Wobbly Steering Wheel Shaft: Cub Cadet 149

[CubbyLover2021]

Hi all!

I have the opportunity to buy a one owner 149. After going look at it and test driving it, the only issue I noticed was the steering wheel shaft had a lot of play in it, it's wobbly is the best I can explain. It still steered fine and didn't cause and driveability issues but I'm curious how involved the fix is.

My dad said he remembers some person years ago telling him if his 147 steering shaft got wobbly, to run a screw/bolt through it. Not sure this is the best fix. I don't know much about these mowers, but it almost seems like a bushing is worn.

Any insight would be great. Thanks!!

[CubbyLover2021]

My assumption is it is this bearing...

https://photos.app.goo.gl/2QFgfa28tzc62Mj88

[finsruskw]

The 2 3/8" bolts that hole the tub and steering box to the X member may be loose.

The tube itself may be loose in the box casting, after all, it's only a tight slip fit.
A short sheet metal screw there would be a temporary fix I suppose.

There should be a plastic bushing (part #2) inside the top of the tube that the actual shaft goes through that is worn badly. Replace that with a regular front wheel bearing.

Could be any one of these issues or a combination of all of them.

[ironman]

At the top of the steel steering tube that comes up through the dash, there is a plastic bushing (see pic).
It is only press fitted into the steel tube.
It can work it's way loose and slide up under the steering wheel hub.
If that is your case just slide it back down into the tube.
If it continues to come out apply some JB Weld or epoxy.

[garydee]

I seem to remember replacing the plastic bushing at the top of the tube with a flange type, ball bearing on a restoration done on my 1864 a few years ago. Cheap, easy, long lasting fix!

[CubbyLover2021]

Thanks everyone!

I'm picking it up on Thursday. I'll be sure and show some pics and a video.

Just from looking at the machine once, it feels like the bushing under the steering wheel is the culprit. It's either shifted up or degraded. I've heard the steering wheels are a real bear to remove....I know this 149 is the original owner, religiously serviced, garage kept its entire life and only did mowing on a small piece of land.

[jbrewer]

Can't wait to see some pics . Sounds like a beautiful cub!

[CubbyLover2021]

Originally Posted by jbrewer

Can't wait to see some pics . Sounds like a beautiful cub!

Here's a teaser. This is the picture from the Facebook Marketplace ad, where I found the machine.

[CubbyLover2021]

And here's one of her from behind

[ironman]

I'm curious what model mower deck that is,
Also, if you have to pull the steering wheel make yourself one of these....