L175,L185 Steering Box in an L285

[Yzr1]

I have an L285 and am having trouble sourcing reasonable new Steering Boxes for it. I note that the L175 Steering box appears readily available and reasonably priced but don't know how its bolt pattern and shaft length compare to the L285.
Has anyone out there dropped the L175 Steering box into an L285 or could offer the "bolt to frame" pattern measurements and Steering column (box housing to Steering wheel seal) length?

Any other hints/suggestions would be helpful. I am going to pull and inspect the unit first, but it appears to have been beaten on and abused.

tku
Yzr1

 

[shootem604]

Given the similarity between the L185 and the L245 you may be able to find more options. Try the Messicks parts finder and check part numbers - it will show what tractors they were used on. Then try West Kentucky Tractor Parts, or get in touch with Lance on here for a replacement. Maybe start with Lance, the guy is a prince - sent me parts, won't reply to emails for info on paying him.

 

[Dave_eng]

I looked on Messicks and the steering box for the L285 is only listed for two models of L285. No other model. I think a new box is $1,400.

Dave

 

[Oil pan 4]

I have my broken L185 steering box sitting next to the drive way I can take measures.
Internally it's wrecked, but externally it's intact.

 

[Yzr1]

I'll check out the links, thanks to everyone.

I believe I am going to rebuild my current box.

What I have discovered is that the L175,L285 box is slightly smaller, the output shaft sits 2 to 3" lower and is small. Therefore it won't fit the existing pitman arm without shims and some monkeying around. The steering column is shorter, I would guess around 2 to 2 1/2" and the steering shaft itself is a smaller diameter. Additionally, the L285, which is beefier, uses 1/4 ball bearings on a larger shaft with larger rings. L175 uses 5.5mm ball bearings on a smaller shaft with smaller teeth.
Surprisingly, The L175, L285 box can be made to work with the L285, but the bottom of the box where it meets the chasis will need some sort of gasket to seal and the steering wheel will be very close to the dashboard of the Tractor. It should work, but, may need a large washer and a good test fit. Its much closer than the stock L285 by about and inch or two. Lastly, it is lighter and will be easier to break, so you can't strong arm it as much as the L285 box.

Last, It has become apparent that this entire issue to due to the design flaw in these Kubota series which allow water to enter the Steering Column and collect into the Steering Box. Apparently, the oil will sit on top of the water which collects at the bottom of the box and allow the main bearing to rust and destroy istself. This then allows the steering shaft to move around releasing the ball bearings in the steering nut and it all goes to pot.