1. It was one large diameter mower deck motor, and two small diameter motors. The single mismatched motor should have been installed in the middle.
Why? Motor's a motor; I have detected no cutting diff between tall and short motors.
2. It is missing its shift knob.
Easy fix compared to rust repair.
3. The deck appears to have rust that may indicate perforations. Or it may just be rust.
Maybe, or the deck might just have surface rust. Actually looking at the deck I'm inclined to believe it's in good shape: The deck has the angle stiffeners, and the wheels don't look like they have been bent. Signs of a good life.
The fact that the tractor doesn't run doesn't mean much. E20's are as simple as a box of rocks, so anyone who can follow a wire should be able to get at least the main system (speeds 1-4) operational. Might be he doesn't know how to push the disconnect in before turning or something simple.
Given the lack of rust on the body I'd say it's a very worthwhile tractor. I'd grab it but what would I do with another E20?
Chris