Terry_Hart Posted February 16, 2009 Posted February 16, 2009 I just traded my 1982 AC 716H for a 1996 Sovereign 18 hp. It has a Kohler 18 twin and hydraulic lift. Seems like a newer version of what I had. There doesn't seem to be much information on these? Is there anything out there like there is for the older tractors? Any opinions on this machine, motor? Thanks
1969nicholas Posted February 16, 2009 Posted February 16, 2009 I have a 1995 sovereign and its a nice machine very happy with.(power steering is great)I have the Kohler CH18 overhead valve engine and I am very pleased with it to.The only bad thing with the last of the sovereigns is the kohler overhead cam engine.The had allot of problems with them.I would use caution.(If that's whats on the tractor)I have had the sickle bar and rototiller and grader blade and more then I could think of on my new Sovereign.I have a 1969 sovereign and a 1973 3416 and a 1989 7116H sovereign and the new one works just like the old ones still do. nick
Roy Posted February 16, 2009 Posted February 16, 2009 Terry, The Large Frame Repair Manual covers the latest, and last, Sovereigns made. A separate parts manual is also available. They should be available through the Simplicity Technical Publications (now B & S). You will need to know the Manufacturing Number for your tractor. Link to Publications is: "http://www.simplicitymfg.com/manuals/" You are OK and have a great tractor if the engine is a Kohler Command OHV. Expect problems is the engine is a Kohler Triad OHC. Edit: Added link.
Terry_Hart Posted February 17, 2009 Author Posted February 17, 2009 Thanks Roy it is a Kohler Command 18. Hopefully it will run as well and the old singles did. I really like the hydraulic lift. Does anyone know how the power steering works on these? Thanks
1969nicholas Posted February 17, 2009 Posted February 17, 2009 Terry I put the power steering on my Sovereign.The parts are still available from Simplicity but its big money.The manual Roy gave you the link to should show you the info you need and its a big help.I used serial 1692798 and went on the Simplicity technical publications witch is on this site.Well I down loaded all the manuals and and went from there.I watched for Sunstars on eBay for used power steering parts.I got my steering cylinder and steering unit there.The later Sun Stars with power steering used same cylinder and steering unit.I had to buy the top consule and a new steering wheel and all the brackets that help support everything.I made a the hydraulic lines my self.( I am a diesel mechanic so I have resources)Its a big challenge but a very nice option and well worth it when you are done.I am here if you decide to do it.I am more then happy to help. nick
Roy Posted February 17, 2009 Posted February 17, 2009 My Sovereign PS is great; unless you want make a quick/sudden turn. Then it "lags" (momentarily binds/locks up) just when you need it most. :(
Terry_Hart Posted February 20, 2009 Author Posted February 20, 2009 The power steering sounds pretty interesting! I ma look into that in the fall. Thanks
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