Converting a recycler deck?

[Challenger 27]

I've got a used #78364 Recycler deck and I wonder if I can "convert" it to a standard side-discharge deck? Are the under deck "mulching" parts removable? I've never studied the deck and I'm a couple hundred miles from where the deck is, at our cabin.

Is it a matter of just removing some screws and bolts and taking out a couple of parts?

If the mulching stuff is removed will the deck perform like a regular side discharge deck?

All ideas, thoughts, opinions and first hand experience requested and appreciated.

Thanks.

[mattd860 162]

I have the same deck and recently converted it to a regular side discharge deck. So the answer to all your questions is YES. All the baffles are easily removable via a few carriage bolts. Make sure you re-install all the bolts after you remove the baffles otherwise you will have a bunch of small holes in the deck. With the baffles removed, the deck will operate and perform no differently than a standard side discharge deck.

[nylyon-(Admin) 7,881]

Can't speak for the 5xi, but on my 42" rear discharge, the baffles come out, but the blades are different when using the recycler.

[Challenger 27]

Thanks for the responses.

HOW are recycler blades different from the standard blades? Different shape? Will the recycler blades not cut as well without the recycler baffles?

Thanks.