Welcome to the consequences of a free market economy.
IT costs an extra $ 50 to put adjustable tie rod ends on a ride on mower .
So to be able to convince you to buy it they are left off because all that is important to owners is getting the cheapest possible price.
Now you have 3 choices.
1) seek out an independent supplier of adjustable after market parts
2) cut off the ends of your drag links, thread them and fit an adjustable tie rod end
3) replace the rods, usually both will need replacing.
John Deere made two versions of the STX38. They made one with a black deck and one with a yellow deck. (I personally have a yellow deck machine, but have worked on both versions alot over the years here at the dealership)
They are mostly similar, yet different.
The yellow deck tractor only came with a 5 speed transmission. The mower deck was better built than the black deck and had better bearings, etc.
The black deck tractor had the option of 5 speed or hydro transmission. The black mower deck shell was a little thinner than the yellow deck and had cheaper parts on it.
Regarding the steering, I can only find a listing for adjustable tierods for the black deck machine. The part number is AM123393.
It says you only need 1 so I am assuming this kit will do both sides. For a list price of $132, it better do both sides!
If your tractor has the yellow mower deck, I dont know if this kit will work or not. I can't find a listing for adjustable tierods for the yellow deck machine.
**On these tractors, usually I find the front axle center pivot is worn or cracking, and the weight of the front deck links pulling on the axle will affect the toe-in. The axle is about $400 new though so I would definitely be looking for a good used one. Hope this info helps. Good luck!
