Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): steering problem, toro wheelhorse, new shaft

Question
Hi Eric!  I have a Toro Wheelhorse 210-5 lawn tractor.  The steering was slipping, so I removed the steering shaft and noticed that it was deeply gouged where the sector gear meshes.  I bought a new steering shaft and replaced the old one, but after twenty minutes of operation, the steering started slipping again.  The new shaft is already showing signs of minor gouging.  What's the problem?  Is it the eccentric bushing? The model number for the machine is 32-10b501.  
Thanks for your help,
Seth

Answer
I would check the eccentric bushing as well as the steering shaft bushing along with the mounting plate.  Something has to be wore or cracked.

You may have to remove all the parts and clean really well to remove all dirt/grease to complete a good visual inspection.

Let me know what you find.

Eric