Hello, I have an older (mid 80's?) Ariens GT17 tractor with a 48" mower deck. Unfortunately the deck has finally corroded/worn through where one of the blade spindles mounts. That blade/spindle had dropped down and it is impossible to use the deck.
When I look at it I can imagine that welding a plate onto it would fix the issue and allow the continued use of the mower deck - the local Ariens dealer tells me otherwise - and suggests I buy a $500 deck replacement. I've also not had any luck finding a used deck that would fit.
Does anyone have a suggestion for this? It's still a pretty good tractor for it's age and I'd hate to have to retire/sell it because I can't mow with it anymore.
Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.
When I look at it I can imagine that welding a plate onto it would fix the issue and allow the continued use of the mower deck - the local Ariens dealer tells me otherwise - and suggests I buy a $500 deck replacement. I've also not had any luck finding a used deck that would fit.
Does anyone have a suggestion for this? It's still a pretty good tractor for it's age and I'd hate to have to retire/sell it because I can't mow with it anymore.
Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.