GT235: Can I convert the hand lift to a foot lift?

15 years ago

Question:

Can I convert the hand implement lift to a foot lift?

This GT235 is the "E" model with the two electric outlets including the generator. The outlets would still be acessible with the foot lift in the lowered position.

The foot lift is more convenient than the hand lift.

Thanks!

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Comments (4)

johntommybob
15 years ago
Short answer: I don't know, But as my contractor brother-in-law use to say: "you can do anything if you have enough money".

But I wonder why you want or need to? I have a GT225 that has the same hand lever as the GT235 and I don't mind using it at all. I use it a lot as there are things in my yard (roots mostly) that I don't want to mow over at a lower setting. So I just raise the deck as I pass over them.

I have sit on a newer machine and tried the foot lift and admit it works good, but I doubt that is the chief reason they changed over to it. I bet it is cheaper to make. It must have reduced the amount of steel needed by 2/3.
engine_tech
15 years ago
No you can't. But...the lift assist spring is adjustable so you can adjust how much force you need on the lever to lift the attachment. The adjusting bolt is at the front of the frame on the LH side.
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cjsm5nys
Original Author
15 years ago
Well, thanks for the feedback! I was hoping I would be able to convert the hand to the foot lift. I just think with the foot lift there would little chance of branches and other stuff getting in the way when mowing.

Anyone use the tiller or blade with the hand lift?

I would be using both.

Thanks
marineguy
15 years ago
I think it would be easier to shorten the handle and lock pin than to modify your tractor for a foot-lift. Of course you'll have to pull a little harder, with less leverage.
Or if you're feeling really creative, you could fabricate some sheet metal (or fiberglass) to modify the hood into some kind of miniature orchard tractor, so it will push the branches away from snagging parts. That might actually look pretty cool.

Actually, now that I look at the parts diagrams, it seems entirely possible to convert from a lever lift to a foot lift. It looks like you'd need to buy all the parts from the foot lift to the jackshaft, which isn't a lot. The jackshaft has a different part number between the two systems, but looks identical. Then you'd have to buy the latch rod and retainer assembly. And finally you'd need to buy a new dash panel which has an extra latch (like the parking brake latch) to hold the deck up. I bet this would cost you at least $400 in parts.
The GT235E is a really unique tractor, with the inverter buit in. I think in the future it will be quite collectable. I'd do it.
Let us know how it turns out.

Here is a link that might be useful: deere parts website

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GT235: Can I convert the hand lift to a foot lift?

Comments (4)

johntommybob

engine_tech

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GT235: Can I convert the hand lift to a foot lift?

Comments (4)

johntommybob

engine_tech

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marineguy

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cjsm5nys
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