Gear reduction steering upgrade difficult?

[SPINJIM 1,986]

I purchased the lower steering arm and ratio reduction gears from a 520, and would like to put it on my 418H.  I don't need a swept axle.  Is it possible to install the lower steering arm and ratio reduction gears without removing the engine?   The lower arm goes below the frame, but the gears mount above it.  Anyone have experience with this before I tackle it?

   Jim

Edited August 15, 2021 by SPINJIM

[roadapples 6,983]

I put the whole system on a C160. With a single cylinder kohler, I  removed 2 bolts and loosened the other 2 so I could tip the engine enough to r/r the lower shafts. Not sure about a 2 cylinder. You will have to drill 2 more holes in the frame for the reduction block...

      You will also need the upper steering rod. They are different..

Edited August 12, 2021 by roadapples

[SPINJIM 1,986]

33 minutes ago, roadapples said:

You will also need the upper steering rod. They are different..

 

Thanks for the info, Jay.  How is the upper steering rod different, just in length or a different gear?  Unfortunately, I didn't get the upper rod with lower assembly.  I think I've seen them sold separately on ebay.   If I don't change to a swept front axle, will the tie rods from the 420 work okay?   Yeh, I was considering just lifting the engine about a foot with a lift, so than I can get under it.   Thanks for reminding me that I have to drill 2 additional holes.  I think this project will wait until cooler weather;  it's about 100 degrees back in my garage.

   Jim

[roadapples 6,983]

The bottom of the upper rod under the gear is smaller diameter. Gear may be different too. Tie rod threads from a 520 are larger, I think 3/8". You may need a bushing for the holes in the lower rod. And 2 of the holes in the reduction block line up in the frame, I think the front 2...

If you can lift the engine up a little, you may not need to remove everything else like wires and cables etc...

Edited August 12, 2021 by roadapples

[Thor27 835]

The 2 holes you are going to add can be done with a right angle drill, or you remove the upper hood stand. You will also have to trim some off the lift bell crank as it will hit. I think you're going to have to remove the engine, I had to.