OK, calling the deck complete (minus decals if I can ever find or make them) until I can get the tractor part running to test the deck out. I had to replace the bushing in one of the front gauge wheels, install new bolts in those wheels--drilled and tapped them for a grease fitting. The two bolts I used have different head designs--don't tell anyone but one of them is from Deere!
Also made a new pin/axle for the scalping roller. Yeah I know its not that precision to start with but it had grooves .070" deep where it goes through the deck and the overall dia. was .030" smaller than the replacement I used. Yeah I know, its a plastic roller but when you split hairs all day in a machine shop, its kind of hard not to when you get home. When I get a chance I'll figure out some decals.
In the meantime, we pulled the engine back out, heads off. Valves appear shot, haven't pulled jugs to see if pistons are useable. Hopefully, valve job, new piston and rings, face heads and we can ride. It ain't like I plan on using this 150 hours a year so I'll cut corners anywhere I don't think I'll get bit. I have a thread in the engine section about the M18.