I am having major steering problem with my 1996 John Deer LT133 lawn tractor. I have oiled and greased all the linkage connections many times but it is still very hard to steer. I would like to convert the linkage to a ball and joint type if possible. Does anyone know where I could order the linkage components to install into my lawn tractor?

Hi,
To my knowledge only a few things cause an LT to steer hard and will lead to large problems if not corrected. The first is the breaking of bolt #24 which allows the front axle to pivot into the wrong position. A second is the bending of the area that bolt goes through, which is rare. Either can be verified by standing a few feet away from the machine to the side and in line with the axle. It will appear to pivot rearward at the bottom, and the front edge of the deck will be lowered.
The third is improper lubrication at fitting #11 on each side. Rust will bind the pivots. A rare other is the bending of either or both links #18 and/or #19.
Replacement of the affected parts cures all but the third. For it an axle, or possibly jacking the machine above the ground, removing the wheels/tires, heating the pivot areas and forcing grease into the areas. It may take more than one heating. Working the steering repeatedly between to check progress. Replacing the two fittings may be required if they are clogged.
If not remedied, the segment gear weldment assemby #13 and the steering shafe #10 will both strip. That is an expensive job with about $200 worth of parts and may still require the axle.
The bolt named first is what I would check first as it occurs of the STXs and LTs.
Peace,
Clarke

Check the front spindles part # 23 the grease will harden , making it hard to turn , when you raise it off the ground remove the bars 18 and 19 and spray some penetrating oil down on the spindles until yhey work freely ,
Luck

check the front spindles part # 23 the grease will harden , making it hard to turn , when you raise it off the ground remove the bars 18 and 19 and spray some penetrating oil down on the spindles until yhey work freely ,
LuckT

Thanks for the info
After taking the steering components apart I discovered that the #8 bushing was worn in the direction that allowed the shaft and gear #10 to slip or bind. Where can I purchase a new #8 replacement bushing?

Hi,
It is a #M146545 bushing(as John Deere) and would be available from a Deere dealer. Should you not have one, or one you like(it happens) then try online at:
John Deere Steering Shaft Bushing - M146545 (http://www.greenpartstore.com/John-Deere-Steering-Shaft-Bushing--M146545_p_2930.html)
Who also supplies many useful Deere info sheets on various machines, or:
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/part-number/M146545/0071/750
Who has in recent years done an admirable job of supplying info and parts for brands they do not carry.
Peace,
Clarke