Wood Pitman Stick Fits John Deere Sickle Mower 8 9 81C41

What It Is

This Wood Pitman Stick is a replacement drive rod for John Deere sickle bar mowers, connecting the flywheel to the sickle bar to convert rotary motion into the back-and-forth cutting action. It’s designed for models 8, 9, and 81C41, and fits similar vintage Deere mowers used on tractors like the Model 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 series.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s model number (stamped on the deck or frame) and that it matches the 8, 9, or 81C41 series. Measure the original pitman stick center-to-center hole distance — this part is typically 19.5 inches. Check the diameter of the mounting holes (usually 3/8 inch) and the width of the stick (about 1 inch). This is a non-OEM replacement, so confirm it uses the same bolt pattern and bushing style as your original. If your mower uses a different hole spacing or a threaded end, this won’t fit.

Key Things to Know

• Material & durability: Made from wood, not metal, so it’s lighter but can crack under heavy use or moisture. Expect shorter lifespan than OEM steel versions.
• Installation difficulty: Straightforward — remove the old stick, transfer the bushings and hardware, and bolt in. No special tools needed, but you may need to drill out holes if they’re slightly undersized.
• Common gotcha: The wood may arrive with rough edges or minor splits. Sand or seal it with linseed oil before installing to prevent water damage.
• Reviews note: Only 3 reviews with a 3.8 average. A few users report fitment issues with hole alignment — be ready to file or ream holes slightly.

Should You Buy It

This is a budget-friendly option if you need a quick replacement for a John Deere 8, 9, or 81C41 sickle mower and don’t mind a wood stick that may need minor adjustments. It’s fine for light-duty, occasional use, but if you’re mowing heavy brush or need long-term reliability, consider a steel alternative or OEM part.