Speed control handle keeps getting loose on my 129
 

Nearly every time before I use the tractor, I have to tighten the set screw with an allen wrench. It has been staying tight for increasingly shorter intervals. Do I need a new handle (IH-401388-R3) or just a set screw (IH-192454)? I believe I have the correct part # for both items. I've never actually had the handle off, and the set screw is original as well.

Any thoughts on this question? I came across both the handle and the set screw - buy both or just need one?

I have a handle that is loose on the shaft splines. I thought about adding another set screw 90* around. Never got around to it.

I have to take the handle off and see what's going on - might be able to determine better which part (or both) that it might need. This is surely not a critical issue but it's just a pain having to tighten it every time I'm done using it.

It has been 20 years since I had a 149 with this issue,,
BUT,, what I remember is,, that there is two solutions to the issue.

1) double nut the bolt that tightens the bushing,, (that is the hard way)
2) Use a nut with a nylon lock, I think it is called a nylasert nut

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon....2BzkL._AC_.jpg

2) is the easier way, but, it only lasts for a half dozen adjustments, then needs replaced,, the nylon gets loose.

OOPS, disregard,, I thought you were talking about the other end,, my bad,,

I had a 149, same issue. I drilled through the handle and shaft then tapped it.

Sam, thanks. Your plan sounds like a good idea, although from the picture I have trouble seeing all the detail. It looks like you still have the set screw in there but then am I also seeing another bolt or something sticking out on an angle (roughly pointing towards the rear of the tractor)?

Out of curiosity I did try to remove the handle - doesn't seem to want to come off. Tried tapping on it a bit with a hammer. I did have the set screw all the way out - looks ok. I always worried about the handle possibly coming too loose (and coming off) if the set screw gets too loose while driving, but I see now I don't think I'd have to worry about that! Still, I'd like to do something to have it stay tight. Do you think a new set screw would be worth a try? I'm thinking the problem is likely moreso with the handle.

I have 1/4-20 Allen screws on both sides of the speed control lever. Works much better but I do need to re- tighten the screws once in a while.

On both sides? From original or did you add something? I, too, had to tighten every so often over the past 39 years since I have it (more over probably the past 3-4 years), but now it needs it after every 2 hours of use (or less).

I imagine the splines are worn out in the handle.

If you put the set screws 180* apart, all the thrust will be on the set screws. If you can get them 90* apart, it will push what's left of one side of the handle splines into the shaft and I suspect hold much better.

FWIW, I couldn't get my handle to come off either and I didn't get too aggressive about it.

A slide hammer type puller may be what you need?