There was a transport latch kit available to lock the mower up. The parts were different between the 50 and 60 inch decks. I don't know if any of these parts are still available new.
I needed to do the same thing on my 430. I have the 60-inch deck and I don't think the transport latch was made for that deck. Nevertheless I found a simple and cheap solution. There are holes in the frame (on both sides) right above the rear edge of the mower deck. I put a 3/8 inch bolt through that hole so about 1-inch of the shaft protrudes (non-threaded portion). Then hang a turnbuckle on that and hook to the lower edge of the deck. See pictures below. When the deck is in the raised position, install the turnbuckle on each side and and hand tighten. Be sure to screw in the height adjuster on the rear if you want full motion of the 3 pt. The turnbuckle is available at Menards (3/8 x 10.5 inch, item #2550816) for $1.74 each.
I needed to do the same thing on my 430. I have the 60-inch deck and I don't think the transport latch was made for that deck. Nevertheless I found a simple and cheap solution. There are holes in the frame (on both sides) right above the rear edge of the mower deck. I put a 3/8 inch bolt through that hole so about 1-inch of the shaft protrudes (non-threaded portion). Then hang a turnbuckle on that and hook to the lower edge of the deck. See pictures below. When the deck is in the raised position, install the turnbuckle on each side and and hand tighten. Be sure to screw in the height adjuster on the rear if you want full motion of the 3 pt. The turnbuckle is available at Menards (3/8 x 10.5 inch, item #2550816) for $1.74 each.
FWIW- I just checked the dealer price for a Deere transport kit for my 318...not available. But they can get one from the Parts Depot. I got sticker shock...again at how proud Deere is of their parts!
$75 for the kit.
I'm pretty certain homemade will work just as good for a few dollars in comparison! There's really nothing to it, just a bent metal latch and a couple of bolts and cotter keys.
Parts Depot sets their own prices. 99% of the time they are cheaper then Deere would be. Depending on the dealer's policy, Depot's suggested list could actually be less than what the dealer is telling you.
There is a large bolt with a small rod through it under the rear of the fenders on the left inside the frame rail. This bolt/screw adjusts the lower limit the deck can go to.
Andy, probably what has happened is the surplus inventory was sold to Vintage Parts. What I have found is the cost of the part is not the issue but every piece they sell they charge outrageous shipping cost. You cannot blame Deere for this because Deere is not setting the cost. They are only the middle man supplying you a part from some other company.
Vintage Parts is a different company than Parts Depot. You are correct on the outrageous shipping from Vintage.
I worked with both companies when I worked for a Deere dealer.
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