Old yardman tractor metal wearing

I've got a really old yardman yard tractor, mid-80's I believe. The old girl runs and mows wonderfully. The steering has a metal rod connected to both front wheels for turning. This rod goes into a hole in the linkage on both sides, secured by a cotter pin and washer. After many years, that hole(s) has enlarged greatly causing sloppy steering. Is it possible to obtain bushings of some sort to insert in the hole to tighten this up? I hate to think of this being the killer of this great old mower that's caused me zero issues the past 20 years.
I appreciate any advise.

 

Find a washer that fits the linkage well, then weld it over the hole.

 

Great idea, if only I could weld. Maybe my neighbor can do it.

 

Sometimes bushings can be made from brass, stainless or steel tubing by cutting a short piece of tubing to fit over the rod. Also, many home centers and auto parts stores have a plastic bushing section in their hardware dept. I recall seeing some flanged plastic bushings at my local Lowes that might work depending on the size of your rod and hole.

 

Great, thanks much! That's the answer I hoped i'd get. I'll remove the rod and take it to big box store.
I can't help but brag on my old mower. I've watched neighbors go thru 3 or 4 mowers while I still have ol' red. If someone offered to give me a brand new one in swap for mine, I'd send 'em packing.