Rotary Cutter What size mower to get

JohnsIH424 · May 22, 2012

Appreciate everyones help so far. Read threads about this but just want to be sure. My IH 424 is rated 36 pto hp and have a 6' jd rotary mower that is on its last leg. Looking at downsizing to 5' Bushhog sq160. Feel I can get what I need done and keep it in 3rd or 4th gear while doing so. Just some hunting trails and a few open fields. the terrain is flat on most of it with a few dips in one field. should I go 5' or stick with 6'? Tractor is old and worn too. (like me)

Also, thinking bout going with shear bolt instead of slip clutch. Appreciate any advice.
John

MrChris · May 22, 2012

Since you mentioned the IH is getting worn too I would be thinking ahead a little as to what I would be replacing my tractor with if it dies. If your thinking of downsizing the tractor at that point then consider the 5'. If your gonna replace with something in the same or larger horsepower stay with a 6'.

kthompson · May 22, 2012

I use a five foot on a 27 HP Kubota but would not want to do heavy cutting with it. Then I will cut grass that is 2 feet high fine.

Also think about the width of the tractor and mower. You need mower to cut the full width of the rear tires or the trail keeps getting narrower and narrower.

JohnsIH424 · May 23, 2012

Great advice! I didnt think about the trails getting narrower. I would have to drive in the trees to keep it the same with the 5' foot! And, yes, when it comes time to replace the tractor, I would want the same size, at the least.
Thanks guys!

JohnsIH424 · May 23, 2012

Oh....and I guess I will go with a shear bolt since I would be putting up after mowing a month at a time and don't want to have to fool with the clutch each time I want to mow.

JohnsIH424 · May 31, 2012

Just wanted to thank ya'll for your help. I ended up getting the Squealer sq172 with a shear bolt. Got it hooked up and the tractor did great:thumbsup:! The grass was high and thick so had to stay in 1 and 2 to keep pto on speed but did raise the back and cut a little higher the first pass. Gotta say...big improvement over that old JD mower!! Thanks again!!