Side Discharge Finish Mower?

[TractorGuy]

Why would anyone make or want one?

My finish mower is rear discharge and I can't imagine why you would want a side discharge model.

 

[Midniteoyl]

For pull mowers, sure. Kind of a PITA for underbelly and front mowers, especially in dustier areas.

 

[chim]

I've had 4 side discharge decks (one MMM and 3 RFM's) and 2 rear discharge (both RFM's). I prefer the latter, but could live with either.

The only bothersome thing I've had with the side discharge decks was not being able to mow in any direction. Mowing next to mulched areas had to be done in only one direction to prevent blowing clipping onto the mulch. The mowing pattern elsewhere needed to be planned so the clippings didn't end up getting piled up.

On the other hand, the side discharge aided in "raking" leaves in the Fall.

 

[loggin]

I have only used 3ph side discharge finish mower. Wondering if you can cut in reverse for any length of time with a rear discharge? Sometimes I have to back in and out of areas and the side discharge still throws out grass with no problem cutting in reverse.

 

[TractorGuy]

I have no problem backing up with my rear discharge mower even in heavy grass. Sometimes it cuts even better since you run over it twice.