Hi Brewskies,
The engine would most certainly be the original unit fitted and was assembled on the 8th of June 1976, thus I'd comfortably say that the mower itself would've been made around the end of 1976. The frames were never dated and approximation is made from the original engine and knowledge of what happened around what time during the lifespan of building these mowers.
I will say there's not much wrong with this one apart from it needs a new bottom blade and a reel grind. Also it could do with some serious lubrication. One has to take into consideration that this machine probably lead a pretty sheltered life in Adelaide's leafy Stonyfell from where it came. These folk up there just used these type of machines longterm as domestic mower every couple of weeks and thus this one shows all that.
The only thing that will be an issue is whether the rails show any signs of stress and resulting in general fractures that these twin rail 20 inch Series II machines all eventually suffered from.
Honestly I'd be pretty happy to use that one as it is......................a survivor, and not restore it. There's something about machines in good original condition.
Anyway Brew, if you require any help, don't hesitate to reach out to me. Always happy to help genuine enthusiasts.
Cheers,
BB.
