? on rotory mowers

[evisr8]

is there much difference between KK, frontier, NH, et al rotory mowers? i understand some have shear bolts other have slip clutches. some come with chain gaurds and others are an option. for a 5' deck i am looking at $850 for a KK to $1,500 for the other brands.

 

[hudr]

Check out the thickness of the deck and the HP ratings on the gear boxes. That is usually what you are paying for all else being equal. One more thing on the deck, a smooth top (vs. having all the gusseting/bracing on top) makes for easier cleanup.

 

[scott_vt]

is there much difference between KK, frontier, NH, et al rotory mowers? i understand some have shear bolts other have slip clutches. some come with chain gaurds and others are an option. for a 5' deck i am looking at $850 for a KK to $1,500 for the other brands.

Yes, actually there are some pretty significant differences from the low end rotary mowers to the top end. Just by looking at the spec sheet on individual mowers and what they weigh will tell you alot. Gearboxes, construction etc. Most all the major brands have web sites that you can check out the particulars on all their models.

 

[CharlieTR]

For rotary cutters also know the designed "duty rating"; Light duty, medium duty, Heavy duty. The medium duty I think are most common. They should normally cut up to a 2 inch diameter tree. But I would ask to be sure. Chains are nice, its not unusual to throw half a brick a 100 feet. For any road work they are required before permits are given.
On my off brand medium duty it's built well but once when I was backing into some 1.5" to 2" trees the back "skirting" was pushed in by the trees enough so the blades hit the skirting. Wow what a noise that made. No problem though, I just welded on some angle iron to prevent more bending.