149 steering failure
 

the first mow of last season the steering on my cub 149 broke. i haven't had the time to look at it ......but here's what it does: the steering turns all the way to the left and spins freely so that it can't be returned. this all happened while i've been out of town working so i really don't know how this happened......i suspect that while my teenage son could be a factor, it's most like due to wear and tear and tractor age. what should i be looking for when i look into this? the streering has always had play in it, but i'm told by other cub owners that it was less than most old tractors. all of the ball joints have been replaced after one on the left tie rod broke. i have a feeling that the problem is in the steering box. any advice and pics would be much appreciated.

You'll need to rebuild the box, there's a good write up somewhere to help.
Try this one
http://cubfaq.com/steeringrebuild.html

I would try adjusting the follower stud first. Loosen the jam nut on the side of the gear box, then turn the stud in with a flat blade screwdriver until it contacts the worm gear. back off a hair and see if that works. tighten the jam nut. Might get you working again until you have time for a complete rebuild.

If the steering wheel spins "freely", it sounds like the follower has backed out/loose?

Thank you guys! Exactly what I was looking for. I love my old cub, but I'm not a mechanic. Hoping this will be another successful rehab for the old beast.