I actually leave the deck on all year. I still have leaves that need chopped up, or at least blown where I want them. I also stand on the deck with the deck lowered all the way and use it as a grader to level my driveway. Also the deck makes the tractor less likely to flip on its side.
Yes, it is hanging in my basement along with several of my mounts. I kinda feel bad not toting my Hortons anymore, but I still have three of them.