RFM or MMM for CK20?

[SteveZ]

I'm planning to purchase a CK20 with FEL this fall, and I am trying to decide whether to get a RFM or MMM. If I get the RFM, it will most likely be the 60" unit from Kioti. I've read several threads discussing the merits of each type of mower, but I have a few questions that I hope someone who has a CK20 with the MMM can answer:

1. How difficult is it to remove and install the MMM?
2. How long does it take (after the first few "learning" times) to install and remove the MMM?
3. With the MMM removed, are there any brackets etc. that reduce the ground clearance enough to be a nuisance when doing other work?
4. Does the fact that the MMM discharges clippings directly in front of the rear wheels cause any problems with clippings dispersing?

Any tidbits of wisdom/experience would be greatly appreciated...........Steve

 

[depratt_equip]

We just sold a CK20 with a MMM. There are alot of brackets on this mower. The wheels do turn so you can side it right out but its easier said than done. I would give it atleast 20-25 min to get that MMM out vs the 5 min it would take to get the rear finish mower off. For the MMM there are going to be brackets on the tractor but shouln't be a problem as far as ground clearance. One good thing about the RFM is that it is much easier to get in corners and under and type of shrubs. I also like the much heavier gear box on the RFM vs. the MMM. Im not sure about your last question as i didn't get to mowe with it much.

 

[mathey]

Welcome to TBN Jon... nice to have you here!

Also, welcome Steve too!

 

[wannabe]

Hello Steve,

I just got back to TractorbyNet. Been busy. I got my CK20 four weeks ago now. I have the 60" MMM rear discharge. I like it real well for getting around objects. It might sound odd, but I can remove the deck in about 2-3mins. Real easy. I can attach it in no more than 5 mins. It seems to be a solid mower and gives a good cut. It has been real hot here, so the grass is barely growing, and very thin so a I really need a little more testing to make a better evaluation. The thing I don't like is the clearance. I can't get but about 4". I tried to adjust it higher, but that causes the gearbox to make contact with a hydraulic line. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif Also the rear gage wheels are just heavy plastic on a shoulder bolt. Seems like they should have a bearing. The manual is kinda poor too. For me I'd buy it again. I like the fact that my wife doesn't mind using it. She would not use a 3-pt mower. I'll post a pic if I can.

 

[wannabe]

Another Pic

 

[R_squared]

Wannabe,
You definitely have some Kioti inventory. I encourage my wife to use our tractor. She feels like she accomplishes something and she has some tractor stories to tell her father. Maybe the hydraulic line can be raised on your CK20 to get some additional pan height. Lube your rear gauge wheels more frequently if they are a bushing style. Do you know the manufacture of your mid mount mower?

 

[Inspector507]

If I'm remembering right, the MMM is an American made product in Harrisburg, IL. Made by Midwest. I always thought the wheels on a MMM were not for constant contact with the ground and height adjustment. The MMM is a suspended mower.......correct me if I'm wrong. The wheels not having a bushing should be no big deal if it's not constantly supporting the weight of the mower.

 

[wannabe]

R_squared,

I guess I like orange /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. I had heard that Midwest made many of the Kioti attachments and liked what I had read about them. So I bought all Kioti brand. So far no disappointments. I called Kioti about the hydraulic line and they said they could see where it could be a problem and would look into a solution. I was impressed with the tech guy I talked to. Very helpful people! It really isn't a huge problem, but an extra inch of clearance could be gained with a solution. I'm pretty sure Midwest is the manufacturer.

 

[wannabe]

Inspector507,

You are correct, the rear wheels are supposed to only occasionally make contact. My "Lawn" is so bumpy that they make contact quite a bit. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif I'm going to cut a little higher next time.