Rotary Cutter Bush hog 296 to be replaced by New BH series

[sawtooth]

Anyone have any specs on this new mower? Just got word this one is in production now and will take the place of the 290 series.

 

[oosik]

Hmmmm I have interest in this also. I'm looking to purchase one of the 290 series.

 

[sawtooth]

Well i found out the only difference is in the tail wheel. Im surprised that they have gone to a single arm style which Ive always felt is less sturdy than the opposing arm style. Land Pride has just switched to the opposing style. I would probably try to find a 296 before they are gone.

 

[sparky]

I have not seen the BH20 series, but the tail wheel is the only obvious change. The rest of the specs are 99% the same.
I looked at a BH16 on a dealers lot this afternoon. Other than the tail wheel, looks just like the SQ172, same specs. Didnt get pricing on the BH16. I have seen pricing on new SQ172's as low as $ 1500 to $ 2595 with chains. Wondering how the new models are going to be priced.

Edit: A dealer this morning told me he thinks it is a Rhino painted red. I still dont see any difference other than the tail wheel...

 

[Piston]

I can't help but wonder, how much can you really change in a rotary cutter, to make it a whole lot better? I noticed that Brown Manufacturing (about the only company that makes their cutters more heavy duty than the gold standard Bush Hog) has also recently changed their models. I really don't think much has actually changed on the cutter itself though, aside from the sticker that shows the model.

In my opinion, there really isn't a whole lot you can improve upon in these cutters. Even over the last ten years they really haven't changed all that much. It's sort of like improving a box blade, they're pretty basic to begin with, and last forever.

 

[Piston]

I can't help but wonder, how much can you really change in a rotary cutter, to make it a whole lot better? I noticed that Brown Manufacturing (about the only company that makes their cutters more heavy duty than the gold standard Bush Hog) has also recently changed their models. I really don't think much has actually changed on the cutter itself though, aside from the sticker that shows the model.

I called Brown to find out about adding chains to my mower, and while chatting with them I asked about the new model of my mower. He said that they are now quick hitch compatible, I didn't ask if there were any other changes (should have but didn't think of it). Perhaps this is the major change with the 296 to bh20 series?

That being said, if you are looking at heavy duty mowers like the 296, you may want to also check out the Brown 400 series mowers. They are very similar in specs regarding rated horsepower and blade tip speed, but the Brown is built a bit heavier duty, it has a 7 gauge deck vs. the 10 gauge on the BH, is a bit heavier because of this, and has a 'beefier' driveshaft than the BH.

The Brown units are some seriously heavy duty rotary cutters and way overkill for something like field mowing, and also, they are the only other company that I've ever seen "farmwithjunk" recommend aside from Bush Hog. I was looking for a 296 used before stumbling across my 472, and I'm glad I found the Brown. Their customer service is second to none as well.

Either unit will give YEARS of trouble free operation and take a heck of a beating. :thumbsup:

 

[sawtooth]

Man you just spilled the beans. I to called and reviewed Brown 400 series and they are a beast of a mower. I dont really need something that heavy duty but it sure would be nice to have the extra capacity when needed. Also pricing is in line with BH and Land Pride so i feel you get more for the same cost. Heavier deck and drive lines as compared to BH and Land Pride.

 

[bdog0000]

Just an update. The new BH20 series is taken the place of the 290 series. Spoke with a Bush Hog representative, was curious about changes since Alamo took over.. Bush Hog has changed vendor for there gear boxes. Really hope it is as reliable as the previous models. I am taking a chance and ordered a BH25 today. I had a Bush Hog 285 but traded for a MX 6 but 10 ga metal on the rear of cutter does not hold up to abuse so going back to 5' heavy duty. Anyone own a BH 25??