I have an Ariens riding mower model # 960460010. When either front wheel is pointing straight forward, the other is pointed outward a couple of inches. Drag links and spindles look unbent or damaged. They are non adjustable. The steering shaft, with steering wheel removed, seems to have a little play in it, but looks to be engaging the steering toothed assembly adequately. A little play also in steering wheel when installed. Anyone have ideas on what is wrong? Thanks!
I have the same problem with an Ariens I just purchased used. I haven't completed the modification yet, but the parts are on order. The cheesy welded pan front axle is notorious on riding mowers for being weak and flex/bending for no apparent reason. Ariens axles in CAST IRON are hard to find, but as the mower's manufactured by Husqvarna, I'm taking a bit of a chance and ordering a cast axle for a similar sized and looking Husky. I'm also getting the pivot bushings and the wheel axle bushings, as any play or wear on these will add to the sloppy, out-toed problem. My stuff was purchased on e-bay and totaled about $80. For your info, these are the Husqvarna part numbers that I ordered:
Cast Axle: 532 195968
Pivot Bushings: 532 194737
Wheel Bushings: Didn't have a no., but they're just plastic sleeves and appear pretty universal.
Good Luck. If all fits, it should permanently fix the problem.