Converting a foot hydro to a hand hydro

[epic6500sr]

I have a Grandpa who has had 7 strokes, he can't use his right foot. Therefore he can't use a foot hydro because to my knowledge the pedels are all on the right side. My question is, is there any way to convert a John Deere GT235 to a hand hydro with a lever on the right fender. He currently has an L100 just because of its gear drive, but it is too small because he cuts 4.5 acres. Please help me

 

[RonR]

My wife has limited use of her right leg. I was contemplating doing a mod to make a hand level for her to use.

If I were making one, I'd get a marine type throttle or gear controller. But one thing I think would be prudent would be to make it spring loaded such that if you took your hand off of it, it would return to Neutral.

The other option would be to attach a rod to the Hydro pedal if you have the deck space and travel space for it.

My two cents.
ron

 

[Spiffy]

Do you already have the 235 or you looking to buy a new one? Not planning on using for tilling [or other ground engaging] I presume?

The reason I ask: the GT235 I'm thinking of is around a $5K machine. Ok, here's the part where I can be a broken record [but I admit it up front /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif]. For 5K you get into the commercial grade ZTRs. Actually, right at 5K are a lot of transition machines, but if the territory can do with a 12gage deck instead of 7 or perhaps integrated pumps instead of component systems: good values there too. Getting into the 5's you start getting true commercial grade...after that, the sky's the limit - both on features and price!

Joystick or twin hand controls....less mowing time (1/3 to 2/3 less depending upon obstacles; the more obstacles, the more you'll appreciate the Zturn)...and the only foot issue you need to avoid is some brands have right foot assisted lift!

Of course; if you already have the garden tractor, I say go for it! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Good Luck!

 

[TheKid]

My old neighbor was a double amputee so all of his mowers were converted to hand controls. He'd mount a bracket to the clutch/brake pedal, connect that to the hand lever which was mounted on the floor, or fender depending on the mower he had at the time. The attachment might make this a little clearer.

 

[Dutch445]

I just came across this post,,, or else I would have answered earlier..
there is a kit to do what you want:

The cruise control lever can be easily and inexpensively converted to a hand control for the hydrostatic transmission. It is ideal for customers who need or prefer hand control.

The part number is BM19690

I believe it's around 30 bucks..

/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif