Category:
        
        
            Garden Tractor / Compact Utility Tractor
        
     
    
        
            Intended User:
        
        
            Homeowners with larger properties, small farms, and landscape professionals.
        
     
    
    
        
            Competitors:
        
        
            Cub Cadet, John Deere (relevant series), Simplicity, Snapper.
        
     
    
    
        
            Durability:
        
        
            Known for robust construction and reliable performance in demanding conditions.
        
     
    
        
            Versatility:
        
        
            Capable of powering a wide range of attachments for mowing, tilling, snow removal, and material handling.
        
     
    
        
            Engine Power:
        
        
            Typically equipped with powerful gasoline engines suitable for substantial tasks.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine:
        
        
            Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of engine components, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, lubrication system, cooling system.
        
     
    
        
            Transmission:
        
        
            Repair and adjustment of hydrostatic transmission, gearbox, differential, drive shafts, PTO engagement.
        
     
    
        
            Hydraulics:
        
        
            Service and troubleshooting of hydraulic system, including pumps, cylinders, valves, hoses, and fluid maintenance.
        
     
    
        
            Electrical:
        
        
            Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting of electrical systems, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, ignition system (if applicable).
        
     
    
        
            Steering:
        
        
            Adjustment and repair of steering mechanisms, tie rods, steering shafts, and linkages.
        
     
    
        
            Brakes:
        
        
            Service and adjustment of braking system components, including brake pedals, linkages, and brake mechanisms.
        
     
    
        
            Chassis Frame:
        
        
            Inspection and repair of frame components, front axle, rear axle, and mounting points.
        
     
    
        
            Front Axle:
        
        
            Service and adjustment of front axle assembly, kingpins, wheel bearings, and steering knuckles.
        
     
    
        
            Fuel System:
        
        
            Maintenance of fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters, and carburetor (if applicable).
        
     
    
        
            Cooling System:
        
        
            Maintenance and repair of cooling system components, including radiator, hoses, and thermostat.
        
     
    
        
            Exhaust System:
        
        
            Inspection and replacement of muffler and exhaust components.
        
     
    
        
            Body Panels:
        
        
            Removal, installation, and adjustment of hood, fenders, and instrument panel.
        
     
    
        
            Operator Station:
        
        
            Service of seat, controls, and dashboard components.
        
     
    
    
        
            Routine Maintenance:
        
        
            Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, greasing, air cleaner service, battery maintenance.
        
     
    
        
            Preventative Maintenance:
        
        
            Scheduled checks and adjustments to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
        
     
    
        
            Troubleshooting:
        
        
            Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common issues and malfunctions.
        
     
    
        
            Repair Procedures:
        
        
            Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation with detailed torque specifications.
        
     
    
        
            Diagnostic Testing:
        
        
            Methods for testing component functionality and identifying faults within various systems.
        
     
    
        
            Specifications Data:
        
        
            Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data for accurate repairs.
        
     
    
    
        
            Depth:
        
        
            Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
        
     
    
        
            Detail Level:
        
        
            Detailed exploded views, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY users.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Type:
        
        
            Gasoline, typically single or twin-cylinder OHV (Overhead Valve) air-cooled engines.
        
     
    
        
            Manufacturer Common:
        
        
            Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, Onan (depending on specific 260 series sub-model and year).
        
     
    
        
            Displacement Range:
        
        
            Approximately 16 to 30+ cubic inches (260cc to 500cc+) based on common configurations for this series.
        
     
    
        
            Horsepower Range:
        
        
            Typically 10 to 20 HP, with variations across the 260 series.
        
     
    
    
        
            Torque Characteristics:
        
        
            Designed for good low-end torque to handle heavy loads and demanding applications.
        
     
    
    
        
            Fuel Type:
        
        
            Unleaded Gasoline
        
     
    
        
            Carburetion:
        
        
            Typically carburetor-fed, with specific models potentially featuring electronic fuel injection in later iterations or specific models.
        
     
    
        
            Fuel Pump:
        
        
            May use gravity feed or an integrated fuel pump, depending on tank placement and engine requirements.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Wheelbase:
        
        
            Varies by specific 260 Series model, typically around 50-60 inches.
        
     
    
        
            Length:
        
        
            Varies by specific 260 Series model, often in the 70-80 inch range (without attachments).
        
     
    
        
            Width:
        
        
            Varies by specific 260 Series model, typically 45-55 inches (without attachments).
        
     
    
    
        
            Shipping Weight Estimate:
        
        
            Approximately 500-800 lbs, depending on configuration.
        
     
    
        
            Operating Weight Estimate:
        
        
            Can exceed 1000 lbs with attachments and fluids.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Change:
        
        
            Typically every 50-100 operating hours, or annually, depending on usage and oil type.
        
     
    
        
            Air Filter Service:
        
        
            Check and clean every 25-50 hours; replace as needed, or annually.
        
     
    
        
            Fuel Filter Replacement:
        
        
            Recommended annually or every 100-200 hours.
        
     
    
        
            Hydrostatic Oil Change:
        
        
            Typically every 100-200 operating hours, or every 1-2 years, depending on manufacturer recommendations.
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Type:
        
        
            SAE 30W or 10W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ or higher), depending on ambient temperature. Consult manual for specific engine recommendations.
        
     
    
        
            Hydrostatic Transmission Fluid:
        
        
            Specific hydro fluid (e.g., Toro Hydro-Trans Fluid, or equivalent) or SAE 20W-50 motor oil may be specified depending on the transmission model. Crucial to use correct fluid.
        
     
    
        
            Hydraulic Fluid:
        
        
            ISO VG 46 Hydraulic Oil or equivalent if separate hydraulic system is present.
        
     
    
        
            Grease Type:
        
        
            Lithium-based multi-purpose grease NLGI #2.
        
     
    
    
        
            Hydrostatic Transmission Wear:
        
        
            Common wear item on older tractors, can lead to loss of drive power or erratic operation. Requires proper fluid and filter maintenance.
        
     
    
        
            Deck Spindle Bearings:
        
        
            Can wear out from heavy use, causing vibration and affecting cut quality.
        
     
    
        
            Carburetor Clogging:
        
        
            Can occur from stale fuel or debris, leading to hard starting or poor running.
        
     
    
        
            Electrical Connector Corrosion:
        
        
            Outdoor equipment is susceptible to corrosion in electrical connectors, causing intermittent issues.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Manufacturer:
        
        
            Toro Company, known for outdoor power equipment.
        
     
    
        
            Wheelhorse Legacy:
        
        
            Wheel Horse was a significant brand in the garden tractor market, acquired by Toro in 1986, continuing its legacy of durable and capable machines.
        
     
    
    
        
            Series Development:
        
        
            The 200 series represented a strong offering in the mid-size garden tractor segment, often featuring upgraded engines and transmissions compared to smaller models.
        
     
    
        
            Production Years Approx:
        
        
            The 260 series likely saw production across the late 1980s through the 1990s and potentially into the early 2000s, with variations in engine and features.