Mower deck to tractor match up

[mike melillo]

Does anyone know of a chart that matched up mower deck model numbers with tractor model numbers?

I'm looking for a 48 or 50" deck for my 149, and I'm not sure what was a standard match for that mule drive/model.

I am also curious to know if the bearings in those decks are sealed bearings, because the parts manual shows these sold only as a set, bearings and spindle, and there not cheap either. I'm sure I can source the bearings separately.

Mike

[R Bedell]

For the 1x8/9 Series Tractors, it would have been models: 44 & 50. You also could retrofit, with the right package, the older 42" and 48" mower decks.

[mike melillo]

Originally Posted by R Bedell

For the 1x8/9 Series Tractors, it would have been models: 44 & 50. You also could retrofit, with the right package, the older 42" and 48" mower decks.

Ok, Thanks

[mike melillo]

in looking at the part in the attached image i'm beginning to wonder if that bearing is available or even serviceable, and that the assembly must be completely replaced?

Between the cost of a used deck, and spindles & blades it seems almost questionably worth the investment. So I wonder if new decks can be purchased to fit the wide frame units and who is making them?

[sawdustdad]

I think that's serviced/replaced as a unit. I bought one for $68 at ccspecialties.org. FWIW, my 1X8/9 tractors have 42 and 48 inch decks on them with straight pulley mule drives. The 44 and 50 inch decks are on the QL tractors with tilted idler pulley mule drives.

[mike melillo]

Originally Posted by sawdustdad

I think that's serviced/replaced as a unit. I bought one for $68 at ccspecialties.org. FWIW, my 1X8/9 tractors have 42 and 48 inch decks on them with straight pulley mule drives. The 44 and 50 inch decks are on the QL tractors with tilted idler pulley mule drives.

so are you implying the deck and mule need to match up for proper belt alignment? Can I use the straight pulley mule with the 50"?

Also, Thats where I found that image. The thing though is the cost. 3 spindles, acquiring a good deck, and a set of blades could easily run 450 with no additional parts. So this is why I'm trying to think this through.
Mike

[sawdustdad]

The 44 and 50 inch decks have off-center main pulleys, so they need the "tilted" pulleys on the mule drive to direct the belt off center. The mule drives are interchangeable, so you just need to find one that matches your deck.

I'd be looking for a used tractor WITH a deck, then sell the tractor and keep the deck.

[mike melillo]

Originally Posted by sawdustdad

The 44 and 50 inch decks have off-center main pulleys, so they need the "tilted" pulleys on the mule drive to direct the belt off center. The mule drives are interchangeable, so you just need to find one that matches your deck.

I'd be looking for a used tractor WITH a deck, then sell the tractor and keep the deck.

Yea that sounds like a good plan. I have an opportunity to get a 782 that has a good 48", but I know I'll end up keeping the tractor, and spending more money than intended.
That's a real good piece of info on the mule drive. I would have been really upset trying to mount it to the old style and realizing this. This is what makes these forums great, people coming together to help out.

Thanks!

[Mr.Goffena]

The problem there is that the 782 uses a bigger belt than the 149. 782- 5/8 wide 149- 1/2 wide. You would have to change out the pulley on the deck and mule drive. You need to find a quiet line tractor.

[mike melillo]

Originally Posted by Mr.Goffena

The problem there is that the 782 uses a bigger belt than the 149. 782- 5/8 wide 149- 1/2 wide. You would have to change out the pulley on the deck and mule drive. You need to find a quiet line tractor.

That's very good to know, Yet another hurtle avoided. Are you aware of the pulleys that would solve this problem on the 782 decks?

I would also assume that a shorter belt could be found too, but hear again I dont know what IH belts would fit this combo. I ask since I have an opportunity for a decent deck in that model range.

Last night I looked at an offer for (2) 50C decks, but they were pretty beat. I sense it may be difficult trying to find a clean deck in the series I need and may have to settle for one that I have to change out these pulleys on or find a belt for.

Thanks