Rotary Cutter ROTARY CUTTERS - 3pt hitch vs. pull behind

wksinatl · Jul 21, 2005

What are some pros/cons of each?
Will be used on a Case 485. I have been using a 7' pull behind (borrowed) that works great. My neighbor swears that a pull behind cuts smoother. I like it because it's easy to back up under limbs without getting swiped. I have used 3pt's before but this is the first I have used the pull behind and really like.

I will looking for a good used 6' cutter but haven't decided on the style.

How 'bout it guys???

thanks,
Keith

Gatorboy · Jul 21, 2005

I'm not sure what the con's would be with a pull behind.

:: You have better trim ability, easier to navigate around trees, etc.
:: The tractor does not have to hold the weight of the mower.
:: You can use a larger mower in a pull-type than 3pt.
:: The mower will follow you, so you don't get the whip action.

beenthere · Jul 21, 2005

I used to have a pull-behind, and was frustrated when I needed to lift over something (rock, stump, etc) but could not. If the pull behind had trailing wheels that could be hydraulically 'lowered' to lift the deck, that would be an improvement.

However, I converted it to a 3pt, and liked it better in most ways. One, I could back the 3pt into places with more accuracy. Manuever in and around trees in the woods with much better precision than the pull type. I could raise the 3pt deck high on a thick bush and grind up the top, then slowly lower it to get the stump ground up. Too much for the RC to just run onto some bushes and trees. Need to take them on in increments. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

But, I would say the use dictates the need, and your needs may dictate which is best for you.

gabby · Jul 21, 2005

You can run at faster ground speeds with a pull behind.
gabby

MMM · Jul 21, 2005

I've got an old, old Gyro84. The only problems are when you get into something (stump etc) there's no raising it, they're not good at backing into heavy brush, and lastly.....U-joints.

Gatorboy · Jul 21, 2005

( The only problems are when you get into something (stump etc) there's no raising it, they're not good at backing into heavy brush ) 

If you are going to have a pull-behind you should have it setup with a hydraulics to raise the mower. So, I guess this would be a Con if you need to add a hydraulic line.

jinman · Jul 21, 2005

( ( The only problems are when you get into something (stump etc) there's no raising it, they're not good at backing into heavy brush ) 

If you are going to have a pull-behind you should have it setup with a hydraulics to raise the mower. So, I guess this would be a Con if you need to add a hydraulic line. )

I guess all this additional stuff to be added on makes cost a Con. Of course, if cost is no object, buy both kinds of RCs or a large tow-behind and a small 3PH model. You'll be set. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

BB_TX · Jul 21, 2005

Here is a recent discussion on the same subject.

Indydirtfarmer · Jul 21, 2005

There's about as many pros as cons on either version. In the end, it all depends on what you're mowing, and how you go about doing such.

3-point mower;

Easier to load/un-load from a trailer. Better (from my own experience) on extremely rough ground. Longer life on u-joints. Easier to back over ditch's and obstructions.

Requires addition of front weights in most cases.

Pull type;

Easier on tractor (dealing with weight) Cuts better DURING turns.

Requires more finess when working in and around ditches, banks, and rock out-croppings.

I run a business where I do commercial contract mowing. We use both kinds of mowers. They both have strong points and weak points. I wouldn't want to be without EITHER.

All in all, if I had to pick ONE type, I'd opt for mounted if under 7', and pull-type for over 7'.

Soundguy · Jul 22, 2005

( I'm not sure what the con's would be with a pull behind.
)

Try backing onto a trailer with a pull type.. it's not super easy.

Try backing up in a straight line for a long distance... it's not super easy.

Try backing into a cramped space.. the rigid mounted one at least lets you know -exactly- where the mower will go.

I've seen pull behinds 'find' an angle that puts the driveshaft in a bind if the mower goes up or down too steep a hill accidentally.

( The mower will follow you, so you don't get the whip action )

If you have your stay chains / sway chains/bars setup correctly, as well as a limited play toplink.. the mower is fixed for no extra right/left movement.. etc.

Soundguy