Read my "216 Randomly slows down" thread for some fun with variators.

 

I did read that thread. It looks like it is just a matter of clean it, new belts and springs and grease the sheeve? (I think that is the term) Anything that should be a case of Oh no, steer clear of that tractor?

 

Sticky variators are common if they aren't lubricated enough. Just bring some WD-40 and a cloth. If you drown the dual pulley, the belts will slip and the tractor won't move an inch.

 

If the center sheave is sloppy, you will also have issues. It should slide easily, (no belts on) but shouldn't 'wiggle' on the hub.

 

Are parts availble for it, or is it scrounging for used parts? If the Sheave or the pullies are bad?

 

He says it works fine at first and then causes problems after running for a while, it sticks.

 

He wants $300 for the tractor is worth picking up? Other than the variator, he says the starter going. I am not worried about that because I have a guy localy that can rebuild it. He says it runs great dosn't smoke. What do you guys think?

 

300 is a fair price and the starter is a no brainer,simple to fix,.Most likely will need new belts on the variator and free it up and you will have a nice tractor.

 

I can't think of a better $300 tractor for towing and pushing snow. If it comes with a mower deck and blade for that price that is more than fair.

 

Comes with a deck no blade. I am just hoping to find one on Craig's list alOng the way. For now it would be cart hauler and mowing.