engineguy63 238 #1 Posted May 16, 2014 Going to look at a 416, can this model mulch (recycler), or do I have to look at a newer model, or only certain models. I just like the rugged look of these old workhorses, but HAVE TO HAVE A MULCHER> Any help or suggestions? Thanks Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
varosd 1,185 #2 Posted May 16, 2014 416 is a great tractor! Is it the Onan or Kohler engine? The mulching aspect is based on the various decks that were available from Wheel Horse. 42 rear discharge. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nylyon-(Admin) 7,593 #3 Posted May 16, 2014 The "mulcher" deck for Wheel Horse is called a Recycler. The recycler is an insert and blades which convert a 42" RD deck to a recycler. It works okay, but if the grass is wet or long it will clog requiring frequent cleaning. A 416 will without a doubt handle a recycler deck, I have one myself. I don't see the recycler too often, so it may be difficult to find, but the 416 is a strong performer. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tankman 3,520 #4 Posted May 16, 2014 My '85 Kohler, 416-8 has a 48" SD deck. Not a mulcher but, mow often enough don't need a mulcher! Ride 'em Cowboy, the 416-8 is a Horse of course! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tankman 3,520 #5 Posted May 16, 2014 My '85 Kohler, 416-8 has a 48" SD deck. Not a mulcher but, mow often enough don't need a mulcher! Ride 'em Cowboy, the 416-8 is a Horse of course! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
engineguy63 238 #6 Posted May 16, 2014 WOW, Talk about fast reply's!!!!, Anyway I will rephrase my question a bit. If I can work a deal for this horse....I have to see if it is a side discharge or rear discharge...............for mulching is there a "kit" to convert it? or do I need a special "recycler" deck which is maybe all together a different animal? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nylyon-(Admin) 7,593 #7 Posted May 16, 2014 The recycler for a 42" RD deck was sold both ways, either as a complete deck or as a kit. Either way the end result is exactly the same. When I bought my 416H the dealer didn't have the "recycler deck", so he sold me the 42" RD, and ordered the recycler which I later installed. The kit consisted of 2 bolts with nuts, to nuts, the recycler baffle and 3 new blades (which are wider than the regular blades) Recycler decals and instructions. You install the baffle by removing the blades and 2 carriage bolts, install the baffle using the 2 longer carriage bolts and nuts along with 2 nuts on the pre-welded studs. Then install the new blades, mount the deck and recycle. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Fordiesel69 270 #8 Posted May 16, 2014 Do keep in mind that with recycler decks, you must not let the grass get very high or it will clump up. Im sure you knew that........but what you may not know is the 416 if equipped with a twin cylinder onan will guzzle gas like you won't beleive. This may be a problem if you have to cut the grass 2 times for evey one time you would on a RD or SD deck. If equipped with a one lung kohler, the fuel consumption will be better as long as it is not overworked, and with a 42" that would be hard. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nylyon-(Admin) 7,593 #9 Posted May 16, 2014 Maybe it's just mine, but the gas consumption isn't terrible with my 416 Onan, sure it uses a little more than my 414, but the power and smoothness makes up for it especially with the recycler attached. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Fordiesel69 270 #10 Posted May 16, 2014 9 Gallons to cut my property on my GT-1642 w/ 18HP twin 6 Gallons to cut my property on my 312-8 w/ 48" 3 Gallons to cut my property on my New Holland Boomer 30HP diesel w/ 72" (Only because I can get it done way faster with wider cuts, and super fast ground speed.) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tim 97 #11 Posted May 16, 2014 i have a recycler deck I don't use i'm in central ma. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
engineguy63 238 #12 Posted May 16, 2014 Thanks for all the reply's, I believe it has the onan twin, I am hoping to go see this weekend and check out the deck. If it does not have a RD deck, I may be looking for one.........So Tim, you may get an email from me!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Forest Road 594 #13 Posted May 16, 2014 I had a 42" RD recycler. I removed the insert and sold it. I never thought it did a good job mulching. I'm happy with the results of the same deck as a true RD. I also don't mind mounting it without the inset. I believe the inset alone weight 60-70lbs. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tim 97 #14 Posted May 17, 2014 how did you remove the insert did you cut it our or does it bolt in Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mrc 880 #15 Posted May 17, 2014 hi engine guy, the 416 will handle mulching. wheelhorse also made a kit for the 48inch side discharge decks to convert it to a mulching deck. i know because i bought the kit and installed it on my 48 inch deck. once its converted its not too easy to go back to side discharge. it can be done though. the 42inch rear discharge decks that have the mulching insert use just 4 bolts and the insert comes out. makes it easy to clean the underside of the deck. i'm in westfield if you need help. also boyden&perron in amherst are an old school wh dealer and as far as i know they are the only place nearby for parts. good luck and best regards. mike in mass. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
