JD X300 with LA mulch plug

[RBLapham]

I have a 2010 X300 with the 42C mowing deck. I have a very wooded lot with lots of trees. I didn't like the chute on the mower deck and wanted to convert it to a mulcher, mainly to remove the chute and not have to worry about blowing the grass and leaves in one direction. When the leaves get real heavy I hook up my cyclone rake. I looked at the X300 mulch kit - $99 was a little more than I wanted to spend. I bet it does a great job of mulching with the mulch blades and baffles in the kit.
I wanted something reasonably priced - heard the LA series had a mulch plug that would fit - bought one (part # GY00115) from a big box store for $28. They also sell this for the 38" deck. I put it on in about 1 minute and it fits perfectly on my 42C deck. Cut the lawn and it worked as I hoped, I do not have thick grass and cut at max height. I kept the original blades and may get mulchers later but these seem to work fine and need them for the cyclone rake later, although I have used mulching blades with the cyclone rake.
Pictures below - Black one is as bought, but had some yellow and made it match There is a slight crack where the plug meets the bottom of the deck, but no problem with grass leaking. Think the plug was desighed to be used with the chute installed and it's bracket may hold the plug down a bit. Oh those large knob screws - for the cyclone rake adaptor

 

[jinman]

Work it might; color match it must!:laughing:

Good job! That's really using your head to get what you want and save a few bucks.:thumbsup:

 

[elroy4455]

Nice job! Even though you now have a mulcher, remember to put the chute deflector back on, that metal plate one will help keep your foot out of the blades should anyone step on the yellow plastic thinking it is the metal deck. Save those toesies!!!!

 

[RBLapham]

Thanks for the tip - but I like the look without the chute. It is a thought but I always stop the mower when anyone is around or it I need to get off. I'm retired and no youngins around also. I tried stepping on the plug and it is very sturdy, would have to do a flying leap with both feet to colapse it. You will be the first to hear about it if I loose some toesies :thumbsup:

 

[mitch1952]

nice,wonder if i can fit one to my 2000 48c deck for when i thrash leaves this fall not sure if they make one for mine. i was going to cob something up with metal, but that looks great, thanks for the pic's and idea.

 

[RBLapham]

Just searched Home Depot for "48 mulch" and it returned a mulch plug for a John Deere 48" deck part #GY20417 $33.50 - almost bet it will fit. Get one and if it dosn't fit return it Don't think it is stocked in stores.

 

[RBLapham]

Just want to reiterate that my purpose here is not to make a mulching machine, just to remove the chute that gets in the way and stop throwing grass out one side. I also like how easy it will be to remove the plug and hook up the Cyclone Rake.This setup does require a few passes to mulch a decent bit. I love riding the tractor around so additional passes are fun
To mulch effectively the deere kit is best, besides if you buy this plug for $26 then mulching blades for $40 you can buy the deer kit for a couple bucks more. Which has the baffles, plug and blades.