Cub 22-Mower Questions

[gitractorman]

I just picked up a Cub 22 sickle mower, but it is missing the PTO pulley. One question is based around the fact that they offered a 4" and a 4.5" PTO pulley. I am guessing that this change had something to do with the increased engine RPM in the later model Cubs, but I'm not sure which way they went, up to the 4.5" pulley, or down to the smaller pulley??? So, I have a 1977 Cub, which pulley should I go with?

Also, is there any way to tell the year of the sickle mower by a casting date? Does the year make any difference, i.e. did they make any other changes besides PTO pulley diameter?

Another question about painting. I am planning to re-paint everythingShould I paint the "track" that the cutter bar runs in, or just wire wheel/brush really clean and oil the track and under-side of the cutter bar?

Oh yea, if anyone has a spare PTO pulley, I'm in need of one!

Thanks,
Bill

[Bigdog]

Later pulleys were 4". I would paint the entire bar.

[Clem]

TM sells 'em, they are hard to come by. I don't know why people sell them seperate. I guess so they can make more money and trouble for the next guy. They cost about $70. I have a whole mower with the pulley for sale if anyone is interested.