I have an older circa 1987 16 hp 6 speed 44" ride on mower. One of the tie rod ends keeps dropping down from the steering plate where the 2 tie rods are under the steering plate or bellcrank as the part is called in the parts manual. Not sure on the best remedy I was able to push it back in but it will not stay for long any suggestions will be appreciated. Can't locate a repair guide for this unit.

Hi,
Replace the tie rod end if it has a replaceable end and the whole thing if not. No other good solution as it is worn out on that end.
Peace,
Clarke

Go purchase some replaceable tie-rod ends suitable for your weight mower.

Take your entire tie-rod assembly and the new ends to your local machine shop or any shop with some welding skills.

Tell them you want them to cut off the ends of your tie-rod and weld on some bolts that you can screw the new tie-rod ends onto.

Make sure the measurements are close so the adjustments are close enough to suit your mower so the ends can be screwed in or out to get your toe in or toe out set correctly on your mower.

And Walla! Yo have a tie-rod with replaceable ends!

BTW this can also be done with a drag-link on many lawn tractors too. :)