OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers SB45 Resto

I picked up this SB45 14' a few years ago, and now have the time to put into it (thanks to COVID I am working from home - I save quite a few hours from not having to travel at the moment!).



As you can see, its quite the rust bucket. Fortunately the only real damage was to the chain cover, where the bottom corners rusted out, and the muffler which could probably be crushed by hand.

Despite the state of it, it has a healthy spark and the gears/chain all turn without issue, though I am uncertain about the bed knife - the pitting on the blade says to me its too far gone and needs to be replaced (the reel looks like it has some life still in it):



I've ordered and received a new catcher and have replacement clutch lining on its way. My next steps are to dismantle, clean, inspect and paint (hello blue hammerite).

I am debating repowering with a new 550 series briggs (I would love a Honda gx120 but $$), but happy to run the original motor for now.

Hello Owen B

I would think this is an important Model 45 14" and it presents as
very original. I would love for us to see engine cowl stampings.
This should date this mower.

It presents as a first model 45, 14".

Cheers
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Jack

Hi Jack, the number appears to be 60102 0302 01 6905141 - so 1969?

G'day Owen

Well, that is an original Model 45 14".

The Model 45 was Introduced in late 1968 for the 1969 season,
your engine is dated to May, 1969. Your little Briggs presents as
original to the mower and this must be an early and original 450415.

Brilliant!

https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=58161

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Jack

Thanks Jack

Could someone confirm the knife bed thickness? I'm looking for a replacement, found one on eBay that's 2.5mm but the one on mine is 3mm. Others I've found don't mention the thickness.

Cheers!

Had a reel specialist check both reel and blade, he says they are ok despite initial appearance, but he'll replace the it and sharpen the reel for 130$ which seems like an ok price to me.

Not only did I get the reel sharpened and blade replaced, but also ended up getting a new briggs 500 series with a suitable clutch half from the reel specialist. I will keep the original engine, cleaning and painting it after I check the compression/valves/etc. The same shop also sells off their junk/old motors cheap from time to time, so Ill be keeping an eye out for those to use as spare parts.




Over the weekend Im going to be spending time cleaning, sanding and prepping the frame for paint now I have it dismantled. I'd like to get the handles rechromed but the cost will likely mean I will paint instead.

hi the chrome will be ok to steelwool them with some metal polish you will be suprised.