Rotary Cutter Differences, Bush Hog 280 & 290 series

Zebrafive · Dec 27, 2011

I am trying to figure out the differences between the Bush Hog 280 & 290 series.
Comparing the two, 290 series rated to cut 1/2" more, slightly bigger 1-2 inch width & length, gearbox rated 20HP more. Side bands 5" taller (any advantage to this), 150lbs (6') 200lbs (7') heavier.

Looking at the pictures, the 280 series has frame work on top of the deck. Does the 290 series have frame work below the deck? Or double deck? Specs say both have 10ga deck. No mention of double deck or below deck framing on the 290 series.

What should I expect to pay more for 7' over 6'? 290 series over 280 series?

RickB · Dec 27, 2011

I believe the 290 series replaced the 280 series. The best place to get pricing is where you think you might buy.

creekbend · Dec 27, 2011

Comparing the 280 and 296 can be found at this website. The 290 series is more heavy duty than the 280 series. Bush Hog? Owner's Stories I believe the 290 series is equipped with a larger gearbox also.

Hollow · Dec 28, 2011

Zebrafive said:
I am trying to figure out the differences between the Bush Hog 280 & 290 series.
Comparing the two, 290 series rated to cut 1/2" more, slightly bigger 1-2 inch width & length, gearbox rated 20HP more. Side bands 5" taller (any advantage to this), 150lbs (6') 200lbs (7') heavier.

Looking at the pictures, the 280 series has frame work on top of the deck. Does the 290 series have frame work below the deck? Or double deck? Specs say both have 10ga deck. No mention of double deck or below deck framing on the 290 series.

The 290 series has a smooth top deck so there are no areas for grass clippings to gather on top because if a the deck isn't kept clean acids in the grass clippings can break down the paint over time causing the deck to rust out. They still make the 280 series, I have a 286 and it is one tough mower. There is nothing wrong with them at all, they just need cleaning off after each use or to be kept in a dry area. The only thing I don't like about the 290's is with the frame underneath there is nothing to protect it if the blades strike something solid and bounce up into it. I have seen frames cut to pieces like that. However all it would take to protect it is to have them build one with deck rings. I would like to have the 7' pull type model but that's just wishful thinking for me right now.

Hollow · Dec 28, 2011

But like I said, there is nothing wrong with the 280 series. I bought mine from a guy for $330. It had been used to clear overgrown fields full if saplings and rocks. It was pulled over so much stuff that it bent the blades up into the deck cutting holes in the top deck and the guy didn't stop the abuse until he had broken both 1/2" x 4" blades off the mower. I bought it from him, and replaced the front half of the top deck with a 3/16 sheet of steel, painted it up and is has been going for years. I've never had to touch the gearbox for anything after all that abuse and I'm sure that's more than most mowers will ever see.