I'd get that back together if I got it. These are made of thicker steel than later models and will take a catcher made right up to this year.
I think this base with a full crank motor makes for one durable combination that is under appreciated even amongst mower enthusiasts. I would even rate it above an alloy based version.

Ahh, if only victa had kept producing the thumblatch catcher series, they would be in better shape today!