Sickle Bar New Idea 251 Sickle Mower adjustments

[Coolnorth]

Good day all!

I recently purchased a New Idea Model 251 Sickle mower in working condition. This one is a trail behind with 2 wheels, PTO powered of course.
Upon giving it a try (I have NEVER operated one before), I noticed that with the raise/lower mechanism, the sickle comes up nicely to about a foot off the ground, but on return to the lower mowing setting, it is capable of actually going approx. 20 degrees below horizontal. Also, when you trip the sickle to drop, it DROPS! I also learned quickly how much space you need to maneuver this thing!!:laughing:

So the 2 questions I have: Where should the sickle bar sit in the "low" and "high" positions?
Should the sickle drop suddenly on pulling the rope to drop it or should it be a smooth motion?

Also - for those who may have some historical interest in this, what year would this mower be - tagged as LOT# 125.

Thanks,

 

[R W]

Implements raised by the trip system did come down hard, although a mower may some form of cushioning.
Should be someone on here who has experience with your type of mower, if not try 301 Moved Permanently
Typed "New Idea Sickle Mower" into Google, found 2 videos, noticed the blade appeared to drop under its own weight, didn't seem like there was any cushioning device.
Not sure but feel the cutting height should be adjustable.

 

[Coolnorth]

HI R W - -thanks for the reply!

I disassembled the lift mechanism after finding a parts catalogue on agco's website - thanks to a search on TBN for this mower. I found the case was empty of oil, less some grease and a bit of water...a mounting bolt had fallen out and it gave a place for things to drain. Anyway, with the mechanism cleaned, oiled and reassembled, it seems to run a bit smoother, but the sickle still just drops on trip. With a bit of welding to beef up some of the wear points, I think it will be fine. I may also add a spring loaded guide wheel to it (thinking out loud as it were...).

Still, if anyone else knows anything, I'd appreciate a post back regarding this!

Have a good week, all!