Rotary Cutter Rotary Cutter Model Info.

[jbirdmotox]

I have found a used John Deere rotary cutter. It is a model 403. I haven't really found much info. about this model. Is anyone familiar with this model? Is it an entry level piece? Any ideas on the new price on a comparable unit? It appears to be in decent shape but I would need to buy a drive shaft. I would be using it on the back of a Kubota B20. Any problems with this? The asking price is $525.

Thanks, Jon

 

[MrJimi]

I would say it depends on condition and size, KK sells a 5 foot for around $500. ( new ) and I bought a used Howse 5 foot in nice condition for $200. with drive shaft. How wide are you looking for and have you checked with your local tractor places? I bought mine used from a JD dealer
Jim

 

[jbirdmotox]

Well, I was looking for a 5' really. I was quoted $1400 for a new unit at the local JD dealer. That was for a Land Pride.

 

[MrJimi]

Jon, unless you have to have green? Look around lots of better prices out there, I want a Bush Hog 286 and I am too frugal to spend $1800. on a 6 foot brand new mower, It is the best, but my used Howse will work fine.
Really shop around
Jim

 

[jbirdmotox]

Thanks for the info. I felt for maybe $300 it may be worth it but $500 was too much. You pretty much just confirmed my thoughts.

Jon

 

[MrJimi]

Without much looking I found this for you, brand new and a good solid machine, look at link below

Howse Rough Cut Mower — 3-Point, Category 1, 5ft. Length | Category 1 Attachments | Northern Tool + Equipment

I am by far no expert on this, I am a newbie and I love to look around and don't go by just what I say, others with much more experience will chime in and help ya out
Jim

 

[CDsdad]

The Howse is not a bad unit if you're not cutting heavy stuff. If you need parts is where the trouble comes. I and several others on here have had issues getting much service from Howse.

 

[nomad]

... KK sells a 5 foot for around $500. ( new )

Unbelievable price. A 5ft rotary cutter weighs about 500-600 lb. Its material cost only will be about $250-300. Add gearbox, blade, etc which cost much more than simple sheet metals. Add labor cost. Add manufacturer's and dealer's profit, etc. A "new" rotary cutter can't be sold for less than $800 which is my selling price. Are you sure about this price $500?

 

[N80]

The TSC near me sells the 5' KK for about $650.

I bought a used JD LX 6 which is their 6' light duty model but it is more heavily built than the KK and Howse models. It came with full chains, laminated tail wheel, good paint and only a few dings on the deck with a couple of little rust spots. Looks new from 5 feet away. The JD dealer sold it to me for $800. Works great. I felt like this was a good deal, not great, but good. There are deals to be had. Keep looking.

 

[N80]

The 403 is no longer listed as a current model. How big is it? Is it a 3pt hitch or pull type? JD currently uses 'LX' to indicate light duty, 'MX' to indicate medium duty and '609'. '709' etc to indicate heavy duty. How well is this thing made?