gr2100 mower deck(underside)

[goslowlowe]

The rectangular steel plate on the underside of my mower deck is not bolted to the deck ,even though the bolt pattern appears to be able to line up. The plate can rotate 2-3 inches either way until it hits the bolts . it has been that way since i've owned it in 2006. Is it supposed to be bolted to the deck? The middle blade "spindle " has just a slight ability to wobble , but doesn't seem like bad bearings or whatever. hopefully the link works so you can see what i'm referring to . thanks, gary. <><
2nd photo : going green (rear axle ) !

 

[goslowlowe]

Oh ya! That's supposed to be bolted down!

View attachment 4127

Thanks,I know what I'll be doing tomorow ! It hasn't come loose so it had to have been sent from the factory that way .

 

[goslowlowe]

Oh ya! That's supposed to be bolted down!

View attachment 4127

Next mystery: the manual is fairly extensive, but I can't find any mention of where to add hydrostatic transmission fluid? The dipstick under the seat seems like it fits in a hole no bigger around than a pencil. An unlikely place to add fluid ?

 

[goslowlowe]

Oh ya! That's supposed to be bolted down!

View attachment 4127

Well now the middle spindle / pulley etc is shot . Took it apart and there is no bearing,only an inner race left on the spindle.its allowed the middle blade to hit the left blade and generally raise heck.guess I should replace the whole gearbox but I'm wondering about all the parts on the underside; the plate (previously pictured) , whatever bearings etc that are supposed to be there (but no longer are !) are they pressed on ? Since its all separated by the deck from the gearbox will I be able to just bolt all the new parts to the spindle?Receiving it not bolted properly from the factory/dealer is really got me screwed now. Not happy ! What about cost? Will I be approaching the price of a whole new deck to replace the whole middle assembly ,(upper and lower ) ?