Deciding between a stamped or fabricated mower deck for your lawn care needs is a big choice. Stamped decks are made out of one piece of steel and are formed into shape. Fabricated decks are made by welding several pieces of steel together.
In order to determine which type of mower deck is appropriate for your particular situation, you need to understand the distinction pertaining to stamped vs fabricated mower deck.
Many factors go into deciding which is best for you such as climate, terrain, and even the types of grass you have in your yard. Here is a break down of the pros and cons of each type to help you make an informed decision.
We have compiled all the information that you should know about these two types of mower decks.
Differences Between Stamped vs Fabricated Mower Deck
Any lawn enthusiast will tell you that maintaining a well-kept lawn is key to having a beautiful outdoor space.
But achieving the perfect lawn requires more than just regular mowing. It also requires choosing the correct mower and the appropriate mower deck.
Let’s take a look at the differences between stamped and fabricated mower decks to see which one will work best for you.
1. Weight
Deciding whether to purchase a stamped deck or a fabricated mower deck for your lawn tractor can be a tough decision. But one factor that might help you make your decision is the deck’s weight.
Stamped mower decks are usually lighter in weight, making them easier to maneuver. Fabricated mower decks are typically heavier, which can provide more stability when cutting through thick grass.
In the case of a large lawn, the extra weight of the fabricated deck may be worth it for the increased stability and durability. However, if you have a smaller lawn, the deck’s lighter weight will likely prove more advantageous.
In the end, the choice of stamped or fabricated decks comes down to personal preference and the needs of your lawn.
2. Metal Thickness
Another important difference is the thickness of the metal. Stamped decks are made from a single sheet of metal that is stamped into shape.
As opposed to fabricated decks, stamped decks are typically made from thinner metal. Several pieces of metal are welded together in the fabricated decks. As a result, these decks are usually thicker than stamped decks.
3. Durability
Any mower, whether a riding lawn mower or a push mower, needs a durable deck to withstand years of use. As the main point of contact between the mower and the ground, the deck takes a lot of abuse.
Mowing through thick grass, twigs, and other debris can quickly damage a mower deck. With regard to durability, fabricated decks are generally more durable in comparison to stamped decks.
This is due to the thicker metal and the two-piece welded construction of the decks. If you are looking for a mower deck that has a long lifespan, then a fabricated welded deck might be the better choice.
Furthermore, the stamped deck is also durable but, when compared to the fabricated deck, it is not as sturdy.
4. Uses
Stamped decks are suitable for use on residential lawns. They are lightweight and made from thinner materials.
Most lawns in domestic areas are relatively small in size, so a stamped deck is a better choice. A fabricated deck, on the other hand, is better suited for commercial lawns.
Due to the weight and material thickness, it is more durable and able to withstand the rigors of commercial mowing. It may be more practical to have a fabricated deck if you have a large lawn that requires regular mowing.
Which Mower Deck is Right for You?
You finally took the plunge and decided to purchase a lawnmower. But before you can start mowing your lawn, you need to decide what kind of mower deck you need.
Selecting the right mower deck is important because it will affect the performance of your mower. As you consider your options, keep in mind the size of your lawn, the type of grass you have, and how often you plan to mow.
If you have a small lawn with regular grass, then a stamped mower deck would be the right choice for you. Because there is a relatively modest area to cover, this type of deck is suited for residential yards.
A fabricated deck tends to be a better option for larger yards with thick grass. In addition to being more durable, it can be used in commercial mowing operations.
No matter what mower deck shell you choose, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will ensure that you get the most out of the mower and avoid any damage to your lawn.
How to Determine If the Mower Deck is Stamped or Fabricated?
Once you have chosen a mower deck that meets your needs, you should determine if it is fabricated or stamped.
There are a few ways that you can determine the kind of deck on your mower. Below are some tips that you can follow.
1. Check the Owner’s Manual
At its most basic, an owner’s manual is a book that contains information about a product. This can include everything from technical specifications to assembly instructions.
Most owner’s manuals are created by the manufacturer of the product, and they are typically included with the product when it is sold.
Instruction manuals can also be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website or purchased separately. While they are not required to read, these documents can be very helpful, especially with complex products.
In addition to providing instructions on how to use the product, they can also offer troubleshooting tips and other information.
In terms of determining the specific sort of mower deck on your lawn mower, checking the owner’s manual is a good place to start. The manual should list the different parts of the mower, and it will likely indicate how the deck is made.
2. Inspect the Deck
Another method is to observe the deck itself. If you choose zero turn mower or riding mower, be sure to examine the underside of the deck. As the stamped deck is constructed from a single piece of metal, it will have seams thin.
Alternatively, a fabricated deck is made of multiple pieces of metal, so it will have thicker seams. You can identify a fabricated deck by its welded seams.
3. Ask the Dealer or Manufacturer
If you are still unsure about what type of deck your mower has, you can contact the manufacturer or dealer. When you acquire a lawnmower, the dealer should be able to tell you precisely what kind of deck it has.
For a second hand model, you may wish to ask the previous owner, research online, or speak with the distributor or manufacturer directly for this information. Keep in mind that the answer may not be 100%, but it should give you a good idea.
How to Clean a Mower Deck?
A well-manicured lawn not only looks good, but it’s also important for the health of your grass. Healthy lawns can withstand droughts and other harsh weather conditions better than unhealthy ones.
In order to keep your lawn looking its best, it’s important to take care of your mower deck. Mower decks contain the blades of a lawnmower. Over time, the blades can become dull or bent, and the deck can rust.
If you don’t keep the deck in good condition, it can cause a number of problems. First, it will be more difficult to cut your grass, and you may end up tearing the grass instead of slicing it.
This can damage the roots of your grass and make it more susceptible to disease. Second, a damaged mower deck can also create ruts in your lawn.
These ruts can be difficult to repair, and they can make your lawn look unsightly. Finally, a poorly maintained mower deck is potentially dangerous.
For these reasons, it’s important to keep your mower deck clean on a regular basis. Below are the steps to follow:
Step 01: Park the Mower on a Level Surface
It is advisable to ensure that the mower is parked on a flat surface before beginning to clean the deck. This will prevent the mower from tipping over while you’re working on it.
If you have the riding or zero turn mowers, you can park them on the driveway or in the garage. Push mowers may be parked on the lawn.
You need a jack to raise the front of a mower so you can work on the underside of it. For a push mower, you can simply flip it over.
Relevant Article To Read: Can the suspension seat of the zero turn mower be slid up an incline?
Step 02: Remove the Blade
The next step is to remove the blade from the mower deck. You will need a wrench to do this. Be very careful when removing the blade, as it can be quite sharp. Once the blade is removed, set it aside in a safe place.
Step 03: Clean the Deck
Now you’re ready to start the deck cleaning process. Utilize a garden hose to remove any debris that’s on the surface of the deck.
If there is any stubborn dirt or grime, you can scrub it with a brush. You should explore every nook and cranny.
Once you’ve removed all of the debris, you can rinse the deck with clean water. It is important to let the deck dry completely before. Additionally, you should add a small amount of oil to the deck surface.
Step 04: Inspect the Deck
Now that the deck is clean, you can take a closer look at it to see if there are any problems. Look for any cracks, holes, or other damage. If you find any damage, you will need to repair it before you can continue.
Step 05: Sharpen the Blades
It is now necessary to resharpen the mower blades. You can use a file, stone, or another sharpening tool to do this. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Once the blades are sharp, you can put them back on the mower deck.
Step 06: Reattach the Blades
After the blades are sharpened, you can reinstall them to the deck. Be sure to tighten the bolts securely.
Step 07: Lower the Deck
When you have cleaned the deck, it is necessary to lower it back to the original level. Before you resume mowing, be sure the deck is even.
Step 08: Test the Mower
Having completed all the steps, you can run the machine to ensure that it is functioning properly. Start by mowing a small section of your lawn. If everything looks good, you can continue mowing as usual.
What is the Function of a Mower Deck?
A mower deck protects the user and the engine from blades and debris produced during mowing. The deck of the lawnmower distributes the weight evenly so that the lawnmower is well-balanced and easy to use.
In addition, the deck has a chute that directs grass clippings toward the back of the tractor, where they may be discharged into a bag or onto the ground.
Some lawn mower decks also have a collection system that allows the clippings to be mulched back into the lawn. In general, mower decks come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be swapped out depending on the needs of the user.
For example, a homeowner with a small lawn might choose a deck with a smaller cutting width, while someone with a large lawn might prefer a wider deck.
Cub Cadet and John Deere lawn tractor mower decks are two of the most popular brands on the market. Ultimately, the type of deck that you choose will depend on your own personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
There are a few questions that people often have about the mower deck. Below are some of the most common questions, along with their answers.
1. How Often Should I Clean the Mower Deck?
It is generally recommended that you clean your mower deck at least twice a year. However, if you use your mower frequently, you may need to clean it more often.
2. Can I Pressure Wash My Mower Deck?
A pressure washer can be used for mower deck cleaning. However, you need to be careful not to damage the deck. When using a pressure washer, hold it away from the deck and use a low setting.
3. How Do I Remove Rust from a Mower Deck?
If there is rust on your mower deck, a wire brush will be able to remove it. You can also use a rust-removal product. This will help to prevent rust from spreading.
4. Is It Necessary to Paint Mower Decks?
A freshly painted lawn mower deck can make your mower look new again. However, painting does more than simply improve the appearance of your lawnmower. A good coat of paint can also help to extend the life of your deck by protecting it from rust and other wear and tear.
Conclusion
As you have now learned the differences between a stamped vs fabricated mower deck, you can make an informed decision about which type of deck will best suit your application.
You may also be able to identify whether the deck has been stamped or fabricated. Make sure to follow the steps above to clean and maintain your mower deck so it will last for a long time. This will ultimately give you a better mowing experience and a healthier lawn.
