Cyclone Rake Questions

[JackyJ]

Having done a bit of research here and on other forums, I'm about to purchase a Cyclone Rake for my Kubota BX1870. Hoping for some guidance on what options I need, with cost being a major factor.

I'm focused mostly on the Commander model, which is just one up from the entry level "Classic." But it's got the same 6.5 HP B&S Vanguard as the Commercial Pro model, and the same 8" vacuum size. The capacity is smaller (285 gals instead of 415), and it has a 4 blade impeller instead of the 5 blade. I think I'm ok with the smaller size, as many reviews say the larger one is unwieldy when full, so folks aren't always using the extra capacity. I've only got 1 acre of lawn myself (surrounded by 5 acres of hardwood trees), but I've got 3-4 acres of neighbors' lawns who would love it if I cleared their leaves. And I'm happy to do it to collect for my compost and gardens (not to mention tractor seat time).

I'd be putting it on my 3PH, but I think I can save a few bucks by attaching it to my Omni Combo trailer hitch, instead of buying the CR 3ph piece. Does anyone know the spacing required between the two attachment points for the Cyclone Rake? (Seems like it could also attach to one of the drawbars that connects the two lower hitch arms, though I haven't found any mention of anyone doing that. Is the top link needed for anything when pulling a CR?)

Looks like lots of folks go for the dual wheel option, but with the smaller capacity model, and the fact that I don't typically have many soft spots, I'm hoping to go with the single wheels, again to save some money. Has anyone else regretted that decision?

I think I would go for the upgraded hose, though.

Any other thoughts on which model and which accessories will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[oldballs]

Hi JackyJ,

Although I bought the biggest model (Z-10) and best of everything, it is for the larger framed Kubota B-2620. One time I tried using my OmniCombo trailer hitch and found that the special factory hitch worked better. IIRC, it was because the 3 point raised and lowered the Rake as, well as the deck that I did not like using the Omni hitch. It might have been more stable in maneuvering IIRC. I've never hooked it up that way since.....now on its fourth season.

I'd imagine that your size tractor would fit the smaller unit better. You might even call the manufacturer (Woodland) as to his input. I found them to be most helpful.

Cheers,
Mike

 

[4570Man]

It would be much easier to dump the big one 2/3s full than small one completely full. With a lot of planned usage I think you’re making a mistake.

 

[JackyJ]

One time I tried using my OmniCombo trailer hitch and found that the special factory hitch worked better. IIRC, it was because the 3 point raised and lowered the Rake as, well as the deck that I did not like using the Omni hitch. It might have been more stable in maneuvering IIRC. I've never hooked it up that way since.

Interesting--the factory hitch I was thinking of is basically the same design as the Omni Combo: 3-Point Hitch Adapter | Cyclone Rake. So it too would go up and down with the deck. Sounds like you purchased some other factory hitch, which I'm not seeing on their website. Any chance you've got a pic or a link?

I've seen some folks remove the 3ph arms entirely and fabricate/modify something that brings the CR in closer. Given the overall length of tractor + cart, I can see that being helpful. But I use my 3PH carryall all the time--can't see taking those arms off.

 

[IH3444]

The Cyclone hitch while being very pricey has the flat bar plate which you need to attach the Cyclone rake to each corner. The Cyclone rake is steered by the corners, as the rear swivel wheels track to any degree as you collect leaves. I installed the Cyclone rake behind a John Deere built Scotts 2554 with 54" deck. I use the Tractor Supply quick attach pins with handles, and also have placed large rubber sway bar bushing on top and bottom to allow a bit of flex when traveling across uneven ground. The bushing also take up the unused hitch space on the rake frame arms. It works exceptionally well, and I absolutely love my Cyclone rake. I've got the "Classic" size, and believe me when It's full of slightly damp leaves you know it's back there. The Kubota BX1870 is a higher level of tractor. The "Command' level should serve you well. As stated, you should contact Cyclone rake and ask their opinion, as well as ask for a list of people whom have used the BX series of tractor with their rakes who would not mind being contacted for their opinion. I'm sure you will be happy with either model you chose.

 

[JackyJ]

It would be much easier to dump the big one 2/3s full than small one completely full. With a lot of planned usage I think you’re making a mistake.

Won't be the first time! But seriously, that's why I'm asking, so I appreciate your input. The smaller unit has 70% of the capacity of the larger, so it's not puny in comparison, and it is significantly larger than the entry level Cyclone and DR units. I'm hoping that for me it's the Goldilocks size. But yeah: better too have more capacity than I sometimes need rather than not enough. Still cogitating.

 

[oldballs]

Here's that pic that you asked for JackyJ. As far as I know, Woodland knows of the various dimensions/hookups for various tractor models. This the pic of the one they sent for my B2620. . It hooks up to the tow bar.

 

[oldballs]

Here's some additional pics of the hook up on my rig.

Cheers,
Mike

 

[4570Man]

Won't be the first time! But seriously, that's why I'm asking, so I appreciate your input. The smaller unit has 70% of the capacity of the larger, so it's not puny in comparison, and it is significantly larger than the entry level Cyclone and DR units. I'm hoping that for me it's the Goldilocks size. But yeah: better too have more capacity than I sometimes need rather than not enough. Still cogitating.

My definition of easier is it’s virtually impossible to dump these things jammed full. You have to rake 1/3 out by hand.

 

[leonz]

As 4570man says it will be heavy to dump; BUT you can vacuum the trailer out and use the vacuum to act like a silage blower to discharge the clippings and leaves and blow them to where you want to pile everything. if you have the five paddle blower and the longer hoses.