Thanks NormK that's what I thought. I thought of painting it but it's a utility mower after all and I want to use it as soon as possible. The body, while scaly underneath, is sound and has no penetrating rust.
The height adjuster plate with the holes is abit bent inwards, making the lever a bit insecure. I have bent this plate out wards with pliers, should I do it more?
Front axle moves up and down quite a bit too, giving a suspension effect. I'm sure the mower will work ok though.