Buying Advice 1026r grass catching options

[JimmytheSaint]

Hello, First post here. I've owned a JD 265 for 18 yrs. It has the powerflow and instead of a 3 bushel bagger, I opted for a JRCo trailer with a 2 pt. hitch. It worked great! 2 big ole casters and with the 2 pt hitch, it followed me around without jack knifing. When it comes time to dumping, just back up to the compost pile and manually dump it.
Now I'm in the market for a 1026r. Lots of attachments, FEL, backhoe, snowblower and 54" deck. I'm disappointed to see that the only bagging option is a 3 bushel bagger. My dealer tells me that there is an aftermarket trailer that hangs on the 3 pt hitch and dumps using the hydraulics. I do remember seeing a demo on youtube for this but can no longer find it. He said it is not much more than the $1800 JD charges for their 3 bagger system.
Does anyone know what I am talking about? If, so, please post mfr. name so I can price it out before I pull the trigger. Also, any other trailer type options/ ideas (even if manual) are welcome.
Thanks in advance.

 

[tkoza]

Like this

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbcnOMisTfQ&feature=fvsr"]from the czech republic[/ame]??

 

[JimmytheSaint]

Exactly! Not likely but is it available in US? Thanks for posting.

I stumbled across the Protero vacuum. A step in the right direction but doesn't look like it has a very large capacity. And not sure if it'll fit a 1026r either.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0U8wqwTAleQ]Protero Residential Lawn Bagger, Leaf Vacuum on John Deere x700 Series - YouTube[/ame]

 

[JimmytheSaint]

Any reason why the JD MC519 trailer wouldn't work?

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPTFtR4vi_U]MC519 dump kit - YouTube[/ame]

 

[tjwoody]

DR Power makes a pull behind with a large capacity. They have their own motor, so depending on how you feel, that's either an advantage or disadvantage. Their web site is http://www.drpower.com

 

[JimmytheSaint]

I'm really not interested in the DR. unit. It has a single point hitch and another gas engine to maintain.
This is what I currently have on my JD265 and it works GREAT! As you can see it holds quite a bit of grass. Some say, why bag? Mulch. But where it pays off is in the fall when the leaves drop. Here in the northeast, we get a ton of leaves. I haven't touched a rake in over 17 years!
The one flaw of my setup is the ramped floor. It makes it a little difficult when dumping. The MC519 setup would be ideal. Does anyone think it could work on a 1026R?

 

[CHDinCT]

I assume you've ruled out a Cyclone Rake? It does have a 2 point hook up to the 3PH. No hydraulic dump, but I think it can easily be converted (which I might do once I add rear remotes (my current project)). Anyway, just in case you're not aware of them, here's a pic. They're made here in CT so I was able to see them at the factory before buying. Well made unit in my opinion.

By the way, beautiful piece of property you have there in MA, and welcome to TBN.

 

[JimmytheSaint]

Hi CHD, I have thought of the cyclone rake for it's 2PH, my neighbor has one. the deal breaker for me is the separate engine. I'd prefer something to work off of a powerflow blower. Right now I'm looking into an MC519 if that won't work the Protero is 2nd choice. Keep those ideas coming. Thanks for the welcome!

 

[jenkinsph]

Jimmy,
I bought a new MC519 cart and blower setup for my x749 a few weeks ago. It would seem you should be able to modify the front attachment to fit whatever scut tractor you have. Whether the blower will fit the deck would be the issue.

I don't have the time right now but I will be changing mine to work with the IMatch hitch on my x749. If you have a chute that hasn't been cut down it should work, I have checked the fit on my setup . Will try to get to this over the summer.

 

[JimmytheSaint]

Hi Steve, That'll be great....post some pics when you can. I was going to buy the powerflow that fits the 1026r I'm not sure if the height of the intake on the trailer will match the angle of the powerflow outlet. I may have to use some flex tubing in conjunction with or in lieu of the stock chute.
If you don't mind me asking, what did the MC519 set you back?
Thanks