Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): JD L130 steer reassmbly, tie rods, steering wheel

Question
John,

I have a JD L130 lawn tractor I bought at a Home Depot in 2004.  The front wheels had a bad toe-in problem, so I replaced one of the wheel spindles that was worn out and replaced the bearings on both the front wheels.  I also had to replace the front axle, which had broken right in two.  I also I put on new adjustable type tie rods and then reassembled the steering plate and flywheel fan. At that point the front wheels had good alignment with each other.  But when I try to drive it the kingpin becomes disengaged from the fan teeth.
At that point I noticed when I tighten the two bolts that hold the fan that the kingpin is then engaged very well with the teeth. But when I do that, it is very hard to turn the steering wheel since the bolts holding the flywheel are so tight.  I presume they have to have some looseness to them? But when I loosen the nuts a little again, the kingpin gets disengaged.

What should I check/do to keep the kingpin in its right position?

Doug

Answer
Hello Doug:

>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers L130 and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>From your Description it Sounds like the Bushings (#27 Part #GX20054) that are Located on these 2 Bolts (#28 Part #19M7835) are Worn Out and Require Replacing.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John