Understanding Your Mower Deck: Types, Measurements, and Identification Guide

When connecting your Cyclone Rake to your mower, it's important to understand what type of mower deck you have and how to properly measure it. This guide will help you identify common deck types and their characteristics, which can affect how you connect and use your Cyclone Rake.

How to Properly Measure Your Mower Deck

When fitting your Cyclone Rake, we need to know the correct deck measurement:

• The measurement we need is the deck width without the discharge chute

• Measure from the widest point on one side of the deck to the opposite side

• Include any extra width added by anti-scalp rollers

• Do not include the discharge chute in your measurement

Standard Deck Size Measurements

There are three standard measurements pertaining to a mower deck:

1. Cutting width (the actual cutting path)

2. Deck width without discharge chute (this is what we need)

3. Total width with discharge chute down

Common Deck Sizes

• Riding Mowers/Garden Tractors: Typically between 48 inches and 63 inches wide with the discharge chute in the upright position

• Zero Turn Mowers: Usually between 48 inches and 79 inches wide with the discharge chute up

• Common Zero Turn Cutting Widths: 42", 48", 52", 54", 60", and 72"

• Range of Available Sizes: Zero turns can be found with cutting widths from 36" to 96"

Remember that using the discharge chute can add up to an additional 15" to the overall width.

How to Identify a Convertible Deck

A convertible deck can be used either as a standard discharge deck or converted to a mulching deck. Here's how to identify one:

• Look for a "C" designation following the deck size on your mower deck label

• For example, "42C" indicates a 42-inch convertible deck

• Convertible decks typically have the option to add mulching blades and a mulching plug or insert

This versatility allows you to switch between side discharge, bagging, or mulching depending on your lawn care needs. The Convertible deck is an older version of the Edge deck and uses easily removable plastic mulch plugs/inserts that divide the deck into separate mulching chambers.

Stamped vs. Fabricated Decks

The construction method of your mower deck affects its durability, weight, and appearance.

Stamped Decks

• Created using large molds and presses to form a single piece of metal

• Have a more curved, rounded appearance

• Generally lighter in weight

• Typically made from thinner gauge steel

• Often found on residential and entry-level commercial mowers

Fabricated Decks

• Built from heavy plate steel pieces welded together

• Have a more box-like, angular appearance

• Heavier and more robust

• Made from thicker gauge steel for increased durability

• Common on higher-end and commercial-grade mowers

John Deere Deck Types

John Deere offers several specialized deck types, each with unique features that may affect your Cyclone Rake connection:

• Accel Deep Deck: Identified by "A" after the deck size; features a flat-top design for improved grass flow

• High-Capacity Deck: Identified by "HC" after the deck size; offers wider discharge for even clipping dispersal

• Edge Deck: Identified by "EDGE" above the deck size; features a smooth, deep underside to prevent clumping

• Edge Xtra Deck: Identified by "EDGE Xtra" above the deck size; designed for superior airflow

• 7-Iron Deck: Identified by "7 Iron" above the deck size; stamped from 7-gauge steel for durability

• Mulch On Demand Deck: Identified by "Mulch On Demand" next to the deck size; allows switching between mulching and side-discharging

• Mulch Compatible Deck: Identified by "Mulch Compatible" after the deck size; designed for use with TriCycler mulch kits

• AutoConnect Deck: Also called a Drive-on deck; designed for John Deere compact tractors

Some John Deere decks are compatible with the Mulch Control Kit, which allows switching between mulching and side-discharging without leaving the seat.

Understanding your deck type and measurements can help when selecting accessories and attachments for your Cyclone Rake, as well as when discussing your equipment with our customer service team.