this yesterday http://charlotte.craigslist.org/grd/1108525693.html .After looking at the Commandos under the pictures folder here at Red Square, I have some questions. The engine covers are gray on the listing, but the pictures here have red covers. Does this mean it had an engine replacement? The tractor will be used for mowing a sloped 1/2 acre yard. Is this the Kohler with the oil sump issue? How is the 3 speed for mowing? Looking at the Toro site, no manuals are available, but it list it as having a vertical shaft. I assume this is an error on Toro since all of the ones I see listed are horizontal. Thanks for your help.

I know we should not post listings that are not ours, but I am asking opinions. If this violates the policy, please delete.

[whfan74 2,071]

Chris,

I could be wrong in assuming this but the Commando came both ways. Someone please correct me if I am out of line.......

There was a Commando 8 like you are looking at in the post that is a horizontal.

There also was a Commando V8......V standing for vertical.

I just picked up a 68 Commando 8 a week and a half ago for under $150. Pretty comparible to the one you are looking at. Mine does run and mow.

Not saying the listing is a horrible deal, all depends on how bad you want it.

Good luck!

[kpinnc 14,608]

Hey Chris!

My 867 (which is nearly identical to a Commando, except 8 speed) had the same gray Kohler on it when I got it. In my case, it was just a replacement. Maybe that's what is on the Commando.

I've seen your yard, and that tractor should have no problems mowing it. A K181 is a rugged little engine. No oiling issues that I'm aware of, just make sure she's always full. That goes double for mowing on uneven ground.

And a 3 speed will do fine for mowing. The only thing the low range on a 8 speed is there for are things like tillers and snowblowers. I mow with an eight speed sometimes, and 2nd gear is about just right.

None of my business, but I'd try and talk the guy down just a bit on the Commando. Nothing wrong with it, but $350 is a bit steep for a 40-year-old tractor of that size. Just my opinion, mind you.

Good luck!

Kevin

[Just Piddling 0]

Thanks Kevin, We agreed on $300. I know this may still be a tad high, but looking at CL lately even a running MTD is going for over $250. It's funny, but with the down economy CL people seem to think older tractors are more valuable around our parts.

So hopefully, unless this one backs out too, I'll be back in the WH fraternity.

BTW- Have you found a use for the Eaton 11?

[wheel horse 1045 2]

looks like those covers were changed if you look at the starter generator it is red and mine is all red ive never seen one like that one

[BPjunk 184]

The Kohler engine on the Commando 8 listed on Craigs List is a Kohler factory replacment for the original Wheel Horses Kohler. The Commando 8 is a very popular and collectible Wheel Horse model. I always ask for the best price myself but if every thing is in good working order $350.00 is not a bad price to pay.

Wild Bill in Richmond, Va.

[Just Piddling 0]

Thanks for everyone's input. I picked her up this morning at 6:30 after an hour drive (only time we could work out). It is a 68, 1-4831 .

I am really tickeled with the condition. There is no rust, other than the deck, but the other deck looks sound. The old Kohler fired right up at 34 degrees. It has the WH tires all around, although some AGs might be in the future.

Just a few things to replace or repair: Seat, Headlight lens, a couple belts, and a good cleaning.

So now I sit here at work, looking out the window at the new addition sitting in the back of my truck. I'm sure today is going to be a long 8 hours, till I can get home and really test her out.

Thanks again and I am sure I will have plenty of questions later.

[kpinnc 14,608]

Congrats Chris!

Kevin

[Just Piddling 0]

OK, after a long 8 hours, I get her home, unloaded and start tinkering. The PO told me it needed a new drive belt, well it had a narrow belt that was riding in the bottom of the pulleys. The extra deck he mentioned in the add is just the shell, so I have to transfer everything to it. That is the only thing needed to make operational. The deck spindle gears and steering gears are in good shape with minimal play.The engine fires right up and sounds good. The gears go in and out smoothly. The brake lining looks new. Cosmetically the paint is faded with no rust or dents. The decals aren't even cracked or peeling. I mounted the headlight lens, but it is cracked. Overall I am extremely happy with the condition.

I had asked the question earlier of whether the motor had been replaced. The engine numbers are.

K181S

301080

B255246

I have tried to surf for some information and the only thing I got was someone asked on another board about a different model and was answered the letter is the date code, with the list showing B = 1966, is this true?

I am going to service it before mowing. The shifter boot is split, should I drain the gearbox? If so, what weight? What weight engine oil (no winter use)?

Being that it still has the original WH tires with plenty of tread, should I just put tubes in them or go ahead and add some AGs?

Sorry for all the questions in one post, I am just excited to get started.

Thanks.

[kpinnc 14,608]

I am going to service it before mowing. The shifter boot is split, should I drain the gearbox? If so, what weight? What weight engine oil (no winter use)?

Being that it still has the original WH tires with plenty of tread, should I just put tubes in them or go ahead and add some AGs?

You may as well drain the gear oil Chris. Be sure and get a new shifter boot too. They are about $5 or less, either at a dealer or online. Just don't buy them from Ebay. Seems they run "a bit" more there.

Tranny oil- 2 quarts of 90W gear oil.

Engine- (yes, I know this will ONCE AGAIN CREATE A WHOLE NEW DISCUSSION) I use non-SM rated straight 30W on splash-lubricated engines. We don't have the weather here for any "cold weather" considerations. At least not usually...

Kevin