Hi mowermechanic I know this is a few months ago but I've noticed some non-factory fitted things on your Viceroy.I do believe that at some point someone must have had a Cortina 2,as they have put these items on your Viceroy.One which stands out is the Cortina 2 cowl and starter assembly.Viceroys didn't come with those cowls.Also a little harder to notice is the handles and brackets are also of a Cortina. I'd even goes as far to say the engine also is off a Cortina as the carby and muffler are on the wrong side.The only way to get the carby to fit that side it to raise the engine,which I can see has happen.As the carby well is on the muffler side and unlike other mowers the bowl of the carby does have a close fit to the base.
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I've just added one of your pictures.The two higher circles are the stop points which are the same as a Cortina 2.The bottom circle (under the muffler) is where the carby well is.
I know the condition of my Viceroy isn't great but you can see which side the muffler is on and also the stops bits on the handles aren't there.As there is a small hole where the bottom bar locks into the bracket.
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There was two different models of the Viceroy the model 505 & 517.The only difference between them was the cowls and starters.As your has been changed I don't even know which model it is.
I hope your not disappointed I just wanted to point it out.As I know I hate it when I get something that is suppose to be one thing and then turns out to be a bitza.

Here for a good time,not a long time.