Yea, nice tractor and set up! Maybe use the 1811 for the winter, read up and investigate what all is involved with the leaks in the hydro pump. Also, if splitting the tractor, you could give the two halves a good, deserved degreasing and cleaning!
Real nice tractor!!!
edit: As for the steering resistance, for me it's no problem. However, a necker knob on the steering wheel will be a cheep and effective way to steer! I plan on adding one to my 1450 !