March 2016: Amigo

Just finished this Garden Tractor so I'll throw it into the mix. This AMIGO had been sitting in a machine shed about a mile from my home. Didn't have a clue there was one of these anywhere in the state let alone that close. It was offered to a friend who bought it and he then offered it to me.

 

This AMIGO came to me in pretty sad shape. The trans/axle cover had been off of it for quite a while. Luckily we were able to find the cover and seat. The engine was missing and the tires were flat. It took a lot of cleaning inside and out. After determining that it would still be functional I replaced bearings, seals, and bushings. The guys at a local mower shop fixed me up with an engine that would bolt right to the driveshaft and original mounting holes.

 

From that point it was a matter of grinding, sanding, cleaning, and painting. This thing is fun to drive. There are no pedals, belts, or chains. You just pick a range and move a lever for direction and choice of speed. It has independent rear brakes which help spin it around in a tight turning radius. The direction control acts like a hydrastat and you really don't need the brakes to stop, just pull the lever back into neutral and reverse.

 

I am looking forward to riding this unit in the local parades, and shows. That is if I don't lose it to the Grandkids. Rick