OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers Rover Thoroughbred Model 85

Hello all,

Bit of a lurker but now a poster.

I picked up from my local tip this Rover Model 85, not that i knew it at the time but thanks to the great history post by CyberJack I now know what it is. I did see another post on here mentioning that parts for these are really not available which is a bummer. The mower is complete from what i can see, its missing the swing handle "nut" and the catcher. The engine looks to be original and with a 1975 date code. Strange thing is it's green not blue but has the later removed air filter on the handle.

I managed to get her running with a new spark plug and new made spark plug lead as these were missing. The issue i have is that the landroll did engage intermittently, once engaged it would work for a bit then then stop and now it doesn't engage at all. Obviously there is no videos of teardowns etc for this that i can find, i'm wondering if the landroll is similar to a SB in any ways, i know it took some inspiration from it. Any information would be wonderful. This is not my only cylinder mower but would love to get it all working again as its a little beauty and almost original.

Hi Voltron

Yes similar to Scott Bonnar.

I'd first check that the main pto shaft going the the chain drive is spinning as the engine clutch on these is known to slip when worn, also the grub screw on some mowers where the clutch locks to the engines crank can come loose
allowing the shaft to spin without moving the clutch under load.

If those above parts are good you will need to check the chain drive unit to the drum.

Cheers
Max.

Thank you, I will check it out and come back to you. I do know for a fact that the PTO shaft does spin and engage the blades once it gets up to RPM as its a centrifugal clutch, I'll take the side off and start her up and take note of everything and post my findings. Thanks again!

Hi Voltron,

Below is a part list fo the Thoroughbred cylinder mower which i think is yours and you will see the model numbers in the parts list. it might help you a bit to show where the parts all go etc.