Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 180 steering and gearbox, cotter pin, deck components

Question
My steering wheel will only allow me to turn to the right.  When I turn to the right the steering wheel just free spins and the wheels don't turn

In addition 3rd and 5th gears don't work right as they buck when I am in those gears.  The others work fine.

I spent over $800 in the last two years fixing electrical and mower deck issues.

Is it worth fixing or do I call it quits.

Answer
Hello Paul:

1- As for Being Worth Fixing? That is a Question Only you can Answer. I have Found JD to be Highly Reliable Machines and Most of my Customers with the JD Mowers will Spend as Much as $1000.00us to Replace the Engines because the Body and Frame and Deck Components are in Good Condition. 2- The Cause for the Bucking in 4th and 5th Gears is a Tooth is Broken Inside the Transmission that Engages 4th and 5th Gears. As for the Steering, Check the Steering Gear, Steering Shaft Gear and the Steering Gear Support. Use the Breakdown at the Site Addy I will Provide and you can Locate the Worn Part. Usually the Support is Loose or the Compression Spring and Cotter Pin have Fallen Off the Steering Shaft. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Find. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John