Newbie here: Rear discharge vs Side

[brider 0]

Here's my tractor:

Charger 10

Model 1 0410 7

Serial 863483

I have not looked up the year, but I assume it's a late-60's model.

However, it has the Attach-a-Matic system. I've read in this forum that the Attach-a-Matic was not introduced until '73?

Was it possible to upgrade the original Charger deck system to the Attach-a-Matic? I'm certainly not complaining.

Here's my main question: Why aren't ALL decks rear-discharge? Except for the inability to attach a bagger system, I can't see why all mowing decks are NOT rear-discharge. My Charger came with a SD deck, and the chute is welded in place at a downward angle that gouges any little non-level spot in the yard.

I'm LOOKING for a RD deck, and want to be sure of it's advantages. Will a RD deck minimize the clumping, and duplicate the mulching action of a newer-generation type deck, like a Craftsman mulching deck? My front yard is where the kids play, and I am forced to bag the grass because a side-discharge leaves way too much clumping and piles. I hate bagging; I want to leave the clippings on the ground.

[MikesRJ 558]

:D

Welcome to the square.

Search the forum. Use the phrase "vs side" and "vs rear" without the quotes.

There are already numerous discussions concerning the differences between the two.

[rickv1957 74]

There was an upgrade attach o matic to use 73 and up decks on pre 73 tractors,Rick

[W9JAB 156]

:D

I have a rear discharge deck, it has the stock Wheel Horse blades (new & kept sharp) besides the fact that I can cut close to edges it does a fine job, however if the grass is high I take only half cuts going over the first half twice, so to speak.

And if I'm doing a "show cut" or just want to drive around and finish another beer I will go over it one more time.

:USA:

[Coadster32 793]

if I'm doing a "show cut" or just want to drive around and finish another beer I will go over it one more time

HHMMM.. I wonder which excuse the wife gets.. :D

[kloe0699 12]

My 42" rd deck mows alot cleaner than my 42" sd, but leaves more grass clippings on the yard if I don't keep up with it... I have to mow a couple more times a month... It may also take another beverage or so to get the "show cut" I love the extra seat time anyways! Kevin

[dgjks6 8]

I have a 36inch rear discharge and it is almost new. And of there is only a short amount to cut then it is awesome. But, this time of year, when the grass grows quick - it leaves a trail. I do not think it cuts the pieces "as small" as a side discharge.

So this is what I would do - get one tractor with a rear discharge and trim with it - can get close on both sides.

Then get a tractor with a side discharge for the rest.

Or switch decks - 5 minute job or less.

[TT-(Moderator) 1,162]

http://www.wheelhorseforum.com/index.php?...ighlite=vs+side