Brush hog safety chains

[jigs_n_fixtures]

I'd go with belting. Just because of cost. Replacement bolts, nuts and washers will be the same either way. But you would probably have to buy chain. A probable source for belting is a gravel crushing plant/operation, concrete plant, etc. They go through belts fairly fast and will usually give you five or ten feet if you ask.

 

[Deanes]

I am working on that exact same thing tomorrow. My 8 ft. Bush Hog finally lost the rubber belt in the front last fall. I used it without any safety issues, but in dry or dusty conditions, my tractor was covered with dust and chaff. Radiator screen would stop up every 3-4 hours and AC in cab would no longer work. This old bushog has seen a lot of heavy cutting and the rail where the belt attaches is all bent up. I will definitly put a belt back on it, but have to get the front, and the bar holding the belt straightened at a local welding shop.
I have not sourced a belt piece yet, and am afraid most sellers would not sell just a 8' long piece.

 

[Mcdust]

The rear is missing the most. If I can get a better idea over chains, I'd do both.
One of my thoughts was similar to yours, truck mudflap. Haven't thought about the design yet.

Fisher snow plow dealers sell a heavy rubber strip to put on the top of the plow. The one I put on mine is 7.5' x10" x 5/16". Fabric reinforced for moderate stiffness like a mudflap. Im sure it is available in different lengths.