Newbie-rotary cutter advice needed

[wz016]

Hi All,
I'm a new tractor owner...new to rural living as well. Wife and I just married and moved to central Massachusetts. I have been living in Boston past ten years.

Just bought a NH T1520 35 hp tractor, along with KK 72" rake. I am interested in a rotary cutter, I think 60", to maintain my network of trails, and restore some older trails that mountain laurel is re-claiming.

Any advice on rotary cutters? Availability in my area? Do dealers ship? Would a Howse or KK be good enough... or would it be money well spent for a Woods or Bush Hog. How about Tebben or Fred Cain?

I've been reading on the site a lot. Great community of folks. Lots of good advice.

Regards,
Walter

 

[bill6]

Hi WZ--- Howse makes excellent rotary cutters; and remember, they have an economy line, medium duty, and heavy duty lines. It depends on how much you will use the cutter, and what type of terrain & brush.

Buy it from a dealer who will provide quick warranty & service, if necessary. If it's important to you (like it is me) get a "bush hog" that nearly matches the color of your tractor -- they look much better that way. (although are there any BLUE hogs?)

When comparing features, check out the gear box rated HP, gear ratio, blade tip speed, overall weight, deck metal gauge (thickness), are debris safety chains standard, tailwheel solid or pnuematic, etc.

Take some time and compare the specs for several brands & models. Most 60" cutters weigh 400 - 600 lbs.

And after your purchase, be sure to touch up any paint nicks, then wax the whole deck. Spray a non-stick aerosol on the underside (such as Mo-Deck spray) And remember to "walk" any fields the first time you mow them. Junk such as large rocks, metal, cables, lumber, etc, can be very costly. Good luck with your shopping!

 

[Beavis]

Another thing to consider: slip clutch vs. shear bolt.

I have the slip clutch on my 6ft. cutter pulled behind my 33hp tractor and love it.