OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers 20" Scott Bonnar 45

Hi all, I am very new to the reel mower world, but thanks to this forum I have learned a whole lot.Last week I obtained a 20" 45. I originally thought I would use it until the end of summer and then do a restoration in winter but after closer inspection needs a bit more work so I have most of it apart and may as well restore it now. I have a number of questions,
* are the parts all the same part no for all 45 models? 17" , 20" ect I know the cylinder bearings are different and different drive shaft sizes.
* I have not been able to find a manual or parts list on the net except on this site but most parts refer to a 17" machine.
I also wondered Deejay where do you get your reel sharpening done in Wagga?

Hi Timmy, and a warm welcome to the forum.
Its nice to have another Scott Bonnar Model 45 owner aboard as we all like to learn new things and tinker here!

The differences are only sizes in certain components Timmy, mostly in drive-shafts, rear rollers, catcher, chassis frame, sole plate, 8 blade cylinder reel, bedknife, lower handle etc. There was an early solid deck, (Series 1) and the twin rail (Series 2) chassis designs.

All bearings, including cylinder reel are the same as the 17".
Don't forget the baby of the family, the 14" and the same applies. It is only concerned with the width of the machine, all other chassis parts are common for all models.

As unapproved advertising is not allowed on this forum, I will send you a PM, just watch for a flashing envelope in the forum toolbar, and on your behalf I have removed the reference to the engineer in question.

Once again Timmy, to OutdoorKing.

Thanks Deejay, I will try to post some photos I don't have any of the mower together but I have a few others. I have a solid deck with a Honda G150 retrofitted. My chain adjuster looks different to others I have seen on this site.You may notice the dodgy clutch setup I will be repairing that.

Ouch, somone really did a number on the parts there, when I get it brought back, I may (whether they are in good condition or not) be able to supply some parts from a 14" scotty I just bought, it should be here in the next fortnight or so. Worst case, there was a 20" one being sold locally pretty cheap I was looking at for myself but it would be just too big for my yard, I can chase that up and see if its still available.

Thanks Joe, I would be really keen on the 20" if it was available, if I could salvage the clutch, shaft and lever that would really save me some money. The mower was all together when I got it I have stripped it down. Engine is in great cond. My to do list as follows: replace all sprockets and chains, reel adjuster bolts were seized ,all bearings and the clutch.(half should be ok) I don't mind buying new Chain and sprockets as I will be using it myself at home. Chain case cover will clean up ok with a bit of panel beating. Catcher is very rough but I am going to try to reproduce it myself as I am a sheetmetal/welder. I was originally prepared to buy a fully restored mower but I am a sucker for a project.

Hey Joe, Any news on that 20" you were looking at?

I usually run into the bloke on saturdays, will see how I go over the weekend.

Quick update on resto, I have gathered most parts needed cleaned up others. Chassis at sandblasters. Looking forward to putting it back together.

That's great news Timmy, looking forward to seeing some pics as you go along mate. (Also good for the forum archives)

Finally got some parts back. I went with a powdercoat finish in the end (deep Brunswick green).Started to reassemble yesterday,having trouble getting my reel sharpened but have all other parts ready to go back together.

Finished assembly yesterday happy with the result. Reel still needs sharpening and powdercoating. I am tempted to give it a run I wouldn't mind having a play with reel adjustment before sharpening.

Hi Timmy,

on a great restoration, your Scotty is looking brilliant in the new paint, by all means have a play with the reel to bedknife adjustments....practice makes perfect mate.
Thanks for posting the pics....

Well done Timmy and great pics

After seeing this, a solid deck 20" 45 is firmly on my shopping list! Love it