Challenges to consider restoring a 1963 WH

[Bluesman 13]

Hello everyone. I just registered a few days ago and have been browsing many forums here and have received many warm welcome comments.

 

I want to do another restoration of a 1963 603 (Or upper model) that I sold over 20 years ago. Considering the many new resources available since then, I was interested to find out what to expect in my scavenger hunt. Are there any components that are impossible to locate? For example, if I happen to find a complete frame, will I be able to locate all deck components etc? I am already anticipating a non-original engine. Just don't want to get midway though a project only to learn the deck blades bearing housings are no longer available or that the gas tank is extinct and if you can find one, will cost you about $500.  

 

Thanks in advance. 

[rmaynard 15,735]

Deck blades are no longer available. Correct steering wheel is hard to find if not already there.

[Bluesman 13]

Thanks Maynard. When I restored my 603 in 1995, the gas tank gasket was not available and I had to cut from a blank by hand. Funny you mentioned the blades too...when I brought my complete list of needed parts to the Wheel Horse / Toro dealer, he saw the two 16 inch blades and said, "Wow!! I thought these would NEVER sell!!" He then turned around and high on a shelf above him, he reached and pulled down two original boxes yellowed from 3 decades as was the oil waxed wrapping around the blades.    

[953 nut 56,186]

Michigan and Indiana are the hub of the  hobby, lots of good members who will help out with parts. The least expensive way to do it is to buy THE tractor you are looking for with as many implements as you want. A package deal can save a lot of money and aggravation.

[JCM 9,636]

Like that username  @Bluesman  and to  

[Bluesman 13]

Thanks JCM. Any chance that username has anything to do with Marshall? 

[Bluesman 13]

Thanks 953 nut. I actually was living in Indiana when I bought and restored my basket case 603.