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.

We are in our busy season [swimming pool construction] and I have not gotten back over there. I hope they havn't hired someone to haul everything off. A co-worker said there are companies that do just that. It's in Richland Hills Texas rdaystrom, so a bit far from PA. I may be going over there this afternoon, and if It's still there I will take pics with the digital camera. Im sure some of you guys would know instantly if you saw a picture.

It's not splined. Problem is that it has probably rusted tight. Try some penetrating oil. If that doesn't work, try a puller. You might have to cut the center out of the wheel so the puller can press against the shaft. Last resort is a torch to heat it.

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.