OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Collectors Corner Cylinder Webb AB 1478 21" Cylinder Mower

So with all this rain we've been had mowing has been out of the question so I decided to use the time productively and get the front roller on the Webb sorted before the warmer weather really sets in. One of the issues I have with the Webb is that is is quite light (compared to a SB). My 14" 45 is heavier than my 21" Webb and I think it's causing a small balance issue. Also the wooden front rollers are great for winter mowing of cool season grasses but when it's a bit warmer I need more weight at the front. I decided that I'd put a heavy grooved front roller in place of the wooden ones I have. Also I never mow around corners so I don't get the full benefit of the individual rollers. Buying a 21" grooved front roller was problematic as my searches found that they don't exist. I had to make it myself!

First step was to find a thick (and straight) enough piece of pipe that I could groove and cut it at the right length.

Here it is cut


I then gave it a light clean on the wire brush


Next step was to bore out the ends and put a bearing at each end. Then it was shaved clean on the lathe and the grooves were put in



And now here she is, all ready to hit the turf!

Before and after


I also made a new rod for the roller so I can swap back to the wooden rollers next winter