OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers Scott Bonner 45 17"

Hi BB,

Luckily for me, Perth is living up to it's name of the "Reel Mower" capital of Australia. Not sure why they were offered as parts. The bloke I'm getting the handle from (pick up this week) also restores Reel Mowers and ironically enough is looking for the same part for his 20" restoration.
I've put up 2 wanted ads for SB gear and both have garnished a fantastic positive response with the odd person asking ridiculous prices.....Seriously, who would pay $750 for a very run down SB45 in need of dire attention? Not me. Unfortunately Perth also comes with a population of folk who seem to think everything no matter the condition, is worth top dollar.

Thank you for the picture for the adaptor plates as I'll indeed need to grab these.
I've been doing a lot of thinking and have also been very inspired by Simrice's recent restoration of his SB45. Given I have no dire need to get the SB back in service anytime soon, I'd very much like to take his route and replace all the nuts and bolts an pretty much every component on the machine except the motor, cutting reel and rear drum. I know cost will add up in the end, however, I don't have a set budget and I'm in no rush to complete this tomorrow. I am however, someone with immense pride and given this is my first restoration, a very large part of me would really like to be attentive to detail and make this machine look the goods. (damn you simrice ;))

I still have the 16" thoroughbred to do (have been working on the motor only at this stage) and I also want to complete this at some stage as it's in extremely good condition, although I will likely get a new motor for it and gift the mower to the old boy upon completion.

As it stands, the SB45 has been completely stripped minus the rear roller which will take me a little longer than the time I have available during the week.

I got a price from a guy who has a trailer with a specialized cutting machine of which he works mobile to a number of golf courses in W.A to replace my bed knife ($35) and to sharpen the cylinder ($165). I'm not sure whether these prices are over the top or are reasonable? I'm yet to chase pricing from anyone else at this stage.

I'm now in the position where I need to look at stripping the paint and rust off of the SB45, although at crossroad as to which direction to go about this. A large amount of folk here appear to take the electrolysis path. Is this the best method of approaching this, or should I look at sanding back and taking my time?

Painting is also another ongoing thought of mine. to spray by can, or by compressor/sprayer? I've never used a compressor spray gun to paint anything before, so I'm kind of concerned about getting it wrong (can trial on other things?)
Can paint does seem easier, although given I want to do this right, not sure which the best method is?


As per the below picture, what's the best way to restore this model badge? I've seen one's in better condition, but this one is a bit rough?