Cap-steering Whl 731-04681

There was one bolt. The steering wheel came off easily and the one bolt was all that was needed. I snapped on the logo cap and that was it.

Removing the old steering parts was no difficult. Getting some parts was a bit tight behind the engine. Had the tractor on jack stands so I could get under it. Downloaded the parts diagram and used it to reinstall the parts once they arrived. Centered the front wheels and steering wheel, tightened all parts and finished.

It is a good idea to take pictures as you disassemble the mower to make sure you remember the routing of the lines and throttle cable.
1. Remove the mower deck, this is a good time to clean it and replace/sharpen the blades.
2. Remove the steering wheel, the dashboard and crossover brace.
3.Remove the large Philips scr ... Read more ew in the bottom of the steering shaft.
4. Drain and remove the gas tank. The phillips in the bottom of the steering shaft may require heat to break it loose. The fuel tank is far enough away from the nut that it will not be a problem. If you remove and drain the tank first you could spill fuel which might be a problem if you need a torch to loosen the phillips screw.
5. Remove the steering shaft and lower bearing.
6. Install new bearing and coat it with a layer of Anti-Seize.
7. After ensuring the front wheels are straight ahead, install the steering shaft.
8. Coat the large Philips head screw with anti-seize and install it in the bottom of the steering shaft.
9. Reverse the steps required to install the gas tank, crossover brace and dash panel.
10. Coat the top of the steering shaft with anti-seize and install the steering wheel.
11. Before installing the mower deck, fire up the mower and drive it a short distance to test the steering, there should be enough gas in the flat bowl for a minute or two of engine running.
12. If every thing seems good, double check all bolts and screws are tight. Don\'t forget the large Philips under the mower.
13. Reinstall the deck, check the height adjustment.
14. Put on your hearing protection and cut grass.
If you do not service the deck and/or replace the blades, this should only take about two hours, less if you rush it. This is no problem if you have basic tools and skills. A mower lift might be helpful, but is not necessary.