Can't help a lot with the ID of you blue one, its old and american, I'm thinking bolens or simplicity or something along those lines, I'm actually surprised by the chain drive, most of that style mower were trans axle driven.
However it looks like its possibly a peerless diff, which is pretty common and if it needs bearings or seals I reckon you should be fine to just go generic and get them from a bearing place. I doubt you would get oem parts for something that old and american here in Aus.
It will help a bit with the turning but most of that is the lack of steering lock the greenfield's were capable of, a few mods in the steering department will go a long way too.
Many thanks Max and Nath for the replies and info.
Max, there seems to be a bit of thought put into that one youve posted from Gumtree, although the execution seems to be a bit lacking. Lots of short cuts taken by the looks.
I dare say it'd be fun to ride though.
nath, thanks mate for the info! The steering comment was a bit of a "tongue in cheek" comment. The last tractor i picked up already either has the steering modified OR was improved from the factory? It looks to be factory. Ill post pics up later.
I also removed the gearbox (with no intention of using it) i thought it would be handy to keep. Not sure if it is a sought after part but it looks to be in great condition.
With today being my first weekend in months that i didn't have to work, i found myself busier than normal? I did manage a few hours in the shed though.
With the Tractor i recently picked up, it was time to pressure clean the creepy crawly's out and start to strip it down.
I was really impressed in the overall condition of the chassis. It didn't show the usual dents, bent bits and wear that others ive looked at have.
To my surprise, the usual steering mod had already been completed. Bonus.
The deck was in excellent condition and everything just looks solid. A great base and starting point for the ProjectX monster.
First task is to fit the MTD rear axle assembly. Something i think maybe a little more difficult than first thought, but not impossible. Once this is setup, the front end will be tackled with new spindles and steering set up. I will make the spindles much like go-cart spindles, but will be based measurement wise around how the rear end sits.
Happy to make a start, albeit a small one. Progress is progress.
Work and family life has slowed down the progress on the project somewhat. This weekend i should be able to get a few things done.
I've started stripping the rear axle assembly, 30 odd years has this thing stuck firm together. A lot of penatrine, soaking time and also heat seen a start to disassembly. Will post some more pics of it broken down soon.
Also..I've decided to run a twin rather than a 4cyl. This is mainly due to physical size. The twin will still see the old square peg, round hole type issues BUT i feel this will better suit my end result better anyway.
That or opt for a late model, single cylinder, elec start engine. Ninja or CB250.
I've currently decided on a Hyosung engine, twin configuration, elec start etc. These also seem affordable and readily available with complete running bikes being under $1000. Exactly what i need.
I managed to pick this one up for $15, not a go'er but perfect to use for making the required mountings and initial install etc.
Chassis extension and rear axle set up is first priority and that will be tackled this weekend. Also a general chassis tidy up, removing any unwanted brackets and tabs etc, flapper disc and primer in required spots etc etc.
I'm also now on the hunt for another reasonably priced tractor for parts. Mainly body panels, alloy nose cone etc.