Disc for JD 5303
- Thread starter deere5105
- Start date
Have still been on the look out for a good deal on a used unit. I recently found this one used. It appears to be around 7' wide and either is or is built similar to an Atlas Model 500. The individual mentioned a sticker was on it at one time that stated 20X20. Appears to be in good shape, or either just a really good paint job covering up any problems, with 20-20" blades, but on 7.5" spacing . Was thinking more along the lines of 22" blades on 9" spacing. Any opinions on whether or not the 7.5" spacing would allow for good penetration in grass?
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After months of searching Craigslist and classifieds for a used 8' heavy disc with 22" blades on 9" spacing I have yet to find what I am looking for. It looks more like I am going to have to go with a new unit instead. I am likely going to put this off until next year, but have narrowed the field to the following:
1) Frontier DH1396, 63 lbs per blade, $3250
2) Howse DHT20022, 55 lbs per blade, $2200
3) Marion(Atlas 1500), 93 lbs per blade, $3100
All of these are 8' wide, 22" blades on 9" spacing. All have the "captured" attachment points for the lower lift arms. The Marion unit has a screw adjustment for the blade angle settings while the other two use a pin through the frame. Pin version would seem to be easier to use and not require tools to adjust. The Marion has scrapers included for the price shown and has greaseable bearings. I am unsure about the terminology used on the different bearing types. I have attached close up views of each bearing assembly and the Frontier file on page 4 shows all three versions offered by Frontier. I believe the DH1396 is the one shown in the bottom right picture. I recently read in another thread where some were praising one type versus another. I also noticed the Marion unit has an extra brace on the inside of the gang hanger. In talking with my local John Deere dealer, he recommended the Frontier DH1396 as far as size for my needs.
Thanks so far for all of the input received. Out of those listed above and based on information provided, I am curious to see which one would be most recommended. Obviously the cheaper one would be most desired financially, but I am looking at this as a long term purchase and don't want to cut the corner and live with regret.
1) Frontier DH1396, 63 lbs per blade, $3250
2) Howse DHT20022, 55 lbs per blade, $2200
3) Marion(Atlas 1500), 93 lbs per blade, $3100
All of these are 8' wide, 22" blades on 9" spacing. All have the "captured" attachment points for the lower lift arms. The Marion unit has a screw adjustment for the blade angle settings while the other two use a pin through the frame. Pin version would seem to be easier to use and not require tools to adjust. The Marion has scrapers included for the price shown and has greaseable bearings. I am unsure about the terminology used on the different bearing types. I have attached close up views of each bearing assembly and the Frontier file on page 4 shows all three versions offered by Frontier. I believe the DH1396 is the one shown in the bottom right picture. I recently read in another thread where some were praising one type versus another. I also noticed the Marion unit has an extra brace on the inside of the gang hanger. In talking with my local John Deere dealer, he recommended the Frontier DH1396 as far as size for my needs.
Thanks so far for all of the input received. Out of those listed above and based on information provided, I am curious to see which one would be most recommended. Obviously the cheaper one would be most desired financially, but I am looking at this as a long term purchase and don't want to cut the corner and live with regret.
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jenkinsph
Super Star Member
I like the Marion and the Frontier discs shown above. I would probably go for the Frontier 1396 but would wan't to pull it to make sure you can handle it. As I remember the 8' 100 disc was a good load for the 3020, you don't wan't something you can't pull fast enough.
I hate to make this a bigger issue than it needs to be, but I want to make sure I get the right one. I do not recall the recent thread name, but I recall seeing a discussion on bearing types. Any comments on the ones shown above? The bearings on the Frontier are not greaseable, but that may not be an issue. Anyone prefer the screw type angle adjustment versus the pin type? My gut feeling is the Frontier due it is likely heavy enough for my needs and parts shouldn't be a problem should maintenance be required. The Marion disc is actually listed in another location as an Atlas 1500. This doesn't appear to be a commonly found disc which could be a problem.
Got one vote for the Frontier. Anyone else have any opinions of the two and input on the different bearing types. In particular, any draw backs to the non-greaseable sealed type used in the Frontier? Looks like each level of the Frontier has a different type, so I assume the one used for the 1396 must be stronger. I also notice the Frontier seems to be real similiar to the Tufline TL43 model. Any bad experiences with either the Frontier or Tufline?
jenkinsph
Super Star Member
The sealed bearings on the Frontier are good and when you do have to replace them it won't break the bank. The old style cast iron bearing boxes are also good and last along time but you do run through a lot of grease with these. FWIW, most of the discs I have looked at are all made in Mississippi, seems your state has a large part of this market. With such a short distance to go you should save on freight costs anyway.
Not sure if I mentioned this but Tuffline builds alot of the discs for Frontier so that explains the similarities. I would buy Tuffline if there was money to be saved.
Not sure if I mentioned this but Tuffline builds alot of the discs for Frontier so that explains the similarities. I would buy Tuffline if there was money to be saved.
