Too many many bumps against stumps. The deck has already been reshaped and rewelded once. I think that now I'll need to replace it.
Questions:
1. I can't find a model number on the deck. Either it's gone or never was there. Where would it normally be? How can I figure out the model number, without finding it on the deck?
2. Where's the best place to buy a replacement deck? used would be ok.
You will spend more money on a new deck than the mower is worth. It must be really beat up to not be able to be improved. Is it solid or have lots of holes and rust/weak spots?
Fix for decks is to get some scrap 1/2 reo bar
Weld it to the deck in the skid plate groove
Start at the rear of the discharge chute
Then heat the bar and bend it to the front of the chute and tack again
Continue in this mannar till you have encircled the entire deck
Depending upon which exact variation of the decks you have, some require a bit of grinding around the gauge wheel brackets
I probably do 2 or 3 a year like this
Once done the deck will never bend again but may rip the hanger housing off so keep your eyes on it .
Even if you have to hire an oxy set it is a worthwhile modification
You can do it with an electric welder but getting a good weld between the 1/2" diameter bar and the thin deck pressing without blowing holes in the deck takes quite a bit of skill using arc but is dead easy with gas .
I use coat hangers for filler rod after the rim is tacked into position
