Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Converting mower deck to mulching, mulching blade, mulching blades

Question
John: I have a Stiga articulating riding mower with the deck out front.  I have tried to purchase a mulching deck to replace the side discharge but cannot find one.  Is there any way to convert my existing side discharge deck to mulch. I have tried blocking the discharge port but the results were not good--lots of clumping. I have heard that mulching mowers usually have 2 blades. The side discharge deck as three blades. What do you think?

Answer
Hello Bob:

Each Blade has to be Isolated and have a Mulching Blade Installed. I have a Ransome Bob Cat and I Tried the Same as you. I Covered the Discharge and Installed Mulching Blades. I had the Clumping Problem. The Deck was Converted by Using Automotive Body Metal and Bending the Metal to Isolate Each Blade. Once the Conversion was Made and the Mulching Blades were Re-Installed, the Clumping Problem was Eliminated and the Mower Cut Perfect. Like you I Tried to Locate a Mulching Deck with No Success. A True Mulching Mower has No Discharge at All. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John