Flail Mower Let's talk flail mowers

whirly · Nov 27, 2016

Mowing grass at 3.5" will work great. No it's not a reel mower but pretty close.

IslandTractor · Nov 27, 2016

I think leonz is correct that to get the best cut you need to have the rear roller on the ground and enough vacuum to insure mulching but it is certainly possible to cut with the mower set at six inches or so.

I also cut some fields only once or twice a year. My trick is to cut either early spring or late fall when the grasses are dry and not lush. Then I can leave the flail on the ground and still mow at a reasonable speed and get a good cut. Don't mow in June-Sept if you are just mowing to keep fields from being over grown.

powerscol · Nov 27, 2016

Peruzzo makes good equipment. It was my second choice. Just make sure if fits you needs, you can lift it, and have the HP to run. IFE can give you advice.

Fallon · Nov 27, 2016

My ancient Ford 917 gives a good cut on my pasture at 5ish inches. The roller adjustment was welded in place years before I got it. Not much suction, but a good cut & mulching. I don't want a short cut on pasture.

Milo · Nov 27, 2016

Thanks guys it sounds like it could meet my needs. I know some flails have some adjustment in their roller height and even gauge wheels optional which may be useful. Anyway I appreciate you sharing your thoughts!

Greenland South · Dec 1, 2016

I'm a little jealous of you guys that are still flailing away&#55356;&#57211;

JimCan · Dec 1, 2016

GS.. I beat fall leaves to a pulp.. maybe you should try a pass on the driveway..??? Wonder if hammers or Y's would groom snow better? ..roller packed? Cheers.

Jim

leonz · Dec 1, 2016

Well Jim, look at this way, at least you will not be
running over any sasquatch tracks in the mud now.

Alien · Dec 1, 2016

leonz said:
Well Jim, look at this way, at least you will not be
running over any sasquatch tracks in the mud now.

Hmmm, sounds like there is a story here?

Wildfire · Dec 1, 2016

Found a Ford 917 for sale nearby, looks like it is in decent shape from the pics. Planning to have a look this weekend.

Unit is a 22-184 - based on another post, that makes it a 1973-76 74" cut model. Said he put new belts on it and that it has the Y or T cutters. Tractor house has some rusty ones for sale in the $650-900 range. His price is a little more, but said "cash talks".

Am I crazy for even considering a 40 year old mower?

Bearings, belts, knives and the drive shaft? Besides those and rust, is there anything else to check?