Enough Power ?

Borderpond · Apr 15, 2012

Hi, new to forum. I have a 2000 JD4100 gear driven compact tractor. I want to buy a brush hog for it. I will have an acre or 2 to take care of.Mostly field and light brush. The PTO on my tractor is listed at 17HP, 540 RPM. I was thinking of buying a Countyline 5 ft Rotary cutter. I cant find where it says what HP is required to run it,just the 540RPM. Was wondering if any of you with brush hogging experience could tell me if you think this is enough power for the light occasional cutting I will be doing.Thanks in advance.

kebo · Apr 15, 2012

You can probably make it work with a 5ft bush hog, but I don't think you really want to do that. That small a tractor should be running a 4ft, imho. I used to have a JD 750, which has 21 engine hp, and I ran a 4ft Landpride with it and thought that was a great combination. It's not all about hp though. When going up steep grades the front end got VERY light, even with some weights on the front. You will almost certainly have to add lots of weight to the front end of your 4100 too. So, my advice... get a 4ft unit and I think you will be satisfied with the results.

topstoy · Apr 16, 2012

I would stick with a 4' and with only 1-2 acres, it should do the job fairly fast.

beenthere · Apr 16, 2012

Borderpond
:welcome:

I would chime in and agree with the 4' for the 4100.
Besides, it will give you more tractor seat time that way.

Borderpond · Apr 16, 2012

Thanks for the input ! I will go with the 4 ft. We are suposed to be closing on this new property in about a week. As soon as the papers are signed I am going to get the cutter.
Glad I found this site. The other tractor forum site I had found didnt get much activity. I bought my JD4100 last fall and have had a ball with it so far.Thanks again

beenthere · Apr 16, 2012

Border
Do you have the FEL (w/bucket) on the 4100?

Borderpond · Apr 16, 2012

Beenthere, yes I have the FEL with a 410 bucket on it.

kebo · Apr 16, 2012

Well there you go, that FEL already adds some weight to it! I think you will be pleased with the 4ft bush hog. As mentioned, 1-2 acres it not that big a tract and a 4ft will get it done. Good luck with the closing!