Congrats on the 1811! One of the best GT's cub built, IMHO.
Yes, the blower is heavy, you need 30psi in the front tires to carry it. No, you can't steer with it down, you have to lift it a little. If you can't push it, you need service the hydrostat on the tractor, it should push it fine. No, they don't lift very high, just they way they are. Good luck!
