I have finished the restoration of the 17" machine now. Managed to revive the chrome bars although not as good as original. Will replace the engine with a new B&S 3.5HP. Have only done a quick respray of the reel on this machine and also left the front roller unpainted. Put the machine straight back into use this afternoon, you can really feel the vibrations on a crack repaired machine compared to pre-repaired condition. Really looking forward to that shiny new motor.
[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]