yes, just like ZTR you have control of back wheels(which may take some getting use to) and the both pull. But, still top heavy so the slop can't be as steep as zero turns IMO which have lower center of gravity. IMO other than that should be about same as zero turns features.

About beating on the shaft with a hammer: Be advised that if you strike the threaded end of the shaft repeatedly, you may damage the threads. The old tried and true trick in a situation like this is to leave the nut in place on the end of the threaded portion so that the nut is exactly flush or even with the end of the shaft threads. This will held prevent a mis-aimed blow from wiping out threads as well as help keep "mushrooming" to a minimum. Since you are already beating with a hammer, try this additionally: If you can enlist a helper, one person should STAND UP on the floorboard and pull upward with both hands (left and right hands at opposite hours of the clock) while the other person strikes the shaft or the jack bolt of the puller. With the nut in place, only a slight reaction to the person doing the pulling will be felt when the steering wheel lets go (without the nut it could turn into a backward somersault). If you are only able to work alone, try to sit on the seat and hook your knees under the rim of the steering wheel and then lift up with your feet while you strike the target spot.

As long as your friend didn't bugger things up too much, these aren't too hard to work on, but are expensive for parts. Tractor was made for Sears by Murray. Transaxle is a conventional Peerless 930 (930-042) with special axle shafts. Sears and others say NLA, but others offer for around $400. The U-joint (320531MA) and the Hub (12280E701MA) are each around $100. Some of the other parts are available show NLA from Sears, but others may have them. Cheapest fix might be to find a donor tractor for parts, or convert to a conventional 930 transaxle with long axles and go to two wheel steering. Transaxle mounts to frame the same, and with new wheels on end of shaft you should be good to go.

If the tire was not balanced or is out of balance that could cause the steering wheel to shake.I had a Buick Regal 1994 it had struts not shocks.