Hi Norm,

Yes you have the problem sorted and this way of adding weight seems easier than other ways ,but I understand
the time it takes cutting and grinding etc,so nothing it a simple fix when your not setup like a factory.

The extra weight will also make the mower cut better in long grass and the engine should run smoother with
extra weight as we know.

The outer metal ring looks about 1/4 inch thick or bigger so can't see any problems with this setup.

I guess if you ever needed to get the boss off you can melt the lead out which shouldn't be a problem.

It's not as though you can sell one for $500. for them to be worth spending a lot of time on repairs,
although it does take a few days for each one of these 24 inch mowers with all the repairs that need doing
but someone will end up with a great mower

Cheers
Max..