Was getting ready to install a $400 John Deere mulching kit for our D170 (54" deck) only to find out I was going to have to drill 4-5 holes in my mower deck to attach the 3 pieces! It's like they sent me an expensive bunch of parts and I had to figure out how to make them fit? Quite disappointed in this JD product to say the least. Plan B is to just buy some mulching blades, maybe something like the Gator blades and find a way to seal off the discharge chute. Found several Youtube options for doing that. What I'd like to know from your experience is whether Gator blades are the way to go or do you know of some better and more affordable choices that will get the job done? Appreciate any insights you might have. While it was a great workhorse for the past 20 years wish I had ditched my Scotts 1642 years ago for the JD 54". Wife can shave about an hour off her mowing time each week now! LOL
