Repair Patch Fits Deere Mower Decks

Repair Patch Fits Deere Mower Decks FARM HOME Lawn Mowers (31h,38) 32-3-39 Instead of replacing worn mower decks, owners of Deere lawn and garden tractors can purchase a deck patch. "It reinforces the area where the mower collects moisture from grass and starts to rust out or crack," says Dick Sunsdahl of Sunsdahls' Restoration Tooling in Faribault, Minn. "Mower decks are expensive to replace. This is a low cost alternative." Sunsdahl's son and business partner, Thad, invented and designed the computer- designed, laser-cut, 12-gauge steel patch. The Sunsdahls' hobby shop specializes in designing, marketing and making tools and parts to service and restore Deere products. The patch fits mowers built from 1963 to 1987 in LGT models 110, 112, 120 and 140, and 200 and 300 series. It comes in two sizes. The smaller size fits decks 36 to 39 in. The larger size fits decks 40 in. and up. To install the patch, unbolt the bearing housing and blade, and line up the three patch holes with the bearing's bolt holes. Since that is the deteriorated area that needs patching, most people weld or rivet the patches to the bottom of the mower, Sunsdahl says. "The patch fits into the recess of the mower deck so it fits secure," he adds. Since the Sunsdahls started selling the patch a couple of years ago, they've had repeat customers, Sunsdahl says. For example, one customer was uncertain how well it would work, so he bought just one. Later, he ordered two more. At just $28 (plus $10 shipping) apiece, the patches add years of working life to the mower, Sunsdahl notes. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Sunsdahls' Restoration Tooling, 1703 Greenwood Place, Faribault, Minn. 55021 (ph 507 334-8966; info@sunsdahltooling.com; www.sunsdahltooling.com).

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