John Deere Original Equipment Port Plate #GX22426

What It Is

The John Deere Original Equipment Port Plate #GX22426 is a stamped steel cover that seals the side discharge opening on select John Deere mower decks, converting them to mulching or bagging mode. It’s designed for residential and light commercial walk-behind mowers.

Fitment & Compatibility

This plate fits John Deere mower decks with a specific port pattern — primarily models with 42-inch, 48-inch, and 54-inch decks (e.g., D100 series, X300 series, and select SCAG/Z-Trak decks that share the JD pattern). Before buying:

• Measure the port opening width (approx. 10.5 inches across) and bolt hole spacing (center-to-center, typically 3.5 inches).
• Check your deck’s model number (stamped on the deck housing) against John Deere’s compatibility list.
• This is an OEM part; aftermarket knockoffs often have thinner steel or misaligned holes.
• Not compatible with older 38-inch or 46-inch decks or non-John Deere brands without adapter kits.

Key Things to Know

• Material: Heavy-gauge steel with a black powder-coat finish — resists rust better than painted aftermarket plates.
• Installation: Requires two 5/16-inch bolts (not included). Use a socket wrench; torque to 10-12 ft-lbs. Over-tightening can warp the plate.
• Common gotcha: The gasket (if your deck uses one) is sold separately — part #GX22427. Without it, clippings may leak.
• Quality: Rated 4.5/5 — most complaints are about missing hardware, not the plate itself.

Should You Buy It

If you own a compatible John Deere mower and need a reliable, exact-fit port cover for switching between discharge and mulching/bagging, this OEM plate is worth the $10. It’s a direct swap, no drilling or modifications, and will outlast cheaper alternatives. Skip it if you need a gasket or bolts — order those separately to avoid a second trip.