Cub Cadet 1515, use 42" deck?
 

I just recently got a Cub Cadet 1515 with a 38" mower deck. There is some decent rust around one of the spindles, enough that the deck mounted screw that the pulley tension spring attaches to ripped right out of the deck. Also one of the spindles actually flexes when I put some force on it (the deck itself moves).

For the short term I plan to try and weld up some sheet metal to shore up the structural issues and fill the holes, but I've been on the lookout for a replacement deck, since some of the bearings have seen better days as well.

Would it be possible or advisable to use a 42" deck instead of the 38" with the 1515? I believe the difference is only 2 HP between the 2 tractors, is the mounting scheme identical with the decks? Would the larger deck put too much strain on the smaller 1515 engine?

I'm pretty new to the Lawn Tractor world so any advice would be appreciated.

First, welcome to OCC..... :Welcome2:

According to the Cub Cadet Attachment Guide, the only mower deck for the 1515 was a 38" deck.

well considering that there are 12hp Cubs with 50" decks, I think your machine should handle a 42. unless you're tryin to cut down a knee high hayfield.