David Dowd 1 #1 Posted July 26, 2021 My 520lxi garden tractor smart steering system has lost its mind! It's working backwards all of a sudden. When I drive straight the tractor is moving slower than normal, but when I turn it speeds up? Just another question, has anyone ever welded their differential gears so that it pull on both sides. I don't know why they didn't put a diff lock on this model. If anyone has any idea what to do about my steering problems please let me know, thanks David Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,336 #2 Posted July 26, 2021 Download Part 1 Smart Turn steering starts on page 2-15 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pullstart 65,263 #3 Posted July 26, 2021 (edited) If you pull sheet metal off, you’ll see that the steering linkage for the smart steer limits the transmission linkages. I can’t see how it could reverse, unless there is an internal issue.? @JoeM or @shallowwatersailor any ideas? as for your differential question, I’d suggest adding hanging or wheel weights and fluid in the tires long before welding the pinions up. Edited July 26, 2021 by pullstart 2 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JoeM 8,066 #6 Posted July 27, 2021 (edited) Dave welcome! I read your post and need more information. One questions what have you checked so far? If you have not done so, I would recommend putting the rear of the machine on jack stands and running the hydro and turning the steering wheel to see what is going on at the linkage area under the radiator. I have all my xi smart steering linkages disconnected. I tried it and on the hill where i mow I like to have full hydro at times when turning. I included some pictures of the way my 520 LXI is disconnected. Not sure of the hours on your machine but there are some areas that make these things steer like a dream. First, the bolts that attach the steering cylinder. Being softer than the bushings in the cylinder eyes, these bolts get groves worn in the center of the fit. The front bolt is kind of special and is cheap from Toro, the rear is a plain grade 5 through bolt 3/8". Tip on the front bolt, can be accessed through the left side of the machine. Check all the steering links and especially underneath. sometimes they loosen and cause a lot of play. Next one is not so easy and requires a weld job. The front axle pivot pins like to wear into the frame of the axle and a good fix is a block welded to the front of the frame to support the pin. Most of the time the pin needs reweded to the retainer strap. Pullstart has a thread on this repair. Let us know what you have done and if you find anything. We like picture too! Edited July 27, 2021 by JoeM 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
