I have a cub cadet 1863 with only 320 hours. I bought it recently and noticed the steering is loose. It takes up to 1/3 of a turn of the wheel (approx.) before I see the wheels move. It will turn both directions before I see the wheels move in either direction. Once they begin to move, the steering is tight and even; it's just the play before the wheels move that it driving me crazy. Is this an adjustment in the steering box, the column or what. The tractor was serviced last fall by the previous owner ( I have copy of all receipts) and they didn't remark about it on the service check-up.

Is this an inherent quality of the cub or something I should look into and is it a service repair or a part replacement issue? Otherwise, the tractor is in excellent condition, the hydro is perfect, the motor starts and runs great, pleased with it all except the steering, TIA for any help...

There's a nut on the side of the gear box that looks like it has a threaded screw going through it loosen the nut and run thescrew in a little until the play goes away do not over tighten.
Luck