Batwing mower pillow block

clwhite · May 15, 2011

Just started using a used Bush Hog 2615L 15' batwing. Surely saves time from my 5' rotary. Mine came with a pillow block on the driveline between the PTO and the divider gearbox, but I think it's optional. When I turn in the field even 20 degrees, I can feel and hear increased vibration. What's the advantage of the pillow block? Would I reduce vibration (and presumably wear and tear) by removing it and going with a straight shaft from PTO to divider gearbox? Thanks guys.

jake98 · May 15, 2011

Sounds like something's worn out on it. I'd guess it would be better to find out what's loose and replace that than to change it to a longer shaft.

SLHawkins · May 15, 2011

I agree with jake98 on this one. I don't think running a straight shaft will handle the turning angles that you are going to experience with the batwing. I have a 20' batwing. It is old and worn as well. When I know that I will be going into a tight turn, I disengage the pto. Given that you just picked up a used one, though it might be in good condition, I am willing to bet that you have more than a few bushings, connectors, couplings, and bolts that could use replacement or a good tightening at the least!

Hawk

leonz · May 15, 2011

clwhite said:
Just started using a used Bush Hog 2615L 15' batwing. Surely saves time from my 5' rotary. Mine came with a pillow block on the driveline between the PTO and the divider gearbox, but I think it's optional. When I turn in the field even 20 degrees, I can feel and hear increased vibration. What's the advantage of the pillow block? Would I reduce vibration (and presumably wear and tear) by removing it and going with a straight shaft from PTO to divider gearbox? Thanks guys.

You have alot of worn driveline parts that need quick fixing as the little bugger is binding due to the worn bearings and bushings and the turns are making it worse by increasing the binding due to the excess clearances from wear and tear.