I always prefer original parts, but sadly some can no longer be bought or are very difficult to find, and/or expensive if you do find them. I thought I would share my experiences with researching alternative modern parts that will fit a Southern cross KXD-2 mower. These can be used at a crunch if you really want to use your mower but cannot find the original parts.
Blades: Originals are long since defunct. I have successfully used standard Rover blades (but would not recommend the rear-catch mulching style of blades).
Best by far are 18 Inch Masport / Morrison Hardened Lawn Mower Blades & Bolts Part number # 529594
* NOTE: Always gently rotate the disc to check the curved bits on the blades are not going to hit the mower carriage. Test this by lifting and lowering the cutting height too. You may need to grind off a few mms from the top of the blade curves. Do this slowly to prevent overheating the blade.
High tensile bolts and washers and nyloc nuts can be bought from the hardware store.
Muffler: Briggs and Stratton OEM 89966 with 1/2" 45 degree plumbing elbow (stainless steel or black steel, NOT galvanized). Thin half inch nut from hardware store.
Starter recoil: I know of only one modern recoil that fits the Southern Cross KXD-2, but will not post the information until after I have fully trialed and tested it.
Starter cap: It seems Kirby made a starter cap back in the 60s that not only looked similar but had very similar dimensions. However I am not sure if their winders will match with the bolt holes on a Southern Cross.
