Rotary Cutter Rotary cutter for JD955

[Bradey]

For all those on this board who helped me enter the tractor world, thanks! I'm easing in slowly by buying a used JD955 tractor.

I'd like to find a good rotary cutter for it. The tractor's got a 27 hp rear PTO rating and a lifting capacity of 1175 lbs. The brochure says the largest cutter it will take is a 5' JD 503. Not sure if that particular cutter is made anymore; the new JD brochures offer 513 or MX5. I realize that cutters are pretty interchangeable among 3ph systems as long as weight and gearbox rating is appropriate.

I'd like to get something fairly substantial (preferably chain guards and protective banding, almost certainly with slip clutch). I plan to cut the occasional 2" sapling and will surely throw some rocks along cutting paths. I've read posts here and on the CTB so I'm becoming familiar with various brand offerings: Bush Hog, Woods, King Kutter, etc.

Looking for any input from any particularly familiar with this tractor model and its capabilities, as it is a bit on the light size. I'm concerned about being able to lift it above hazards. Rear tires (turf) are calcium filled. Will I need to hang weights off the front? Terrain is rolling, uneven.

 

[Anonymous Poster]

I like you have been in the market for c bush hog. I went for the Bush Hog brand sq60. If you want medium duty the Bush Hog model 285 is a real stout unit and the weight should be okay for your tractor. Bush Hog isnt the only brand but it is made close to me here in N. Ga and parts are easy to come by
Greg H

 

[Bradey]

The problem is, just finding a brush cutter in stock this time of year in North Country (Upper Michigan, Wisconsin). I've called several dealers with nothing in stock. I'm going to go for 5' JD 513 I found for sale (slip clutch, front chains) for $850. I think it's a decent cutter from having used one on my brother-in-law's tractor. Besides, keeps all my equipment "green". Wish I could compare all, but it's hard to see something that's a special order only at this point (and weeks to deliver).

 

[Anonymous Poster]

Bradey
I have a JD955 with a 5' medium duty Woods cutter. Works great for everything I have tried it on. It has a slip clutch, which has saved me a couple of times.